Barr Beacon

Barr Beacon is a mile long sandy ridge with a covered reservoir in the centre. It is generally open with trees and vegetation more on the side slopes and a good path network used on beginners courses. Please take care crossing internal roads to car parks.

Courses start and finish at the war memorial. There are two beginner courses, two trickier ones and two harder courses. The course distances on the maps are measured as straight lines between the checkpoints - expect to cover approximately half as far again as you skirt obstacles. Running the two harder courses back-to-back will give you a decent orienteering workout.

Barr Beacon is one of the highest points in the West Midlands. It is very accessible from all of the West Midlands conurbation.  It offers spectacular panoramic views, and from the top, you can see surrounding landmarks including the Wrekin, Cannock Chase, Lichfield Cathedral, Birmingham City Centre, and the Lickey Hills.  All in all, you can see at least 11 counties from up there:  West Midlands, Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Leicestershire, Gloucestershire, Northamptonshire, Oxfordshire, Worcestershire, Herefordshire and even Powys Wales!