Canals in and around West Midlands - enjoy them!

The West Midlands is at the heart of Britain’s canal network. With hundreds of miles of canals to explore, it’s easy to see why so take our feature and enjoy!


Be happier! Be heathier! Be by the water!

Whether you walk, run, bike or simply sit back and relax by the canal, the more time you spend by water the happier and healthier you feel.   

Photography by Kev Maslin

Photography by Karl Newton

 

Suggested canal locations to go and experience In Birmingham - enjoy!

There are so many locations along the canal network in and around Birmingham to enjoy.  It may be to experience what it would have been like in days gone by, to make use of the facilities on the canal or to simply take in all that the great outdoors has to offer.

Here's some suggested locations that we have mapped and featured for your enjoyment.

 

In and around the City

 

Gas Street Basin - where new meets old! - see map.

The Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline ends at the start of the Worcester & Birmingham Canal at Gas Street Basin. This was where the Worcester Bar was. Also near here was Old Wharf, where the canal used to continue on what is now the site of Arena Central. Venues here include The Canal House, Canalside Bar and the Tap & Spile. There is also Regency Wharf.

Photography by Hayley Jenkins-Jones

 

Old Turn Junction

At Old Turn Junction, it is where the Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline joins onto the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal. When in fact it was the Newhall Branch as far as Cambrian Wharf (Farmers Bridge Locks). Near this junction is the Utilita Arena Birmingham, The Malt House and National Sealife Centre.

Photography by Hayley Jenkins-Jones 

At this location, there is so much to explore and enjoy.  There is Brindleyplace, the Sea-Life Centre, numerous bars, restaurants and cafes, the amazing Ikon Gallery and, not to be missed, the Birmingham Roundhouse

Photography by Hayley Jenkins-Jones

 

Soho Loop - BCN Old Mainline

The Soho Loop was part of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Old Mainline in the Winson Green area of the city. It goes between Rotton Park Junction and Winson Green Junction, connecting to the straighter Birmingham Canal Navigations New Mainline.

Soho LoopPhotography by Elliott Brown

 

Selly Oak Winding Hole at the Worcester & Birmingham Canal

Located near Sainsbury's, Unite Student accommodation and the Selly Oak Shopping Centre, at the Bristol Road in Selly Oak is the new Winding Hole. Built for the Lapal Canal Trust during 2022 at the Worcester & Birmingham Canal. There is also a new footbridge that crosses over the canal, and a path that goes under the railway viaduct to the Bristol Road near Bournbrook.

Selly Oak Winding HolePhotography by Elliott Brown

 

Kings Norton Junction

At Kings Norton Junction, this is where the Worcester & Birmingham Canal meets the Stratford-on-Avon Canal (also called Stratford-upon-Avon Canal). The Kings Norton Junction House is nearby (currently under restoration following a fire). There is walks towards Kings Heath and Yardley Wood in one direction, or towards Stirchley and Bournville in the other direction.

Kings Norton JunctionPhotography by Elliott Brown

 

Venturing out of the city

Let's now venture out of the city and see what delights can be found along our vast network of canals. 

 

Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline - Dudley Port to Sandwell & Dudley

If you get the train from Birmingham New Street to Dudley Port, nearby is the Ryland Aqueduct on the BCN Mainline. Walk as far as you want, the line runs parallel with the Birmingham to Wolverhampton railway line. At one point the canal and railway switches sides. Get off in Sandwell, at either the Albion Bridge or Bromford Bridge, and walk to Sandwell & Dudley Station.

BCN New MainlinePhotography by Elliott Brown

 

Bumble Hole

Bumble Hole and Warrens Hall Nature Reserve is a stunning location for a leisurely walk to take in some of the amazing history associated with the canals and enjoy the area's bustling wildlife. 

Photography by Daniel Sturley.

 

Tame Valley Canal

Get the train to Tame Bridge Parkway in Sandwell, to start a walk of the Tame Valley Canal. Once up there you cross over the Grand Junction Aqueduct  (crossing the Birmingham to Walsall railway line) and cross another aqueduct near the M5 and M6 motorways. You can continue walking towards Great Barr. On other walks you can do the section in Perry Barr, or go under Spaghetti Junction in Aston.

Tame Valley CanalPhotography by Elliott Brown

 

Walsall Canal

You can start a walk on the Walsall Canal from the Walsall Town Basin near New Art Gallery Walsall, and walk as far as the James Bridge Aqueduct. This gets you past the M6 motorway.

Walsall CanalPhotography by Elliott Brown

 

About the charity Canal & River Trust

The charity, Canal & River Trust, together with dedicated volunteers, do a wonderful job in protecting our canals for everyone to enjoy.

Photography by Damien Walmsley

Photography by Chris Fletcher

This feature is shared with our community and there some great contributions from volunteers and from people who love Birmingham's canals in and around the City.

Photography by Kev Maslin

Go and experience our canals and the great outdoors right on the cities doorstep!

 

Project dates

03 Apr 2017 - On-going

Passions

History & heritage, Environment & green action, Rivers, lakes & canals
Green travel

Contact

Your Place Your Space

Jonathan Bostock

0121 410 5520
jonathan.bostock@ yourplaceyourspace.com

Related posts

Art; Culture & creativity
07 Feb 2024 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

The Annatomix wildlife street art on the Digbeth Branch Canal in Eastside below the HS2, Curzon No 3 Viaduct site

Post image

In the summer of 2023 on the Digbeth Branch Canal between Curzon Street and Curzon Street Tunnel in Eastside, Annatomix was painting wildlife street art for HS2, below where they are building the Curzon No 3 Viaduct. By the autumn it wasn't complete, and as of winter 2023-24, it is now badly tagged by graffiti vandals, so not sure if it will be repaired / repainted or not.

Related

The Annatomix wildlife street art on the Digbeth Branch Canal in Eastside below the HS2, Curzon No 3 Viaduct site





In the summer of 2023 on the Digbeth Branch Canal between Curzon Street and Curzon Street Tunnel in Eastside, Annatomix was painting wildlife street art for HS2, below where they are building the Curzon No 3 Viaduct. By the autumn it wasn't complete, and as of winter 2023-24, it is now badly tagged by graffiti vandals, so not sure if it will be repaired / repainted or not.


July 2023

Annatomix started painting the commissioned street art on the Digbeth Branch Canal in Eastside for HS2 in the middle of summer 2023.  This would be where they are building the Curzon No 3 Viaduct.

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20Curzon%20St%20DBC%20HS2%2019072023%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20Curzon%20St%20DBC%20HS2%2019072023%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

August 2023

Just one update in the late summer, as Annatomix worked away at her art. I walked past towards the Curzon Street Tunnel. Decided to wait a few months to see if it was finished or not.

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DGCE%2022082023.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

October 2023

A major update of the Annatomix street art on the Digbeth Branch Canal in the middle of Autumn 2023. It was looking good at the time, but she was having a break at the time for about a month. There was also a message at one end "if you like the art please stop drawing on it".

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(8).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(9).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(10).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(11).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(12).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20Eastside%20DBC%2015102023%20(13).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

February 2024

In the months since, taggers and graffiti vandals have been drawing / writing all over the street art, and it looked like Annatomix didn't return (health reasons I think). Meanwhile HS2 had put up rusted weathering steel triangular trusses for the Curzon No 3 Viaduct. Am not sure if it is worth her coming back in future to fix / repaint the art here (her other pieces around the city get tagged as well).

