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Your Place Your Space Green open spaces
29 Feb 2024 - Your Place Your Space
News & Updates
https://www.youtube.com/embed/gSSwl5QxZqk

What a fantastic open space!

Hidden away in Winson Green on the border of Smethwick with Birmingham is this lovely park with historical importance.  

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60 passion points
Your Place Your Space History & heritage
16 Dec 2023 - Your Place Your Space
Inspiration
https://www.youtube.com/embed/vffT938NBPQ

Pride of Place: Birmingham to Sandwell history and heritage canal trail

This trail takes in much of the region's amazing places of historical interest including Roundhouse Birmingham, Smethwick Junction, Engine Arm Aqueduct, Galton Valley Pumping Station and Galton Bridge.  Take in some great example of work by engineer Thomas Telford. Enjoy on foot (3 hours one way) or by bike (1 hour one way). 

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80 passion points
Elliott Brown Environment & green action
23 Apr 2023 - Elliott Brown
Inspiration

Sandwell Valley Country Park Trail

Sandwell Valley Country Park Trail

This is a wonderful walk or cycle ride in a wonderful Park. There is so much to enjoy including the Swan Pool, Sandwell Priory ruins and Sandwell Park Farm.  Enjoy with our compliments.

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Sandwell Valley Country Park Trail





Sandwell Valley Country Park Trail

This is a wonderful walk or cycle ride in a wonderful Park. There is so much to enjoy including the Swan Pool, Sandwell Priory ruins and Sandwell Park Farm.  Enjoy with our compliments.


To get to Sandwell Country Park

If you are travelling from outside Sandwell, catch the West Midlands Metro from Birmingham or Wolverhampton to West Bromwich Central. Alternatively catch the no 74 bus to West Bromwich Bus Station.

Note:  We recommend you buy a day ticket on the My Metro app before you travel.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Central Tram Stop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMM 24 West Brom Central (Aug 2021).jpg" />Photography by Elliott Brown

Outside the station you could hire a West Midlands Cycle bike if you do not fancy walking.

dndimg alt="West Midlands Cycle Hire West Bromwich" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMCH West Brom (Aug 2021) (1).jpg" />Photography by Elliott Brown

Turn left onto the West Bromwich Ringway, then pass West Bromwich Bus Station. Turn right onto St Michael Street, continue onto New Street into the New Square shopping centre. Perhaps stop for coffee.

If you missed West Midlands Cycle Hire before, there is another docking point outside of Central St Michael's Sixth Form College.

dndimg alt="West Midlands Cycle Hire" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMCH West Brom (Aug 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />West Midlands Cycle Hire at Central St Michael's Sixth Form College (August 2021). Photography by Elliott Brown

Continue through New Square and turn left towards Cronehill Linkway Car Park. Next walk up Cronehills Linkway, stop at the lights and cross over the Cronehills Interchange Bridge.

dndimg alt="Cronehills Interchange Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Cronehills IB West Brom (Aug 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Cronehills Interchange Bridge. Photography by Elliott Brown

Near The Expressway follow the path onto Sandwell Road North, then onto Taylors Lane and Woodward Street until you get to Dagger Lane.

Turn right onto Salters Lane and continue heading down to the gate.

Enter Sandwell Valley Country Park. 

At the gates, enter Sandwell Valley Country Park.

dndimg alt="Sandwell Valley Country Park" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Sandwell Valley CP (Aug 2021) (2).jpg" />Salters Lane entrance to Sandwell Valley Country Park. Photography by Elliott Brown

Continue along Salters Lane through the park. The path/road here is a bit rough.

Along the way you will pass the fields of Sandwell Park Farm.

dndimg alt="Sandwell Valley cows" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Sandwell Valley CP (Aug 2021) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Sandwell Park Farm. Photography by Elliott Brown

You will then cross the first bridge over the M5 motorway.

dndimg alt="Bridge 1 M5 Sandwell Valley" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Bridge 1 M5 SVCP (Aug 2021) (1).jpg" />Bridge over the M5 motorway at Sandwell Valley Country Park. Photography by Elliott Brown

You are now on the other side of Sandwell Valley Country Park.

Now turn left onto Beacon Way and follow the path all the way around the Swan Pool.

dndimg alt="Swan Pool Sandwell Valley" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Swan Pool SVCP (Aug 2021) (3).jpg" />Swan Pool at Sandwell Valley Country Park. Photography by Elliott Brown

After you've gone around the Swan Pool, turn left which takes you back onto the main path /road towards Park Lane. You will pass the Priory Woods Local Nature Reserve.

