Taking place on Wednesday 17 and Thursday 18 September, the walks will reveal how Birmingham’s canals once powered the city’s industry and how they continue to play an important role in local life today.

Heritage Open Days is England’s largest community led festival of history and culture, involving thousands of local volunteers and organisations. Every year in September it brings people together to celebrate their heritage, community and history.

Nick Cleaver, community roots engagement coordinator at Canal & River Trust, said: “Birmingham’s canals are such an important part of the city’s story, and we’re delighted to welcome people along for Heritage Open Days to enjoy a relaxed walk and uncover the history of these incredible waterways.

“For generations our canals were the lifeblood of industry, and today they provide peaceful green spaces right in the heart of our busy city. Heritage Open Days is the perfect chance for people to slow down, take a stroll, and enjoy these amazing canals whilst learning about their fascinating history. We’d love to see families, friends, and neighbours join us on the walk and connect with a part of Birmingham that belongs to everyone.

“Our charity is proud to look after these special places, but we can only do it with the public’s support. We’d love people who are inspired by the walks to think about volunteering or donating to help us look after Birmingham’s canals.”

The event open to all and is perfect for anyone who loves history, enjoys walking, or simply wants to see the canals in a new way.

There are two walks per day, and they take place along the Farmers Flight of locks in central Birmingham. The walks are at 11am and at 1:30pm. Anyone wishing to attend the walks need to register via the Eventbrite page Heritage Walk 17th and 18th September Tickets, Multiple Dates | Eventbrite

More information on the walks can be found on the Canal & River Trust website Heritage Walk Through Birmingham’s Canal History | Canal & River Trust