We are the Sandwell Ramblers. We open the way for everyone in our local community to enjoy the pleasures of walking.
Galton Valley is an artificial valley that was dug out by hand to create a route for the Birmingham Canal Navigations ( BCN ) Main Line. Its story starts with the birth of canals in the local area. The route involved the canal crossing a hill at Smethwick. The engineer James Brindley encountered ` running sand and other bad materials ` and so he decided not to tunnel through the hill. Instead locks were built to raise the canal from the Birmingham level at 453ft to the summit level before descending via more locks to 453ft level at Spon Lane near West Bromwich. The new main line canal was completed in 1829 on the 453" level to avoid congestion at the locks. Galton Bridge was made by the famous engineer Thomas Telford in 1829. It spans the New Main Line and carried Roebuck Lane. When it was constructed, its single span of 151ft was the highest in the world.
We look forward to welcoming you; however we do ask that walkers ensure they are fit enough for the walk they wish to undertake. We also recommend appropiate footwear such as walking boots and outdoor clothing suitable for our inclement weather. The route includes a steep climb and a muddy stretch of towpath. Sorry, no dogs allowed.
The Pavilion, West Smethwick Park. B67 7JH.
