Heading north out of Alvechurch Marina, an hour’s cruise will take you to Hopwood, travelling over an aqueduct and past the Bittell Reservoirs.

These two reservoirs were built by the canal company and completed in 1837 to feed the canal and compensate local mill owners for water loss during the construction of the canals. They are now popular attractions for anglers, walkers and bird watching. Just after Bridge 67, you will reach the Hopwood House Inn which is a great place to moor up for a break, and a good place to turn around after a leisurely lunch or a walk around the reservoirs

Heading south will take you to Top Lock of the Tardebigge flight, through the Shortwood and Tardebigge tunnels.

Locals tales talk of how the trees were used to make the handles of the famous Harris Brushes at Stoke Prior and the local horses gave up some of their tails for the bristles. You will also pass Hewell Grange Prison, a lime kiln dig out and see views of St Bartholomew’s Church on the hill.

There is a turning point at Top Lock which is a good place to moor up for a spot of lunch before heading back to the marina.