I discovered a hidden canal gem in the West Midlands that is often overlooked by locals - yet it's full of wonderful stories of days gone by
One of the most fascinating West Midlands canal attractions has opened its doors to welcome visitors for Heritage Open Days 2025 - here's what we found when we took a trip over
Among the wonderful hidden gems taking part in Heritage Open Days this year is the Galton Valley Pump House in Smethwick.
Nestled close to Brasshouse Lane Bridge and beneath the road of the same name, passerbys new to the area can be forgiven for missing the small and pleasant visitor attraction on their doorsteps. Owned by the Canal & Rivers Trust the pump house is operated by Sandwell Council and manned by volunteers on behalf of Sandwell Museum Service, who greet visitors and host community groups and school trips.
Among them is Wayne Siverns, who grew up in Darlaston, who has been helping out at the Smethwick site for more than 20 years.
"This particular building was built in 1892 to serve the two canals here. We're open today for a Heritage Open Day event to just bring the heritage of the canal in the Black Country to the people of the area and wider.
