Solihull

Introduction

You will find Solihull nestled within the Forest of Arden area in the West Midlands, where it serves as a prominent market town situated along the River Blythe. Located between Birmingham and Coventry, this location places you within the bustling West Midlands conurbation.

Before you go

Prepare for your visit by understanding the local character of this area, which is often regarded as a posh part of the region despite being distinct from Birmingham. You will find yourself surrounded by leafy suburbs and expensive mansions inhabited by some of the Midlands' wealthiest residents.

The area serves as a major hub for transportation and industry, housing both the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and Birmingham Airport. You can also explore the local industrial heritage, as the town is home to the world-famous vehicle manufacturer Land Rover, whose plant sits just a few miles from the town centre.

You can reach Solihull by air via Birmingham Airport, which serves as a major hub for the West Midlands with frequent domestic and international flights from across the UK and Europe. From the airport terminal, you can use the Air-Rail Link to reach Birmingham International rail station or take a National Express coach. If you prefer to drive, you can access Solihull town centre by taking the M42 motorway and exiting at junction 5, while the NEC and airport are accessible via junction 6.

Train travel offers several convenient routes into the area:

• Solihull railway station is located just a short walk from the town centre and receives frequent trains from Birmingham Moor Street.
• Chiltern Railways provides services from London Marylebone to Solihull.
• Birmingham International railway station serves as a hub for trains arriving from Coventry, Birmingham New Street, and London Euston.

Getting around

You can easily explore the small Solihull town centre on foot, as much of the central area is pedestrianised. For trips further afield, you can utilize the local bus and rail networks.

When choosing a taxi, you will find numerous ranks throughout the town, with the best service located in the town centre. While both Hackney carriages and private hire vehicles are easy to find, you should exercise caution and only enter marked or pre-booked vehicles. Be aware that wait times can exceed an hour on Friday and Saturday nights when many people are heading home from clubs. You may also choose to use a ride-sharing app as an alternative to traditional taxi services.

Where to stay

Depending on your itinerary, you can choose between convenient locations near the NEC site or within the town centre. If your visit is primarily for the NEC, several options are available directly on-site. For a stay in Solihull town centre, you can find various hotels and numerous local B&Bs.

• St John's Hotel: A hotel and event venue featuring guest rooms, event suites, a leisure club, and a restaurant.
• Hampton Manor: A country house hotel set in a Victorian building with mock-Tudor styling.

Food & drink

You can find a diverse range of dining options throughout Solihull town centre. The High Street offers everything from familiar fast-food outlets to upscale restaurants and brasseries located near the church. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, several pubs in and around the area serve excellent food, with the Fieldhouse pub in the Hillfield area noted for its great atmosphere. You can also find various dining options at Touchwood or visit Indian Dream in Dovehouse Parade.

For your drinks, the town centre features a variety of establishments including the modern Bar Censsa, the Masons Arms near the entrance to Touchwood, and the White Swan. If you prefer wine, you can visit local wine bars such as the Town House.

What to see and do

Explore the local landscape by visiting several expansive green spaces, including the former walled garden of Elmdon Park which now serves as a nature reserve. You can also enjoy a stroll through Brueton and Malvern Parks to visit the nature centre, see the arboretum, and feed the ducks. For those interested in history and architecture, you can explore Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens, which features restored Jacobean gardens that represent a unique example of formal English garden design.

For fans of motorcycling, the National Motorcycle Museum houses an extensive collection of British motorcycles spanning over a century of design. If you prefer more active pursuits, you can participate in a Land Rover Experience involving a factory tour and a hands-on driving course, or visit the local ice rink. You can also catch a football match at Damson Park or enjoy a film at the cinema located within the Touchwood shopping centre.

Three days in Solihull

Day one, you can explore the local area of Solihull or find your way into the nearby Forest of Arden. You might enjoy a stroll near the River Blythe as you settle into the West Midlands.

Day two, you can travel toward Birmingham or Coventry. If you prefer to head further afield, you can utilize the rail links connecting the region to other parts of the UK and Europe.

Day three, you can prepare for your departure from the area. You can reach the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) or Birmingham Airport via local transport options like National Express or regional trains.