Description
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:
- A 90 minute to 2-hour guided tour in the cargo hold of a 1930’s heritage working boat.
- An exclusive stop at the Icknield Port Yard, not normally open to the public.
- 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.
What happens on the day:
- 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.
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.