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DBC%2004022024%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DBC%2004022024%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DBC%2004022024%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DBC%2004022024%20(4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DBC%2004022024%20(5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DBC%2004022024%20(6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Annatomix" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DBC%2004022024%20(7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Photography by Elliott Brown

Share  Connect with us
80 passion points
Rivers, lakes & canals
06 Sep 2023 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

Soho Loop Part 2: Asylum Bridge to Winson Green Junction

Post image

On the 31st August 2023, I got the 82 bus to Dudley Road to complete the Soho Loop in Winson Green. Ended up returning via Norman Street Park and rejoining at the Asylum Bridge. Just a short walk to the end of the Soho Loop to Winson Green Junction. That towpath closed on the BCN Mainline to the Winson Green Bridge was open again, it's been tarmaced.

Related

Soho Loop Part 2: Asylum Bridge to Winson Green Junction





On the 31st August 2023, I got the 82 bus to Dudley Road to complete the Soho Loop in Winson Green. Ended up returning via Norman Street Park and rejoining at the Asylum Bridge. Just a short walk to the end of the Soho Loop to Winson Green Junction. That towpath closed on the BCN Mainline to the Winson Green Bridge was open again, it's been tarmaced.


For part 1 follow this link to the post Soho Loop walk on the BCN Old Mainline

From the Costa Coffee at Utilita Arena Birmingham, I walked to the bus stop on Summer Hill Road, waiting for an 87, bus an 82 came first, so caught it up Spring Hill to Dudley Road. Got off and crossed over near City Hospital, then walked up towards Norman Street Park, and got on at the Asylum Bridge, just over a month since I left the Soho Loop in July 2023.

 

The Asylum Bridge

The Asylum Bridge is on the Revolution Walk from the Canal & River Trust.
Nearby was a Madhouse, Badhouse and the Workhouse. The Birmingham Union Workhouse and Infirmary was there from 1834, but by 1889 had space for over 2000 inmates. This is now part of Birmingham City Hospital.
Also here was the Borough Lunatic Asylum and Fever Hospital, from the 19th century. This is now the site of Birmingham Prison.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Soho%20Loop%20BCNOML%2031082023%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Winson Green Prison Bridge and Winson Green Bridge (Soho Loop)

The next bridge is the Winson Green Prison Bridge, which you walk over, followed by the Winson Green Bridge (Soho Loop) which you walk under. This is as close as you get to Birmingham Prison, but you hardly notice it walking past.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Soho%20Loop%20BCNOML%2031082023%20(5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Winson Green Bridge (Soho Loop)

There is two bridges named Winson Green Bridge. This one is on the Soho Loop of the BCN Old Mainline. The other one is much higher crossing the BCN New Mainline. This is the last road bridge.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Soho%20Loop%20BCNOML%2031082023%20(7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Winson Green Railway Bridge

Next up is the Winson Green Railway Bridge. Behind you can see the yet to open Midland Metropolitan Hospital. When it opens in 2024, parts of City Hospital in Winson Green will close, and the site will be developed for housing.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Soho%20Loop%20BCNOML%2031082023%20(10).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Winson Green Junction Bridge 

The end of the Soho Loop at Winson Green Junction and you get to the Winson Green Junction Bridge. The bridge is Grade II listed and is a Horseley type cast-iron roving bridge dating to 1828.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Soho%20Loop%20BCNOML%2031082023%20(17).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Winson Green Roving Bridge

Leaving the Soho Loop at Winson Green Junction, you leave the Old Mainline for the New Mainline. The Winson Green Roving Bridge dates to 1828, and is a Winson Green Roving Bridge is a Horseley type cast-iron roving bridge dating to 1828.

dndimg alt="Winson Green Junction" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCNML%20Winson%20Green%2031082023%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Winson Green Junction

Since my last visit to the canals here, the towpath between Winson Green Roving Bridge and the Winson Green Bridge (Winson Green Road) has been reopened. Last time it was closed for resurfacing works. The Winson Green Junction Bridge is to the left and the northern end of the Soho Loop.

dndimg alt="Winson Green Junction" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCNML%20Winson%20Green%2031082023%20(6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

View from the Winson Green Bridge

A look from Winson Green Road, on the Winson Green Bridge towards Winson Green Junction. From here, the Soho Loop starts to the right under the Winson Green Junction Bridge, while the BCN New Mainline continues north west towards Wolverhampton under the Winson Green Roving Bridge.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCNML%20Winson%20Green%2031082023%20(9).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Winson Green Road has bus stops for the 11A and 11C. If getting the 11C, it would take you towards Erdington. From the 11A, you can go towards Bearwood, Harborne, Selly Oak, Bournville etc.

You need the Dudley Road for the 82 or 87 bus routes.

 

Photos by Elliott Brown

Share  Connect with us
90 passion points
Rivers, lakes & canals
24 Aug 2023 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

The changing face of the Digbeth Branch Canal in Eastside

Post image

There is major changes in the area around the Digbeth Branch Canal in Eastside, Birmingham. Between the Ashted Tunnel south eastern entrance and the Curzon Street Tunnel northern entrance. Birmingham City University built there Eastside campus nearby during the 2010s. Now HS2 is underway and Glasswater Locks too.

Related

The changing face of the Digbeth Branch Canal in Eastside





There is major changes in the area around the Digbeth Branch Canal in Eastside, Birmingham. Between the Ashted Tunnel south eastern entrance and the Curzon Street Tunnel northern entrance. Birmingham City University built there Eastside campus nearby during the 2010s. Now HS2 is underway and Glasswater Locks too.


Ashted Tunnel south eastern entrance, Ashted Lock's 2 and 3

The February 2011 view from Belmont Row. There was bulrushes growing next to Ashted Lock no  3. The land towards Lawley Middleway, had probably had demolition on it during the 2000s. Nothing would happen there until 2023!

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DGC%20Eastside%20(Feb%202011)%20(7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

By March 2018, on the section towards the Belmont Row Bridge, near Ashted Locks 2 and 3, you could see the completed Birmingham City University buildings, University Locks, Curzon B, and the Curzon Building. The Lock Keepers Cottage was also restored. The towpath entrance / exit to Belmont Row was still open from this side, but still quite narrow. Wide enough for horses and people.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DBC%20Belmont%20Row%20(Mar%202018)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

By September 2019, half of the brick wall on the right had been demolished, with fencing up. Meanwhile, it was before Belmont Row Works got restored, and you could also see the Unite the Union / Eastside Rooms building (later completed in 2020).

