Kayaking Birmingham | Your Complete Brummie Paddling Guide!
All The Best Places To Kayak In Birmingham
When it comes to Urban Kayaking, few places offer the blend of history, nature, and adventure that Birmingham can.
We usually come to Birmingham as cricket lovers to watch the action at Edgbaston, but we always find time for a paddle here.
From our many countless journeys along Birmingham’s serene waterways, we’ve discovered some great paddling routes and hidden gems that make Kayaking Birmingham truly special.
We hope you enjoy the read!
Birmingham Canal Navigations: The Heart of Urban Kayaking
One of our favourite places to start a kayaking adventure in Birmingham is the Birmingham Canal Navigations, otherwise known as BCN.
This urban kayaking experience is beyond special and surpasses covering over 100 miles of interconnected canals running through the city.
There are more canal miles here in Birmingham than in Venice – seriously!
Where to Launch Your Kayak in Birmingham
Usually, we’d launch from the Gas Street Basin, a historic hub that’s perfect for accessing the main waterways of Birmingham.
As you paddle the city, you’ll be struck by the contrast between the bustling city above and the tranquil water below.
The canals are surprisingly peaceful and offer a definite respite from the city’s never-ending energy but be warned, there are plenty of locks on all the cities surrounding canals.
Kayaking Edgbaston Reservoir: The City’s Natural Oasis
For those looking for a more nature-oriented kayaking experience, Edgbaston Reservoir is a must-visit.
Located just a short distance from the city centre, this 70-acre reservoir is a sanctuary of calm waters surrounded by greenery.
Having kayaked here a few times it’s safe to say that there are a few more hoops to jump through in terms of getting the right permission to paddle, but it’s certainly possible.
Start by checking with either the Midland Sailing Club or the Birmingham Canoe club for current rules and permissions for kayaking on the reservoir.
It’s always a serene experience, especially early in the morning when the water is still and the area is quiet which is the time we’ve kayaked here – before the cricket starts of course!
Edgbaston Reservoir is particularly suited for beginners due to its calm conditions and manageable size. It’s a fantastic spot to practice your paddling techniques or simply enjoy a leisurely day on the water.
The reservoir is home to a variety of bird species, and on more than one occasion, we’ve spotted swans gliding gracefully across the water.
After a paddle here, we’ve often usually taken a leisurely walk around the perimeter, which offers great views of the water and the city skyline beyond.
Kayaking Birmingham | Video from Ian Wilson
Why not check out Ian Wilson’s YouTube Channel HERE to check out some of his awesome paddling adventures!
River Tame: A Journey Through Birmingham’s Greenbelt
For a more adventurous kayaking experience, the River Tame offers a different perspective on Birmingham.
The Tame flows through Birmingham’s greenbelt in the north of the city, providing a mix of rural and urban scenery.
We recommend starting your journey at Sandwell Valley Country Park, where you can easily access the river and paddle either north towards Walsall or south into Birmingham itself.
The River Tame is a bit more challenging than the canals or the reservoir, with varying water levels and occasional faster currents.
It’s best suited for those with some kayaking experience.
One of the highlights of kayaking the Tame is the chance to see a more natural side of Birmingham.
The riverbanks are often lined with trees and vegetation, and you might encounter wildlife such as otters, which we’ve been lucky enough to spot on a couple of occasions.
There are also a few portage points along some of the River Tame routes where you’ll need to carry your kayak around obstacles, so be prepared for a bit of a workout.
The Cultural Side of Paddling Birmingham’s Waterways
Beyond the natural beauty, Birmingham’s waterways are steeped in history and culture.
As we’ve paddled through the canals, we’ve passed by numerous historical landmarks, including the iconic Custard Factory and the Jewellery Quarter.
These areas are not only visually interesting but also give you a sense of Birmingham’s industrial past.
One of our favourite cultural kayaking routes is along the Digbeth Branch Canal, which takes you through some of Birmingham’s most vibrant neighbourhoods.
The area is known for its street art, and seeing these murals from the water provides a unique perspective.
If you’re into photography, this route offers plenty of opportunities to capture some stunning urban shots.
Kayaking on the River Cole
For those looking for more of a challenge, Birmingham’s waterways do not disappoint.
The River Cole, for example, offers a more technical kayaking experience with its narrower passages and occasional obstructions.
Although we’ve never kayaked here ourselves, we’ve heard tales of others that have and are told its certainly a waterway that will “keep you on your toes”. It can be very shallow in parts we’re told, so be warned.
The river winds through several parks, including the beautiful Kingfisher Country Park, where you can spot a variety of birdlife.
Kayaking on the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal
Another challenging spot is the stretch of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal that leads out towards the countryside.
This canal is about 15 miles long but has plenty of locks making the area somewhat less trafficked by kayakers but perhaps offering a more solitary experience.
But it also means you need to be prepared for less maintained paths and the occasional need to portage.
It’s is however, a great paddling experience, and we highly recommend the canal to seasoned kayakers looking to test their skills.
What Will I See Kayaking Around Birmingham?
Paddle through the Birmingham canal network you’ll see a blend of Birmingham’s industrial heritage and modern architecture.
Keep an eye out for wildlife as even in the city centre it’s possible to sometimes spot herons, ducks, and even the occasional kingfisher can often be spotted along these routes.
One of our preferred places in the city to paddle is around Brindley Place, part of the Birmingham Canal Old Main Line.
Here you can take a break and enjoy a coffee or a meal at one of the many waterfront cafes.
Kayaking Tours and Kayak Rental in Birmingham
Explore Birmingham’s unique canal network with guided kayak tours offered by Roundhouse Birmingham.
These 90-minute tours provide expert instruction, making them perfect for beginners while allowing you to see hidden parts of the city. Check out their offerings Roundhouse Birmingham
Ackers Adventure provides kayaking experiences for all skill levels in Birmingham.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to advance, they offer courses, fun group sessions, and even British Canoeing Paddle Awards to improve your skills. More details available over on the Ackers Adventure website.
Hopwood Adventures just south of the city on the A441 offer Kayak Hire and this is a great place to really relax with tranquil paddling along the Worcester and Birmingham Canal. Contact them HERE.
Depending on what else you would like to see and do in Birmingham on your visit check out all the available events and activities on the Get Your Guide website.
Kayaking Birmingham | Our Final Thoughts
Kayaking in Birmingham is more than just a paddle on the water; it’s an adventure through the city’s history, nature, and culture.
Whether you’re gliding through the canals, exploring the reservoir, or tackling the rivers, each journey offers something unique.
We’ve spent countless hours on these waters, and each trip reveals something new, making Birmingham a truly special place for kayaking – if you’re not watching cricket of course!
Thanks for reading and happy paddling!
FAQS About Kayaking In Birmingham
Yes, Birmingham Canoe Club and the Edgbaston Watersports Club are great options if you’re looking to join a community of kayakers. They offer lessons, social paddles, and equipment rentals.
We’ve always found that spring and summer offer the best conditions, with warmer weather and longer days. However, autumn can also be beautiful with the changing leaves, especially on the River Tame.
Birmingham’s waterways are home to a variety of wildlife, including birds like herons, kingfishers, and swans, as well as fish and occasionally otters. The areas around the River Tame and Edgbaston Reservoir are particularly rich in wildlife.
You can rent kayaks at Edgbaston Reservoir, and there are also a few outdoor adventure shops around Birmingham that offer rentals. Some clubs, like the one at the reservoir, also rent out equipment.
