Situated in a scenic borough of the West Midlands, Birmingham boasts more canals than Venice.
Once the life force of trade in Victorian Birmingham, these canals are flanked on both sides by modern tourist attractions, vibrant bars, and more today. The best part is, you can visit all of them through exciting boat trips!
We’ve compiled a list of the best spots to visit around Birmingham Canals. We’ve also highlighted some interesting facts about the canals, the best places to stay, eat, and the top touring options for you.
| Further Reading: Explore 20 Splendid, Free Things to do in Birmingham on your next visit. Love bar-hopping? Check out these 20 Restaurants & Bars in Birmingham. |
This Article Contains
Impressive Facts About The Birmingham Canal Network
11 Must-See Stops Around Birmingham Canals
- Utilita Arena Birmingham
- Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
- Birmingham Botanical Gardens
- Symphony Hall
- CBSO Centre
- Edgbaston Reservoir
- Library of Birmingham
- Gas Street Basin
- Birmingham Repertory Theatre
- Birmingham Town Hall
- Cadbury World
Places To Stay Around Birmingham Canals
Places To Eat Around Birmingham Canals
How to Tour Birmingham’s Canal Network
Impressive Facts About The Birmingham Canal Network
Here are some interesting facts about the Birmingham Canal Network, also known as the Birmingham Canal Navigations (BCN).
1. How vast is the Birmingham Canal Navigations?
The Birmingham Canal Navigation is one of the most intricate canal networks in the world, encompassing 100 miles of canals.
2. Which UK city has the most canals?
Birmingham city has the highest number of canals in the United Kingdom, and the entire region is crisscrossed by beautiful British waterways and colourful boats.
3. What canal runs through Birmingham?
Major canals passing through the Birmingham city include Grand Union Canal, Worcester and Birmingham Canal, Stourbridge Canal, and Stratford Canal.
4. What are the five important canals linking the BCN?
The Birmingham Canal Network is primarily connected by these five canals and can be accessed from different directions through these routes:
- Coventry Canal (connecting at Fazeley Junction)
- Grand Union Canal (connecting at Salford Junction and Bordesley Junction)
- Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal (connecting at Aldersley Junction)
- Stourbridge Canal
- Worcester and Birmingham Canal (connecting the BCN Main Line at the Worcester Bar, alongside Gas Street Basin, and southwards to the River Severn at Worcester)
While you can explore a multitude of central and suburban canals in the Birmingham Canal Navigation through these waterways, here are a few hidden gems that you must visit once:
- Birmingham and Fazeley Canal (running from Old Turn Junction eastwards to the Coventry Canal at Fazeley Junction)
- Wednesbury Old Canal
- Wyrley and Essington Canal (also known as “the Curly Wyrley”)
- Digbeth Branch Canal (joining the Birmingham Fazeley Canal to the famous Grand Union Canal)
5. When were the Birmingham Canals built?
Renowned for their historic canal architecture, the Birminghams canals were built in the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Bridgewater Canal was the first-ever canal built, its construction planned and supervised by engineer James Brindley.
6. What is the New Main Line of Birmingham Canals?
The New Main Line is the revised route for the Birmingham Canal that has double-layered towpaths and broad tunnels for the waterways.
11 Must-See Stops Around Birmingham Canals
Birmingham’s canal network flows through the city centre, flanked by several historical spots along the towpaths.
So, here are some places that you should drop by if you’re in the city for the Commonwealth Games 2022 or otherwise:
1. Utilita Arena Birmingham
This arena in Birmingham is one of the most happening places, especially on the weekends! It’s the third-largest arena in the United Kingdom, entertaining millions since 1991 with music concerts, sporting events, comedy shows, and much more.
Address: King Edwards Road, Birmingham, West Midlands, B1 2AA
Website: https://www.utilitaarenabham.co.uk/
Phone No.: 0121 780 4141
Opening times: Monday to Friday: 10 am – 8 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: National Indoor Arena (3 min walk)
Train: Birmingham New Street Station (32 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
National SEA LIFE Centre (0.4 miles away)
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (0.9 miles away)
2. Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
From safeguarding masterpieces of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood to exhibiting the world’s largest watercolour, this museum is a must-visit for all art lovers.
Address: Chamberlain Square, Birmingham, B3 3DH
Website: https://www.birminghammuseums.org.uk/bmag/
Phone No.: 0121 348 8000
Opening times: Monday to Sunday: 10 am – 5 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Art Gallery (Stop Es1) (2 min walk)
Train: Birmingham New Street (51 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
Theatrix Birmingham (0.07 miles away)
Paradise Birmingham (0.6 miles away)
3. Birmingham Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens stretches across 15 acres and offers singular experiences like the Rhododendron Walks (to check out the myriad colours of rhododendrons in full bloom) and the Sculpture Trail (a walk through outdoor sculptures.)