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DBC%20Eastside%20(Sep%202019)%20(4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

As of August 2023, Glasswater Locks is under construction between Jennens Road, Lawley Middleway and Penn Street, with the Digbeth Branch Canal on one side. The towpath entrance from the Belmont Row Bridge is closed.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DGC%20Eastside%2022082023%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Belmont Row Bridge, Ashted Lock's 4 and 5 to Curzon Street Bridge

The view from the Belmont Row Bridge in February 2011. You could clearly see the pool of water to the right of Ashted Lock's 4 and 5. Work on the Curzon Building wouldn't begin to the right until about 2013, two years later. Curzon Street was still visible ahead.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DGC%20Eastside%20(Feb%202011)%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The new steps from the Digbeth Branch Canal to Belmont Row and University Locks of Birmingham City University was open by September 2019.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DBC%20Eastside%20(Sep%202019)%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

There is a new entrance to the Digbeth Branch Canal from Belmont Row. To the left is student accommodation at University Locks (built 2015-16). To the right is the Curzon Building (built 2013-15), along with Curzon B (built 2016-18), all part of Birmingham City University. Seen during August 2023.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DGC%20Eastside%2022082023%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Curzon Street Bridge, Ashted Bottom Lock to Curzon Street Tunnel northern entrance

This was what the Digbeth Branch Canal looked like between Curzon Street and the Curzon Street Tunnel in February 2011, long before HS2. There used to be a modern towpath exit up the the road near the railway, above the tunnel, this was open as late as 2018.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Curzon%20St%20Tunnel%20(Feb%202011)%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

There used to be a circular area with benches, close to Curzon Street, as seen below in April 2017. It could have been used to move horses around in a circle with their rope attached to the narrowboat. Also the towpath exit used to lead to the road above the Curzon Street Tunnel. HS2 had closed this off by 2019 or 2020.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DBC%20Curzon%20St%20(Apr%202017)%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

A now impossible shot from September 2018, I went up the towpath to the land above the Curzon Street Tunnel to look at the Birmingham City University buildings beyond Curzon Street. Access up here was still open into 2019, before HS2 eventually hoarded if off. Wasn't much up there, with land fenced off. This was before HS2 demolished the Curzon Gate student accommodation, in the way of the line in 2019.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DGC%20Curzon%20St%20(Sep%202018)%20(5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

By September 2019, the land above the Curzon Street Tunnel had been hoarded off by HS2, although the towpath ramp was still open, it didn't lead anywhere any more, other than above the tunnel.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/DBC%20Eastside%20(Sep%202019)%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

As of August 2023, Annatomix is working on finishing her mural for HS2 on the left, not far from the Ashted Bottom Lock. No longer access to the towpath exit above the tunnel now. But the towpath through the tunnel towards Fazeley Street is still open.

dndimg alt="Digbeth Branch Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Annatomix%20HS2%20DGCE%2022082023.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Photography by Elliott Brown

Share  Connect with us
70 passion points
Rivers, lakes & canals
15 Aug 2023 - Elliott Brown
News & Updates

Keep Canals Alive! Narrowboats on the Birmingham Canal Navigations

Post image

On Sunday 13th August 2023, in response to Government plans to cut funding in future to the Canal & River Trust, there was a lot of narrowboats on the Birmingham Canal Navigations in Central Birmingham. From The Mailbox towards Utilita Arena Birmingham and beyond. I just saw them between the Arena, Brindleyplace and Gas Street Basin when I was there.

Related

Keep Canals Alive! Narrowboats on the Birmingham Canal Navigations





On Sunday 13th August 2023, in response to Government plans to cut funding in future to the Canal & River Trust, there was a lot of narrowboats on the Birmingham Canal Navigations in Central Birmingham. From The Mailbox towards Utilita Arena Birmingham and beyond. I just saw them between the Arena, Brindleyplace and Gas Street Basin when I was there.


The Birmingham Canals in the City Centre have seen a lot of regeneration over the last 30 plus years, on both sides of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline. From Brindleyplace to the National Indoor Arena (now Utilita Arena Birmingham). But in future years, the Government wants to cut the money they give to the Canal & River Trust to keep maintaining the network of canals around the country.

This view from Arena Birmingham South Car Park. National Sealife Birmingham on the left, with Legoland Discovery Centre Birmingham below.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/National%20Sealife%20ABSCP%2013082023%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Narrowboats seen between Old Turn Junction and Gas Street Basin on Sunday 13th August 2023.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Keep Canals Alive Canal & River Trust campaign, the banner on a bridge near The Malt House, from Old Turn Junction, to the left is the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Brindley Cruises narrowboat passing Old Turn Junction and National Sealife Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

More narrowboats heading under the Brewmasters Bridge.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Near the Brewmasters Bridge at Three Brindleyplace, a new venue The Park: Virtual Reality Experience.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A look back to Utilita Arena Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(8).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

From Brindleyplace, saw a group of kayakers near The ICC. So I crossed over the Brindleyplace Bridge, then went to the Black Sabbath Bridge.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(9).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A narrowboat comes out of the Broad Street Tunnel below the Black Sabbath Bridge near Brindleyplace.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(10).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(11).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(12).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Entering the Broad Street Tunnel / Black Sabbath Bridge, towards Gas Street Basin. More narrowboats coming through.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(13).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Now at Gas Street Basin, the end of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline. Beyond was the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, with more narrowboats waiting.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(14).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(15).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The other side of the Worcester Bar at Gas Street Basin, more narrowboats on the start of the Worcester & Birmingham Canal.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(16).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(17).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Exiting Gas Street Basin near what was Old Wharf. Another narrowboat moored that day for the Keep Canals Alive campaign for the Canal & River Trust.

dndimg alt="Birmingham Canals narrowboats" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/KCA%20Canal%20River%20Trust%2013082023%20(18).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Photography by Elliott Brown

Share  Connect with us
70 passion points
Rivers, lakes & canals
30 Jul 2023 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

Soho Loop walk on the BCN Old Mainline

Post image

I was going to get onto the Soho Loop at Winson Green Junction, but on the BCN Mainline near Winson Green Road, towpath was closed, so walked down and got on at Rotton Park Junction. Then a minor diversion at the Soho Wharf development before rejoining at Spring Hill. Stayed on the Soho Loop until the Asylum Bridge (although would have gone further). But exited to Norman Street Park.

Related

Soho Loop walk on the BCN Old Mainline





I was going to get onto the Soho Loop at Winson Green Junction, but on the BCN Mainline near Winson Green Road, towpath was closed, so walked down and got on at Rotton Park Junction. Then a minor diversion at the Soho Wharf development before rejoining at Spring Hill. Stayed on the Soho Loop until the Asylum Bridge (although would have gone further). But exited to Norman Street Park.


The Soho Loop opened in 1772, and was part of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Old Mainline and developed by James Brindley. It became a loop when the straighter Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline, developed by Thomas Telford, opened in 1827. This created two junctions: Rotton Park Junction with the Soho Loop, Icknield Port Loop and the BCN Mainline and Winson Green Junction.

 

This walk was on Sunday 23rd July 2023.

 

Rotton Park Junction

Having caught the 11C bus to Summerfield Park, Winson Green, my plans changed when I found the towpath closed at the Winson Green Bridge, so couldn't walk to Winson Green Junction, so instead walked down the BCN Mainline and crossed the Rotton Park Towpath Bridge a Rotton Park Junction to get onto the Soho Loop. Here the skyline has changed, with The Mercian, The Bank towers 1 & 2 and the Cortland Square development on Broad Street. Icknield Port Loop to the right.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/BCNML%20Winson%20Green%2023072023%20(8).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Rotton Park Railway Bridge

View from the new Soho Wharf Footbridge, is the Rotton Park Railway Bridge at Rotton Park Junction. It carries the Birmingham to Wolverhampton railway line. This photo would have been impossible until the new footbridge had been built.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Soho%20Wharf%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(10).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Soho Wharf Footbridge

Most of the new Soho Wharf development on the left is now open. Also a new footbridge has opened to Spring Hill Wharf. I did walk a bit beyond, but found the towpath to be closed to Spring Hill, so had to double back, and divert off the Soho Loop and Soho Wharf to Dudley Road and Spring Hill.

dndimg alt="Soho Wharf" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Soho%20Wharf%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Soho Wharf to Spring Hill

While I did walk a bit of the towpath here, found it to be closed at the Spring Hill Bridge, so had to leave the canal at Soho Wharf over the new footbridge. Street art on the walls to the right.

dndimg alt="Soho Wharf" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Soho%20Wharf%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(11).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Spring Hill Bridge

A look at the Spring Hill Bridge and Soho Wharf. The towpath on this side was closed. Hopefully it wont be too long before they reopen it to the public.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Spring%20Hill%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Spring Hill Pipe Bridge 

Rejoining the Soho Loop at Spring Hill, to walk towards the Black British History is British History sculpture, this was the first bridge back on the canal.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Spring%20Hill%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Towards Crabtree Lane

The Soho Loop from Spring Hill to Crabtree Lane. Passed several cyclists around here. Some parkland on the right.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hockley%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Western Road Bridge

The Western Road Bridge carries Crabtree Lane.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hockley%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Towards Hockley Port Junction

This long straight section towards Hockley Port Junction. Lots of trees here, feels very rural.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hockley%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Soho Branch at Hockley Port Junction

The next bridge crosses over at Hockley Port Junction which leads to the Soho Branch and Hockley Port. Private, the gate looked locked, but could see narrowboats down there.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hockley%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Curving round City Hospital

A curved section, City Hospital is on the left (behind the trees). Then had to walk past lots of fishermen!

