Through the Bar to the Worcester and Birmingham

Friday, 19 February 2010 17:37

We are now in the suburbs of Birmingham

We felt the need to move out of the city centre yesterday, despite the day before being lovely and sunny.

Chamberlain Square

This had nothing to do with the arrival of Derek and Dot on Nb Gypsy Rover! We had a great afternoon with them yesterday, catching up on news and swapping stories.

Gypsy Rover "spied" (left) as we went to get water

After doing the "necessaries" and picking up our post from the PO, we made our stately way towards Gas Street Basin. We were continually waving at the children on the towpath - half term and the excitement of the Sea Life Centre means there were lots around!

Brewmasters Bridge ahead

We passed The Waters Edge - part of Brindleyplace

One day I shall try the burgers in that restaurant! We also have yet to try the Floating Coffee Company Boat moored under the footbridge here. The ICC is a short cut through to Millennium Square and one way into the centre of the City.

ICC towers over the canal

Passing through Broad Street Tunnel, we arrived in Gas Street Basin. It looked very different, now there was no ice and snow around! To our left was the old entrance into Old Wharf, to the right the remains of an old Arm.

Gas Street Basin

We entered Worcester Bar - the old barrier is no longer there and it is a narrow stop lock passing some of the old canal buildings that have been preserved.

Worcester Bar

We were now on the Worcester and Birmingham Canal and the Mailbox and Cube were ahead

Mailbox

The Cube

We turned right at the Mailbox and passed Holliday Wharf and on under Bridge 88, carrying Granville Street - we now felt as if we had left the centre behind!

Bridge 88 ahead

Holliday Wharf and BW facilities

So where were we going? Not very far (then) as you will see!