The 'perfect' lakeside park with a great cafe just 40 minutes from Birmingham

There's a 900‑acre park in Redditch that's centred around a 27‑acre lake with a river meandering through it. Arrow Valley Country Park has a 'great' cafe that overlooks the lake and lots to do for all ages. It's just 40 minutes from Birmingham , making it ideal for a free day out with the kids. One grandad posted on Tripadvisor: "The Boat house cafe is great, overlooking the lake, very reasonable prices and great coffee." Read more: Brilliant playgrounds in and around Birmingham Read next: Outdoor pools and lidos around Birmingham and the Midlands Another reviewer said: "Had a lovely visit here today.

Spent over 3 hours here. We walked all the way round & had a lovely ice cream. I thought it was really nice. Got a good atmosphere.

Would definitely come back for another visit." A third had travelled to visit the park: "Went here yesterday while visiting the Midlands. Needed somewhere that offered short walk options and a cafe as my wife damaged her knee. "This was the perfect place. Walks as long or short as you like, well kept footpaths and the cafe was brilliant.

Dog friendly and amazing cakes." There's a mix of open countryside, woodland and lakeside scenery, offering walking and cycling trails, including an accessible circular route around the lake. From the visitor centre, there are plenty of water-based activities to enjoy, such as pedalos, kayaks, rowing boats and paddleboarding, during school holidays and depending on the season. There are children’s play areas and large open spaces for picnics and outdoor games. It's possible to go sailing and fishing on the lake and there are additional activities such as disc golf, orienteering and wheeled sports.

Being a haven of woodland too, there are nature trails across the park with plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting. There are seven circular walks to discover plus a Hidden Creatures Family Art Trail opposite the car park Find out more via the Visit Worcestershire website. The Boathouse Café serves freshly-prepared bagels, sandwiches, pizzas, cakes, ice creams and a range of vegan and gluten free options. There's also an outdoor kiosk for grabbing something on the go, or sitting out in the sunshine.

Here you'll find ice creams, coffees, drinks and a range of bar-style food such as pizzas, loaded hash browns, and more. During school holidays, there are often community activities, events, outdoor gatherings and guided walks. Arrow Valley Country Park is set between Forge Mill Needle Museum , the protected ancient monument of medieval Bordesley Abbey and the Abbey Stadium to the north and Washford Mill to the south. The Bluebell Wood is home to swathes of bluebells in spring and the wildflower meadows are stunning in summer whilst t he Redditch Arboretum is a new plantation to explore.

Arrow Valley Country Park is on Battens Drive, Redditch B98 0LJ and has parking. It takes around 40 minutes to reach the park from Birmingham via the Pershore Road / A441 or the A435. Alternatively, you can catch a train from University Birmingham to Redditch. The park is just two miles from the station.