Birmingham Canal Canter

Birmingham Canal Canter - 2 August 2026

The Birmingham Canal Canter is a Long Distance Walkers Association challenge event organised by the Heart of England local group to mark the group’s 30th anniversary in 2026. It offers multiple route lengths with an overall time limit for completion.

Distances:

• 30 miles with an 11 hour time limit
• 26.3 miles with an 11 hour time limit
• 18.5 miles with an 11 hour time limit

The event starts and finishes at Birmingham Moseley Rugby Club, Billesley Common, Yardley Wood Road, Moseley, Birmingham B13 0TR, where there is plentiful parking. Navigation is described as not challenging and the course is mainly mud free. There are no stiles and only one kissing gate on the 30 mile route; the shorter routes have none.

Most of the routes run along paths beside the River Cole or on canal tow paths. Walkers will pass landmarks and follow a traffic free route into and out of the city, with changing views of trees, buildings, artwork and wildlife. Checkpoints provide drinks and snacks; the number of checkpoints varies by route (4, 3 or 2). A two course meal is provided at the finish. Route descriptions and GPX files will be made available nearer the event. The 30 mile route has been amended because of HS2 works and now explores Galton Valley and passes under the M5 rather than visiting Spaghetti Junction. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.