At the end of this path, turn right alongside Park Lane, heading to the gate.

Note: If you want to leave the park here, you can, but there are no pavements on Park Lane.

dndimg alt="Park Lane gate Sandwell Valley" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Sandwell Valley CP (Aug 2021) (8).jpg" />Park Lane gate at Sandwell Valley Country Park. Photography by Elliott Brown

Let's continue along the path towards the ruins of Sandwell Priory and Sandwell Hall.

They were built in the 12th century by William son of Guy de Offeni, Lord of the Manor of West Bromwich.

Located next to the 'Sand Well', a natural spring a short distance to the south from which the Priory gets its name, it was closed by Cardinal Wolsey in 1525 during the Reformation, and later demolished.

It was excavated between 1982 and 1988.

dndimg alt="Sandwell Priory Ruins" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Sandwell Priory Ruins SVCP (Aug 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Sandwell Priory Ruins at Sandwell Valley Country Park. Photography by Elliott Brown

Next to the Priory is the ruins of Sandwell Hall. The land was bought by Lord Dartmouth in 1701, and in 1705 he demolished the existing buildings to build his house.

The Dartmouth's moved to Patshull near Wolverhampton in 1853, and Sandwell Hall had a variety of uses before it was demolished in 1928.

dndimg alt="Sandwell Hall" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Sandwell Hall Ruins SVCP (Aug 2021) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Remains of Sandwell Hall at Sandwell Valley Country Park. Photography by Elliott Brown

After this, continue along the path, and then cross over the second bridge over the M5 motorway.

Alternatively if you have time, check out the Ice House Pool and Cascade Pool.

There is also another path that takes you back towards the Swan Pool.

dndimg alt="M5 Bridge 2" dndsrc="https://www.birminghamweare.com/uploadedfiles/Bridge 2 M5 SVCP (Aug 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" /> Second bridge over the M5 motorway at Sandwell Valley Country Park. Photography by Elliott Brown

After the bridge, there is a path where you can take your exit towards Europa Avenue, or you can continue onto Dartmouth Park or Sandwell Park Farm.

The Europa Avenue exit goes past a Mercure Hotel near M5, Junction 1 and The Expressway.

dndimg alt="Sandwell Valley Country Park" dndsrc="https://www.birminghamweare.com/uploadedfiles/SVCP Europa Ave (Aug 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" /> Leaving Sandwell Valley Country Park at Europa Avenue. Photography by Elliott Brown

From Europa Avenue, take Beeches Road to Birmingham Road. If you want to catch a bus instead of the tram, the 74 stops on Birmingham Road.

Here you can either go down Roebuck Street or Roebuck Lane. Go onto Devereux Road, and get onto West Bromwich Parkway.

This is the end of the trail.  We hope you enjoyed it!

If you need a tram, follow the path to Kenrick Park Tram Stop. Look out for trams.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Parkway" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMM 19 West Brom Pkwy (Aug 2021) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />West Midlands Metro tram at West Bromwich Parkway. Photography by Elliott Brown

It shouldn't be too long to wait for a tram at Kenrick Park Tram Stop.

dndimg alt="Kenrick Park Tram Stop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMM 23 Kenrick Pk (Aug 2021).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />West Midlands Metro tram arriving at Kenrick Park Tram Stop. Photography by Elliott Brown

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60 passion points
Elliott Brown Rivers, lakes & canals
20 Apr 2023 - Elliott Brown
Inspiration

Birmingham to Smethwick walk up the Birmingham Canal Navigations New Mainline with Jonathan

Enjoy this walk with Jonathan on a walk up the Birmingham Canal Navigations New Mainline, starting at Old Turn Junction near the Arena and finishing just beyond the Galton Bridge in Smethwick. You can walk or cycle there and back. Or get the train back from Smethwick Galton Bridge Station to Birmingham Snow Hill or New Street (your choice).

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Birmingham to Smethwick walk up the Birmingham Canal Navigations New Mainline with Jonathan





Enjoy this walk with Jonathan on a walk up the Birmingham Canal Navigations New Mainline, starting at Old Turn Junction near the Arena and finishing just beyond the Galton Bridge in Smethwick. You can walk or cycle there and back. Or get the train back from Smethwick Galton Bridge Station to Birmingham Snow Hill or New Street (your choice).


