Birmingham’s canal network is a boon for the cyclist – but don’t expect miles of pristine tarmac.

Surfaces vary greatly, and can be muddy in winter. Like all canals, the towpaths are narrow and shared with other users. Don’t barrel along at full speed, and be particularly careful at bridges. The canals can be hillier than you think: from Birmingham to Wolverhampton is almost flat, but to Aston is one long hill. Though incidents are rare, you may also want to consider your personal security on the more isolated stretches of the network late at night.

South from the city centre, the Worcester & Birmingham Canal to Edgbaston, Selly Oak and King’s Norton is well-surfaced and scenic. The Main Line canal to Wolverhampton is rougher, but amazingly direct and often empty. The Birmingham & Fazeley Canal, towards Aston and Castle Bromwich, is moderately surfaced, though the locks and humpback bridges make it hilly for a towpath. The Grand Union out to Solihull is pleasant in summer but can be boggy in winter.

The web of canals extends into the Black Country, where the only uncyclable towpath we’ve found is the Tame Valley Canal (Wednesbury to Spaghetti Junction) – and even that should be fine on a mountain bike.

You no longer need a permit for cycling on canals. But don’t forget the puncture repair kit!