Solihull Tourist Information & Travel Guide

Solihull is a town situated in the West Midlands of England & is very close to central Birmingham. Solihull is known to be one of the most financially successful towns in the entire midlands region. The population of the town increased dramatically from just above 7,000 in 1901 to over 10000 in the 1960’s and went on to become a county borough by the mid 1960’s.

For a cultural experience of Solihull, visitors can go to the Solihull Arts Complex. It has been built for many purposes and has a theatre with a seating capacity for 340 people. To accompany this is a multi purpose studio and gallery that holds exhibitions showcasing modern artwork and heritage collections. There is also a café bar where snacks and drinks can be bought in the day and at lunch time. Alcoholic beverages are only served during performances.

Visitors who would like to learn more about the history of Solihull can go to the Avon Croft Museum of Buildings which looks closely at the construction of buildings in the town throughout the past seven centuries. Here, you can generate knowledge on 19th century craft workshops, study farm structures and working windmills. The museum also showcases buildings framed with timber and visitors can take part in special events or view live demonstrations.

Solihull has a variety of attractions for local residents and tourists and has a selection of parks available for you to visit, one of then being Babbs Mill Local Nature Reserve. Built in the 1970’s, the park was constructed in order to serve the Silver Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II. Here you can find picturesque lake views alongside areas of wildlife inhabitants.

In 1985 a project known as Project Kingfisher began operation to save 7 miles of land of the coal valley. Many wardens volunteered to aid this project as the area was in need of saving and protection. In present day, these wardens are able to offer visitors wildlife demonstrations and talks.

Following the 1960’s boom in population in Solihull, a new shopping area was created, Mell Square Shopping Centre, which houses over 90 high street retail stores and includes many popular brands such as John Lewis, Bank, Dorothy Perkins, House of Fraser, Oasis, Sony Centre and many more.

To find designer stores, you can visit Drury Lane, located closely to Mell Square Shopping Centre, where you will also come across independent labels offering the latest trends in fashion. Solihull town centre also has traditional markets on a regular basis consisting of French manufactured goods and fresh fruit and vegetables.

Another Shopping area in Solihull is Touchwood Shopping Centre that is home to many vibrant stores such as John Lewis and the recently opened Apple store. You can find many events taking place here including fashion shows that are held every season, and music festivals. Touchwood is architecturally magnificent with its contemporary design and modern leather sofas found in various areas within the building. The shopping centre also has a multiplex cinema, alongside a variety of stylish bars and restaurants.