Bringing more blossom to Balsall Heath, Birmingham
The National Trust Blossom Branch in Birmingham is part of the Blossoming Balsall Heath project where, together with the local community, we are planting 300 blossoming trees in the area this winter. The Blossom Branch is a space for local families and community groups to come together to learn about blossom, take part in nature themed activities and help shape the project’s tree planting ambitions. The Blossom Branch will be in operation until December.
Creating a blossom neighbourhood
Blossom has the power to lift our spirits. After the dark days of winter, the emergence of its beautiful pink and white petals signifies new beginnings and brighter days ahead. It’s also a very important part of our ecosystem, helping pollinators to bring new life and, through the leaves of the trees, capturing carbon and cleaning the air that we breathe.
We need more blossom trees in our towns and cities, and in Balsall Heath, Birmingham, we’re extremely pleased to be working with the community to create a blossom neighbourhood.
There are already inspiring individuals and groups doing great nature-based work in Balsall Heath and our aim is to bring blossom to the nature party. Together we can create something special so our communities, and nature, can thrive for generations to come.
The Blossom Branch
The communities of Balsall Heath are at the heart of this project and with their guidance we are planting 300 blossoming trees in the area this winter.
As a first step, we opened the Blossom Branch, a place where people in the area can drop-in to find out more about the project and come together to think and learn about the power of nature. Since April, we’ve be teaming-up with residents, schools and local organisations to inspire people, learn about, and connect with, the nature on their doorstep through a programme of free activities, talks and crafts.
Creating the Blossom Branch has already been a great community effort with support from iSE on Ladypool Road, where the branch is based, and design from Birmingham-based, Friction Arts. Local residents have also been involved, helping to make the space welcoming and inspiring.
Address and opening times
The Blossom Branch is located at 249 Ladypool Road, Balsall Heath, Birmingham B12 8LF and will be running between now and December, open Wednesdays and Saturdays. Full opening days and times can be found below.
School Term
Weds 10:30 to 14:30
Sat 10:30 to 14:30
The Blossoming Balsall Heath project is supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.
Blossom Branch access information
We want to make sure that everyone can enjoy their time at the Blossom Branch. Set in Balsall Heath, Birmingham, the Blossom Branch is accessed from street level. There is parking available in the area, as well as a private car park for visitors on a first come first served basis. This is accessed via Brunswick Road and leads to the building’s main entrance at the back.
There are regular buses which run down Stoney Lane and Alcester Road, which are a ten-minute walk away. The closest bus stop is ‘Brunswick Road’ on Stoney Lane. There is one step down into the branch from the street entrance, with a small circulation space.
There is level access available, please ring the intercom marked ‘Blossom Branch’ on the main entrance at the back of the building and a member of the team will meet and assist you.
There are toilet facilities in the building, including a disabled toilet available for any visitors. We have a few small chairs in the space, as well as soft cushions and bean bags.
There are sensory toys, activities, and ear defenders available. It can be a noisy space at times when full.
We can fit approximately 12 people in the space, so we may ask you to come back and visit at quieter times if the space is full.
Most of our activities are drop-in sessions, and free to visit. Some activities do need to be booked. Please follow us on Facebook to find out more about our events and activities, and where booking is required.
Assistant dogs are welcome.
To see our visual story of the Blossom Branch, please open this PDF.
