Can You Guess the 'Underappreciated' UK City That's One of Europe’s Greenest?

EXPLORE FURTHER: I triumphed in Race Across the World – this is one of my favorite nations.

A lesser-known city that is famously recognized as the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution is surprisingly among the greenest urban areas in Europe.

Birmingham boasts over 600 parks and green areas along with an expanse of open space covering approximately 14 square miles or 36 kilometers squared.

The city boasts five local nature reserves as well and has received the prestigious title of Tree City of the World four times.

Therefore, where can one find Birmingham's finest green areas?

Sutton Park stands as one of the biggest urban parks in Europe, covering an impressive 2,400 acres within Sutton Coldfield.

This vast park features seven lakes, woodlands, wetlands, and heathland. Visitors may also spot cows and small horses feeding throughout the area.

A traveler commented in a TripAdvisor review that the vast fields within the park give the impression of being transported back 500 years to England.

Cannon Hill Park stands out as one of Birmingham’s premier lush areas spanning over 250 acres, featuring woodlands, conservation zones, and sporting sections.

Visitors have the option to enjoy a pedal boat shaped like a swan on the park's Boating Lake, allowing them to view the scenery from the water.

If you’re seeking a historical outing, consider visiting Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens.

Situated at the edge of the city, this Grade II listed walled garden transports you to the 18th century.

Visit Birmingham mentions: "Complete with structured pathways, fruit gardens, veggie patches along with muddy play zones and natural habitats, this spot is ideal for quality time with the whole clan."

Birmingham also boasts an impressive Botanical Gardens that provides a 'one-of-a-kind biodiverse natural setting'.

Spanning 15 acres, The Gardens house more than 10,000 plant species along with a Japanese Garden featuring a National Bonsai Collection.

Explore Birmingham mentions: "This site stands out as one of the UK’s most important historical botanical gardens, largely retaining its original form since 1829."

Moreover, the UK is enhancing its environmental reputation in various parts of the nation.

The Western Forest will extend from the Cotswolds to the Mendips. And we'll witness 20 million trees being planted, covering an area of 2,500 hectares of newly established forest land.

The initiative will be spearheaded by the Forest of Avon and backed by a five-year funding commitment of £7.5 million from the government.

The project leaders intend to introduce more 'trees and woodlands' closer to residential areas, with the Western Forest planned to benefit communities in Bristol, Gloucester, and Swindon.

The Western Forest is also intended to 'aid the push towards net-zero emissions while fostering economic development,' according to the Government.

This is the initial one among the three proposed national forests that the government pledged to develop as part of their manifesto.

The final woodland to be established in the United Kingdom was developed during the 1990s, spanning areas of Leicestershire, Derbyshire, and Staffordshire within the Midlands region.