Description
Join us for a kayak through Birmingham by night, a completely different experience from in the day. Buildings illuminated by the sun are now transformed by streetlights and signs, and the canal takes on a very dark inky colour as the kayaks cut through in relative silence.
The tour lasts around 90 minutes and is three miles long, taking in Oozells loop, past the Utilita Arena and along Brindleyplace; visiting Cambrian Wharf with views of the BT Tower on the way. We’ll end at the Mailbox before making our way back to the Roundhouse.
No experience is necessary for our kayak tours; our experienced and knowledgeable guides will get you paddling and navigating your way around Birmingham’s canals by night in a safe and enjoyable way.
The paddle will be around three miles long.
We provide every participant with a buoyancy aid, regardless of their swimming ability for their safety. Tours are led by a professionally qualified British Canoeing Instructor who will give full tuition. Sit back, paddle and have fun!
Suitable For: 18 years+
Number of Steps? Not many steps but quite a few strokes, a basic level of fitness (walking up the stairs without being out of breath) will suffice. We’ll be paddling approximately 3 miles.
#SeeTheCityDifferently
Great for: Those looking for a unique experience
Event Details
Dates: 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th September.
Time-slots: 8:00pm- 10:00pm (7th & 14th September), 7:00pm-9:00pm (21st & 28th September)
Meeting Point: Check in at the Roundhouse Lower Courtyard which is accessible via the towpath only, 15 minutes before your tour starts.
Finishing Point: Back at the Roundhouse!
Directions: View our "Getting here" page for detailed directions.
Duration: From introductions through to a chat at the end, you should allow around two hours for this guided experience, with 90 minutes on the water.
Suitable For: 8 years plus, all under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult. We recommend that those that are 8-12 years take advantage of our two person kayaks to get the most out of the experience.
Number of Steps? Not many steps but quite a few strokes, a basic level of fitness (walking up the stairs without being out of breath) will suffice. We’ll be paddling approximately 3 miles.
Visitor Info
Guided tours will go ahead in all but the worst of weather. If we do need to cancel a tour due to high winds or thunderstorms we will reschedule at the earliest opportunity.
What to wear:
It is best to wear gym-style clothing because these won’t hold any water when wet; jeans, leather and wool are not ideal for kayaking.
Everyone must wear footwear; old trainers, crocs, flip flops are all great.
You will get a wet lower half, because our kayaks are sit on top kayaks, you are exposed to the drips from your paddles and splashes, and you may get a small puddle in your seat - we'd recommend wearing some waterproof trousers if you have them. We do have some waterproof trousers and jackets available.
There's a small chance you may fall in, we recommend bringing a towel and a change of clothes- just in case.
What to bring:
We have lockers available for your valuables and bags, however, we recommend that no valuables are brought to the Roundhouse. We strongly recommend that no phones, wallets, or sunglasses are taken on the water and not be held responsible for any loss incurred, please use the lockers provided.
Be sure to check in at our reception at least 15 minutes prior to the tour to make sure we're ready to start on time!
Food/drink:
Looking for something to eat and drink before or after your tour? Ticket holders receive 20% off food at The Distillery pub next door. Discount is valid on the day of your tour on production of your ticket. You will need to place your order through a member of staff. Booking is recommended.
Please provide proof of your eligibility for concessions or discounts on arrival.
We are an accredited British Canoeing Delivery Partner.
You want to know that the centre you choose is high quality, and that’s what the Delivery Partner badge means. A paddling centre displaying the British Canoeing Delivery Partner badge has agreed to the Delivery Partner Charter. This means the paddling centre has agreed to high standards of safety, value for money and customer service.
The badge is an indication to schools, parents and other customers that the partner takes its responsibilities seriously. They will use highly trained, qualified and competent staff, to deliver a high-quality customer focused product.
Venue: The Roundhouse
Directions: 1 Sheepcote St, Birmingham B16 8AE
Venue: The Roundhouse
Directions: 1 Sheepcote St, Birmingham B16 8AE
