Nestled in the heart of Sutton Coldfield, just north of Birmingham, it’s one of the largest urban parks in Europe, and it’s basically a dog’s dream.
Covering over 2,400 acres of woodland, heathland, wetlands, and lakes, Sutton Park offers the kind of space and variety that both dogs and their humans love. Whether you’ve got a high-energy spaniel or a senior Labrador who prefers a gentle amble, there’s a route here that works.
Here’s what makes Sutton Park one of the best dog walks in the UK, and what you should know before heading out.
First Impressions: Wild, Open, and Surprisingly Peaceful
Despite being so close to the city, Sutton Park feels wild in parts. There are ancient oaks, open heathland that stretches out like a mini Yorkshire moor, and winding paths through pine woods. If you’re used to neatly trimmed city parks, this feels refreshingly unpolished—raw in a good way.
For dog owners, that’s perfect. There’s room to let your dog off-lead, especially in the wide grassy areas or the woodlands where visibility is good. Most regulars know the etiquette: respectful recall, bags at the ready, and keeping a lookout for less confident dogs.
The Best Dog-Friendly Routes
Sutton Park is huge, so you won’t cover it all in one go. But that’s part of the charm—you can come back again and again and still find new paths. Here are three of the best dog-friendly loops to try:
1. Town Gate to Blackroot Pool Loop (2.5 miles)
Start at Town Gate, one of the main entrances with good parking. Head northwest into the park and follow signs to Blackroot Pool. This is a relatively flat, easy loop, great for dogs who like to splash in the water.
Blackroot Pool itself is a highlight—watch ducks glide by and let your dog sniff around the edges (though best to keep them out of the water if there are birds about). The adjacent woods offer lots of shady cover, and there are plenty of sticks to chase.
Bonus: There’s a dog-friendly café right next to the pool, so you can grab a coffee while your dog has a lie down.
2. Banners Gate to Longmoor Valley (3.5 miles)
Start at Banners Gate and head east through the heathland. This route gives you sweeping views and big skies—ideal if your dog loves a good sprint across open space. Loop down through Longmoor Valley and back via Keepers Pool.
This path can get muddy in wet weather, so bring decent footwear. It’s quieter than the main entrances, so if your dog gets nervous in crowds, this is a good pick.
3. Jamboree Stone Circular (4 miles)
This one’s for the more adventurous. Park near the Jamboree Stone entrance and head south into one of the wilder sections of the park. Expect hills, forest tracks, and the occasional steep slope. Ideal for dogs who love exploring and covering some ground.
There’s less foot traffic here, but keep an eye out for cyclists—this area is shared use, and it’s best to keep your dog close if they’re prone to chasing wheels.
Off-Lead? Yes—But Be Sensible
Sutton Park is very dog-friendly, and dogs can be walked off-lead in most areas. That said, the usual caveats apply:
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Keep control near livestock – Cattle and wild ponies graze in certain parts of the park, especially the open heathland. If you see them, leash your dog.
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Wildlife awareness – There are deer, ducks, and ground-nesting birds in spring. Don’t let your dog disturb them.
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Busy areas – Near car parks and cafés, it’s better to pop the lead back on. Not everyone’s a dog lover, and not every dog is dog-friendly.
Dog-Friendly Facilities
Sutton Park isn’t just big—it’s well set up for dog walkers. Here’s what helps:
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Cafés: You’ll find several small cafés inside the park, many with outdoor seating and water bowls for dogs. Blackroot Bistro and Bracebridge are popular stops.
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Bins: There are dog waste bins near all the main entrances. That said, some interior trails don’t have them—bring extra bags and be prepared to carry it out.
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Toilets and parking: Most entrances have basic toilet facilities and free parking, though it can get busy on sunny weekends.
When to Go
Sutton Park is open year-round, and it’s worth visiting in all seasons.
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Spring brings new growth and flowers, but also nesting birds—be a bit more cautious with off-lead time.
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Summer can get busy, especially around the lakes. Early mornings or late evenings are best for peaceful walks.
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Autumn is arguably the prettiest time to go, with the trees turning gold and red.
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Winter means quieter paths and crisp air—but the mud is real. Don’t wear anything you care about.
Weekdays are generally quieter, especially early morning or late afternoon. Weekends are buzzing, so if your dog prefers calmer surroundings, aim for the less-used entrances and routes.
Local Tips from Regulars
Check cattle locations: The Birmingham City Council website occasionally posts updates on where livestock are grazing—handy if your dog gets overexcited around animals.
Water stops: Bring your own, especially in summer. While some lakes look tempting, not all are safe for dogs to drink from.
Training recall? Stick to quieter areas—especially if you’re still working on “come when called.” The open spaces are great for practice, but avoid peak times.
So is Sutton Park a good place to walk your dog?
Sutton Park isn’t just one of the best dog walks in the West Midlands—it’s one of the best in the UK. It’s massive, beautiful, and varied enough to keep things interesting even if you go every week. It’s got practical facilities, space to roam, and a strong community of fellow dog owners who understand the joys (and chaos) of walking with a four-legged companion.
If you’re local, it’s an obvious go-to. If you’re visiting the area, it’s absolutely worth carving out a couple of hours to explore. Just bring sturdy shoes, a long lead, and a dog who’s ready for an adventure.
