Farmers Bridge Locks, Birmingham
Historic flight of 13 canal locks showcasing Birmingham’s industrial heritage and vibrant urban waterways.
Farmers Bridge Locks is a historic flight of 13 canal locks located in central Birmingham, England. This engineering marvel on the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal features a total drop of 81 feet and offers visitors a unique glimpse into the city's rich industrial heritage. The locks remain operational, showcasing the intricate mechanics of narrowboat navigation through urban waterways, surrounded by a blend of historic charm and modern cityscape.
A brief summary to Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks
- 5 Scotland St, Birmingham, B1 2RR, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter, more peaceful experience along the towpaths.
- Bring a camera to capture the lock mechanics and the contrasting urban and historic scenery.
- Observe narrowboats navigating the locks to appreciate the skill and engineering involved.
- Be cautious near the water, especially if visiting with children, as the canal edges can be slippery.
- Explore nearby cultural attractions like Brindleyplace and the Mailbox to complement your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Train and Walk
From Birmingham New Street Station, take a 15-20 minute walk along city streets and canals to reach Farmers Bridge Locks. The route is mostly flat but includes some urban sidewalks. This option is free and suitable for most travelers.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve stops within 500 meters of Farmers Bridge Locks, including lines 8, 9, and 63. Travel times vary between 10-20 minutes from central Birmingham. Tickets cost approximately £2-£3 GBP single.
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Taxi or Rideshare
A taxi or rideshare from Birmingham city center to Farmers Bridge Locks typically takes 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. The fare ranges from £5 to £10 GBP. This is a convenient option for travelers with limited mobility.
Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Lock 1, Farmers Bridge Locks
Engineering Feat of the Industrial Era
Farmers Bridge Locks is a significant flight of 13 locks on the Birmingham & Fazeley Canal, constructed between 1786 and 1789. This impressive series of locks was engineered to manage an 81-foot change in elevation, enabling narrowboats to traverse the steep gradient within Birmingham’s urban core. Named after James Farmer, a local Quaker landowner and gunmaker who invested in the canal system, the locks played a vital role in facilitating the transportation of goods during the height of Birmingham’s industrial growth.Historic and Urban Context
Situated near 5 Scotland Street in Birmingham’s city center, the locks are nestled amidst a dynamic urban landscape. The canal network here historically connected key industrial sites and coal trade routes, with the locks serving as a crucial artery for freight traffic. Despite modern developments including apartments and offices, the locks retain their historic character, juxtaposing industrial heritage with contemporary city life. Nearby landmarks such as the BT Tower and the National Indoor Arena add to the area’s distinctive skyline.Visitor Experience and Canal Life
Visitors to Farmers Bridge Locks can observe the fascinating operation of the lock flight as narrowboats ascend or descend, a process that involves careful water management and mechanical skill. The towpaths provide a pleasant route for walking and photography, with picturesque views of the canal, historic lock cottages, and the iconic Islington Place Footbridge. The site offers a lively atmosphere, often bustling with boaters and locals, making it an engaging spot for people-watching and learning about canal heritage.Conservation and Ongoing Importance
The locks remain in active use and are maintained as part of Birmingham’s canal network, which is managed by the Canal & River Trust. Recent repair works have ensured their continued operation and preservation. The flight is not only a functional piece of infrastructure but also a protected heritage site, reflecting the city’s commitment to conserving its industrial past while integrating it into modern urban life.Architectural and Environmental Features
The lock flight includes distinctive stonework with historical inscriptions, such as the Latin phrase "Pax Missa Per Orbem, Pax Quaeritur Bello" carved into lock 10, symbolizing peace sought through conflict. The canal’s waters and surrounding green spaces provide a tranquil environment amid the city’s bustle, supporting local wildlife and offering a peaceful retreat for visitors. The blend of historic lock mechanisms, footbridges, and urban scenery creates a unique visual and sensory experience.Connectivity and Cultural Significance
Farmers Bridge Locks is part of a broader canal system linking to Birmingham’s cultural hubs like Brindleyplace and the Mailbox. This connectivity highlights the canal’s role beyond transportation, serving as a cultural and recreational asset. The locks embody Birmingham’s industrial legacy and continue to inspire interest in the city’s waterways, making them a meaningful destination for history enthusiasts, photographers, and casual visitors alike.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Chamberlain Memorial
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A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
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Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Historic England
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Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
The River
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Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Chamberlain Clock
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An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
0.8 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Workers Memorial
1.0 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
National Trust - Birmingham Back to Backs
1.2 km
Experience Birmingham's rich history at the iconic Back to Backs, a unique museum showcasing 19th-century urban life through preserved homes.
Bullring & Grand Central
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Explore Birmingham's Bullring & Grand Central: a shopping and dining paradise that blends modern architecture with an unforgettable experience.