Address: Westbourne Road, Birmingham B15 3TR
Website: https://www.birminghambotanicalgardens.org.uk/
Phone No.: 0121 454 1860
Opening times: Monday to Friday: 10 am – 6 pm, Saturday to Sunday: 10 am – 7 pm
Nearest bus station:
Bus: Fairway Dr and Somerset Circle (Ib) (6 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
Mr Mulligans (0.5 miles away)
Sherborne Wharf Heritage Narrowboats (0.8 miles away)
4. Symphony Hall
Situated in the Birmingham city centre, Symphony Hall is one of the finest concert halls in the world. Here you can enjoy magnificent performances from elite musicians, orchestras, dancers, entertainers, and poets.
Address: 8 Centenary Square, Birmingham, B1 2EA
Website: https://bmusic.co.uk/whats-on
Phone No.: 0121 200 2000
Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm, Sunday: 12 pm to 4 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Art Gallery Stop Es1 (3 min walk)
Train: Birmingham New Street Station (7 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham (0.16 miles away)
Legoland Discovery Centre (0.2 miles away)
5. CBSO Centre
The City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO) Centre typically hosts around 150 musical concerts each year, ranging from classics to contemporary, film scores, and symphonic disco.
The centre is also a prime destination for organising exclusive fashion shows, lavish wedding ceremonies, and high-end media events.
Address: CBSO Centre, Berkley Street, Birmingham B1 2LF
Website: https://cbso.co.uk/
Phone No.: 0121 616 6500
Opening times: Monday to Friday: 9 am – 6 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Granville Street (5 min walk)
Train: Bordesley (25 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
Ikon Gallery (0.1 miles away)
Pop World (0.1 miles away)
6. Edgbaston Reservoir
Maintained by the Birmingham City Council, the Edgbaston Reservoir is a 70-acre site encompassing tranquil waterways and lush greenery. It is one of the best spots for early morning joggers!
Address: 115 Reservoir Road, Ladywood, Birmingham, B16 9EE
Website: https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/reservoir
Phone No.: N/A
Opening times: N/A
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Wiggin Street (3 min walk)Train: Birmingham New Street (43 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
Ikon Gallery (2.3 miles away)
Cadbury World (4.6 miles away)
7. Library of Birmingham
Known to be the largest public cultural hotspot in Europe, the library is a 6-minute walk from Broad Street and situated on the west side of the city centre. Its Victorian reading room is lined with wood sourced from the first Birmingham Central Library, and is symbolic of the library’s glorious architecture.
It houses rare and remarkable collections of Shakespeare, including his plays, sonnets, and historical accounts of the playwright’s stage performances.
Address: Centenary Square, Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2EA
Website: https://www.birmingham.gov.uk/libraryofbirmingham
Phone No.: 0121 242 4242
Opening times: Monday and Tuesday: 11 am – 7 pm, Wednesday to Saturday: 11 am – 5 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Great Charles Street Stop Nh1 (2 min walk)
Train: Jewellery Quarter (23 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
Paradise Birmingham (0.06 miles away)
Birmingham Repertory Theatre (0.13 miles away)
8. Gas Street Basin
Historically, this basin marked the confluence of the Worcester and Birmingham Canal in the Birmingham city centre. Today you can explore exciting local pubs and bars beside the waterways, including the Regency Wharf, where you can rejuvenate with a refreshing drink or grab a bite.
Address: 42A Gas Street, Birmingham B1 2JT
Website: https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/gas-street-basin
Phone No.: N/A
Opening times: Monday to Sunday: 9 am – 6 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Ernest Street (Stop Hh2) (4 min walk)
Train: Jewellery Quarter (25 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
The Love Lock Bridge (0.2 miles away)
Cambrian Wharf Visitor Moorings (2.4 miles away)
9. Birmingham Repertory Theatre
The Birmingham Rep is a prestigious theatre in the United Kingdom maintained by the Birmingham City Council. It features excellent plays on its three stages (The House, The Door, and The Studio.) The Rep Café Bar overlooks the Centenary Square’s fountains and is a great cocktail venue for you to meet up and unwind with friends.
Address: Broad Street, Birmingham B1 2EP
Website: https://www.birmingham-rep.co.uk/
Phone No.: 0121 236 4455
Opening times: Monday to Saturday: 11 am – 11:30 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Newhall Street (Stop Gc3) (2 min walk)
Train: Jewellery Quarter (28 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
Symphony Hall (0.04 miles away)
Reflex Birmingham (0.09 miles away)
10. Birmingham Town Hall
Located in the Birmingham City Centre, the Town Hall is renowned for its stunning architecture. It regularly hosts prestigious media events, global conferences, and fancy banquets.
