24 paddlers ventured into the Dudley and Netherton Tunnels for an amazing trip through history. This was going to be an experience to remember!
Unfazed by the early morning start and the slight chill in the air, 24 enthusiastic paddlers gathered in the car park of the Dudley Canal and Tunnels Trust. Clare, from Dittons Paddle boarding Club, lead the safety meeting and the group introduced themselves. We soon discovered that this trip was on many people’s bucket list, and the distances that paddlers were prepared to travel to join this trip was testament to that, with some of our group travelling from as far away as Southampton and North Wales.
With paddle boards pumped and kayaks packed, we headed down towards the first set of tunnels. Enthusiastically kitted out with helmets and head torches (as well as the odd set of fairy lights), we embarked on the canal ready to follow Brian and his barge into the Dudley Tunnels. Once deep inside the caverns, we stopped and switched off our lights in order to hear about their fascinating history and geological wonders, as well as to enjoy the light show.
The first set of tunnels stretched out for an impressive 2888 metres. Paddling through these tunnels was a surreal experience, blending the thrill of exploration with a sense of awe for the people in the past who regularly worked down there. With the exception of the occasional turn, the waterway stretched out for a long way in front of us, with light at the end of the tunnel always seeming like a pinhole in the distance.
Inside, the light was limited but the hilarity was nonstop. It was wonderful to see familiar faces from Dittons Paddle Boarding Club and meet new friends from Dave Paddles and beyond. The diversity of skill levels added to the charm of the event. Beginners received tips and encouragement from more experienced paddlers, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.
Dave promised to bring the sunshine to our paddle and, as if by magic, once we were out of the first set of tunnels, the weather couldn’t have been better. The sun shone brightly, casting a warm glow over the canal.
With a brief interlude at Parkhead Conservation Area to rescue Brian and his barge from the shallow waters, we carried on our way around a set of locks and to meander along the canal towards Bumble Hole Nature Reserve. Along the way, we encountered lots of friendly fishermen, dog walkers and cyclists who were curious to see so many paddlers out and about on the waterways.
At Bumble Hole, we were delighted to find that the café was still open and took this as the perfect opportunity to refuel. The sun continued to shine on us, the swans paddled up and down and Cobbs Engine House provided the backdrop to our relaxed lunch break.
Keeping to our time schedule, we were met by one of the Canal Trust’s volunteers who ushered us through to Netherton Tunnel. This stretch of tunnel was only marginally shorter than the first, at 2768 metres, but it was wider and taller, meaning that we could stand up all the way.
Coming out the tunnel, we clambered out of the canal and carried our crafts up to Tividale Aqueduct to continue our journey back towards the Canal Centre along the Birmingham Canal. Once again, we were greeted by lots of families out walking who happily waved us on our way. As we arrived back at the Canal Centre, we realised that we were backing on to the Black Country Living Museum and the Peaky Blinders fans amongst us were quick to get their selfies in before they got off the water.
Once all crafts were cleaned and packed away, some paddlers headed off back down the motorway, happy and tired after a fun day of adventures. Around 16 of the group, decided to sample the wares of the locally revered Mad O’Rourke’s Pie Factory for a well-deserved meal. Over humorously named pies and drinks, stories from the day’s escapades were shared and plans for future outings were hatched.
Reflecting on the day’s events, it’s clear that this outing was about sharing adventure and the joy of being on the water.
A special thanks goes to Claire E for her amazing efforts in pulling this whole trip together.
Written by Liz Jackson
