Things To Do
in Knowle

Knowle is a charming village in the West Midlands, just southwest of Birmingham. Its tree-lined High Street is home to independent shops, cafes, and traditional pubs, giving the area a distinct village atmosphere with easy access to city amenities. The surrounding countryside offers pleasant walks, leafy parks, and convenient day trips to Solihull and Warwickshire.

Well-connected transport links, including a nearby rail station, make Knowle a convenient base for exploring the Midlands.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Knowle Village
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely stroll around Knowle Village, taking in the quaint streets and historic buildings. Stop by the local café for a delicious breakfast, savoring freshly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. Make sure to visit the famous Knowle Parish Church to admire its stunning architecture and tranquil outdoor spaces.

afternoon
:

After lunch, spend some time exploring the local shops and boutiques that line the village center. Engage with charming shopkeepers and discover unique gifts, crafts, and local produce. Consider visiting the nearby Knowle Castle, where you can appreciate the beautiful gardens and partake in guided tours.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at one of Knowle's cozy pubs or restaurants that offer traditional British fare. You may want to finish your evening by taking a peaceful walk along the Grand Union Canal, enjoying the serene waters under the stars. Relax with a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the friendly atmosphere and discussing your day's adventures.

day 2
Nature Walks in Dorridge Park
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing walk in Dorridge Park, just a short distance from Knowle. The park's picturesque setting is perfect for morning walks surrounded by nature, with plenty of wildlife and beautiful floral displays. Bring along a picnic breakfast to enjoy while taking in the serene environment.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the extensive walking trails that crisscross the park, providing a great opportunity to connect with nature. Look out for the local fauna and flora, and don't forget to have your camera ready to capture the stunning views. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to cover more ground and see more of the area's natural beauty.

evening
:

Wrap up your nature-filled day with a visit to a local restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine. Relish the flavors of seasonal dishes made from local ingredients, all with a casual yet elegant atmosphere. After dinner, find a spot at a local pub where you can enjoy live music or simply unwind with a locals' favorite brew.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-15
Cup of coffee$3-5
🧥Winter coat$80-180
🚌Public transport monthly pass$60-110
🎟️Movie ticket$10-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming village atmosphere with independent shops and pubs
  • Excellent base for exploring Solihull, Birmingham, and Warwickshire
  • Walkable streets and pleasant parks
  • Good rail links for day trips to cities
  • Limited big-city nightlife within Knowle itself
  • Some attractions require a short drive to nearby towns or cities

Places to Visit in Knowle

Visit one of these nice places.

Knowle High Street storefronts

Quaint timber-framed shops and colorful façades ideal for street photography.

Knowle Park and Village Green

Open greens, mature trees, and historic cottages offering seasonal photo opportunities.

St. Mary’s Church and surrounding lanes

Charming church architecture with cozy village lanes for atmospheric shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Knowle

Knowle sits between Birmingham and Solihull, reflecting the Midlands’ culinary mix of hearty pub fare, curry houses, and modern cafés. Expect comforting dishes, fresh local produce, and plenty of options that suit casual dining as well as special occasions.

Knowle Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Balti curry

A Midlands staple tied to Birmingham’s curry culture; try it with fluffy naan at a casual restaurant.

Must-Try!

Fish and chips

Golden battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and tartar sauce at a traditional chippy.

Sunday roast

Roast beef or chicken with potatoes, gravy, and vegetables—classic pub fare on Sundays.

Cream tea

Scones with clotted cream and jam, best enjoyed with a pot of tea at a café.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Solihull Market

A general market offering fresh produce, artisan goods, and seasonal stalls close to Knowle.

City center markets (Birmingham)

Occasional street food markets and traders offering a variety of bites within easy reach of Knowle.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters. Rain is common year-round, so packing a light rain jacket and comfortable footwear is wise. Spring and autumn bring variable temperatures, while summer can see warm days with occasional showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Queueing

Queue patiently and respect personal space in shops and public transport.

Politeness

A simple please and thank you goes a long way in conversation and service interactions.

Pace and Personal Space

Be courteous with conversation volume and keep a comfortable distance in public spaces.

Noise in Residential Areas

Be mindful of noise levels after quiet hours and respect local residents.

Safety Guide

Safety

Knowle is generally a safe and quiet village with typical urban-suburban safety considerations. Keep an eye on personal belongings in busy areas, secure vehicles and homes, and use well-lit routes at night. For medical or emergency needs, contact local GP services or call emergency numbers as appropriate.

Tipping in Knowle

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary but not mandatory in the UK; rounding up or leaving 10–15% for good service is common in restaurants and pubs.

Payment Methods

Cash and card are widely accepted; contactless payments are very common; some small venues may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Blooming flowers and longer days make it ideal for walking tours and garden visits.

Summer

Warm days with occasional showers; great for outdoor café seating, parks, and strolls.

Autumn

Colorful foliage and harvest events create a coppery backdrop for photography and walks.

Winter

Cool and often damp; cozy pubs and cafés provide warmth, with occasional festive markets.

Nightlife Guide

Knowle at Night

Knowle has a low-key nightlife focused on traditional pubs, cosy wine bars, and live music within nearby Solihull and Birmingham. Expect relaxed atmospheres rather than late-night club scenes, with many venues offering seasonal events and quiz nights.

Hiking in Knowle

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Brueton Park trails

Within Solihull, offering woodland and lakeside walks with gentle terrain.

Countryside walks around Knowle and surrounding villages

Country lanes and hedgerows provide scenic, easy-to-moderate hikes nearby.

Airports

How to reach Knowle by plane.

Birmingham Airport (BHX)

Main international airport serving the region, about 8–12 miles from Knowle; frequent trains and road connections.

East Midlands Airport (EMA)

Approximately 60–90 miles away by road; useful for many European and domestic routes.

London Luton Airport (LTN)

About 110–120 miles away by road; offers additional domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Knowle is highly walkable, with a compact center where shops, cafés, and the park are within easy reach of most accommodations. Side streets and pedestrian-friendly paths make it pleasant for a relaxed stroll, though some alleys are narrow and may require care.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Knowle attracts families drawn to good schools, parks, and a safe, village atmosphere.

Commuters

Many residents commute to Birmingham or Solihull for work, leveraging the rail link.

Retirees

A portion of long-term residents enjoy the quiet, walkable streets and community feel.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Local clubs and pitches are common in parks and community venues.

Rugby

Rugby clubs in the wider Solihull area; matches sometimes available to spectators.

Golf

Nearby golf courses provide scenic rounds and year-round play.

Transportation

Traffic

Outgoing traffic can be moderate to heavy at peak times due to commuter flows toward Birmingham and Solihull. Public transport, including trains from Knowle & Dorridge station and limited bus services, offers a convenient alternative for city trips. Road connections to the M42 and surrounding motorways help with longer drives.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Knowle.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most venues offer meat-free options; ask about vegetarian mains and dairy-free choices.

Vegan

Look for vegan-friendly dishes; many places can adapt existing dishes; check for dairy- and egg-free options.

Gluten-free

Ask about gluten-free bread, pasta, and sauces; many pubs and cafés provide gf options or can adapt.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access includes local GP practices in Knowle and Solihull, with the nearest major hospital being Solihull Hospital. NHS services, urgent care, and walk-in clinics are available regionally, with additional specialties at larger Birmingham facilities if needed.

Discover United Kingdom

Read more in our United Kingdom 2025 Travel Guide.

United Kingdom Travel Guide