Things To Do In Solihull

Curated by The City Brief · Edited by Dean Withey · Updated 6 July 2026

Solihull offers a good balance. It’s a place where residential areas meet a modern, accessible town centre. You’ll find a mix of people here – families, professionals, and those seeking a convenient base for exploring the wider West Midlands. It’s not about grand statements; it’s a comfortable, well-connected place with a quiet confidence. The centre is largely pedestrianised, making it easy to discover local businesses. If you are arriving by car, consider utilising the Touchwood Shopping Centre car park, though be aware of potential congestion during peak times. The Sprint Bus Rapid Transit Network also provides an alternative to driving.

While there aren’t clearly defined ‘neighbourhoods’ in the traditional sense, areas like Shirley provide a more suburban feel, with local shops and parks. Heading towards Balsall Common, you get a sense of being further from the centre, with more open spaces and a village atmosphere. For a straightforward experience, Touchwood Shopping Centre is a key destination, offering a wide range of retail and dining options. Beyond Touchwood, Solihull’s history as a market town remains evident in the variety of independent businesses you can find throughout the town centre.

For those looking for things to do in Solihull, the town presents a diverse range of experiences. If you're interested in a performance, the Core Theatre hosts a varied programme. Alternatively, you can explore local events and find out what's on in Solihull by checking the listings – the Solihull Festival is a firm favourite, celebrating local music, food and arts. The calendar also includes The Crufts International Dog Show, which attracts international visitors to the nearby NEC, and the Solihull Fireworks Extravaganza, drawing large crowds each autumn. For jazz enthusiasts, the Solihull Jazz Festival offers performances across the borough, while the Solihull Free Music Festival brings live music to Mell Square. Places to visit in Solihull range from the convenient shopping facilities to quieter spots for a relaxed afternoon. There’s a genuine sense of community and a commitment to maintaining a high quality of life. Explore the listings to get a sense of what the town offers, and you'll quickly understand its appeal. The area's history dates back to the 1st century BC, with early settlements in Shirley, but Solihull evolved into a key urban centre with a market charter granted in 1242.

Solihull is generally easy to get around. The town centre is compact and largely pedestrianised, making walking a practical option. Cycling is also viable, with several routes connecting the town to surrounding areas. Public transport, particularly the reliable train network via Solihull Railway Station and the Air-Rail Link, is convenient for reaching Birmingham and Birmingham Airport. If you're driving, be aware that parking can be limited in the centre, especially during peak hours, and consider utilising the Touchwood Shopping Centre car park. The Sprint Bus Rapid Transit Network also offers a quick way to navigate certain routes.

Consider what kind of experience you're after. The town centre is ideal for shopping and dining, with Touchwood Shopping Centre offering a wide range of retail options. Shirley offers a more local vibe with its independent stores. Throughout the year, events like the Solihull Jazz Festival and the Solihull Free Music Festival draw people in, so checking the local event listings is worthwhile. For a family day out, consider the annual Solihull Festival, celebrating local arts and music. Your best bet is to balance convenience with exploration – perhaps combine a visit to a major event with a walk through one of the quieter residential areas. Solihull's history, dating back to the 1st century BC with settlements like Berry Mound, adds another layer to your visit. Ultimately, Solihull is best enjoyed at a relaxed pace, allowing you to appreciate both its urban amenities and historical character.

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What Are The Best Things To Do In Solihull?

Solihull’s story began in the 1st century BC, with the Iron Age hill fort at Berry Mound in Shirley. The town gained a market charter in 1242, establishing its role as a regional trading centre, and St Alphege Church dates back to this period. Today, you’ll find a contemporary town centre alongside green spaces. The Core Theatre offers performances, while Touchwood Shopping Centre is the place to go for retail. The Solihull Festival and Solihull Jazz Festival provide opportunities for experiencing local arts and culture. Don’t overlook the opportunity to explore areas like Shirley for a different perspective, and to find a range of things to do in Solihull.

What Is There To Do In Solihull This Weekend?

This weekend, check the listings for events at the Core Theatre – they frequently host performances and shows. Touchwood Shopping Centre will, of course, be open for retail therapy, and you’ll find a good selection of places to eat and drink. The Solihull Festival, if running, will be a significant draw. For up-to-date information, it’s best to consult the local events listings, but you can expect a range of activities to suit different tastes. If you're seeking something specific, explore our categories for details.

Where Can I Find Live Music In Solihull?

Check our nightlife category for the latest gigs. While Solihull isn’t known for a large concentration of dedicated music venues, the Core Theatre occasionally hosts musical performances. The town generally has a more relaxed evening atmosphere, with a focus on pubs and restaurants offering entertainment. Keep an eye out for events like the Solihull Free Music Festival, which utilises venues around Mell Square. Beyond those specifically listed, it's best to investigate local pubs and bars directly, or check event listings websites for pop-up performances. Solihull also hosts the Solihull Jazz Festival annually, bringing regional enthusiasts to venues throughout the borough. Consider checking listings around the time of the larger annual events like the Solihull Festival and the Solihull Fireworks Extravaganza, when temporary entertainment options often arise.

What Are The Best Areas To Visit In Solihull?

The town centre is ideal for shopping and dining, with Touchwood Shopping Centre offering a wide range of options. Consider attending events held in Mell Square, such as the Solihull Free Music Festival. Shirley provides a more suburban experience with local shops and parks, recalling the area’s origins as an Iron Age settlement with sites like Berry Mound. For a quieter experience, explore the residential areas surrounding the centre, or venture to Balsall Common which offers a village feel with open spaces. You might time your visit to coincide with the annual Solihull Festival, celebrating local arts and music. Each area has its own character, allowing you to tailor your visit to your preferences. Remember to consider your interests when selecting an area to explore, and be aware of parking shortages in the central areas.

Is Solihull Good For A Weekend Visit?

Yes, Solihull is well-suited for a weekend visit, especially if you’re looking for a convenient and comfortable base for exploring the West Midlands. Its central location and excellent transport links, including Solihull Railway Station and the Air-Rail Link, make it easy to reach other nearby cities like Birmingham. The town centre offers a good range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, and the Core Theatre provides cultural experiences. The accessibility of the area, combined with the availability of various events, makes it a solid choice for a short break.

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Events In Solihull This Week

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