You’ve seen the city on foot, via bus, tram and train, but have you discovered it from the water? Very soon, you can explore the multiple canals within Birmingham thanks to the return of the Grade II* listed building, Roundhouse’s now-legendary kayak tours.
2025 not only sees the return of these award-winning kayak tours, but also 1930s open-topped heritage working boat trips, walking tours of the most photogenic parts of the city’s canal system, and guided tours of the Roundhouse itself – a unique example of Birmingham’s industrial heritage that has held since its construction in 1874.
But start your trip to Roundhouse Birmingham with a Kayaking Taster Session from just £11. In an hour-long session, you’ll learn how to paddle, get on (and off) the water, and control the kayak. And, once you’ve got the basics down, a whole range of kayak tours will open up to you – with their sit-on-top kayaks stable and ideal for beginners and experienced kayakers alike.
Bustling Birmingham kayak tours take you into the heart of Britain’s canal system, following the route of James Brindley’s first canal into Birmingham. Passing the International Convention Centre, The Cube, The Mailbox and the heart of Britain’s canal system, Gas Street Basin, as well as quieter areas, this tour won ‘Experience of the Year’ at the West Midlands Tourism Awards 2022.
Or, why not get a taster of the city with Birmingham Highlights? A short kayak tour taking guests around the best of Brum’s canal-side landmarks. Or if you’d rather stay on dry land, More Canals than Venice is a new walking tour where guests learn how the canals helped Birmingham become the city of a thousand trades and kickstart an industrial revolution.
For a truly special kayak experience, early risers need to check out Roundhouses’ Dawn Paddle.
A unique experience paddling at dawn. Setting off at sunrise, this 2-hour trip will take in both the city’s built-up and lesser-developed areas so you can hear both nature and the city stirring into action. To book this trip and other kayak tours at Roundhouse Birmingham, head to their website here.