Eliot Ward, elite Solihull-based Cyclist, recently hopped onto his bike to enjoy the scenic canal towpaths the area is known for, stopping at Brindleyplace on his journey. Here is his perspective of all things Brindleyplace and the journey by bike…
“Still water, flickering sunlight and fresh spring smells camouflaged the remnants of winter on the towpath into our exciting city. There’s certainly tranquillity and calmness when riding your bike away from the bustling roads, humming noises of the city and mummering of the crowds.
I set out with just a light long sleeved jersey and shorts. Simple effortless riding, the best kind. I chose an all terrain style bike, the canal towpath into Birmingham City Centre can have a mixture of gravel, stones and short stepped rises but very easy to navigate. Definitely fun. I felt like I was the only person in the world riding this route for much of the time. I saw the odd patient fisherman, analysing his method and willing his result. I would give a quiet wave or acknowledgement. It seems there is an instant understanding when seeing others along the canal, almost like they have parted from the crazy world for the beauty of the towpath. They are also enjoying their time with nature too, they knew I was from the big smile. I was thinking of the habitats the canal provides for us humans and how by being on the canals alone can improve your own wellbeing. This is cool. The mobile logs (barges) moving to their next point of interest being guided by their driver, big long steering pole in hand, assuring its success in arrival. Small communities with a different perspective, sharing life on the water, I was a part of momentarily as I enjoyed my route more by the second. It certainly beats the A45 😉
I could see the towering giants getting bigger as I got closer to Birmingham city centre. I saw more and more amongst the architecture until I saw the final few bridges leading me to Brindleyplace, my destination of choice. The towpath begins to widen quite considerably on entry to Brindleyplace making riding by the canal in the central area very carefree and safe. Brindley instantly homes you with its clean pavements and floral arrangements, letting you know you have arrived.
I immediately noted people exchanging conversations in the comfort of the welcoming grassed areas whilst sitting with a fresh coffee in Central Square, which instantly confirmed my reward for today’s riding. There is a very well placed, roofed, safe cycling store location (bring your own lock) right in the middle of Brindleyplace to make your way simply to one of the amazing restaurants. I was particularly taken by the row of cherry blossom trees in Oozells Square, such a beautiful spot, one I would certainly recommend for anyone wanting a moment of tranquillity!
It’s an exciting time right now as many of the bars and restaurants are all set to open on 12th April (subject to Government updates of course) with al fresco dining, bringing the area back to life with love, fun and laughter.
There is a magnificent set of arches owned by a truly impressive building I enjoyed gazing at with my coffee from Costa. It is clear to see why Number 3 Brindleyplace is so iconic. These arches house restaurants which, as a cyclist consuming endless amounts of pasta, is going to be a spot I am going to enjoy refuelling at very soon. Further into May, many other restaurants will all be ready to give the best to its visitors when indoor dining can resume. I’d like to return when cultural destinations like Ikon Gallery and the National Sea LIFE Centre will also be re-opening.
I had a very fulfilling experience, after collecting my bike from the safe store (coffee on point might I add), doing what I love along the free and easy going canal paths. Brindleyplace gives you a very simple way to enjoy an active, relaxing and scenic day with an array of choices once you arrive for any occasion at all. I’d certainly encourage more people to use the canals as a great way to access Brindley and the wider city.Already excited for my next visit, enjoy and live good.”
