Handsworth Park

The basics

Handsworth Park is a great place to relax and play, especially if you’re in town when the weather is pleasant and warm. Some guided tours of Birmingham that focus on the city’s Black heritage visit the park. The Handsworth Council's Ranger Service also leads guided walks and educational visits for groups and students on request, but advanced notice is required.

Things to know before you go

• Handsworth Park is a magnet for joggers and walkers, as well as families.
• Note that there are no public restrooms at the park, so plan accordingly.
• The park's pathways are paved and are suitable for strollers and wheelchairs.

How to get there

Handsworth Park is located on Holly Road in the Handsworth area of Birmingham, about a 15-minute drive from the city center. It takes almost 45 minutes to get to the park from central Birmingham by public transportation, and there’s no direct service, so expect to either make one change or walk part of the way. The Perry Barr train station is about a 20-minute bus ride away (on the 11A Outer Circle route).

When to get there

Handsworth Park is open daily from morning until evening, with extended hours on weeknights. You're best off visiting the park in the summer, when the weather is at its warmest—come in July for the annual Simmer Down reggae festival. If you come in the spring, you’ll see the park’s flowers in full bloom. Early autumn is also pleasant, with crisp weather and fall colors.

The Simmer Down Festival

The biggest draw at Handsworth Park is the annual Simmer Down Festival, a summertime reggae event that's designed to keep the whole family entertained. It features a solid lineup of Jamaican, British, and international artists (Julian Marley, Bob Marley’s son, has performed more than once) along with workshops, craft vendors, a special kids’ area, and food stalls.