Start at Brindleyplace. Pass the National Sealife Centre, then cross over the footbridge, passing the Oozells Street Loop. 

At Old Turn Junction will be a view of The Malt House and the Library of Birmingham. The Birmingham & Fazeley Canal starts here, but it was the Newhall Branch of the Birmingham Canal Navigations as far as Farmers Bridge Locks / Cambrian Wharf.

Old Turn Junction and The Malt House

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/D983EF0A-6897-4083-A050-898D36CD622F.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Pass the Arena, and turn left past the Legoland Discovery Centre Birmingham, head down the towpath onto the Birmingham Canal Navigations New Mainline.

Utilita Arena Birmingham - Old Turn Junction

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/62889DEF-1C05-4A98-AC0A-D6B372E38022.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

At Old Turn Junction is also the start of the Oozells Street Loop at this bridge near Brindleyplace. Part of the Old Mainline.

Oozells Street Loop Junction Bridge - Old Turn Junction

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCB30681-6E4E-4782-A0BD-2D8676680028.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Walk under the Sheepcote Street Bridge as you pass The Distillery and the Roundhouse.

Sheepcote Street Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/38978DFE-122E-4C61-8F12-E55BA8B7C740.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Distillery

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/06CE760E-67D5-49F2-A305-F22E7F2FBB5C.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Roundhouse

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/A1BE3658-9063-4A22-96BD-4AE1478E7ABE.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Before leaving the City Centre you pass Ladywood Junction, where the end of the Oozells Street Loop joins onto the BCN New Mainline.

Ladywood Junction Bridge - Oozells Street Loop

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/ED9D9DAB-07B2-442A-A1BB-8F8C8B477B69.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Head out of the City Centre under the St Vincent Street Bridge into Ladywood.

St Vincent Street Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/8E6672DF-CE05-4993-A1FB-614AF0F3FA21.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

After passing under Ladywood Middleway, at the Monument Road Bridge, you will pass the start of the Ickield Port Loop at Sandy Turn. There is also the Monument Road Basin Bridge, also called Monument Lane Basin, just before Ladywood Middleway.

Sandy Turn bridge - Icknield Port Loop

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/2F87B3F1-D7E0-4606-88DF-DB121D162F4C.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The new Port Loop development is between both ends of the Icknield Port Loop near Rotton Park Street.

Port Loop development

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/3BA4AE43-4B33-45BB-959E-5046D7775824.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The other end of the Icknield Port Loop is at Rotton Park Junction.

Rotton Park Junction Bridge - Icknield Port Loop

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/158C45A2-7DDD-4B16-A8C6-1EFD083BD132.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

You will pass over the Eyre Street Junction Bridge, which is at the start of the Soho Loop, near the Soho Wharf development. The other end of the Icknield Port Loop is opposite here, plus the railway bridge that carries the line from Birmingham New Street to Wolverhampton.

Eyre Street Junction Bridge - Soho Loop 

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/411F97E0-DA67-484C-B6C7-5AF0BCF4B68E.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Pass under the Rotton Park Towpath Bridge, continue past the Site of Harborne Branch Railway Bridge, until you get to the Lee Bridge.

Lee Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/1AD5C0B3-377A-4ADE-A96F-73C7D2ABFEFC.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Continue up to the Winson Green Bridge, which has Winson Green Road crossing overhead.

Winson Green Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/AEAED132-C15B-4FDC-894B-17006BC40A3E.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The other end of the Soho Loop is at Winson Green Junction. This is near the Soho EMU Depot, home of the Cross City Line's famous Class 323 Electric Multiple Units!

Winson Green Junction Bridge - Soho Loop

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/6057678A-E77E-4C4E-9969-84682F853ABE.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Winson Green Gauging Island is next to the Winson Green Roving Bridge, as you pass the Soho EMU Depot (either side of the canal, there is a towpath on both sides here).

Winson Green Roving Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/66B79FC5-218A-4AEE-8CB9-2D532CED4AC0.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Continue walking up to the railway bridge, as you will soon cross into Smethwick in Sandwell.

Soho Railway Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DCC83FB1-4CCD-43D3-ADAF-EB869AA88010.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Between here was the site of Soho Foundry Basin, and the site of Smethwick Gas Works Basin, and the French Walls Basin Bridge.

