The rustic birthplace of Shakespeare is filled to the brim with activities for the enterprising tourist – from historic castles to cultural heritage sites, museums and charming hamlets (I stand in solidarity with this pun).

But an often overlooked aspect of this beautiful part of the West Midlands is the picturesque landscapes and rolling hills that litter the surrounding countryside. The county offers many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and forest-bathing (also known as ‘shinrin yoku’ for those not in the know).

Read on to discover some of the most unmissable nature trails in the West Midlands!

Kingsbury Water Park

First on our list is Kingsbury Water Park, located just a short distance south of Wishaw. This expansive country park spans over 600 acres of pristine woodlands, serene lakes, and picturesque meadows. With its well-marked walking trails, including the popular 7.5-mile circular Water Park Walk, you can explore the park’s diverse landscapes, including wetlands and woodlands, while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature. Kingsbury Water Park is also a haven for wildlife, making it a perfect spot for birdwatching enthusiasts to spot a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.

Sutton Park

This next gem is just a short, 10-minute drive south of Wishaw! Sutton Park is a massive urban area that just begs to be explored, as it spans over 2,400 acres. You can choose from a range of walking trails and easy-going strolls to moderate hikes that wind through serene woodlands, heathlands, and wetlands.

Keep your eyes peeled for the park’s charming wild ponies and graceful deer, who might just make a special appearance during your outing. Sutton Park’s stunning scenery and diverse wildlife are sure to captivate your senses and make your outdoor adventure truly unforgettable!

Pooley Country Park

Yet another beautiful sight within spitting distance of Wishaw – this former colliery (be informed that this implies the site had been used for digging coal and has little to do with raising border collies). It has been lovingly transformed into a nature reserve that will leave you in awe.

Lace up your hiking boots and set off on one of the park’s picturesque walking trails, such as the Pooley Mines Trail. As you wander through woodlands, meadows, and past the remnants of old colliery structures, you’ll get a fascinating glimpse into the area’s rich industrial history. Pooley Country Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Coventry Way

The previous entries were but a mere preamble to the main event! If you’re into challenging and rewarding hikes that combine nature and culture, look no further than Coventry Way. This fantastic long-distance circular footpath spans approximately 40 miles around the beautiful city of Coventry, and it’s a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the picturesque countryside and quaint villages of the West Midlands.

Get ready to be mesmerised by the diverse landscapes and breathtaking scenic views that will greet you along the renowned footpath. The Coventry Way offers you an unmistakably unique blend of nature and culture that will create a one-of-a-kind memorable hiking adventure.

Walk your socks off

To conclude, there are countless nature trails across Wishaw. There’s a path to suit every fitness level, health requirement, or attention span.

All this walking about is sure to leave a person weary and in dire need of comfort – if you’re looking for a suitable accommodation near Wishaw that will serve as the base of your hillwalking operation, The Belfry Hotel & Spa will be sure to rejuvenate your body and mind after a hard day’s trek.