Fodor's Expert Review The Roundhouse

Based in an incredible historic building in a forgotten part of the city, this heritage center, a joint enterprise between the National Trust and the Canal and River Trust, has seen 19th-century stables once used to house Birmingham's hard-working horses brought back to life. Inside the horseshoe-shaped brick building, you can learn about the history of the building, as well as how integral both horses and the canals have been to the city's fortunes. Now essentially a hub for city tours—on foot, bike, kayak, and boat—it's also a font of knowledge for those interested in Birmingham's industrial past. The visitor center is free to visit, and there's a good café on site, but most people come here to book a kayak tour, take a guided tour on foot through the city, or take a cycle tour along the canals. There are also tours of the building itself.