Rabone Lane Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/C9106B94-B902-43AF-8439-F7E6B0DDFB01.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Smethwick Junction on the BCN is where the New Line and Old Line splits. The New Mainline is to the left on the Birmingham Level, while the Old Mainline is to the right on the Wolverhampton Level.

Smethwick Main Line Turnover Bridge - Smethwick Junction

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/4619F0A4-36A9-4348-B1F9-F255DE2C91EF.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Rolfe Bridge in Smethwick is at Bridge Street North. One of the towpaths is fenced off here.

Rolfe Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/F6B7ACF3-4813-4C78-8784-1969834F6984.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Passing the Rolfe Pipe Bridge and Smethwick Stop, and then pass under the Engine Arm Aqueduct.

Engine Arm Aqueduct

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/C2243D55-D83A-43D2-8178-8940B0B2D0D3.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The next bridge to walk under is the Brass House Bridge, which is on Brasshouse Lane in Smethwick.

Brass House Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/B4A1CF64-16A1-42D0-BEDF-6DE489414E18.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Smethwick Pumping Station, also called the Galton Valley Canal Museum, or the New Smethwick Pumping Station. It was built in 1892. The lower level is on the New Mainline, while the upper level to the right is on the Old Mainline of the BCN.

Smethwick Pumping Station

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/A8D3A1EF-949C-4479-AD4D-696DC0525FFC.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Walking up to the Galton Tunnel from the southeastern portal, then walk through to the northwestern portal. It was built of concrete, and is below Telford Way.

Galton Tunnel

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/466CD1E7-9C08-475D-BAFB-35CA2ED83544.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Cross under the famous Galton Bridge. Opened in 1829 and designed by Thomas Telford. It has been pedestrianised since the 1970s. A Grade I listed structure.

Galton Bridge

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DD55CD1E-E29F-4895-9719-78BE1443E673.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The next bridge is the Smethwick Railway Bridge. This was converted into Smethwick Galton Bridge Station in 1995, with the opening of the Jewellery Line, it carries the Snow Hill lines on the high level, while there is also a low level that carries the line from Birmingham New Street to Wolverhampton.

Smethwick Galton Bridge Station

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/8A7757F9-E149-4572-8565-1A8BD327439F.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The next bridge carries Spon Lane South, not far from the remains of the Chance Glassworks.

Spon Lane Station Bridge 

dndimg alt="BCN New Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/CB933BAF-1992-45C2-902F-8BF868D71D3F.jpeg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

This was where Jonathan ended his walk, and turned back towards Birmingham. Beyond here is a couple of bridges next to Chance Glassworks, and Spon Lane Junction, where the Old Mainline crossed the New Mainline on the Steward Aqueduct, followed by the M5 motorway.

 

You can either walk or cycle back, or leave at Spon Lane South, and walk to Smethwick Galton Bridge Station, to catch the train to either Birmingham Snow Hill or Birmingham New Street (your choice, remember to buy your train tickets before travelling). Also various nearby bus routes.

 

Post by Elliott Brown. Photos from Jonathan Bostock.

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80 passion points
Elliott Brown History & heritage
20 Feb 2023 - Elliott Brown
Did you know?

West Bromwich - Take a Tour with us!

Head on the tram to Sandwell from Birmingham and get off in West Bromwich (Zone 2). There are some fascinating places to experience out in the neighbourhoods. Here's a look at West Bromwich. Well worth a visit. For history, there's some fascinating places to visit. There are some wonderful open spaces and some great places to relax.

Take our article.

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West Bromwich - Take a Tour with us!





Head on the tram to Sandwell from Birmingham and get off in West Bromwich (Zone 2). There are some fascinating places to experience out in the neighbourhoods. Here's a look at West Bromwich. Well worth a visit. For history, there's some fascinating places to visit. There are some wonderful open spaces and some great places to relax.

Take our article.


On your My Metro app, buy an off peak return Zone 1 - 2 ticket. Make your way to either Corporation Street or Bull Street tram stops (or any Zone 1 tram stops) in Birmingham City Centre. Catch an Urbos 3 or Urbos 100, West Midlands Metro tram towards Dudley Street Guns Village Tram Stop, where this tour will begin of West Bromwich!