Gem Buildings
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Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
West Midlands Police Museum
1.3 km
Explore the captivating history of law enforcement at the West Midlands Police Museum in Birmingham, a unique attraction for history enthusiasts and tourists alike.
St. Martin's
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Explore St. Martin's Church, a serene Anglican landmark in Birmingham, where architectural beauty and rich history await every visitor.
Edgbaston Village
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Discover the picturesque Edgbaston Village in Birmingham—where history meets modern charm in a vibrant community setting.
The Selfridges Building
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A shimmering silver landmark in Birmingham’s Bullring, where shopping meets futuristic architecture and luxury retail in a sculptural masterpiece.
Perrott's Folly
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An 18th-century tower in Birmingham, steeped in history and Tolkien lore, now a cultural beacon for art and community.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
0.2 km
Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
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Explore the historical charm of New Hall Hill in Birmingham, a captivating tourist attraction rich in heritage and local culture.
National SEA LIFE Centre Birmingham
0.2 km
Discover the UK's only 360° Ocean Tunnel and meet over 2,000 marine creatures including the nation's first rescued sea otters in Birmingham’s vibrant aquarium.
The Secret Garden
0.3 km
Discover a peaceful rooftop oasis with stunning city views atop Birmingham’s iconic Library of Birmingham.
Symphony Hall
0.3 km
Experience world-class acoustics and vibrant live performances at Birmingham’s iconic Symphony Hall on Broad Street.
Library of Birmingham
0.3 km
Discover the Library of Birmingham: a modern architectural gem with vast collections, rooftop gardens, and vibrant cultural spaces in the city’s heart.
Newhall Hill
0.3 km
Discover Newhall Hill’s scenic views and historic charm in Birmingham’s vibrant Soho & Jewellery Quarter district.
Centenary Winter Carousels
0.3 km
Experience festive joy and colorful carousels in Birmingham’s vibrant Centenary Square during the magical winter season.
Boulton, Watt and Murdoch
0.3 km
Iconic gilded bronze statue celebrating Birmingham’s industrial pioneers Boulton, Watt, and Murdoch on Broad Street.
The Coffin Works
0.3 km
A Victorian coffin factory preserved as a time-capsule museum, revealing the craftsmanship behind royal funerals and industrial Birmingham.
Birmingham Walk of Stars
0.4 km
Discover Birmingham’s rich cultural heritage through a vibrant walk of fame honoring its legendary icons along Broad Street.
Ikon Gallery
0.4 km
Discover cutting-edge contemporary art in a stunning Victorian building at Birmingham’s Ikon Gallery, with free entry and dynamic exhibitions.
Hall of Memory
0.4 km
Discover the Hall of Memory in Birmingham, a significant memorial dedicated to the bravery of those who served in the World Wars amidst serene gardens.
Regency Wharf
0.4 km
Scenic canals, vibrant dining, and cultural events converge at Birmingham’s dynamic Regency Wharf.
Pen Museum
0.4 km
Discover where 75% of the world's pen nibs were made in a beautifully restored Victorian factory.
Essential places to dine
Bank Restaurant Bar & Grill
0.3 km
Sophisticated grill classics and fresh seafood in a stylish Brindleyplace setting with scenic canal terraces and vibrant atmosphere.
Opheem
0.3 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Aria Restaurant
0.4 km
Glass-roofed fine dining sanctuary serving seasonal British cuisine in Birmingham's city centre.
The Coconut Tree Birmingham
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Sri Lankan street food and unique island Cocotails in a lively, colorful setting at The Coconut Tree Birmingham.
Bistrot Pierre - Birmingham
0.5 km
Authentic French bistro on Birmingham's canalside, serving traditional cuisine at accessible prices in a Grade II listed building.
Dishoom Birmingham
0.5 km
A vibrant 1960s Bombay café in central Birmingham, serving bold Indian street food and classics in a theatrical, nostalgic setting with a large outdoor terrace.
Pasta Di Piazza
0.5 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
The Button Factory
0.6 km
A stylish blend of industrial heritage and modern dining, The Button Factory offers vibrant food, drinks, and rooftop vibes in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Locanta italian restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Italian dining in a historic Victorian setting with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, fine wines, and live music in Birmingham’s city centre.
Cappadocia Restaurant
0.7 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.
Restaurant Folium
0.7 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Noel’s Bar and Restaurant
0.7 km
Mediterranean charm meets Birmingham's waterfront—where fresh pasta, charcoal grills, and craft cocktails create unforgettable canalside dining.
Cucina Rustica
0.7 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors crafted with passion in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter at Cucina Rustica.
Orelle
0.7 km
Sophisticated French fine dining on the 24th floor with panoramic views across Birmingham’s skyline.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.4 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
SACET
0.7 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Harvey Nichols
0.7 km
Discover luxury fashion, beauty, and gourmet delights at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, a premier designer department store in The Mailbox.
