Birmingham might not be Venice, but one fact us Brummies know and like to rave about in order to one up the Italian city is that there are more canals in Brum. Luckily, locals and visitors can soon explore the multiple canals within Birmingham and the surrounding areas with the return of Roundhouse Birmingham’s kayak tours.
You may have seen the city on foot, via the bus, tram or train, but have you discovered it from the water? From April onwards, the charity Roundhouse will be offering you the chance to see Birmingham from a different perspective with their guided kayak tours on the canal.
Roundhouse Birmingham guides will lead you on a journey through the city on their sit on top kayaks which are stable and ideal for beginners and experienced kayakers alike. Their ‘Bustling Birmingham’ kayak tours take you into the tourist heart of Britain’s canal system, starting along the route of James Brindley’s first canal into Birmingham that resulted in the industrial revolution booming.
As you paddle along the water, you’ll be given several snapshots into Birmingham’s heritage and plenty of opportunities to see Birmingham’s landmarks from a different view. Even though you’ll be heading towards the International Convention Centre, The Cube, The Mailbox and the heart of Britain’s canal system, Gas Street Basin, kayakers will still be able to discover quieter areas along the blue highway.
Or why not venture outside of the city with Roundhouse’s ‘Green Escape’ kayak tours where you can take in the 25% of the city that is given over to green space? Roundhouse’s kayak guides will lead you out of the hustle and bustle of the city and you’ll travel along the Soho loop, a section of canal that saw the birth of the industrial revolution and certainly carried on playing it’s part in turning Birmingham into the city of 1000 trades.
Today, the Soho loop connects many green spaces and is used by the wildlife as a quick shortcut, so expect to see some local wildlife; if you are extremely lucky you may even catch a glimpse of the illusive otters that frequent this section. The ‘Green Escape’ kayak tours are slightly longer paddle than the ‘Bustling Birmingham’ tours and are great for those with previous experience or who have already attended the city kayak tour.
For more information about Roundhouse Birmingham kayak tours and to book your tickets head to their website here.