Birmingham's canals: a guide to the waterways

Birmingham is often said to have more miles of canal than Venice. Whether or not that is true, the city sits at the centre of Britain's canal network, and its waterways are one of its greatest treasures. Once the lifeblood of industry, the canals are now a peaceful world of towpaths, narrowboats and waterside bars, just steps from the busiest streets.

Built for industry

The first canal in Birmingham, built by the engineer James Brindley, opened in 1769, linking the town to the coalfields of the Black Country. Coal prices in Birmingham fell dramatically, and the canal network grew rapidly, carrying coal, iron, raw materials and finished goods across the country.

By the mid-19th century, the Birmingham Canal Navigations formed a dense web of waterways around the city, busy with working boats pulled by horses.

Decline and rebirth

The railways and then road transport took trade away from the canals, and by the second half of the 20th century many had become neglected. From the 1980s, the city began to rediscover them. Towpaths were restored, warehouses turned into flats and restaurants, and new developments such as Brindleyplace and the Mailbox opened onto the water.

Gas Street Basin

Gas Street Basin, near Broad Street, is the heart of the canal network and the best place to start. Colourful narrowboats are moored beside old warehouses, and the Worcester Bar, a narrow strip of land that once separated two rival canal companies, is still visible.

Walks to try

From Gas Street Basin, walk along the towpath to Brindleyplace and on to the Roundhouse, a horseshoe-shaped former stables and depot now run by the National Trust and the Canal and River Trust, which offers tours and activities.

For a longer walk, follow the Worcester and Birmingham Canal south past the University of Birmingham towards Bournville, or head north along the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal down the flight of Farmer's Bridge locks.

On the water

Several companies offer canal boat trips from the city centre, and in summer you can hire boats or join organised paddleboarding and kayaking sessions. Watching a narrowboat work through a lock is one of the simple pleasures of the city.

Wildlife

The canals are surprisingly rich in wildlife. Look out for herons, kingfishers, moorhens and swans, especially on quieter stretches away from the centre.

Staying safe

Towpaths are shared by walkers, runners and cyclists, so be considerate and take care near the water's edge, particularly at night or with children.

A different view of the city

The canals offer a completely different way to see Birmingham, taking you past old factories, under railway bridges and through the heart of the modern city. A towpath walk is one of the best free things to do here.