 

Dudley Street Guns Village Tram Stop

Dudley Street Guns Village Tram Stop is at Dudley Street, West Bromwich B70 9LY

This will be our stop in West Bromwich, as you can start the walk from the top of the High Street. The tram stop is at Dudley Street in West Bromwich. This is good starting point for the Farley Clock Tower. The no 74 bus also stops near here. And there is the West Bromwich Parkway.

dndimg alt="Dudley Street Guns Village Tram Stop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMM%2045%20Dudley%20St%20Guns%20Vil%2019012023.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

From Dudley Street,  turn right, and walk towards Carters Green and the West Bromwich High Street. Directly in front of you is the Farley Clock Tower.

 

St Andrew's Carters Green

St Andrew's Carters Green is at 18 Dudley Street, West Bromwich, B70 9LR. At the junction with Carters Green.

A church at Carters Green in West Bromwich which is shared by both The Church of England and The Methodist Church. It was built from 1915 to 1924.

dndimg alt="St Andrew's Carters Green" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/St%20Andrews%20CG%20WB%20(Jan%202023)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Farley Clock Tower

Farley Clock Tower at Carter's Green, West Bromwich, B70 9LG

This Grade II listed red brick and terracotta clock tower dates to 1897, and was named after Reuben Farley (1826 - 1899), who was the first Mayor of West Bromwich, and served four terms. Located at Carters Green. There is three reliefs, a portrait of Reuben Farley, one of Oak House and one of West Bromwich Town Hall.

dndimg alt="Farley Clock Tower" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farley%20Clocktower%2019012023%20(10).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Old Hop Pole

The Old Hop Pole at 474 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 9LD. Corner of Guns Lane.

A traditional West Bromwich High Street pub near Guns Village called The Old Hop Pole.

dndimg alt="The Old Hop Pole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Old%20Hop%20Pole%20(Jan%202023)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Wheatsheaf

The Wheatsheaf at 379 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 9QW

A Real Ale public house on the High Street in the West Bromwich called The Wheatsheaf with Pure Black Country Holder's Golden.

dndimg alt="The Wheatsheaf" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Wheatsheaf%20WB%20(Jan%202023)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Garden of Remembrance

The Memorial Gardens in West Bromwich aka the Garden of Remembrance. High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8RJ.

A place for reflection in West Bromwich for those lost in conflicts of the past. The gardens is in front of the Sandwell Register Office at Highfields House.

dndimg alt="Memorial Gardens" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Mem%20Gardens%20WB%20(Apr%202011)%20(7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Highfields House

Sandwell Register Office at Highfields, High Street, West Bromwich. B70 8RJ.

This building is the location of the Sandwell Register Office, it is called Highfields, or Highfields House. A Grade II listed building since 1985, was four houses, now offices, probably built in the 1830s.

dndimg alt="Highfields" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Mem%20Gardens%20WB%20(Apr%202011)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Take a minor detour down Lodge Road, for a couple of former Sandwell College buildings, that used to be part of the West Bromwich Campus.

 

West Bromwich Grammar School

The former West Bromwich Grammar School was at Lodge Road, West Bromwich, B70 8DY

The West Bromwich Municipal Secondary School was built in 1902 as the West Bromwich Institute at Lodge Road, funded by George Kenrick. The school was expanded several times, and later became a Grammar School in 1944. The actress Madeleine Carroll was a pupil here. The school moved to new buildings in Clarkes Lane in 1964. For a period from at least the 1990s to the early 2010s, the building was part of Sandwell College as the Hair Beauty and Holistic Centre. The college moved out in 2012 to a purpose built building on the West Bromwich Ringway. The building was empty until about 2018 when Ideal Travel Services took up a unit in the building.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Grammar School" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB%20Gram%20School%20(Apr%202011)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Ryland Memorial School of Art

What is now the British Muslim School is at Lodge Road, West Bromwich, B70 8NX

This red brick building on Lodge Road in West Bromwich, was built as an Art school in 1902 by Wood & Kendrick of Birmingham. It had been part of Sandwell College, as the Ryland Building until the early 2010s (before the college moved to a modern building on the West Bromwich Ringway). Empty for a few years, by 2017 it had become the British Muslim School and Latifiah Fultali Complex.

dndimg alt="Ryland Memorial School" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Ryland%20Mem%20School%20(Apr%202011)%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Head back to the High Street, for the Town Hall and Library next.

 

West Bromwich Town Hall

West Bromwich Town Hall is at High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8DJ. Corner with Lodge Road.

