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£9.00 – £12.00 (inc. VAT)
SOLD OUT!
Why not check out some of our other Birmingham Heritage Week tours!
More Canals than Venice at Dusk
Join us for a limited edition canal boat trip with a difference; stopping off for a nosey around Icknield Port Yard, which is not normally open to the public, to see Thomas Telford’s office where he redesigned our famous canal network.
A perfect way to explore Birmingham by water. This family friendly activity takes visitors to experience some of the hidden areas of our local waterways.
Please note that these boats are standing room only with no seats, and are exposed to the elements.
For Birmingham Heritage Week 2024, we are offering a limited edition Heritage Working Boat Tour! You’ll stop off for a nosey around Icknield Port Yard, which is not normally open to the public, to see Thomas Telford’s office where he redesigned our famous canal network.
We’ll step into the open-air cargo hold of a 1930’s heritage working boat for a relaxing and peaceful trip exploring Birmingham’s scenic canal loops, with a stop at the boat yard.
A perfect way to explore Birmingham by water. This family friendly activity takes visitors to experience some of the hidden areas of our local waterways. 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.
What’s included:
What happens on the day:
What about the weather?: Guided tours will go ahead in all but the worst of weather. If we need to cancel the tour because of very poor weather, we will refund your tickets.
What should I wear?: Our cobbled courtyard can be a little uneven, slippery and steep in places, and this tour will involve some walking. Sturdy, sensible shoes are your friend! Don’t forget to wear clothes suitable for a day outdoors as well.
Great for: People looking for boat trips around Birmingham’s canals; seeing some of the less accessible corners of the local waterways. A chance to relax on a canal boat trip. People looking for a family-friendly or group afternoon activity.
Date: Sunday 8th September.
Time slots: 11:00am-1:00pm.
Meeting Point: Please check in at the Roundhouse Visitor Centre on arrival, 15 minutes before your tour starts.
Finishing Point: Back in the Roundhouse.
Directions: View our Getting here page for detailed directions.
Duration: 90 minutes to 2 hours.
Suitable For: 12+, all under 18’s need to be accompanied by an adult.
Please note that the tour is standing only, and you will be in the depth of the boat.
Number of steps: Not much walking to get to the boat, but this tour does requires a basic level of mobility to descend the steps into the boat.
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Visitor Information
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).
Please note that these boats are standing room only with no seats, and are exposed to the elements.
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.
Food/drink
Looking for something to eat or drink after your tour? Ticket holders receive 20% off food at The Distillery pub and 10% off food and drink at Ristorante Caffe Arena. Discount is valid on the day of your tour, on production of your ticket. Booking is recommended.
Alternatively, you’re welcome to bring a packed lunch to eat in our courtyard.
Venue: Roundhouse Birmingham
Directions: 1 Sheepcote St, Birmingham B16 8AE
Please get in touch with us to organise a group booking.
Alternatively please visit our Group Booking Page for more information on how to make a booking enquiry.
The Roundhouse, 1 Sheepcote St, Birmingham, B16 8AE
0121 716 4077
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Registered Charity No. 1169232
