Birmingham in Bloom: From The Vale Lake to the Library Secret Garden

On a calm spring day in Birmingham, I started my journey at The Vale, a tranquil lakeside retreat nestled within the University of Birmingham’s student village. The lake’s surface sparkled under the morning light, ducks glided gracefully, and cherry blossoms swayed gently in the breeze. Students lounged on the grass, accompanied by the soft melody of birdsong, creating an idyllic beginning to a green city escape. Continuing my walk, I passed through Edgbaston and hopped on the tram heading to the city center, where the atmosphere became livelier. Glass skyscrapers stood alongside red-brick buildings, and street musicians performed near New Street Station as I strolled toward the city’s core. My destination was the Library of Birmingham. Ascending the escalators past floors lined with countless books, I arrived at the rooftop garden terrace. From this vantage point, the city unfolded in every direction—a mix of historic steeples, contemporary high-rises, and verdant patches below. The aroma of herbs and flowers from the rooftop beds mingled with the fresh breeze, offering a rare and serene escape above the bustling streets. From the tranquil lakeside to a garden in the sky, this walk through Birmingham showcased the city’s harmonious blend of nature, knowledge, and hidden moments of peace.