Alvechurch to Tardebigge Canal Walk

4.2 miles (6.7 km)

This walk follows a section of the Worcester and Birmingham Canal from Alvechurch to Tardebigge Locks. The walk runs for just over 4 miles, following the towpath south past the Shortwood Rough Grounds to Shortwood Tunnel.... The final section takes you to Tardebigge, passing along the locks before finishing at the reservoir.
This is one of the most interesting sections of the Worcester and Birmingham Canal, combining peaceful Worcestershire countryside with some of the finest canal engineering in England. The towpath passes through a landscape of open farmland, mature hedgerows and woodland, providing a tranquil setting that contrasts with the canal's industrial origins. Narrowboats, traditional canal bridges and historic lock cottages are regular features along the route.
One of the highlights is Shortwood Tunnel, a brick-lined canal tunnel completed in 1815. At over 600 metres in length, it is one of the principal engineering structures on the canal and carries the waterway beneath rising ground south of Alvechurch. There is a marked footpath here taking you around the tunnel. Beyond the tunnel, the canal begins its gradual descent towards the impressive Tardebigge Lock Flight.
The walk finishes at the famous Tardebigge Locks, the longest flight of locks in the United Kingdom. Thirty locks lower the canal by more than 200 feet (around 67 metres), creating one of the country's most impressive canal landscapes. Nearby Tardebigge Reservoir was constructed to supply water to the canal and today provides an attractive setting for walking, birdwatching and enjoying views across the surrounding Worcestershire countryside.