Canal Boating Article: Birmingham And Fazeley
Visit Birmingham And Fazeley from the following marina(s)
Length: 20 miles
Locks 38:
Tunnels: 1
Linked to: Coventry Canal, Worcester and Birmingham, Birmingham Canal Navigations,Grand Union Canal
The Birmingham and Fazeley forms part of the Black Country Ring with the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal the Trent and Mersey and The Birmingham Canal Navigations.
Completed in 1789, John Smeaton was employed on the construction of the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal. Its purpose was to provide a link between industrialised Birmingham and the south east of England via the Coventry Canal and the Oxford Canal.
PLACES TO VISIT ON ROUTE
Gas Street Basin was the hub of Birmingham's canal system and today it is well worth a visit for its range of waterside pubs and to see the pretty canal boats moored there. A short walk will lead you straight into the city for a wealth of shopping and culture experiences.
Spaghetti Junction is where six main roads are connected by many twisting slip road – hence the nick name Spaghetti Junction (its official name is Gravelly Hill Interchange). Many of the roads are built on stilts as the Salford Junction lies directly underneath linking the Grand Union, Tame Valley and Birmingham and Fazeley Canals. You may not call it picturesque as you pass underneath but it is nevertheless a marvel of industrial design.
The bridge at Drayton Bassett was built in the 1780s as a folly and to amuse people as it was built to a Gothic design. Each tower contains a little brick-built spiral staircase to the elevated walkway. The bridge carries many visitors over the canal to Drayton Manor Theme Park which is situated just across the road.
Tamworth – This canal side town has something to offer the whole family from a visit toTamworth Castle packed with mystery and adventure or to the Snowdome for an adrenaline adventure on the ski slopes.
The 15 lakes at Kingsbury Water Park are set in 600 acres of parkland and is a perfect haven for bird and wild life. Stroll along the surfaced paths and explore on your own or join in one of the guided walks and organised events. If you prefer you are able to hire a bike from the visitor centre and the kids will be able to let of steam in the playground nearby.
PLACES TO VISIT
