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.You don’t need any kayaking experience, specialist clothing or equipment – but a basic level of fitness (walking up the stairs without being out of breath) will ensure you can enjoy our kayak experience. Our trained and knowledgeable guides will get you paddling and navigating Birmingham’s canals 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!
What’s included:
- A unique experience, paddling at night in the heart of Birmingham’s canal system.
- The history of the canals and the city and an exploration of Birmingham and its canals with around 90-minutes on the water.
- Expert advice, full training and safety briefing from your fully qualified instructor.
- All kayaks, paddles and safety equipment are provided.
What happens on the day:
- On arrival, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your tour guides.
- The team will give you full training and a safety briefing – you don’t need any experience or specialist equipment.
- You’ll explore waterways in the city centre, passing the International Convention Centre, The Cube, The Mailbox and the heart of Britain’s canal system, Gas Street Basin at night!
What about the weather?: Guided tours will go ahead in all but the worst of weather. If we need to cancel the tour due to high winds or thunderstorms, we will reschedule at the earliest opportunity.
What should I wear?: Gym-style clothing is best because these won’t hold any water when wet. Everyone must wear footwear; old trainers, crocs, flip flops are all great.
Great for: Finding out something new (and old) in Birmingham; seekers of hidden gems; anyone looking for an alternative to a lecture-style museum tour; a bit of fresh air with people; something memorable to do with visiting family and friends.
Event Details
Date: Thursday 12th September
Time-slot: 8:00pm-10:00pm
Meeting Point: Check in at the Roundhouse Lower Courtyard which is accessible via the main gates or towpath, 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: 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.
Visitor Information
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.
Please provide proof of your eligibility for concessions or discounts on arrival.
Spectators are welcome.
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’ll get a wet lower half, as you are exposed to the drips from your paddles and splashes. You may get a small puddle in your seat, so we'd recommend wearing some waterproof trousers if you have them. If you don’t own any, we do have some waterproof trousers and jackets available to borrow.
There's a small chance you may fall in, so we recommend bringing a towel and a change of clothes, just in case. Should you be unlucky enough to fall in, we have an onsite shower.
What to bring:
We have lockers available for your bags, and 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 we will not be held responsible for any loss incurred.
Food/drink:
Looking for something to eat and 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.
_____________________________________________________________________________
We are an Paddle UK 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