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Hockley%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

The Wildlife Trusts Birmingham & Black Country

Still passing the fishermen, on the left was The Wildlife Trusts Birmingham & Black Country, part of the Centre of the Earth. Was a boat moored called 'London Poly Roger'.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Poly%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Black British History is British History

The reason for this Soho Loop walk was to find this steel sculpture by Luke Perry called 'Black British History is British History'. It was unveiled in 2023. Was also designed by artist Canaan Brown.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black%20BH%20is%20BH%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Asylum Bridge

A look at the Asylum Bridge. Originally I would have walked past it, but I went up onto it to see if it was open (Google Maps said it was closed, I later tried to get Google Maps to change it). Anyway I ended up exiting the Soho Loop here into Norman Street Park.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Asylum%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Winson Green Bridge

The view from the Asylum Bridge to the Winson Green Bridge. Was so close to the end of the Soho Loop. That bridge ahead carries another section of Winson Green Road. So will need to go back in future to complete the section to Winson Green Junction.

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Asylum%20Soho%20Loop%2023072023%20(2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Norman Street Park

There was an Asylum Bridge steel sculpture near the bridge in Norman Street Park. Also this gateway, and a street art wall. Ended up leaving here for the 11A bus stop on Aberdeen Street (not far from City Hospital).

dndimg alt="Soho Loop" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Norman%20St%20park%2023072023%20(4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Nearby bus routes include the 11A, 11C, 82 and 87.

Appears to be in walking distance of Jewellery Quarter Station (trains) or Winson Green Outer Circle Tram Stop or Soho Benson Road Tram Stop (trams).

 

Photos by Elliott Brown

Share  Connect with us
80 passion points
Rivers, lakes & canals
17 Nov 2022 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

Selly Oak Winding Hole 2022 update

Post image

The Winding Hole in Selly Oak, near the Bristol Road was built and completed during 2022. At the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, the restoration of the Lapal Canal (Dudley No. 2 Canal) at Selly Oak Junction, which some day in the future will be restored to Halesowen. Until then, the area where narrowboats can turn onto this to be restored canal is now finished. Boats even moor there.

Related

Selly Oak Winding Hole 2022 update





The Winding Hole in Selly Oak, near the Bristol Road was built and completed during 2022. At the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, the restoration of the Lapal Canal (Dudley No. 2 Canal) at Selly Oak Junction, which some day in the future will be restored to Halesowen. Until then, the area where narrowboats can turn onto this to be restored canal is now finished. Boats even moor there.


Previous post from May 2021: Selly Oak Winding Hole until 2021.

 

During 2022, the Lapal Canal Trust worked to have the Winding Hole built. work was well underway in spring 2022, and was open by autumn 2022. In the future, they will need to dig out the canal under Sainsbury's and next to Selly Oak Shopping Park, towards Harborne Lane and through Selly Oak Park towards Weoley Castle. But that is a long way off for now.

The area, also called Whitehouse Wharf was open on the 25th September 2022 to boats.

 

May 2021

View from the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, the towpath near an entrance to Selly Oak Shopping Park, as a Cross Country Trains Class 170 passes over the railway. The future Winding Hole site is to the right of here. Seen on the 29th May 2021.

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/XC170%20Selly%20Oak%20Jctn%20(May%202021).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

August 2021

Views from the passing train on the Cross City Line. There was still grass on the Winding Hole site at the time. View towards the Unite student accommodation with Sainsbury's behind it, on the 15th August 2021.

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winding%20Hole%20Selly%20Oak%20(Aug%202021)%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winding%20Hole%20Selly%20Oak%20(Aug%202021)%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

January 2022

Early signs that they will soon be digging out the Winding Hole for the Lapal Canal Trust. Seen from the Worcester & Birmingham Canal towpath near the Unite student accommodation on the 8th January 2022.

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB%20Canal%20Selly%20Oak%20SP%2008012022.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

May 2022

By the spring of 2022, work was well underway to dig the grass and soil out of the Winding Hole site, as they secured the site so water didn't get in. Seen from the footbridge that will one day be the entrance to the Lapal Canal (under Sainsbury's) on the 21st May 2022.

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winding%20Hole%20Selly%20Oak%20WB%2021052022%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winding%20Hole%20Selly%20Oak%20WB%2021052022%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

October 2022

By the autumn of 2022, the Selly Oak Winding Hole was complete, as can be seen from the footbridge and canal towpath. There was even a boat and narrowboat moored at it on the 2nd October 2022.

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/SO%20Winding%20Hole%2002102022%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/SO%20Winding%20Hole%2002102022%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/SO%20Winding%20Hole%2002102022%20(3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/SO%20Winding%20Hole%2002102022%20(4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/SO%20Winding%20Hole%2002102022%20(5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A couple of weekends later, on the 16th October 2022, this time I got the Selly Oak Winding Hole from the pocket park on the other side of the canal, heading for the Selly Oak Shopping Park via the footbridge that opened in 2021. Two narrowboats moored here this time.

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/SO%20Winding%20Hole%2016102022%20(1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/SO%20Winding%20Hole%2016102022%20(2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/SO%20Winding%20Hole%2016102022%20(3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

November 2022

I got the train one way from Birmingham New Street to Selly Oak, on the 6th November 2022. Leaving via Bristol Road, it was raining, and saw this view to the Winding Hole. Much more pleasant to see than what it used to look like in the past.

dndimg alt="Selly Oak Winding Hole" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Selly%20Oak%20Winding%20Hole%2006112022.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Photography by Elliott Brown

Share  Connect with us
60 passion points
Green travel
17 Aug 2021 - Elliott Brown
Inspiration

Children with guides kayaking up the BCN Mainline - 11th August 2021

Post image

I was walking past Gas Street Basin, when I saw a couple of kayaks full of children and their guides. They went through the Broad Street Tunnel, then up past Brindleyplace and the Brewmasters House towards Utilita Arena Birmingham. They were probably heading for Icknield Port Loop (according to Civic Square on Twitter). I left at Oozells Street Loop. Click View article for five photos.

Related

Children with guides kayaking up the BCN Mainline - 11th August 2021





I was walking past Gas Street Basin, when I saw a couple of kayaks full of children and their guides. They went through the Broad Street Tunnel, then up past Brindleyplace and the Brewmasters House towards Utilita Arena Birmingham. They were probably heading for Icknield Port Loop (according to Civic Square on Twitter). I left at Oozells Street Loop. Click View article for five photos.


