Trip to Birmingham: The Best Ways to Explore Charming Waterways and Canals
Are you thinking of planning a trip to Birmingham some time soon? We’ll be more than happy to provide you with some great ideas for your next adventure to England. Birmingham enchants millions of tourists with its charming urban atmosphere and vibrant mix of cultures. One of the greenest cities in Europe, it’s historically the first manufacturing town in the world during the Industrial Era. The most inland major city of England, is also home of the biggest library in Britain. In addition to being the largest Christmas market in Europe. Also known as Venice of the North, there are some of the not-so-known facts about Birmingham. The true worldwide fame the city gained thanks to 35 miles of canals.Β These island waterways were of paramount importance in the Age of Industrialization.
What Means of Transport to Choose a Trip in Birmingham?
The most convenient and fastest way to discover all the sights of this amazing city is to rent a car. For a big company, 7-seater cars in Birmingham will help you save money on fuel and rent. Plus, keep everyone together throughout the whole road adventure. If you have a trip coming up, you can consider family-friendly vehicles hire such as Volkswagen Sharan or Caddy Maxi. Rental24.co.uk offers a wide range of car options for up to seven people. All from reliable suppliers to make your trip in Brum safe and enjoyable!
Some Historical Facts about Birmingham Waterways
In the 19th century, canals served as waterways for transporting heavy goods. The history of the functioning of the channels goes back more than 170 years. Whereas, the main mode of carrying coal and iron was an overall volume of 9 million tons. Later, due to the high cost of maintenance, the canals underwent a major overhaul. Canal use declined towards the end of the 20th century when railroads undertook long-distance transporting. Now, the canals create charming urban landscapes thanks to the green parks and modern buildings along them.
The Birmingham Canal Navigations (BCN) today counts more than 100 miles of canals with the major passing through Brum:
Grand Union Canal
Worcester & Birmingham Canal
Stourbridge Canal
Stratford Canal
Grand Union Canal: Must-see Sights
Those wishing to explore the Grand Union Canal surroundings can add to their bucket list to the following for their trip:
An hour-and-a-half walk starting from the Grand Union Canal and running along the railway where reach Rickmansworth downtown. Move to the Aquadrome Local Nature Reserve. From there, enjoy astonishing wonder created by motley narrow boats and the tranquillity of the waters.
Cassiobury Park, which is located on the western bank of the Π‘anal, will enchant you. It is defined by green grassy fields, a picturesque River Gade, and reserved American oaks.
The Worcester & Birmingham Canal will take you from the vivid City of a Thousand Trades. Travel through the verdant hillsides of Worcestershire to the Anglican cathedral. Here are three best ways to discover Birmingham canals:
Enjoy narrowboat tours operating by Sherborne Wharf with 2-hour weekend lunch cruises.
A walking tour from Positively Birmingham will become a great pastime, Including those who want to delve deeper into the history of the canals.
Visit Gas Street Basin which is a famous nightlife venue located near the Worcester & Birmingham historic canals. This place is a living museum that was once full of jetties and mills.
Stourbridge Canal and Unique Glass Cone
The Stourbridge Canal is a core of the glasswork sector, which once had over 20 factories famous for cutting crystal. The surroundings of the Canal will offer you several ways of enjoyable pastime with your trip to Birmingham:
See the unique Red House Glass Cone, become a witness of glasswork exhibitions, and experience industrial history.
Take a train ride between Stourbridge Junction and Sture Town which is served by the unique Parry People Mover. This vehicle is a tiny and unbelievably powerful gas-powered railcar.
Visit The Waterfront which is a stone’s throw from Merry Hill Shopping Centre. Placed alongside the historic Dudley Canal, it is home to the famous music academy, Black Country Radio. This landmark is a one-of-a-kind Halo Salt Centre.
Stratford-upon-Avon Canal: Immerse Yourself in Shakespeare’s Mysteries
The Stratford-upon-Avon Canal extends from the Brum neighborhood’s to the River Avon in Stratford. This panoramic waterway runs through charming countryside at the core of Britain. It crosses through the Forest of Arden, and a land rich in Shakespearean history. While in Stratford, do not miss the opportunity to learn more about its history:
Hop-on/hop-off bus sightseeing tour is a great way to see all key attractions of Stratford. These attractions include the Royal Shakespeare Theatre and the Shakespeare burial place Holy Trinity Church.
After canal exploration, take part in a giant quest room. You can enjoy the adventure with friends, and try to unravel the epic tale.
Book a self-guided audio pedestrian tour discovering the secrets of this captivating antique town and the history of William Shakespeare.
For those pondering a visit to Yorkshire, we have some more tips and tricks to share with you!
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