Outside of balti houses, Birmingham is probably most famous for its canals – stretching for over 35 miles – with countless incredible ways to explore them all. There’s a reason Birmingham’s called the Venice of the North. If you’re after the West Midlands’ most unique boat trip, however, then that belongs to our Black Country neighbours in Dudley.
Delving into 428 million years of history, Dudley Canal & Caverns offers an award-winning exploration of the region’s Industrial Revolution-era underground canal routes. Its 45-minute Dudley Underground Experience boat trip sets off from Dudley Canal – seven days a week, with the last trip of the day leaving at 4pm – and delves deep into the region’s past.
With your hard hat on, sail into the hidden worlds of tree-lined basins, handmade tunnels and ancient limestone caverns. Professional skippers will describe not only the history but also the geology – from fossil-filled seabeds to advances in canal building. You’ll also see the delights of Shirts Mill Basin, Flooded Mine, Cathedral Arch and the magnificent Singing Cavern.
Tickets for the Dudley Underground Experience are £12 per adult and £10 per child (under 3s go free), but a range of family ticket deals are also available. Best of all, if you gift aid your ticket you can enjoy the trip as many times as you like for 12 months. Keep an eye out for specially-themed rides around Easter, Halloween and Christmas too.
What other boat trips does Dudley Canal & Caverns do?
The Dudley Underground Experience is but a taster of what’s on offer at Dudley Canal & Caverns. Hit up the Two Tunnel Tour for a six-hour journey through mysterious tunnels and conservation areas. You’ll even take a 30-minute break – perfect for a picnic – at the hidden gem of Bumble Hole Nature Reserve and historical Cobbs Engine House.
Full of charm and character, it offers a unique insight into the rich heritage of the West Midlands waterways. It’s an unforgettable canal route and only £28.50 per person (It’s also possible to book this trip for a private group for £1000). The next dates for the Two Tunnel Tour in 2024 are June 16; July 6, 21 and 27; August 3 and 18; and October 20.
If 45 minutes is too short and six hours is way too long, you’ve also got two four-hour options. The Dudley Tunnel Trip explores the second-longest navigable canal tunnel in the UK. Meanwhile, the Open Water Cruises is a bit of fresh air filled with wildlife and history. To learn more about Dudley Canal & Caverns head here.