As part of our summer activities programme SVI organised a walk though Lightwoods Park and Warley Woods on Monday 12 August.
The weather was unsettled on the day and we were under the threat of thunder and lightning due to the recent heatwave, with heavy downpours forecast. This meant that only a few committed walkers turned up on the hottest day of the year so far.
We met at the old Edwardian band stand (built in 1903 by Lion foundry in Scotland and refurbished by the council in 1987) and walked around a very pleasant, well paved section of the park. We crossed over the road to the sister section of the park and strolled along a short side path to Lightwoods Hill.
The nesting birds’ song was very obvious and we paused to try and identify which type of birds were making all the noise. But they were well hidden among the trees.
After crossing Lightwoods Hill we entered Warley Woods via a very attractive iron gate and walked along flat, well maintained paths. The wooded area gave us plenty of welcome shade, as by then it was quite warm.
At the end of the walk we gathered for lunch at the Pavilion. This houses club/meeting rooms, toilets, a shop (selling all golf related items) and most importantly a lovely little café.
We will be back at Lightwoods Park and Warley Woods for another walk when the weather isn’t quite so scorchio!
What our members said
“I come here often as it is local to where I live. It was a nice change walking with the group as I could have conversation and sighted support to explain the area and park in more detail.”
“I would love to do a history walk here. It was lovely walking with others for the sighted support who could explain the surroundings.”
“It has been a very relaxing walk, the parks are beautiful and so big. The café is lovely in Warley Woods and I enjoyed my all day breakfast. It was very nice. I shall come again with the group if I am able to.”
“It was a very enjoyable walk and I could have walked more as it was at a nice pace and a flat walk. I will now look at the route to this park from my home and try to come here again.”
More about Lightwoods Park and Warley Woods
Lightwoods Park is now cared for by Sandwell Council. It has very good playgrounds for all ages, which include a skateboard area and high and low climbing frames. There is also a café in the main house and a walled garden. Lightwoods House was built in 1780 by John Grundy and is grade 2 listed. Rooms within the main house can be hired for weddings and community meetings. Find out more about Lightwoods House and Park
Warley Woods is looked after by Warley Woods Community Trust with the help of over 200 local volunteers. They do a great range of jobs such as litter picking, keeping the plants and trees under control, making sure benches and seats are safe and clean for visitors and other important conservation work within the park.
If you are interested in knowing more about the Trust please visit: www.warleywoods.org.uk
Thanks to our funders
This walk was made possible thanks the Inclusive Communities Fund.