Kayaking from Gas Street Basin to Icknield Port Loop

Starting this brief canal walk from The Mailbox, on the 11th August 2021, I walked up to the end of the Worcester & Birmingham Canal at Worcester Bar, Gas Street Basin. On the Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline side, I saw a couple of kayaks attached together, with a guide and several children in both of them.

The kayaks at the back near Gas Street Basin, heading into the Broad Street Tunnel.

dndimg alt="Canoeing BCN Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canoes BCN Mline (Aug 2021) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It was now apparent that there was two pairs attached to kayaks. The first one I saw was going through the Broad Street Tunnel, while the second was was metres behind.

dndimg alt="Canoeing BCN Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canoes BCN Mline (Aug 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A Just Eat delivery man in orange on his bike. The pair of kayaks, children and their guides. It was time to duck as I walked under the tunnel.

dndimg alt="Canoeing BCN Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canoes BCN Mline (Aug 2021) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

View from the Broad Street Tunnel (where the head room was a bit higher at the Brindleyplace end). Both sets of kayaks were heading under the Brindleyplace and Brewmasters Bridges. With Utilita Arena Birmingham, The Malt House and the Brewmasters House nearby. Oh and the red Water Bus on the left was about to depart.

dndimg alt="Canoeing BCN Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canoes BCN Mline (Aug 2021) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

One last view as they headed under the Brewmasters Bridge, past The ICC Energy Centre. I would leave the Main Line via the Oozells Street Loop, heading to Brindleyplace. I assume that they were heading for the Roundhouse.

dndimg alt="Canoeing BCN Mainline" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canoes BCN Mline (Aug 2021) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

Share  Connect with us
80 passion points
Rivers, lakes & canals
12 Aug 2021 - Daniel Sturley
Inspiration

A Short Walk along the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal Between Newhall and Livery Street

Post image

One of the most interesting stretches of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal can be found in the City Centre between the Newhall Street Bridge and the Livery Street Rail Bridge, unless you are somewhat claustrophobic! Mind your head and enjoy a great urbanscape away from the bustle of the Jewellery Quarter.

A gallery of photos along this route on 27th July is in the full article.

Related

A Short Walk along the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal Between Newhall and Livery Street





One of the most interesting stretches of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal can be found in the City Centre between the Newhall Street Bridge and the Livery Street Rail Bridge, unless you are somewhat claustrophobic! Mind your head and enjoy a great urbanscape away from the bustle of the Jewellery Quarter.

A gallery of photos along this route on 27th July is in the full article.


Starting at the Newhall Street Bridge and tunnel and heading east will take you down to where the canal passes under Brindley House. From here you eventually reach the tiny tunnel under the Livery Street Road Bridge and immediately into the cavernous Livery Street Rail Bridge Tunnel. A spiral staircase will take you back up onto Livery Street.

To start the trail, take the steps down from Newhall Street to the canal towpath. Alternatively join the canal from Fleet Street by crossing the bridge opposite the Michell's and Butler building. 

 

Looking down the tunnel under the Newhall Street Bridge.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2193b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2185b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2197b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2202b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2212b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Looking back the other way (west).

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2223b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Here's the canal as you emerge underneath Brindley House.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2213b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2225b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2228b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2239b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2252b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2258b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2262b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Here we look back at the tunnel under Ludgate Hill.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2269b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2283b_CANL.jpg" />

 

This is the much smaller Livery Street Road tunnel which sits directly alongside the cavernous rail tunnel.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2276b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Here we looki back from the Liver Street road tunnel.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2286b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Now we emerge into the massive rail tunnel.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2292b_CANL.jpg" />

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2297b_CANL.jpg" />

 

Here there is a spiral staircase up to Livery Street.

dndimg dndsrc="https://www.yourplaceyourspace.net/uploadedfiles/IMG_2303b_CANL.jpg" />

Photography by Daniel Sturley.

We hope you enjoyed this trail created with the help of our great Birmingham community. 

Go HERE to see other trails and maps you may enjoy. 

Share  Connect with us
70 passion points
Rivers, lakes & canals
04 May 2021 - Elliott Brown
Gallery

Selly Oak Junction - a decades development of the Winding Hole site of the Lapal Canal

Post image

A new public space has recently opened near the Worcester & Birmingham Canal in Selly Oak, at the Bristol Road. The site of the Winding Hole of the Lapal Canal restoration project (Dudley No. 2 Canal). When the new Selly Oak Shopping Park opened in late 2018, work started near the railway to build a new footbridge and area the public could enter. Historically the site of lime kilns.

Related

Selly Oak Junction - a decades development of the Winding Hole site of the Lapal Canal





A new public space has recently opened near the Worcester & Birmingham Canal in Selly Oak, at the Bristol Road. The site of the Winding Hole of the Lapal Canal restoration project (Dudley No. 2 Canal). When the new Selly Oak Shopping Park opened in late 2018, work started near the railway to build a new footbridge and area the public could enter. Historically the site of lime kilns.


December 2009

A couple of days before Christmas Eve 2009, I headed to Selly Oak with my then bridge camera. Caught the Worcester & Birmingham Canal from the Bristol Road for the first time. Snow and ice on the water. To the left is the Battery Park site (later to be developed into Selly Oak Shopping Park). On the right was the former site of the Winding Hole of the Lapal Canal. This was Selly Oak Junction. Dudley No. 2 Canal used to join here, and would head to the left of this point.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Dec 2009) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The Birmingham Super Hospital (later to be named Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham) and the Selly Oak Bypass were under construction at the time. The hospital would open in 2010, and the bypass in 2011 (under the name of Aston Webb Boulevard). On the other side of the Bristol Road is Selly Oak Station.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Dec 2009) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

June 2011

Next to the Selly Oak Railway Bridge of 1931 on the Bristol Road, there also used to be this brick viaduct next to the existing Cross City Line. It was probably built in the 1870s, which resulted in two of the lime kilns that used to be on this site being levelled.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Viaduct Bristol Rd (Jun 2011) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

For many years, the area to the left was overgrown with trees or shrubs. Clearance of the land began in 2012, and the unused viaduct was demolished by 2015.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Viaduct Bristol Rd (Jun 2011) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

February 2013

A walk along the Worcester & Birmingham Canal in Selly Oak towards the Ariel Aqueduct and University of Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2013) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

At the Bristol Road / Winding Hole site of the Lapal Canal, you could at the time see some land clearance, and the old graffitied buildings remaining. The brick viaduct was still there. This view to the Selly Oak Railway Bridge of 1931.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2013) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The original winding hole of the Lapal Canal, used to be around here. Two more years and the abandoned brick viaduct would be demolished.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2013) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Up ahead, a sign on the wall for www.lapal.org. The current website is www.lapalcanal.co.uk

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2013) (4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Not sure of the age of these derelict buildings, but they were all covered in graffiti and had broken windows.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2013) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Some of them had metal walls and roofs.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2013) (6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

These two would be demolished in the following years to come.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2013) (7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The Cross City Line was behind, as well as the Selly Oak Electricity Substation building (near the Bournbrook Skate Park).

