Solihull, United Kingdom
Region: Solihull
Geographic Coordinates: 52.413000, -1.778000
Temperature Range: -10.0°C to 30.0°C (14°F to 86°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 206674
Language: English
Solihull is a town situated in the West Midlands region of England, Located just 9 miles southeast of Birmingham city centre. With a population of around 123, 000 people, Solihull is known for its affluent neighbourhoods, Excellent shopping facilities and vibrant cultural scene. One of the most notable attractions in Solihull is the Touchwood Shopping Centre. This modern mall features over 80 stores including high-end fashion brands such as John Lewis, Apple and Ted Baker. Additionally, There are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from making it an ideal destination for both shopping enthusiasts and foodies alike.
In terms of culture, Solihull boasts several museums and art galleries that showcase local history and contemporary art. The popular Heritage Gallery at Solihull Library features exhibitions on local history as well as interactive displays that allow visitors to explore the town’s past. For nature lovers, There are several parks in Solihull worth visiting including Malvern Park which offers picturesque views across the town centre. There’s also Brueton Park which offers plenty of green space for picnics or leisurely walks with family or friends. Solihull also has a rich sporting heritage with many opportunities for residents to get active.
The Tudor Grange Leisure Centre boasts state-of-the-art facilities including swimming pools, Gyms and sports halls where visitors can participate in various activities such as football or badminton. it’s worth noting that Solihull has excellent transport links making it easy to get around by car or public transport. The M42 motorway runs through the town providing easy access to neighbouring cities such as Coventry and Leicester while Birmingham International Airport is just a short drive away making international travel convenient. Overall, Whether you’re looking for high-end shopping experiences or outdoor adventures surrounded by natural beauty – Solihull has something for everyone!
- Touchwood Shopping Centre
- Tudor Grange Park
- Baddesley Clinton
- Malvern and Brueton Park
- Solihull Arts Complex
- National Motorcycle Museum
- Elmdon Park
- Solihull Moors Football Club
- Shirley Park Golf Course
- Solihull Ice Rink
- Automotive – The Land Rover factory is located in Solihull, which is a significant employer in the area.
- Retail – The town centre boasts various shops and stores such as John Lewis, Touchwood Shopping Centre, and Mell Square.
- Finance and professional services – Several banks, insurance companies, and law firms are situated in Solihull.
- Healthcare – Numerous hospitals and medical centres can be found in the region including Solihull Hospital.
- Education – There are several primary schools, secondary schools as well as colleges like Solihull College & University Centre within the borough.
- Technology – Tech companies like SCC have their headquarters situated in Solihull
- Hospitality- With Birmingham airport nearby there are many hotels located within the borough to cater for business travellers or tourists visiting the region
Overall, these industries offer a diverse range of employment opportunities for residents of Solihull while contributing significantly to its economy.
- Solihull was mentioned in the Domesday Book of 1086, which recorded it as a small village with a population of around 100 people.
- The town’s market charter was granted in 1242 by King Henry III, making it one of the oldest markets in England.
- In the early 17th century, Solihull became an important centre for the coaching trade due to its location on the main road between London and Birmingham.
- The parish church of St Alphege is named after a local saint who was martyred by Danish invaders in the 11th century.
- John Taylor (1578-1653), known as the Water Poet, lived in Solihull for a time and wrote about his travels along the River Thames and elsewhere.
- William Shenstone (1714-1763), a poet and landscape gardener, lived at The Leasowes estate near Halesowen, which he transformed into a picturesque paradise that influenced many other garden designers.
- George Fentham (1560-1620), a wealthy landowner who built Fentham Hall in Hampton-in-Arden, left money to establish almshouses for poor people in Solihull that still exist today.
- Sir Edward Burne-Jones (1833-1898), one of Britain’s most famous Pre-Raphaelite artists, spent much of his childhood at his grandparents’ home in Solihull and later designed stained glass windows for St Alphege Church.
- During World War II, RAF Station Bickenhill near Solihull served as an operational training base for bomber crews before they were sent to fight overseas.
- In recent years, Solihull has become known as a hub for high-tech industries such as automotive engineering and software development thanks to its proximity to Birmingham International Airport and major motorways.
- The Core Theatre is a performing arts venue that offers a wide range of shows and events.
- Solihull Arts Complex is an art center that showcases exhibitions, workshops, and performances.
- Tudor Grange Park is a park with stunning gardens, a lake, and sports facilities.
- The National Motorcycle Museum boasts the largest collection of British motorcycles in the world.
- Baddesley Clinton is a historic manor house surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- Malvern and Brueton Park is another park with lakes, woodland walks, and sports facilities.
- Solihull Gallery displays contemporary works by local artists in an art gallery setting.
