Attractions and Places To See around Solihull - Top 20

Solihull boasts a rich history with several notable sites. You can visit the medieval St John the Baptist Church, Berkswell, known for its impressive crypt. The village of Berkswell also features the historic Berkswell Well and the 16th-century The Bear Inn. Other historical highlights include the Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes, which played a crucial role in the Stratford upon Avon canal system, and the Knowle Lock No 50 (Grand Union Canal).

Yes, Solihull offers numerous green spaces and natural attractions. Earlswood Lakes provides 22 acres of reservoirs with winding footpaths through woodlands, ideal for wildlife spotting. You can also explore Clowes Wood and New Fallings Coppice, a historic woodland reserve. Other notable parks include Malvern and Brueton Park, Tudor Grange Park, Elmdon Park, Shirley Park, and Babbs Mill Local Nature Reserve, all offering diverse habitats and recreational opportunities.

Many attractions around Solihull are suitable for families. The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden, is an interesting historical monument. The Engine House and Engine Pool, Earlswood Lakes, offers scenic walks and a glimpse into local history. For animal encounters, consider Umberslade Farm Park or Heronfield Small Breeds Farm and Animal Rescue Centre. The Akamba Garden Centre is also a popular family outing spot.

Solihull is surrounded by excellent walking opportunities. You can enjoy easy hikes like the Clowes Wood & New Fallings Coppice loop or the Earlswood Lakes Circular Trail. For more moderate options, explore routes like the Berkswell loop from Meriden or the Meriden & Corley Moor loop. The Grand Union Canal also provides pleasant towpath walks.

Beyond the medieval churches, Solihull offers unique landmarks. The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden, is a significant obelisk honoring fallen cyclists and marks the historical center of England. The Red telephone box in Barston Village is a charming historical feature. You can also visit the National Motorcycle Museum, home to the world's largest collection of British motorcycles, or the Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens, a rare example of early 18th-century formal gardens.

The area around Solihull is great for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy road cycling on routes such as the Packwood House & Earlswood Lake loop from Solihull or the Berkswell Village – Windmill loop. Earlswood Lakes offers opportunities for fishing and sailing. For an adrenaline rush, consider the Land Rover Experience Solihull or The Bear Grylls Adventure nearby, which features indoor skydiving and high ropes.

Yes, some attractions in Solihull are wheelchair-accessible. The National Cyclists' Memorial, Meriden, is generally accessible. Many of Solihull's parks, such as Malvern and Brueton Park and Tudor Grange Park, have paved paths suitable for wheelchairs. It's always recommended to check specific venue websites or contact them directly for detailed accessibility information, especially for older historical sites.

Beyond the main highlights, Solihull has some charming hidden gems. Berkswell Well, located near St. John the Baptist Church, is a historic well from which the village derives its name. The ancient Red telephone box in Barston Village offers a quaint photo opportunity. Exploring the various Local Nature Reserves like Alcott Wood, Bills Wood, or Hobs Moat can also reveal peaceful, less-trafficked natural beauty.

Solihull's attractions can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on your interests. Spring and summer (April to September) are ideal for exploring parks, nature reserves, and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Historical sites and indoor attractions like the National Motorcycle Museum or The Core Theatre are accessible throughout the year. For specific events or seasonal markets, check local listings.

Many of Solihull's parks and natural areas are dog-friendly, offering ample space for walks. Malvern and Brueton Park, Tudor Grange Park, and Elmdon Park are popular choices for dog walkers. The footpaths around Earlswood Lakes and along the Grand Union Canal are also great for walks with your canine companion. Always remember to keep dogs on a lead where required and clean up after them.

Elmdon Park is known for offering some of the best views in the Solihull area, particularly from its higher points. The winding footpaths through woodlands and around the reservoirs at Earlswood Lakes also provide serene viewpoints and opportunities to appreciate the natural landscape.

Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. The peaceful atmosphere of places like Clowes Wood and New Fallings Coppice, the historical significance of sites like the National Cyclists' Memorial, and the welcoming ambiance of traditional pubs like The Bear Inn, Berkswell, are often highlighted. The well-maintained green spaces and opportunities for outdoor activities also receive positive feedback.