Doe Bank Wood
In 1936 Aldridge UDC purchased 68 acres of land that was going to be utilised for the Pheasey estate development, which they intended to keep as open space.
Gorse Farm Wood
Hidden away in the Gorse Farm area is the Gorse Farm Wood, fifteen acres of local nature reserve.
Gorse Farm Wood is situated in a suburban part of Great Barr and is one of nine Local Nature Reserves in the borough of Sandwell. It is 15 acres (6.2 Hectares) and has a range of natural habitats including both dry and wet woodland, heathland, willow car, grassland, pools and streams. The site was previously used for farming, marl and peat extraction. It was declared a Local Nature Reserve in 1995.
The reserve is open every day of the year for walking and enjoyment of the wildlife and natural habitats. Guided walks and conservation activities take place throughout the year which are open to all. Details of activities or about becoming a member of "Friends of Gorse Farm Wood" can be obtained from Sandwell Park Farm, Sandwell MBC, 0121 553 0220.
Important wildlife on the site includes a variety of woodland birds, insects and plants such as bluebells and wood horsetail.
Information provided by Sandwell Borough Council
Grid Reference: SP 164 883
Holly Wood
Holly Wood Local Nature Reserve (LNR) is situated in Great Barr and is one of a number of LNR's in the Sandwell area. Although only 15 acres in size, it has a range of natural habitats including both woodland, wetlands and streams. The site was previously used as an area of relaxation for recovering patients in the nearby St Margrets Hospital. The site is looked after by Sandwell MBC and BTCV who carry out regular conservation activities.
Sandwell MBC Link Holly Wood nature reserve