Birmingham's canal network was built in the 18th century during the
Industrial Revolution. These waterways connected Birmingham's factories
to the rivers and seaports, bringing in raw materials and sending out finished goods to the markets of the world.
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The canals are hidden away behind buildings and roads, but many miles of tranquil waterways
bring corridors of countryside into the city. Many of them have been carefully restored, and there are now pleasant
walks along the towpaths through leafy suburbs and around the city centre, where canalside shops and restaurants
attract people to stroll and sit by the water.
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Gas Street Basin and Old
Turn Junction adjacent to the International
Convention Centre,
mark the crossroads of the British Waterways network. New developments of canalside shops and bars are underway
near here at Brindley Place and Regency Wharf.
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You can still see original canal company cottages at Cambrian
Wharf, and follow the Farmers Bridge flight of four locks into the Jewellerv Quarter.
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