Solihull is a large market town in the southern part of the West Midlands. In the 2011 census, the town had a population of 123,187. Solihull is one of the most affluent areas in the country outside of London, and despite its proximity to the large conurbation of Birmingham, Solihull is surrounded by green belt land ensuring it still has its original village or small town feel.
The History of Solihull
Solihull was established in the 12th century, though the borough can trace its routes back as far as the 1st century BC. The area was covered by the Forest of Arden for much of its history, and this proximity to a good supply of trees led to its reputation by the 14th century as a place of blacksmiths. It was also notable for its textiles.
Though it kept its textile and ironworks, the Industrial Revolution had little effect on Solihull, and it retained its rural character.
Transport Links
Solihull has its own train station with trains running to both Birmingham and London. There are plans to have a HS2 interchange at Solihull which would see trains between their and London taking less than 40 minutes.
The West Midland tram network is due to be extended into Solihull in the next few years, which will not only connect the town with the existing network but with the NEC and Birmingham Airport.
There are many bus routes that serve the area
Schools
There are a good number of good quality schools in Solihull, including:
Tudor Grange School
Solihull School
Arden Academy
Park Hall
Smith's Wood
Archbishop Grimshaw
Lanchester Special School
Forest Oak & Merstone Special School
Ruckleigh School
Eversfield
Solihull Sixth Form College
Amenities
In 2014, Solihull was named as one of the top five shopping destinations in the UK, largely down to its pedestrianised high street and new Touchwood shopping centre. As well as a Cineworld, Solihull has a theatre, and arts complex. The town has a good number of pubs, restaurants and eateries, including the Michelin starred Peel's Restaurant.
There are two sports centres and swimming pools, as well as a skate park at Tudor Grange Park
Things to do in and around Solihull
There is no limit to the attractions Solihull has to offer. There are several parks very close by. Malvern and Brueton Parks are not only close to the town centre but are linked and cover approximately 130 acres between them. Nearby is the Bear Grylls Adventure Park, the Land Rover Experience and the Resorts World Arena.