A town hall in West Bromwich from 1874 to 1875, on what was the Lodge Estate. It was the headquarters of the county borough of West Bromwich and remained the seat of local government after Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council was formed in 1974. However, the council moved to a modern facility in Oldbury in 1989. The building has been Grade II listed since 1987.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Town Hall" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/West%20Brom%20Town%20Hall%20(Apr%202011)%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

West Bromwich Central Library

West Bromwich Central Library is at 316 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8DZ

Originally a library was built into the town hall of West Bromwich of 1874-5. But a purpose built public library was built next door in 1907, by Stephen J Holliday, of red brick with yellow terracotta dressings. The building was a gift of Andrew Carnegie to the Borough. It has been a Grade II listed building since 1987, and is known as the Central Library, West Bromwich.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Central Library" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB%20Central%20Library%20(Jan%202023).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Kenrick & Jefferson Building

The Kenrick & Jefferson Building is at 1, Astle Park, High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8NS

Red brick and terracotta offices built on the West Bromwich High Street in 1883 for Kenrick & Jefferson. It was a Printing Works founded by John Arthur Kenrick and Frederick Jefferson. They bought the Free Press newspaper in 1878 to help promote Liberalism.

dndimg alt="Kenrick & Jefferson" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kenrick%20Jefferson%20(Jan%202023).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Cross in Hand

The Cross in Hand sculpture outside the Wesley Methodist Church,  291 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8ND

The sculpture called Cross in Hand was originally unveiled in October 1989. It previously stood at the entrance to the Duchess Parade, but was removed in 2012 to make way for improvements to the pedestrian High Street, carried out by Fitzgerald Civil Engineering Contractors. It was created by Chris Dunseath and is dedicated to John Wesley, preacher and religious reformer, who preached many times in the 18th century in West Bromwich, Wednesbury and Tipton. His biblical teaching resulted in a revival of the Christian Church and the founding of the Methodist movement. The hand and cross is a symbolic representation of his message being accepted by the people.

dndimg alt="Cross in Hand" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Cross%20Hand%20(Jul%202017)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Now briefly turn onto St Michael's Street for the Billiard Hall.

 

The Catholic Church of St Michael and the Holy Angels

The Catholic Church of St Michael and the Holy Angels is at 260 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8AQ. On the corner with St Michael Street.

A Roman Catholic Church in West Bromwich Town Centre. The Roman Catholic Church of St Michael and The Holy Angels West Bromwich was built from 1875-77 by Dunn and Hansom. The tower and spire was added by 1911 by Edmund Kirby. Built of  Red brick with some stone dressings and tile roof. A Grade II listed building since 1974. It is close to the West Bromwich High Street.

dndimg alt="St Michael and Holy Angels" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/St%20Michael%20HA%20WB%2007022023%20(3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Billiard Hall

The Billiard Hall is at St Michael's Street, West Bromwich Ringway, West Bromwich, B70 7AB

Built as a snooker and billiard hall in 1913 in West Bromwich, since the early 21st century, the building has been used as a JD Wetherspoon Free House.

dndimg alt="Billiard Hall" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Billiard%20Hall%20WB%20(May%202017).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Head up New Street from St Michael's Street towards New Square shopping centre.  Perhaps stop for a coffee at Costa Coffee? On sunny blue sky days, it does get a bit bright in that Costa. There is other venues for lunch here including Nandos and a pub called the Interceptor.

 

The Sandwell

The Sandwell is at 277 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 8ND. Corner with New Street.

A corner public house in West Bromwich at High Street and New Street. Now called The Sandwell. It was known as The Goose until at least 2015-16. And was associated in the past with Mitchells & Butlers. Now owned by Great UK Pubs.

dndimg alt="The Sandwell" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/The%20Sandwell%20WB%20(Jan%202023)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Madeleine Carroll Memorial

The Madeleine Carroll Memorial on New Street, West Bromwich, B70 7PG

A 2006-7 memorial to the actress Madeleine Carroll (1906-87), in the shape of a lollipop stick. It's located outside of The Public (now Central St Michael's Sixth Form College) on New Street in West Bromwich. The world famous actress was born in West Bromwich in 1906. She starred in Alfred Hitchock's 'The 39 Steps' amongst many other films. She also won awards for her humanitarian work during the Second World War.

