Moseley is one of Birmingham’s most unique and vibrant neighbourhoods, known for its bohemian atmosphere, lush greenery, and rich history. This charming suburb may be a favourite spot for artists, musicians, and families, but it’s also packed with fun and surprising facts that will make your kids go “wow!” From secret historical treasures to quirky activities like crazy golf, there’s a lot to explore and discover in Moseley. Here are five Moseley facts that will fascinate your children and make a family day out even more exciting.
1. Crazy Golf at Cannon Hill Park – Just Around the Corner
While not directly in Moseley, Cannon Hill Park, a short hop from Moseley Village, offers one of the best family activities around: crazy golf! This beautiful park, loved by locals and visitors alike, features the Golden Putter Mini Golf course, a 36-hole adventure designed for families and children of all ages. The vibrant and colourful course has fun obstacles and playful themes, providing a perfect blend of excitement and competition.
For your kids, it’s not just about playing golf — it’s about the experience of overcoming quirky challenges at each hole, with loops, bridges, and even moving parts to navigate. Whether they’ve played before or are trying it out for the first time, your children will be thrilled to show off their skills as they take on this mini-golf wonderland.
And while Cannon Hill Park itself is not in the heart of Moseley, it’s an easy walk or short drive away, making it a perfect stop for a family day out. After the game, you can explore the park’s lakes, paddleboats, and playgrounds to extend the fun!
2. The Lost Treasure of Moseley Hall
One of the most fascinating and unexpected facts about Moseley is that it’s home to a historical hidden treasure: Moseley Hall. Once a grand Georgian mansion, Moseley Hall has seen everything from battles to rebuilding, and it even played a part in the English Civil War. Your kids will be wowed to learn that during the war, the Hall was a target and was severely damaged by Cromwell’s forces. But that’s not all — there are legends that hidden treasure might still be buried somewhere on the grounds!
Today, Moseley Hall is a part of a hospital complex, but it still holds onto its historical charm. As you explore the area, you can tell your children tales of the battles fought here and the possibility of long-lost riches hidden somewhere in the gardens. It’s a brilliant opportunity to mix history with adventure, sparking their imaginations as they envision soldiers hiding treasure beneath the very grounds they’re walking on.
3. A Nature Reserve Hidden in the Heart of Moseley
Did you know that Moseley has its very own private park and nature reserve? That’s right — hidden in the heart of the suburb is Moseley Park and Pool, a stunning 11-acre green space that has been a haven for wildlife and local residents for over 200 years. What makes it even more interesting is that access to the park is restricted; only keyholders can enter!
Your kids will love the idea of a “secret garden” tucked away behind the gates, full of wildlife, beautiful trees, and a large pool where you can spot ducks, swans, and even fish. While it’s primarily a private space, families can often enjoy access during public events or by becoming members. Moseley Park also plays host to the famous Moseley Folk & Arts Festival, where music, nature, and family fun come together in a magical outdoor setting.
For kids, exploring a nature reserve in the middle of a bustling suburb is like stepping into a hidden world. They can let their imaginations run wild as they search for animals, climb trees, and enjoy the natural beauty that feels a world away from the city streets outside.
4. The Legend of Tolkien’s Moseley Connection
For any young fans of The Lord of the Rings or The Hobbit, Moseley holds a special place in literary history. One of the most exciting facts is that J.R.R. Tolkien, the author of these iconic fantasy books, spent part of his childhood living in Birmingham, and Moseley Bog is believed to have inspired parts of his writing.
Moseley Bog is a serene and mysterious nature reserve just outside Moseley, filled with ancient trees, wildlife, and boggy terrain that looks like it could come straight out of Middle-earth. It’s said that Tolkien’s time exploring the bog influenced his depiction of the Old Forest and the Shire in his novels. For your kids, the idea that they could be walking through the very landscape that inspired one of their favourite stories is sure to spark their imagination.
Encourage your little adventurers to look for signs of magical creatures as they wander through the bog’s winding paths, gnarled trees, and hidden corners. Who knows — they might even find a secret passage to the Shire!
5. A World-Famous Music Venue: The Hare and Hounds
One thing your children might not know is that Moseley is home to one of Birmingham’s most famous music venues: the Hare and Hounds. This historic pub has hosted some of the biggest names in music over the years, including UB40, who played their very first gig here. From rock and reggae to folk and electronic music, the Hare and Hounds continues to be a hub for live performances and cultural events.
For kids who love music, this is a fun opportunity to introduce them to the local music scene. Tell them the story of how UB40 started their journey to international fame right here in Moseley. While the Hare and Hounds is primarily a pub, many of its music events are family-friendly, especially during the daytime.
The idea that their favourite bands could have played in a local venue might just inspire your kids to pick up an instrument and start their own musical adventure!
Moseley is a place of rich history, culture, and hidden wonders that make it a fantastic spot for a family day out. From the whimsical crazy golf course at Cannon Hill Park to the hidden treasure of Moseley Hall, a secret nature reserve, Tolkien’s inspiration, and a legendary music venue, there’s plenty to spark your children’s curiosity and sense of adventure.
Next time you’re in Moseley, take the time to explore these fascinating facts with your kids. You’ll discover that this bohemian suburb is full of surprises that will leave them amazed and eager to explore even more of Birmingham’s hidden gems.