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2013) (8).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

May 2015

The brick viaduct of the 1870s was demolished by 2015, and the hole site was cleared.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winding Hole SO (May 2015) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

You can now see the Cross City Line viaduct from the Bristol Road in Selly Oak for the first time in years.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winding Hole SO (May 2015) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

All the overgrowth was cut down, the derelict buildings demolished, as well as the removal of the unused viaduct.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Winding Hole SO (May 2015) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

June to October 2018

Construction of the new Selly Oak Shopping Park began in the autumn of 2017, and would be completed a year later in the autumn of 2018. This would include a new Sainsbury's store, as well as a Unite Students accommodation block. In June 2018, I saw this temporary builders footbridge crossing the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, from the Winding Hole site to the Shopping Park site.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Jun 2018).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Another look, but this time from the no 61 bus (top deck) on the Bristol Road, during October 2018. In a matter of weeks, the new Selly Oak Shopping Park and Sainsbury's would open to the public for the first time. A more permanent footbridge would be built at this site in 2020. And there would also be a new canal entrance built from the Bristol Road in 2019 as well.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Oct 2018).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

August to October 2019

A new entrance and footbridge being built near the Bristol Road, Sainsbury's and Unite Students accommodation. Seen here during August 2019. Before then, you had to walk the long way around to the Selly Oak Shopping Park to Aston Webb Boulevard.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Aug 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The new bridge would also be above the future tunnel of the Lapal Canal that would go under the new Sainsbury's in Selly Oak.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Aug 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

A visit to the Selly Oak Shopping Park during October 2019. The temporary footbridge from 2018 is gone.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Oct 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The new footbridge over the entrance to the Lapal Canal was now open, and fully landscaped around the Unite Students accommodation. Winding Hole site on the far right all behind hoardings.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Oct 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

One day in the future, those who built and restore the Lapal Canal will have to dig up the surface below this new footbridge.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Oct 2019) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

This is now a quick and easy route from the Bristol Road and Selly Oak Station to get to the Selly Oak Shopping Park. And more safer than the old canal entrance from Selly Oak (down The Dingle near a 2nd hand car showroom).

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Oct 2019) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

January to October 2020

First year of the pandemic. In January 2020 I went to Selly Oak to go into the new Sainsbury's. While there got these views. This area near the new footbridge at Bristol Road, next to the old bridge over the Worcester & Birmingham Canal.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Jan 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A West Midlands Railway Class 323 train on the Cross City Line, as work was under way at the Winding Hole site of the Lapal Canal.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Jan 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Blue hoardings on the left, as during 2020, the new permanent footbridge would be built at the site. Seems like plenty of activity at the time on the other side of the canal.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Jan 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Views from the no 63 bus on the Bristol Road in Selly Oak, taken during February 2020. The footbridge over the start of the Lapal Canal near Sainsbury's at the Worcester & Birmingham Canal.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

This would be the last time I would pass the Worcester & Birmingham Canal in Selly Oak before the first lockdown started about a month later. You can see the route of the Lapal Canal, that it will go in the future (after restoration). Part of the existing towpath would have to go, and people would have to cross over the footbridge.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Feb 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

After the first lockdown, restrictions were being eased by summer 2020. During August 2020, I walked a section of the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, and saw the new footbridge under construction from the Selly Oak Shopping Park, to the Winding Hole site to the right.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Aug 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Both sides had ramps and steps that the builders were installing here. The original pipe bridge and railway bridge were still behind.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Aug 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The new ramps and steps on the Winding Hole side of the canal.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Aug 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Saw a West Midlands Railway Class 170 train passing in orange and white. These trains are now in purple, before they are transferred onto East Midlands Railway.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Aug 2020) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The ramps and steps on the side of the canal near the Selly Oak Shopping Park.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Aug 2020) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

General canal view of the new footbridge as of August 2020.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Aug 2020) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

One more view of the new footbridge during October 2020, days before the 2nd lockdown began. This was from a Stirchley to Selly Oak canal walk that I did at the time. Wouldn't be back here again under after the 3rd lockdown restrictions were being eased during Spring 2021.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Oct 2020).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

 

April 2021

The third lockdown from January 2021, meant I couldn't travel back to Selly Oak on public transport until April 2021. Got the train down to Bournville and walked up via Linden Road and Oak Tree Lane on the 24th April 2021. Walked down the Bristol Road, and got this view of the area as it is now. What a transformation!

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It was completed in either late 2020 or early 2021. The grass on the right is where the winding hole of the Lapal Canal will be (once restored). But they will have to dig that all out.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Metal fence along the Bristol Road, as I headed down to the entrance.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There is bollards close to where the old viaduct used to end, until it was demolished more than 6 years ago.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

This is the first time I think the area has been opened up to the public. From 1842 until 2000 it was the site to Goodman's, a successful builders merchant.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The area was also known as Whitehouse's Wharf. Selly Oak Junction opened here in 1798. The canal basin on this site was filled in during the 1940s. Sign in the middle all about the history and of the lime kilns that used to be here.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Heading to the footbridge, the ramps on the right, steps on the left.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (7).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Before going onto the ramps, saw this Cross Country Voyager train heading south over the Cross City Line viaduct bridges.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (8).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

I went up half of the ramps, before going up the rest of the way up the steps.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (9).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The view from the top of the ramps. Hard to believe what a mess this site was a decade ago.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (10).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Crossing the footbridge to the Selly Oak Shopping Park. Sainsbury's on the left.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (11).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

View from the footbridge, look how nice, clean and tidy the area is now. More work of course in the future for the Lapal Canal restoration. Will take a long time to reach Dudley again.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (12).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

After a drink at Costa Coffee (sat on a bench outside of Sainsbury's). I headed back to the Worcester & Birmingham Canal, to get a train back to Birmingham New Street from Selly Oak.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (13).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

View of the winding hole site. Looks nice with the grass, but that will have to go when they dig down to restore it in the future.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (14).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

One last look, before crossing Bristol Road, to get my train back to the City Centre. People with bikes can cycle all the way from here if they want to.

dndimg alt="Worcester & Birmingham Canal" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/WB Canal Bristol Rd (Apr 2021) (15).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. Can be found on Twitter: ellrbrown

Share  Connect with us
60 passion points
Rivers, lakes & canals
01 Dec 2020 - Elliott Brown
Did you know?

Broad Street Tunnel under the Black Sabbath Bridge

Post image

Near the end of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline is the Broad Street Tunnel, between Brindleyplace and Gas Street Basin. In 2019, the bridge above it was renamed as the Black Sabbath Bridge in honour of the famous metal group who had been rocking for 50 years.

Related

Broad Street Tunnel under the Black Sabbath Bridge





Near the end of the Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline is the Broad Street Tunnel, between Brindleyplace and Gas Street Basin. In 2019, the bridge above it was renamed as the Black Sabbath Bridge in honour of the famous metal group who had been rocking for 50 years.


Broad Street Tunnel

The Broad Street Tunnel is located on the Birmingham Canal Navigations Mainline between Brindleyplace and Gas Street Basin. Above it (from 2019) is the renamed Black Sabbath Bridge. Bars over the Gas Street Basin end include the Australian Bar Walkabout and the Indian O Bar. The BCN Main Line was built during the early 1770s with the canal engineer James Brindley. The canal reached Old Wharf through the tunnel by 1773. This was originally the Paradise Street Branch which left what is now Old Turn Junction towards Paradise Street. Today the canal ends at Gas Street Basin, and beyond what was Old Wharf is all filled in (the Arena Central development site).

At the side of the tunnel near Brindleyplace and The ICC, used to be a church, called the Church of the Messiah, this existed from the 1860s (when it was built above the tunnel), but was demolished in 1978.

In 2019 (for about 3 months), the tunnel was closed to allow the Midland Metro Alliance to strengthen the road above to enable the laying of tram tracks between Centenary Square and Hagley Road (just beyond Five Ways). After these works were complete, the bridge above the tunnel was renamed the Black Sabbath Bridge. Where the Black Sabbath Bench was placed (it has now gone into storage due to the Metro extension works). Instead there is temporary hoardings with images of the four members of Black Sabbath, so that fans can take selfies with them (Geezer, Ozzy, Tony and Bill).