dndimg alt="Madeleine Carroll" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Mad%20Carroll%20The%20Public%20(Jul%202017).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Central St Michael's Sixth Form College

Central St Michael's Sixth Form College is at New Street, West Bromwich, B70 7PG

This building was originally a public arts venue called The Public, designed by Will Alsop. It was fully open by 2009, but it closed it's doors by late 2013 and was handed over to Sandwell College, where it became Central Sixth Sandwell College in 2014. By 2018 it was renamed to Central St Michael's Sixth Form College (following a merger between Sandwell College and Cadbury College). 

dndimg alt="The Public" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Central%20Sixth%20West%20Bromwich%20(July%202017)%20(4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Celebration WBA statue

The Celebration Statue at New Square shopping centre, West Bromwich, B70 7PP

The Three Degrees: Brendon Batson (born 1953), Laurie Cummingham (1956-89) and Cyrille Regis (1958-2018). Three former black football players for West Bromwich Albion during the 1970s and '80s. The bronze statue was unveiled in May 2019, sculpted by the artist Graham Ibbeson. Their appearance in top flight football, led to more black footballers being accepted in the game. Located in New Square shopping centre, West Bromwich.

dndimg alt="The Celebration" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Celebration%20WBA%20(Jan%202023).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Portrait bust of Phil Lynott

The Phil Lynott memorial at New Square, West Bromwich, B70 7PG

A portrait bust / bronze statue of the singer Phil Lynott (1949-86) unveiled in August 2021 on what would have been his 72nd birthday. He was a member of the band Thin Lizzy. It's located in New Square, West Bromwich behind Central St Michael's Sixth Form College (formerly The Public). It was sculpted by Luke Perry.

dndimg alt="Phil Lynott" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Phil%20Lynott%20WB%2019012023%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Walk back along New Street, then turn left onto the High Street. You will walk past the markets and shops. Head towards Dartmouth Square where there is a memorial fountain and a clock.

 

I am the King of the Castle

I am the King of the Castle sculpture on the High Street, West Bromwich, B70 7LX

A bronze sculpture of a Lion King sitting on top of a castle, which is on top of an elephant. It was unveiled originally on the 30th January 1990 by the then leader of Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, Councillor C. R. Davis. The sculptor was Laura Ford and it was name I am the King of the Castle. It was moved from an entrance of the Kings Square Shopping Centre in 2012 for repairs and restoration to this location in 2014 on the High Street in West Bromwich near St Michael Street and New Street.

dndimg alt="I am the King of the Castle" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/King%20Castle%20WB%20(May%202017)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Elizabeth Farley Memorial Fountain

The Elizabeth Farley Memorial Fountain in Dartmouth Square att 161 High St, West Bromwich B70 7QX

This drinking fountain and canopy was originally erected in 1885 in Dartmouth Park by Alderman Farley J.P. the son of Elizabeth Farley, of whom the fountain was in memory of. In 1987, the drinking fountain and canopy was relocated to the High Street at Dartmouth Square, around the time it was granted Grade II listing status. It used to be in a dark red colour, and a canopy over it from the Farley Centre was removed between 2012 and 2014. It was renovated and repainted in blue and green in 2022.

dndimg alt="Farley Fountain" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Farley%20Fountain%20WB%2019012023.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Kenrick's Clock

Kenrick's Clock is in Dartmouth Square at High Street, West Bromwich, B70 7QU

This Grade II listed clock dates to 1912, and was presented to the Borough by the then Mayor, Councillor J Archibald Kenrick. The clock was relocated in 2000 from a traffic island to it's current position in Dartmouth Square. In 2022, the clock was refurbished and repainted from it's old red colours to blue and green.

dndimg alt="Kenrick's Clock" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Kenricks%20Clock%20WB%2019012023.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

From Dartmouth Square, cross over at the lights at Bull Street, and continue down the High Street. Several Indian / Asian related restaurants and bars down here. The cross over the lights at Trinity Way.

 

The Great Lion Bar & Grill

The Great Lion Bar & Grill is at 43 High Street, West Bromwich, B70 6PB

A red brick and stone building, built as the Lewisham Hotel in 1887. To the rear was the Lewisham Brewery, the architect was Arthur James Price. In recent years the building has been Desi Junction, and since 2021-22, as The Great Lion Bar & Grill, an Indian restaurant.

dndimg alt="Great Lion" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Great%20Lion%20BG%20WB%20(Jan%202023).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

 

Continue down the High Street, which then becomes Birmingham Road. At West Bromwich Interchange, which is M5, Junction 1, there is pavements around it. Wait for the traffic lights to stop the traffic before crossing safely. As you will go past a Georgian landmark, the only surviving building from Sandwell Hall, it's lodge!

