Best Canalside Bars In Birmingham

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By Scarlett Welch Editor, DesignMyNight Scarlett has covered the UK's best restaurants, bars and events for DesignMyNight since 2023. She holds an MA in Media & Journalism, with bylines in The Crack magazine and South London News, among others. Last updated on 9th September 2026

Now we don't know if anyone's told you yet, but Birmingham just so happens to have more canals than Venice. And while you may not find any gondola rowers hooting and hollering their way down the river, you will catch some of the best riverside bars in Birmingham just waiting to be explored

The canals are home to a great collection of bars and pubs that make for relaxed drinks in the city. Check out our recommendations for our top picks, some even with pretty gardens.

Find out more about how we curated this guide in our Editorial Policy.

Best Birmingham Canalside Bars




Verve Lounge

Overlooking the mailbox canal from its Gas Street location, Verve Lounge is a stylish cocktail bar that's housed in the same building as the famous Bobby Browns was formerly. The sleek space is decorated with minimalist interiors and a foliage feature wall, boasting a heated outdoor area too.

There are a wide variety of signature cocktails available here, on a menu that takes inspiration from all over the world and uses lots of homemade ingredients too.

The Botanist Birmingham

£8.95 Lunch Menu and 1 other offer

A sanctuary of style and flavour, The Botanist Gas Street Basin is famed for its eclectic menu and creative drinks. Its split-level design, complete with lush greenery and an inviting atmosphere, makes it perfect for any occasion. 

Venture down to delight in its world-famous hanging kebabs, cookie dough desserts and seasonal spritzes made with English botanicals.

The Malt House

Located right next to Birmingham's bustling canal, The Malt House is a historic pub with a laid-back atmosphere. It sports a balcony overlooking the main bar and traditional, wooden awnings and a waterside seating area casting views across the city. On the menu, you'll find plenty of delicious local ales alongside hearty food such as fish and chips. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Birmingham really have more canals than Venice?

Yes, Birmingham has around 100 miles of canals, which is more than Venice. The city's waterway network stretches across the city centre and beyond, with the most bar-dense stretch running through Gas Street Basin, Brindleyplace, and The Mailbox.

Are Birmingham's canalside bars open year-round?

Yes, most canalside bars in Birmingham are open year-round, though the outdoor terraces are naturally most popular in summer. Several venues have covered or heated outdoor areas for cooler months: The Botanist has a pergola, and Verve Lounge has a heated outdoor area, so you can enjoy canal views whatever the season.

Which Birmingham canal bars have outdoor seating?

Several canalside bars offer outdoor terraces or waterside seating. The Malt House has a balcony and waterside area overlooking the canal, Slug and Lettuce has quaint outdoor seating with string lights, and The Distillery boasts an enormous terrace. The Alchemist in Brindleyplace also has outdoor space perfect for warmer evenings.

Are there any canalside bars in Birmingham good for cocktails?

Yes, several of the canal bars specialise in cocktails. Verve Lounge on Gas Street serves a wide range of signature cocktails using homemade ingredients, The Alchemist in Brindleyplace is known for its theatrical and creative cocktail menu, and All Bar One offers 2-for-1 cocktail deals on selected evenings.

Are Birmingham's canalside bars dog-friendly?

Several are. The Botanist on Gas Street Basin allows dogs in the bar area, and The Distillery welcomes dogs throughout (except the restaurant section). The Malt House is also noted as dog-friendly. It's always worth checking directly with a venue before visiting, as policies can vary.