Barr Beacon is an important open space in Walsall - a tall hill rising out of the countryside in the east of the Borough it offers outstanding views across the Black Country and Birmingham. An important wildlife suite it is owned by the Beacon Trust and managed by Walsall Council.

Walsall Council and The Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and the Black Country have entered into partnership with the aim of enhancing Barr Beacon and Pinfold Quarry for visitors whilst maximising the sites’ wildlife, geological and archaeological potential. We have researched the use of the site by local people, as well as its biodiversity, archaeology and cultural heritage. As a result of this we have drawn up proposals for Conservation management, access and audience Development. The site has a strong local heritage significance and it is proposed to declare Barr Beacon a Local Nature Reserve under the provisions of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949.

The 25 hectare site is one of the highest points in the West Midlands at 227m above sea level, giving magnificent views of the surrounding landscape. Part of the plateau of Breccia sandstone, which extends to Streetly in the East, it forms the back bone of the Beacon Regional Park and Long Distance Footpath.

The site possesses large expanses of acid grassland with frequent gorse thickets. There are mixed broadleaf and coniferous plantations in the southern half and areas of heathland.

The site supports many Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority species, including Kestrel, Song Thrush and the acid grassland habitat.

The Quarry site is 2.7 hectares and its main interest is the Triassic and Permian rock exposures.

Archaeological features of interest include the site of possible Neolithic standing stones (Sadly destroyed) and mediaeval ridge and furrow. Other features at Barr Beacon include a large underground reservoir and a war memorial.

How to find Barr Beacon

The best bus for Barr Beacon is the 376/376A from Walsall to Old Oscott via Pheasey.  The Beacon Hill stop on Sutton Road is a short walk from Barr Beacon.

If you come by car, there are many ways to approach Barr Beacon. It is on the B4154 between Pheasey and the traffic lights on the B4151 Sutton Road between Walsall and Streetly. It is well signposted and there is plenty of car parking on site.

• Grassland