Description
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!
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!
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.
If you’re looking to make a day of it, why not double up with one of our other tours either side of lunch?
#SeeTheCityDifferently
Great for: People looking for a unique way to visit Birmingham’s canals; seeing some of the less accessible corners of the local waterways. A chance to relax on the local waterways. People looking for a family-friendly or group afternoon activity.
Event Details
Dates: Tours are scheduled for Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from the Spring.
For group bookings and other dates, complete the enquiry form on the Group Booking page.
Meeting Point: Check in at the Roundhouse Birmingham Visitor Centre on arrival.
Finishing Point: Back in the Roundhouse
Directions: View our "Getting here" page for detailed directions.
Duration: From the welcome through to the boat trip itself is 60 minutes, with 15-30 minutes taking in cabin tours and questions at the end.
Suitable For: 5+, all under 18’s need to be accompanied by an adult.
Number of Steps? Not too many, just when getting in and out of the boat.
Visitor Info
Meet us at the meeting point in the Roundhouse Visitor Centre 10 minutes before the advertised start time.
Unfortunately, these 1930s boats are only accessible via steps.
The boats are standing room only, and are exposed to the elements. There are no loos (but we have them in the Roundhouse).
Your guide on the boats will use audio systems to ensure that they are audible in the busy city environment (near the boat engine!).
Headphones with a standard plug work with our audio system, so please do bring them along to use. If you don’t have them, we have disposables for you to use (although we like to limit using them, for obvious reasons).
The audio systems are compatible with hearing loops which are available on arrival. If your whole group needs to use the audio loop, please let us know so we can prepare.
When visiting the Roundhouse, sturdy, comfy shoes are your friend. Especially by the time you arrive in our cobbled courtyard!
Our guided tours and walks will go ahead whatever the weather so plan accordingly.
Ticket holders at for Roundhouse Birmingham tours are eligible for 20% of food and drink at Jonathans in the Roundhouse (a new independent café opening in the spring) and 20% off food at The Distillery pub next door.
Venue: The Roundhouse
Directions: 1 Sheepcote St, Birmingham B16 8AE