Shirley is a charming little town located in the borough of Solihull, a little under seven miles from Birmingham city centre. In the 2011 census, it had a population of 35,689.
The History of Shirley
There is evidence of an Iron Age fort and settlement at Berry Mound, parts of which can still be seen today. Shirley was originally part of (what was to become) Olton, until Solihull was established in the 12th century, after which it became part of that parish, growing slowly but steadily. Then in the late 1900’s and early part of the next century, development increased a pace, spurred by the railway which meant people could move out from the centre of Birmingham. Development even included a racecourse. Shirley’s growth has not receded, and it continues to prosper to this day.
Transport Links
Shirley has its own train station, with regular and direct services into Birmingham Moor Street, Snow Hill, Stourbridge Junction and Stratford-upon-Avon.
Stratford Road runs through Shirley, going north to the A4540 and Birmingham city centre, and south to the M42.
The area is served by the 5, 6, 31, 49, 76, A4, A5 and X20 bus routes.
Schools
There are several schools that are either in Shirley itself, or are in Shirley’s catchment area. These include:
Light Hall School
Tudor Grange Academy
Alderbrook School
St Peter's School
Langley School
Mill Lodge
Shirley Heath
Hasluck's Green
Peterbrook
Sharman's Cross
Woodlands
Streetsbrook
Blossomfield
Burman
Tudor Grange Primary Academy
Our Lady of the Wayside R.C.
Amenities
Shirley is very well catered for in terms of amenities. There are several chemists, numerous pubs and restaurants, a high street that boasts several independent stores as well as a shopping centre. There is a library and gym, a Sainsburys, Aldi, Iceland and Asda, as well as a Tesco Extra a very short drive away.
Things to do in and around Shirley
Shirley has an annual beer festival, organised by the local Round Table which is very active in the community. Shirley Park, along with Bills Woods and Palmers Rough offer tranquil green and wooded areas. The Stratford-Upon-Avon Canal skirts Shirley and provides a very pleasant walk in both directions.