Towpath Talk follower Wendy Davis provided this report, this society is worth supporting!
Between July 6th and 15th, a group of nine boats and total strangers came together for an incredible adventure—cruising some of the less-travelled canals around Birmingham to showcase their hidden beauty, rich history, and to help keep these underused waterways open for the future.
The cruise was organised and led by the BCN Society, with fantastic leadership from Barbara, Steven, and Brenda. Along the way, we enjoyed unique and memorable tours, including a visit to the Bradley Lock Gate Factory, the Smethwick Pumping Station Museum, local nature reserves such as Bumble Hole, and even joined a guided boat trip through the Dudley Tunnel.
Our route took us through a wide variety of fascinating waterways: the Old Main Line, the Wyrley and Essington Canal, Bradley Arm, Cannock Extension, Titford Pools (earning some participants the Silver Propeller Award), the Dudley No. 2 Canal, and the Netherton Tunnel.
Evening entertainment was planned most nights—ranging from pub meals and BBQs to a guided tour of Bumble Hole, with its warm and dedicated volunteers, and a fish and chip supper. Our final night at Titford Pumphouse was especially memorable, with a Chinese takeaway and entertainment from local busker and Black Country Radio presenter Billy Spakemon, who raised money for charity through his music. We even picked up some Black Country dialect along the way!
Of course, as with any true adventure, the journey didn’t go entirely to plan. Originally 14 boats were booked, but low water levels meant that only nine made it. Throughout the week, we encountered challenges including more low water, tow-assisted boats (our deep-draft tug among them), breakdowns (boats, not people!), and regular trips down the weed hatch to remove curtains, carpet, tarpaulins, and even full sets of clothing—some of them big-name brands!
The route was even altered mid-week due to the closure of the Rushall Flight, but our determined and adaptable team leaders didn’t let that stop us. We were proud to become one of the first flotillas to cruise the recently reopened Walsall Canal, following last year’s chemical spill closure.
Some of our group were active supporters of the Fund Britain’s Waterways campaign and proudly displayed banners aboard their boats. Despite the many challenges, the spirit of camaraderie was incredible, and the nine boats of strangers quickly became lifelong friends.
Perhaps most surprisingly, the cruise completely changed our perception of the BCN. These were areas we never would have chosen to visit before—but we’re now eager to return and explore even more. The trip was beautifully organised, great value for a small charitable fee, and an eye-opening journey through both beauty and history.
The locals were fantastic—welcoming, curious, and excited to see boats back on their canals. One resident summed it up with, “Wot yaow dun? Yaow don’t see boats along ‘ere. Good on ya all!” Their warmth added to the magic of the journey.
The BCN Society runs these Explorer Cruises three times a year, and I cannot recommend them highly enough. They are a perfect reminder of why our waterways matter—not just for boaters, but for all who enjoy the towpaths.
CONTACT: BrendaWard@[email protected]
