Canal-side Brewery Experience

Combine Birmingham's industrial heritage with its modern craft beer scene on this unique walking tour. Follow historic canal towpaths between waterside breweries and traditional pubs, learning about the city's transport history while sampling beers with canal views. The leisurely pace includes time to appreciate the restored canal network and narrowboat culture. Best for walkers who enjoy beer and scenic routes. This is a easy activity lasting 3.5 hours. Group size: max 10. You meet at Gas Street Basin. Key highlights: Walk along Birmingham's restored historic canal network, Visit breweries and pubs with scenic waterside locations, Learn about industrial heritage and modern conservation efforts.

Price: £35

Duration: 3.5 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: max 10

Minimum age: 18+

Best for: walkers who enjoy beer and scenic routes

Best time: Late morning starts work best for good light and avoiding evening weather changes

Meeting point: Gas Street Basin

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

11:00am Meet at Gas Street Basin - Introduction to Birmingham's canal history and overview of the walking route.

11:15am Canal towpath walk - Gentle 20-minute walk along restored waterway with narrowboat spotting.

11:45am First canal-side brewery - Sample ales with outdoor seating overlooking the water and moored boats.

12:45pm Continue canal walk - Second stretch through historic industrial areas now converted to leisure spaces.

1:15pm Traditional canal pub - Historic pub serving local ales with light lunch included in price.

2:30pm Return walk to starting point - Final leg with opportunity to spot wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.

The whole experience takes 3.5 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Gas Street Basin.

• Walk along Birmingham's restored historic canal network
• Visit breweries and pubs with scenic waterside locations
• Learn about industrial heritage and modern conservation efforts
• Spot narrowboats and canal wildlife during walks
• Light lunch included at traditional canal-side pub

What is included: Experienced walking guide, One drink at each of two venues, Light lunch (sandwich and crisps), Canal history and wildlife information.

Not included: Additional drinks beyond included ones, Full meals beyond light lunch, Waterproof clothing if needed. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Valid photo ID, Comfortable walking shoes with good grip, Weather-appropriate clothing, Light waterproof jacket recommended. Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Late morning starts work best for good light and avoiding evening weather changes.

Tip: Weather dependent

Tip: Includes light lunch at final stop

Accessibility: Canal towpaths are generally flat but can be muddy; not suitable for wheelchairs.

Operator: Waterside Walks

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Library of Birmingham (8 min walk)
• Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery (10 min walk)
• Jewellery Quarter (12 min walk)

This activity is run by Waterside Walks.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation if cancelled due to severe weather, otherwise 24h notice required.

Accessibility: Canal towpaths are generally flat but can be muddy; not suitable for wheelchairs.

Best time to go: Late morning starts work best for good light and avoiding evening weather changes.

What happens if it rains during the canal walk?

Tours continue in light rain with covered areas at pubs for shelter. Heavy rain or dangerous conditions result in free rescheduling or full refund.

How much walking is involved in the brewery experience?

Approximately 2.5 miles of flat canal towpath walking at a leisurely pace with frequent stops. Total walking time is about 45 minutes spread over 3.5 hours.

Can I bring children on the canal brewery tour?

This is an 18+ tour due to alcohol focus, but Waterside Walks offers family-friendly canal walks without brewery stops for those with children.