Address: Victoria Square, Birmingham B3 3DQ
Website: https://bmusic.co.uk/your-visit/town-hall
Phone No.: 0121 780 3333
Opening times: Monday to Friday: 10 am – 6 pm, Sunday: 12 pm – 4 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Colmore Row (Stop Sh11) (2 min walk)
Train: Birmingham New Street (10 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
Birmingham Hippodrome (2.6 miles away)
St. Philips Cathedral (1.1 miles away)
11. Cadbury World
The Cadbury World is packed with confectionery delights and chocolatey adventures, adored by adults and children alike! You can also go for their unique 4D Chocolate Adventure cinema experience, strapped in motion seats.
Address: Linden Road, Birmingham B30 1JR
Website: https://www.cadburyworld.co.uk/en
Phone No.: 0121 393 6004
Opening times: Monday, Thursday, and Friday: 10 am – 3 pm, Saturday and Sunday: 9 am – 4:30 pm
Nearest bus/train stations:
Bus: Acacia Road (2 min walk)
Train: Bournville (5 min walk)
Nearby attractions:
Selly Manor Museum (0.4 miles away)
Selly Oak Methodist Church (0.7 miles away)
Places To Stay Around Birmingham Canals
Here are some fantastic hotels to reside in and unwind after a long day of sightseeing:
1. Hotel Indigo
Experience a memorable stay at Hotel Indigo with indulgent suites and plush executive rooms. Sip refreshing cocktails at the Haig Bar while enjoying spectacular views of the city.
You can easily explore canal-side bars in the Gas Street Basin from this hotel.
Address: The Cube, Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1RS
Website: https://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/gb/en/reservation
Phone no.: 0121 643 2010
2. Malmaison
Malmaison is a chain of boutique hotels running throughout many cities of England, Scotland, and Ireland. Expect top-notch living amenities, mood-enhancing lighting, impeccable service, and scrumptious dishes at this hotel .
Go for a relaxing spa or check out the private dining rooms to make your stay special.
Address: 1 Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1RD
Website: https://www.malmaison.com/
Phone no.: 0121 794 3004
Places To Eat Around Birmingham Canals
To savour some local cuisine and flavours, you can drop by these places:
1. The Canal House
Known for its festive foods and delicious drinks, The Canal House is the perfect spot to relish meals al fresco. The place comes with a well-lit bar area and wooden furnishings, bound to win you over with it’s vintage setup!
Enjoy live music here every Friday and Saturday evening.
Address: 12 Bridge Street, Birmingham B1 2JR
Website: https://thecanalhouse.uk.com/
Phone no.: 0121 643 8829
2. Brindley Place
Brindley Place (named after the 18th century canal engineer James Brindley) is a thriving hub of restaurants, bars, and cafes alongside the Birmingham waterways. The streets in this area are lined with exceptional eateries that offer refreshing cocktails, Asian cuisines, and even fine Italian dishes.
Once you’re filled to the brim, check out the nearby florist shops or aesthetic card and book shops.
Address: Birmingham B1 2LP
Website: https://www.brindleyplace.com/
Phone no.: 0121 643 6866, 0121 643 2759
How to Tour Birmingham’s Canal Network
Ready to immerse in a canal boat holiday experience?
Here are some canal boat service companies that can take you through the picturesque route of the central and suburban canals in Birmingham.
1. Dudley Canal Trust Ltd.
The Dudley Canal Trust Ltd. organises several boat trips through which you can explore every intricate lock and winding tunnel of Birmingham canals.
Book a private boat trip to spend quality time with your loved ones, cruising around the British waterways and enjoying soothing views at your leisure.
Address: The Portal Building, Birmingham New Road, Dudley DY1 4SB
Website: https://dudleycanaltrust.org.uk/
Phone no.: 0121 557 6265
2. Sherborne Wharf Ltd.
From luxury passenger narrowboats to waterbuses, Sherborne Wharf Ltd. is known to arrange customised boat trip experiences.
The colourful boats take you through the scenic route of the canals covering the Oozells Street, parts of the Sir Thomas Telford’s Main Line, and the area around the National Indoor Arena and the International Convention Centre.
Address: Sherborne Street, Birmingham B16 8FN
Website: https://sherbornewharf.co.uk/
Phone no.: 0121 455 6163
3. Great British Boating
The trips arranged by the Great British Boating canal company cover the breathtaking route of the English countryside. These include waterways like Stratford upon Avon Canal, River Severn, and Worcester Birmingham Canal.
On this canal boat holiday, you’ll come across quaint towns where you can spot wildlife, enjoy afternoon tea, and pass by historical attractions.
The canal boat company offers holiday packages for short breaks (three-night weekends or four-night mid-week holidays) or longer holidays (10-days, two weeks or even longer.)
Address: Birmingham, West Midlands
Website: https://www.greatbritishboating.com/
Phone no.: 01252 796 402
Wish to explore some more stunning canals and waterways near Birmingham?
Experience a spectacular canal boat holiday on the Stratford upon Avon canal (running from the suburbs of Birmingham to River Avon.) Check out every intricate lock in the canal (that meets the Worcester Birmingham Canal at Kings Norton junction) over a weekend boat trip.