Explore Sheldon
Attractions
Things to see and do in Sheldon and the B26 area.
Sheldon Country Park & Old Rectory Farm
Sheldon Country Park is one of Birmingham's best-kept secrets — 300 acres of ancient farmland, wildflower meadows, and Hatchford Brook, tucked inside one of the city's most densely populated boroughs. Whether you come for an early morning walk through frost-covered fields, a summer afternoon with the kids, or a quiet moment away from the Coventry Road, the park offers genuine countryside within minutes of B26.
At the heart of the park sits Old Rectory Farm — a working heritage farm that has been part of this landscape for centuries. The farm keeps horses, ponies and other animals, and the sight of them grazing across the open meadows is one of Sheldon's most recognisable scenes. The farmhouse itself is a grade-listed building, and its tea room opens seasonally for hot drinks and light refreshments — a welcome stop on a longer walk.
The park is freely accessible year-round and managed by Birmingham City Council. Entry points are found off Ragley Drive and from the Hatchford Brook path near Coventry Road. Dogs are welcome on leads near the farm.
Hedgehogs, foxes, kestrels, little owls and seasonal wading birds along Hatchford Brook.
Ancient meadows supporting waxcap fungi — a national rarity found only in undisturbed grassland.
Horses and ponies in the paddocks year-round, with a seasonal tea room and community events.
Well-maintained paths suitable for all abilities. Dogs welcome on leads in farm areas.
An ongoing restoration project improving water quality and natural habitat through the park.
Seasonal café at Old Rectory Farm — check local notice boards for current opening times.
Ragley Drive, Sheldon, Birmingham B26 · Open daily, dawn to dusk · Free parking on Ragley Drive
Plane Spotting in Sheldon
B26 sits directly beneath the approach path for Birmingham Airport (BHX/EGBB) — one of the UK's busiest regional airports. When Runway 15 is active, commercial aircraft descend to under 1,000 feet right over Coventry Road, making Sheldon one of the best casual spotting locations in the Midlands.
The view from the open fields near the airport boundary is particularly dramatic — wide-body jets appear enormous as they pass overhead with gear down, just minutes from touchdown. You don't need any specialist equipment to enjoy it.
Runway 15
Planes land heading southeast, approaching from the north over Sheldon, Yardley and Stechford. You'll see them low and slow on final approach — this is the Sheldon spotter's favourite.
Runway 33
Planes land heading northwest, approaching from the south over Solihull and Shirley. Prevailing southwest winds make this the most common runway — less noise for Sheldon.
Coventry Road near the airport end, or the open fields and perimeter path for low-overhead views.
Use Flightradar24 to identify every aircraft in real time and find out where it's coming from.