Local people invited to discover Walsall Basin at free family fun day

Taking place on Thursday 30 July from 10am to 3:30pm, the free fun day will feature a variety of family-friendly activities designed to help people discover their local canal, enjoy the outdoors, and learn essential water safety skills.

Visitors will have the opportunity to take part in Let's Paddle kayaking sessions from 10am to 3:30pm, join a guided photography walk between 11am and midday, and attend family water safety sessions running from 11am until 1pm.

The free event is open to everyone and is supported by West Midlands Fire Service, who will be on hand throughout the day alongside us to share useful water safety advice. Visitors will have the opportunity to learn more about staying safe near canals and waterways, helping them enjoy spending time by the water with confidence throughout the summer holidays.

Fantastic opportunities

Gavin Passmore, our community engagement manager, said: "We are delighted to be hosting this free family event at Walsall Basin at the start of the summer holidays. Our waterways offer fantastic opportunities for people of all ages to enjoy the outdoors, try new activities and connect with nature, and this event is all about helping families do that safely.

“Whether people are getting on the water for the first time in a kayak, discovering new photography opportunities along the canal, or learning valuable safety skills, we hope everyone leaves with great memories and greater confidence around water."

Helping keep residents safe by water

Councillor Stuart Chapman, Portfolio Holder for Community Housing Support, Resident Access and Communities, said: “I am delighted to support this free event at our canal basin in Walsall town centre. It’s great that Canal & River Trust is helping to keep our residents safe around open water, so they can enjoy the waterways around the borough and beyond.”

Participation is free and visitors are welcome to drop in and enjoy the activities throughout the day.