Buff Jewellery
0.7 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Artfull Expression
0.7 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
Top Jewellery UK
0.7 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Quarter Jewellery
0.7 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
0.8 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
0.8 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
0.8 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
A&N Jewellery
0.8 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
Design Centre
0.8 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Miniso
0.9 km
Bright, affordable design and collectable character goods — a family-friendly stop for pocket-money treats in Grand Central.
Urban Outfitters
1.0 km
Discover stylish apparel, unique homewares, and a vibrant shopping vibe at Urban Outfitters Birmingham in the city centre.
Community Gift Shop
1.0 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Malt House
0.2 km
A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
All Bar One Brindleyplace
0.3 km
Stylish canal-side wine bar and cocktail lounge in Birmingham’s vibrant Westside, perfect for bottomless brunches and lively evenings.
The Alchemist Brindleyplace
0.3 km
Experience Birmingham’s theatrical cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindleyplace, where molecular mixology meets creative cuisine above the canal.
Pitcher & Piano Birmingham
0.3 km
A stylish canal-side bar in Brindley Place, Birmingham, perfect for all-day dining, cocktails, and vibrant social experiences.
Slug & Lettuce - Birmingham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant at Brindley Place offering vibrant drinks, tasty bites, and late-night fun in Birmingham’s city centre.
Be At One - Brindley Place Birmingham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar in Birmingham’s Brindley Place offering extensive drinks, vibrant atmosphere, and expert bartenders for unforgettable nights.
The Botanist Gas Street Basin
0.4 km
A lush botanical bar and restaurant with canal views, seasonal menus, and live music in Birmingham’s vibrant Gas Street Basin.
The Distillery
0.4 km
Birmingham's canal-side gin distillery pub: rotisserie feasts, wood-fired pizzas, house gins, and terrace vibes from brunch to late-night drinks.
The Pig & Tail
0.4 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
1000 Trades
0.5 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
Lucky7
0.5 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
Queen's Arms birmingham
0.5 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
Actress & Bishop
0.6 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
Theatrix Birmingham
0.7 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
Purecraft Bar & Kitchen
0.7 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham blending craft beer culture with modern British cuisine in a spacious, welcoming setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Reflex - Birmingham
0.3 km
Spin into 80s-00s nostalgia at Reflex Birmingham: revolving dance floor, karaoke booths, neon vibes, and epic sing-alongs on Broad Street's party strip.
Popworld - Birmingham
0.4 km
Broad Street's ultimate pop party hub: 90s-00s hits, neon dance floors, cocktails, and celebration packages until 3am.
Rosies - Birmingham
0.4 km
Birmingham's ultimate super club: five themed rooms, killer cocktails, and non-stop beats on Broad Street for epic nights out.
Snobs
0.6 km
Birmingham's 40-year indie-retro nightclub legend: cheap drinks, themed dance floors, and non-stop beats on Broad Street.
PAVO Birmingham
0.7 km
Vibrant African fusion lounge and nightclub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where bold flavors meet electrifying beats until 4am on weekends.
What do you mean
0.8 km
Dive into Birmingham’s vibrant nightlife at What Do You Mean, a premier nightclub known for electrifying music, creative cocktails, and an unforgettable party vibe.
Tunnel Club Birmingham
0.8 km
Dive under Birmingham's arches into Tunnel Club's seven-room warehouse wonderland, where house, techno, and hip-hop fuel all-night dances amid pounding bass and vivid lights.
King of clubs
0.9 km
Compact late‑night Birmingham club for high‑energy R&B, hip‑hop and DJ nights, pulsing into the small hours with neon, bass and bar-driven parties.
Dreams Night club and Shisha
1.1 km
Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem fusing aromatic shisha clouds with thumping club beats until 5am—pure late-night energy on Barr Street.
Bambu Nightclub
1.2 km
Experience Birmingham’s chic nightlife hotspot with stylish vibes, eclectic music, and late-night dancing at Bambu Nightclub.
101 Night Club
1.2 km
Unleash your nightlife spirit at 101 Night Club, Birmingham's vibrant center for music, dancing, and unforgettable experiences.
Mango Night Club
1.3 km
A high‑energy Bristol Street nightclub serving Afrobeats, hip‑hop and R&B for late‑night dancers and party crowds in central Birmingham.
Sobar
1.3 km
Dive into Birmingham's electric nightlife at Sobar, where R&B beats, masterful cocktails, and inclusive vibes fuel unforgettable weekend revelry in the heart of the Arcadian.
DIAMOND SPARKLEZ
1.3 km
Ignite your night in Birmingham's diamond district at this glittering nightclub, where top DJs, stunning lights, and electric crowds create pure nightlife magic.
Nightingale Club
1.4 km
Birmingham's legendary LGBTQIA+ superclub: three floors of pulsating beats, go-go glamour, and five decades of unapologetic queer joy in the Gay Village.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Lively
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly