Boat tour | Heritage Working Boat Trip

Step into the cargo hold of a 1930’s heritage working boat

Step into the cargo hold of a 1930’s heritage working boat and take a relaxing trip around Birmingham’s canal loops. A perfect way to explore Birmingham by water.

About this experience

The extremely popular Heritage Working Boat trips are back for the Summer!

Step into the cargo hold of a 1930’s open-topped heritage working boat and take a relaxing trip around Birmingham’s canal loops. A perfect way to explore Birmingham by water!

You’ll be travelling in the open-air cargo hold where coal and other goods were carried through a very different canal network to today, so expect something a little different to the average trip boat!

Please note that these boats are standing room only with no seats, and are exposed to the elements.

These narrowboats are maintained by the Canal & River Trust’s Heritage Working Boat Group, a team of volunteers who will guide you through some of the more hidden stretches of the local canals.

There’s also a chance for a glimpse into the living conditions of the families who spent their lives on these working boats.

  • A 1-hour guided tour in the cargo hold of a 1930’s heritage working boat.
  • Experience what it was like to work and live on board a 1930’s narrowboat.
  • Fully guided by our team of trained and experienced tour guides.

  • On arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed at the Visitor Centre where you will get issued with a headset that allows you to hear the tour guide clearly.
  • The team will assist you onto the boat and you’ll soon be embarking on your watery adventure.
  • Please note that there is no seating in this historic, open-topped boat.
  • The routes takes you around the historic Oozells Loop and towards Birmingham’s island, Port Loop.

Good to know

Practical advice

Important information

From

£7.50 conc /

£10

/ person

Location

Unfortunately, these 1930s boats are only accessible via a few steps down into the hold. Assistance is available but there is no lift or alternative to steps.

The open-topped boats are standing room only with no seats and are exposed to the elements, but we do have a stock of umbrellas on the boat for visitors to use. Our guided tours and walks will go ahead whatever the weather so plan accordingly.

There are no loos on board (but we do have them in the Roundhouse).

Your tour guide will use audio systems to ensure that they are audible in the busy city environment. Tour headsets are available so everyone can hear clearly. Please bring plug in headphones if you have them, or you can use those we have available. If a number of people in your group would benefit from the tour guide system’s hearing loop, call ahead to let us know on 0121 716 4077, or by emailing bookings@roundhousebirmingham.org.uk

When visiting the Roundhouse, our Victorian cobbles can be a little uneven and steep in places. View our access page for more details on what to expect when you’re here, though sturdy, sensible shoes are recommended.

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