2009

The Broad Street Tunnel seen from Gas Street Basin during June 2009. From the footbridge at the Worcester Bar. Today there is bars on all three sides including, the Tap & Spile, O Bar and Walkabout.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gas Street Basin Broad Street Tunnel (June 2009) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Narrowboats taking people through the tunnel below The O Bar.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gas Street Basin Broad Street Tunnel (June 2009) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

On top of the Broad Street Tunnel during December 2009, with The O Bar and Walkabout on Broad Street. The O Bar is at the corner with Gas Street and is a Grade II listed building at 266 and 266X Broad Street. Build in 1875 of red brick and some stone by Martin & Chamberlain. Also at 2 Gas Street.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Bridge (Dec 2009) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Next door to the left is Walkabout, The Australian Bar, which is in a Grade II listed building at 266A and 267 Broad Street. Built in 1860 of red brick with coloured tiles in Venetian Gothic Style.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Bridge (Dec 2009) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

2010

Heading through the Broad Street Tunnel during June 2010. Beware of the low headroom and the width of the tunnel varies. Towpaths on both sides.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gas Street Basin Broad Street Tunnel (June 2010) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Near the end of the tunnel, getting close to Brindleyplace (to the left) and The ICC and Symphony Hall (to the right).

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gas Street Basin Broad Street Tunnel (June 2010) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

From the other side of the Broad Street Tunnel. There is steps on the left up to Broad Street. That demolished church used to be located up above around this spot until the late '70s.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (June 2010) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Through those bars on Broad Street used to be a good view of The NIA. There was also Ozzy Osbourne's Broad Street Walk of Fame star up there.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (June 2010) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

2017

In August 2017 heading over the Broad Street Bridge on the bus. Early stages of roadworks for the Midland Metro extension on Broad Street. The Crown / Reflex 80s Bar on the left, Walkabout on the right.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/MM ext Broad Street Bridge (Aug 2017).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

By December 2017, cars were having to turn right onto Gas Street, as construction of the first Westside Metro extension to Centenary Square was underway. Ony buses and taxies were allowed beyond this point.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/MM ext Broad Street Bridge (Dec 2017).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

2018

By November 2018 I was aware that the tunnel was due to be closed from January 2019 for 3 months, so got some photos before the closure.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gas Street Basin Broad Street Tunnel (Nov 2018).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

As usual, had to duck as I walked through the tunnel.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Nov 2018) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

If you stay on the towpath on this side, you walk around past Regency Wharf towards what was Old Wharf at Bridge Street. A couple of months later the tunnel would be closed for the Midland Metro Alliance works.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Nov 2018) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

2019

On the Broad Street Bridge, above the tunnel in January 2019. By this point the tunnel below was closed. And was a lot of restrictions in place at road level as well. All of this for the Midland Metro Alliance works.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/MM ext Broad Street Bridge (Jan 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

From January 2019 the Broad Street Tunnel was closed for a period of about 3 months. This view from Brindleyplace towards Walkabout and O Bar.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Jan 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

From the footbridge at Gas Street Basin, you could see that the towpath on both sides were closed.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Jan 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Scaffolding had been placed over the towpaths and the canal.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Jan 2019) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The barriers, scaffolding and the signs made for some nice reflections at the time.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Jan 2019) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

There was also a line of yellow buoys in the canal. No boats could come this way for three months. Would be a long winter diversion.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Jan 2019) (5).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Later in January 2019 for another look from Gas Street Basin. Now was some white sheets over the scaffolding.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Jan 2019) (6).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Another look in early March 2019. The Broad Street Tunnel was still closed. View from the Brewmasters Bridge over the Brindleyplace Bridge.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (March 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Near the end of March 2019, the tunnel was open again for the first time in 3 months.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (March 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Saw a narrowboat go through for the first time since the end of 2018.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (March 2019) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

First this narrowboat was going through the tunnel, followed by the Waterbus.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel narrowboat (March 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

From the Gas Street Basin end, caught the red Waterbus from Sherborne Wharf heading through the tunnel.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gas Street Basin Broad Street Tunnel (March 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Hard to believe that the tunnel had been closed for three months. Was nice to see boats going through it again.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gas Street Basin Broad Street Tunnel (March 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Black Sabbath Bench seen during July 2019 on top of the Black Sabbath Bridge. Which is above the Broad Street Tunnel. It was later removed in October 2019 for the Metro extension works to take place up here.

dndimg alt="Black Sabbath Bench" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bench Broad Street (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Back in August 2019, I saw this red narrowboat coming out of the Broad Street Tunnel. Was raining at the time.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel narrowboat (Aug 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It was steaming away as I crossed over the Brindleyplace Footbridge.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel narrowboat (Aug 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

From this September 2019 view (below), you could see that the bridge above the Broad Street Tunnel was now called the Black Sabbath Bridge. This was renamed over the summer of 2019. Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler came to Birmingham in June 2019 to unveil the Black Sabbath Bench and rename the bridge above the canal tunnel.

dndimg alt="Black Sabbath Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bridge Broad Street Tunnel (Sept 2019) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Black Sabbath Bench was in place on the Black Sabbath Bench, above the Broad Street Tunnel.

dndimg alt="Black Sabbath Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bridge Broad Street Tunnel (Sept 2019) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Around October 2019 on the Black Sabbath Bridge, the Black Sabbath Bench had been removed to storage, as the Midland Metro Alliance prepared to build the next extension towards Five Ways.

dndimg alt="Black Sabbath Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bridge (Oct 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Also in October 2019, I caught this tourist narrowboat emerging from the Broad Street Tunnel to Gas Street Basin. Was another Sherborne Wharf narrowboat called Bosworth Lady.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Gas Street Basin (Oct 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 During December 2019, a view of Black Sabbath Selfie with images of the four rockers, Geezer, Ozzy, Tony and Bill.

dndimg alt="Black Sabbath Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bridge (Dec 2019).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

2020

The Black Sabbath Bridge seen during February 2020. My last shot of the Broad Street Tunnel before the lockdown.

dndimg alt="Black Sabbath Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bridge Broad Street Tunnel (Feb 2020).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

It wouldn't be until July 2020 (due to months of the lockdown), before I would see the Black Sabbath Selfie hoardings again on Broad Street. This was the first time in about 4 months that I'd seen it again.

dndimg alt="Black Sabbath Bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Black Sabbath Bridge (Jul 2020).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

A lot of progress had taken place during lockdown to lay tracks along Broad Street, and that included above the Black Sabbath Bridge. At certain points is crossings with gates, but this changes from time to time. Expect trams to cross over here by the end of 2021.

dndimg alt="Westside metro extension" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/MM ext Broad Street Bridge (Jul 2020).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

At the beginning of August 2020, I followed the Victoria 2012 narrowboat from the Salvage Turn Bridge near The Cube and The Mailbox, towards the Brindleyplace Footbridge. Families once again getting trips on the canal like this.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel narrowboat (Aug 2020).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Close to the end of August 2020, I got some more shots of the Broad Street Tunnel. Starting from Gas Street Basin. Much quieter due to the pandemic, even with lockdown restrictions eased.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Aug 2020) (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Hardly anyone in the tunnel, at least until I had to wait for some people to walk past me, due to social distancing.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Aug 2020) (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

As usual, had to duck my head as I walked through both sections of the tunnel.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Aug 2020) (3).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Before heading to Brindleyplace, one last look at the Broad Street Tunnel. With the Black Sabbath Bridge above. Still the Black Sabbath Selfie hoardings on Broad Street for the time being. A lot of the tracks have been laid above.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel (Aug 2020) (4).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

One more view days before the end of August 2020. Before heading up the steps to Broad Street. The Brasshouse and Celebrity Restaurant are to the right. The ICC Mall is still closed, so this is one of the routes to Centenary Square you can go.

dndimg alt="Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Broad Street Tunnel Brindleyplace (Aug 2020).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Photos taken by Elliott Brown.

