Things To Do
in Solihull
Solihull is a leafy town just southeast of Birmingham that blends elegant urban spaces with broad green parks. Its walkable town centre is home to modern shopping, cafés, and a mix of traditional pubs. Beyond the streets, you can enjoy canal walks, nature reserves, and National Trust properties within easy reach.
With fast rail links into Birmingham and Warwickshire’s countryside, Solihull serves as a convenient base for both culture and outdoors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful St. Alphege Church, where you can admire its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. After enjoying the tranquility, take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets of Solihull, where charming shops and quaint cafes beckon. Don’t forget to stop by the Solihull Heritage & Local History Museum to learn about the town's rich past.
Savor a delightful lunch at a local bistro, sampling traditional British dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Post-lunch, head to the Touchwood Shopping Centre, where you can indulge in some retail therapy or catch a movie at the cinema. Spend some time exploring the nearby Tudor Grange Park, where you can unwind amidst its beautiful gardens and scenic pathways.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a cozy restaurant in the town center, featuring a menu of seasonal and locally sourced dishes. After your meal, take a leisurely walk through the vibrant streets of Solihull, perhaps stopping for a nightcap at a local pub. Conclude your evening by attending a live performance at the Solihull Arts Complex, enjoying the local art scene.
Begin your day with a refreshing walk in Malvern Park, where you can breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the lush greenery. The park features beautiful flower beds and serene pathways, perfect for a peaceful morning stroll. Take your time to appreciate the various species of trees and the charming wildlife that inhabit the area.
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park, surrounded by nature's beauty. After your meal, visit the nearby Malvern Park's playground if you're traveling with children, or simply relax on a bench with a good book. Consider renting a bicycle to explore the surrounding trails, offering a different perspective of the picturesque park.
Return to the town center for an early dinner at a family-friendly restaurant that offers a variety of cuisines. After dining, stroll through the town's bustling market area, where local artisans often showcase their crafts. If you’re lucky, you might catch a local music performance in the square, providing a delightful end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🍕Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $30-60 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $3-6 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short trip within town) | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strong transport links to Birmingham and the surrounding countryside
- Safe, family-friendly neighborhoods with plenty of green spaces
- Nightlife options are more limited than in larger cities
- Some outskirts are car-dependent for accessing countryside and amenities
Places to Visit in Solihull
Visit one of these nice places.
Scenic lake reflections, swans, and woodlands—beautiful in the early morning light.
Historic estate gardens with formal layouts and seasonal color; ideal for wide-angle landscape shots.
Impressive medieval-inspired church architecture with stone detailing and quiet surroundings.
Calm canal scenes, boats, and sweeping skies along the Grand Union Canal.
Historic and contemporary buildings, bustling streets, and market life with varied textures.
Food in Solihull
Solihull Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty plate with bacon, eggs, sausages, beans, tomatoes, and toast; best found at local cafés or pubs in town.
Must-Try!
A nod to Birmingham’s curry legacy; rich, spiced curry served with rice and naan at many Indian restaurants in Solihull and nearby Birmingham.
Crispy battered fish with chips, often with mushy peas and tartar sauce; classic pub and chippy fare in town centres.
Roast meat with yorkshire pudding, vegetables, and gravy; a family-friendly weekend staple at pubs across Solihull.
Warm sponge cake drenched in toffee sauce, a comforting British dessert craved in pubs and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal stalls offering local meat, cheese, bread, fruit, and ready-to-eat options from nearby producers.
Occasional street food stalls and pop-ups around Market Place and Touchwood events, perfect for a quick bite.
A modern hub with a mix of international cuisines and quick-service options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
British etiquette emphasizes queuing, patience, and polite language. Say please and thank you, and wait your turn in shops and on public transport.
Pubs welcome all ages; order at the bar and use reasonable noise levels and courtesy when socializing.
Casual to smart-casual attire is common; a friendly greeting and handshake are typical in formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Solihull
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in the UK is discretionary. If service is not included, 10-15% in restaurants is common; small tips for good service in pubs are appreciated but not mandatory. Cash is handy, but most places accept card and contactless payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days with occasional showers; long daylight hours make outdoor exploring enjoyable. Pack sun protection and a light layer for evenings.
Mild to cool days with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic park walks and canal scenes.
Cold and potentially frosty, with shorter days. Layers, waterproofs, and a warm pub stop help keep plans enjoyable.
Blossoms and fresh garden colors; good for photography and outdoor cafe culture as the weather improves.
Solihull at Night
Hiking in Solihull
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short to moderate country walks around formal gardens and estate grounds.
Scenic canal-side trails suitable for all levels and great for nature photography.
Pastoral trails and woodland surrounding the historic manor, ideal for longer strolls.
Airports
How to reach Solihull by plane.
20–30 minutes by road or rail from Solihull; international and domestic flights, with good rail connections.
Approximately 1.5 hours by car; a broader range of international and domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many suburban neighborhoods with parks, good schools, and family-oriented amenities.
A number of residents commute to Birmingham and surrounding towns for work.
Growing mix of communities, with South Asian and other cultural influences represented in local eateries and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Non-league football club with local match days in the wider Solihull area; fans can watch competitive fixtures seasonally.
Local clubs and summer leagues, with grounds around Solihull offering casual to competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Solihull.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose veggie mains at pubs and curry houses; many places offer meat-free options, dairy-free adjustments, and labeled dishes.