- Knowle Parish Church is a 14th-century church known for its stunning architecture and stained glass windows.
- Packwood House is another historic manor house featuring impressive gardens to explore.
- Touchwood Shopping Centre offers over 80 stores including high-end fashion brands such as John Lewis & Partners, Next & Hugo Boss amongst others at the heart of Solihull town centre for shopping enthusiasts to enjoy!
- Solihull Moors Football Club is a professional football club located in Solihull, England. The team was established in 2007 and plays its home games at the SportNation.bet Stadium. Currently, Solihull Moors FC competes in the National League, which is the fifth tier of English football.
- The Solihull Cycling Club has a rich history of cycling accomplishments since its establishment in 1932. The club arranges weekly rides for members and participates in various competitions throughout the year.
- Since its founding in 1965, the Solihull Barons Ice Hockey Club has been playing at Solihull Ice Rink. Over the years, they have won numerous championships and several league titles.
- Solihull Blossomfield Cricket Club was formed back in 1928 and presently plays their home matches at Widney Manor Road Ground. The club competes with various leagues across Birmingham and Warwickshire.
- Solihull Swimming Club is one of the largest swimming clubs located within the Midlands region of England. It offers training programs for swimmers of all ages and abilities ranging from beginners to elite athletes.
- Other sports clubs based within Solihull include Silhillians RFC rugby union team, athletics club known as Solihull & Small Heath AC, West Midlands Warriors BC basketball team, netball team named Solihull Storm NC, tennis club Hampton-in-Arden TC among others.
- Solihull Summer Fest is a music festival that showcases live performances by both local and international artists.
- The Solihull Carnival is an annual parade that features floats, dancers, and musicians celebrating the diversity of the community.
- The Solihull Festival of Arts is a showcase of local artistic talent in various mediums including painting, sculpture, photography and more.
- The Solihull Food and Drink Festival is a celebration of local cuisine with food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and tastings from top chefs in the area.
- The Solihull Jazz Festival is an annual event featuring jazz performances by renowned artists from around the world.
- The Christmas Lights Switch-On event marks the beginning of the festive season with live music performances, fireworks display and Santa Claus making an appearance to switch on Christmas lights in town centre.
- Shakespeare’s Birthday Celebrations are held every year on April 23rd (Shakespeare’s birthday). Events are held throughout Stratford-upon-Avon (just outside Solihull) to celebrate his life and works which include theatre productions, parades etc.
Note: Some events may be cancelled or postponed due to COVID-19 restrictions so it is advised to check before attending any event mentioned above.
- The Beeches Bar & Grill is known for their delicious steaks and seafood dishes.
- The Delhi is an authentic Indian restaurant that serves an array of curries and tandoori dishes.
- Asha’s Solihull is a fine dining Indian restaurant with a modern twist on traditional cuisine.
- Miller & Carter Solihull offers high-quality meats and classic sides in a steakhouse setting.
- Zizzi Solihull specializes in traditional Italian cuisine, including pizza and pasta dishes.
- Thai Edge Solihull serves up spicy curries, stir-fries, and noodle dishes with authentic Thai flavors.
- Tap & Tandoor is an Indian gastropub that features craft beers and fusion cuisine options.
- Nayaab Buffet Restaurant offers all-you-can-eat buffets featuring Indian, Pakistani, and Chinese cuisines to satisfy any craving!
- Sushi Passion Solihull boasts fresh sushi rolls, sashimi platters, bento boxes – all made with the finest ingredients!
- Purnell’s Bistro & Ginger’s Bar is a Michelin-starred British bistro located in the heart of Birmingham that uses locally sourced ingredients to create contemporary cuisine!
- Brueton Park is a large park that boasts beautiful walking trails, playgrounds, and a peaceful lake.
- Malvern and Brueton Park Golf Course is an 18-hole golf course located in Brueton Park.
- Tudor Grange Park is a park that offers sports facilities such as football pitches, tennis courts, and even a skatepark!
- Elmdon Nature Park is the perfect place to go if you’re looking for some peace and quiet while enjoying nature! It has walking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Shirley Park has everything you need for a fun day out with family or friends! There are playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities available.
- Solihull Ice Rink provides public skating sessions as well as lessons for those who want to improve their skills on the ice!
- Olton Jubilee Park has plenty of open green spaces where you can relax or have a picnic with loved ones! There are also playgrounds and sports facilities available.
- Solihull Riding Club offers horse riding lessons for people of all ages and abilities in Knowle Village.
- Baddesley Clinton National Trust Property is home to a stunning moated manor house surrounded by beautiful gardens that are perfect for exploring!
- Solihull Arts Complex offers live performances as well as workshops in music, theatre, comedy, and more – there’s something for everyone here!