 

The Lodge of Sandwell Hall

The Lodge of Sandwell Hall at West Bromwich Interchange, West Bromwich, B71 4EA

This remarkable survival might date to the early 18th century, it was the Lodge of Sandwell Hall. The remains of the hall are at Sandwell Valley Country Park (not far from the Sandwell Priory ruins). It is thought that William Smith designed this lodge. The M5 motorway was opened in stages between 1962 and 1972, and this lodge is a feature in West Bromwich for drivers around the Interchange. You can also see it from the top deck of the no 74 bus.

dndimg alt="Lodge of Sandwell Hall" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Lodge%20Sandwell%20Hall%2019012023%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

From West Bromwich Interchange, walk down Birmingham Road, then cross the footbridge, as you will be approaching the home stadium of West Bromwich Albion Football Club. The Hawthorns. There is also a Starbucks Drive Thru, McDonald's and Greggs nearby.

 

West Bromwich Dartmouth Cricket Club

West Bromwich Dartmouth Cricket Club is at Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B69 4EX

A cricket club founded in West Bromwich in 1834. They are a friendly, sociable and inclusive cricket club. The are close to The Hawthorns (West Bromwich Albion FC) and Sandwell Park Golf Club.

dndimg alt="West Bromwich Dartmouth Cricket Club" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB%20DCC%20(Jan%202023)%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Allied Bakeries West Bromwich

Allied Bakeries West Bromwich is at Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B71 4JH

Part of a network of bakeries across the UK, this is the Allied Bakeries located in West Bromwich, opposite The Hawthorns. Allied Bakeries was founded in 1935 when bakery entrepreneur Willard Garfield Weston set up Allied Bakeries and sister company Allied Mills. That group of mills and bakeries is the foundation of what was to become a great British business – Associated British Foods, a global PLC, still run by the Weston family.

dndimg alt="Allied Bakeries West Bromwich" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Allied%20BWB%20(Jan%202023)%20(4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Greggs - formerly The Hawthorns Public House

Greggs is at 2 Birmingham Road, West Bromwich, B71 4JZ. Corner of Halfords Lane.

A house built in circa 1840. It was a public house called The Hawthorns (used by the WBA Supporters Throstle Club). But has been been part of the Greggs bakery chain since 2015. The building is Grade II listed.

dndimg alt="Hawthorns Greggs" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hawthorns%20Greggs%20(Jan%202023).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Hawthorns - home of West Bromwich Albion

The Hawthorns at West Bromwich Albion Football Club, Halfords Lane, West Bromwich, B71 4LF. Also on Birmingham Road.

West Bromwich Albion has been located at The Hawthorns since 1900, the stadium is located on Birmingham Road, on the corner with Halfords Lane. It is here that you will find the 2014 statue of Tony 'Bomber' Brown, WBA's highest goal scorer!

dndimg alt="The Hawthorns" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hawthorns%20WBA%2019012023%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

Tony 'Bomber' Brown WBA statue

The Tony 'Bomber' Brown statue outside The East Stand, The Hawthorns, West Bromwich,  B21 0BH

A bronze statue located at The Hawthorns football stadium, home of West Bromwich Albion. Tony Brown (born 1945) was WBA's highest goal scorer. The statue was sculpted by Jonathan Wylder and unveiled in November 2014. It was removed for cleaning in 2020 before it was returned in 2021. It can be seen from Birmingham Road through the Jeff Astle (1942 - 2002) gates.

dndimg alt="Tony Brown" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hawthorns%20WBA%2019012023%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

 

The Hawthorns Tram Stop

The Hawthorns Tram Stop at The Hawthorns Station, between Halfords Lane and Middlemore Road, West Bromwich, B66 2HB

Enter The Hawthorns Tram Stop from Middlemore Road in West Bromwich. There is a path called Roger Horton Way from there. Just head down the steps and wait for your tram back to Birmingham.

dndimg alt="The Hawthorns" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WMM%20Hawthorns%2019012023%20(5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />Photography by Elliott Brown

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