Follow me on Twitter here ellrbrown.

Share  Connect with us
50 passion points
History & heritage
13 Mar 2019 - Elliott Brown
Inspiration

Birmingham more miles of canals than Venice

Post image

I went to Venice in July 2010 and had a ride on a gondola. We were also taken around the lagoon. A comparison of Birmingham's canals with those in Venice, Italy. Gondolas vs narrowboats. We have more miles of canals in Brum compared to Venice. 35 miles of canals with the City of Birmingham, with most of that navigable. Around 26 miles in Venice. Venice first then a look at Birmingham!

Related

Birmingham more miles of canals than Venice





I went to Venice in July 2010 and had a ride on a gondola. We were also taken around the lagoon. A comparison of Birmingham's canals with those in Venice, Italy. Gondolas vs narrowboats. We have more miles of canals in Brum compared to Venice. 35 miles of canals with the City of Birmingham, with most of that navigable. Around 26 miles in Venice. Venice first then a look at Birmingham!


This post will mostly be a comparison of the Dragon Boat race near Brindleyplace and the narrowboats within the city centre on the Birmingham Canal Navigations near Brindleyplace. With the world famous gondolas seen on the canals in Venice.

We start off with Venice. After the long boat ride to get to the city we got straight onto a gondola for a ride around the famous canals of Venice! The journey starts from the Bacino di San Marco.

dndimg alt="Venice canals - gondolas" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canals in Venice (July 2010) (8).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

I was on one gondola back in July 2010 and saw this gondola in front! This canal was the Rio di Palazzo. The gondolier's were having a chat with each other!

dndimg alt="Gondola ride on the canals of Venice" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canals in Venice (July 2010) (1).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Both gondolas were heading for this footbridge. Many interesting looking buildings on the way!

dndimg alt="Gondola ride on the canals of Venice" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canals in Venice (July 2010) (2).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

A view of the Hard Rock Cafe in Venice. I can't even recall there being a Hard Rock Cafe in Birmingham! More recently saw a Hard Rock Cafe in Lyon, France and in Florence, Italy. Seen at the Orseolo basin (Bacino Orseolo). The canal might be the Rio del Cappello.

dndimg alt="Hard Rock Cafe near a canal in Venice" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canals in Venice (July 2010) (3).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

More tourists enjoying a ride on a gondola, like I did earlier that day (a roasting hot 12th July 2010 over 35°C!). This canal was the Rio del Scoa Camini. The Bacino Orseolo (Orseolo Basin) is around the corner.

dndimg alt="Gondola rides on the canals of Venice" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canals in Venice (July 2010) (4).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

The view from the same footbridge as above, so still the Rio del Scoa Camini. A footpath running alongside the shops. More tourists riding on gondolas. One gondolier on a brake (on the right).

dndimg alt="Gondola rides on the canals of Venice" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canals in Venice (July 2010) (5).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

Another Venetian canal. Several boats moored on the left. Seen from a footbridge on the Riva degli Schiavoni. This canal is the Rio di San Lorenzo. The bell tower on the right is of the Church of San Giorgio dei Greci (Chiesa di San Giorgio dei Greci in Italian).

dndimg alt="Boats and a tower from a canal in Venice" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canals in Venice (July 2010) (6).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

If you want a taxi around Venice, then this is the way to travel, by a speedboat! Seen from another footbridge on the Riva degli Schiavoni. This canal was the Rio della Pieta. At this point we were heading to catch a boat for a Lagoon cruise! This might be almost 9 years ago but this day in Venice is still quite memorable!

dndimg alt="Speedboat taxi on a canal in Venice" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canals in Venice (July 2010) (7).JPG" style="width: 100%;" />

OK enough with Venice, and back to Birmingham!

Flowers on the Brindleyplace Bridge over the Birmingham Canal Navigations in this view towards the Broad Street Tunnel. The ICC on the left, Brindleyplace to the right. Flowers out for the 4 Squares Weekender which was held in the city centre over the weekend of the 6th to 8th September 2013 (around when the new Library of Birmingham had opened). The red Waterbus seen behind. And the Sherborne Wharf tourist boat in front!

dndimg alt="4 Squares Weekender 2013 - Brindleyplace bridge" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Brindleyplace Bridge on the Birmingham Canal Navigations.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Not something you see on the Birmingham Canal Navigations every day. Canoeing on the canal. Saw this in May 2015 close to the Barclaycard Arena (now Arena Birmingham). This view the corner close to the Sealife Centre.

dndimg alt="Canoeing on the BCN" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canoeing on the Birmingham Canal Navigations (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

This view close to the Sheepcote Street Bridge. I also once saw canoes on the Worcester & Birmingham Canal from the Pershore Road Bridge in Stirchley!

dndimg alt="Canoeing on the BCN" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Canoeing on the Birmingham Canal Navigations (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

What you are more likely to see around here is a service boat! Seen passing the Waterbus and the Sherborne Wharf tourist narrowboat. It was heading past the Brindleyplace Bridge towards the Broad Street Tunnel during early April 2018. Behind was Arena Birmingham, The Malt House and the Brewmasters House!

See my post on them here The Brasshouse, The Brewmasters House and The Malt House - historic canal buildings around the BCN and Brindleyplace.

dndimg alt="Service boat on the BCN from the Broad Street Tunnel" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Service boat on the BCN from Broad Street Tunnel.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

About a week later (still April 2018), saw this man on a surfboard and a lady on one (might be a canoe)? Well they weren't surfing on the Birmingham Canal Navigations, as they headed under the Brewmasters Bridge. Probably rowing on their boards! This was round about when the BSAVA Congress was on at The ICC (probably not related).

dndimg alt="Surfing or canoeing on the BCN" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Surfing on the Birmingham Canal Navigations.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

OK here's the promised Dragon Boat Race photos. First one from June 2017 outside of the Sealife Centre Birmingham, close to the Brewmasters House and the Brewmasters Bridge. These boats are probably the closest thing we would have in Birmingham to the gondolas in Venice!

dndimg alt="Dragon Boat Race 2017" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Dragon Boat Race on the BCN 2017.jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

The Dragon Baot Race  seen during June 2018. Packed full of spectators around the Birmingham Canal Navigations. This was also close to the Sealife Centre Birmingham.

dndimg alt="Dragon Boat Race 2018" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Dragon Boat Race on the BCN 2018 (1).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

Now a building at Brindleyplace that wouldn't be out of place in Venice. Three Brindleyplace is seen to the left of the Sealife Centre. Teams at the race getting ready to race up and down from the Sealife Centre to the Broad Street Tunnel and back. I was only passing through, so didn't see much of the race in 2017 and 2018.

dndimg alt="Dragon Boat Race 2018" dndsrc="../uploadedfiles/Dragon Boat Race on the BCN 2018 (2).jpg" style="width: 100%;" />

 

Photos taken by Elliott Brown. The day trip to Venice was during July 2010.

Share  Connect with us
80 passion points
Close and return