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Festive Family Fun in Solihull!
Christmas is here, and we’re feeling the festive cheer in Solihull! This wonderfully festive edition of the Visit Solihull newsletter is packed with fantastic Christmas offers and family fun activities to enjoy.
Solihull is transforming into a magical winter wonderland with enchanting events and activities from the BID, The Core, and Touchwood! But the festive fun doesn’t stop there—head over to Resorts World, Newlands Bishop Farm, and Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens for even more holiday excitement!
Be sure to check out important travel information to make your holiday journeys smoother, and don’t miss some exciting sustainability updates!
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Christmas at The Core
A ridiculous night (or afternoon) of fun awaits in the Studio at The Core on Saturday 14 December, as TV and international star Miss Teena Bizkit hosts Teena’s Christmas Tease.
The full-on variety selection box includes a TV & Movies quiz, stand-up comedy, songs, singalong, Play Your Cards Right, plus a huge disco filled Music Bingo. Book your tickets for the matinee or evening shows!
Also on Saturday 14 December, come along between 10am and 4pm to do your festive shopping at The Core’s free Christmas Market. There will be more than 20 stalls featuring handmade and artisan goods from small businesses & local artists. Why not stop by the Encore café and try out the Christmas menu or festive treats including mulled wine, minced pies and more.
Finally, there are some limited tickets left for Santa’s Christmas Cracker in the Studio at The Core from Friday 20 to Tuesday 24 December – it’s the family show where every child receives a present from Santa!
Find out more and book tickets at The Core
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Santa's singing at Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens
December can either be bleak or spectacular in the Gardens, always hopeful, the Courtyard Café and Warm Space in the Melon Ground stays open until Sunday 22nd December.
Our winter events; Wreath Making workshops, Owls by Candlelight and Christmassy Saturdays are all fully booked and there are just a few places available for families of meet Singing Santa on Saturday 14th and 21st December.
No need to book for our scratch singing event Carols in the Courtyard on Sunday 22nd December from about 2 ish. All voices welcome, it’s just for fun. No need to book, café open… words supplied and music led by Vo Fletcher.
Although the Gardens close to the public for most of January… booking for our annual Wassail opens on 1st Jan 2025 and we expect tickets to go really fast.
Our annual wacky waking up of the orchard will take place late afternoon and early evening on Sunday 26th January … This traditional celebration to ‘wake up’ the apple trees is full of noise, fun and conviviality, making sure the trees give us all good harvest in 2025.
The Green Man of the Woods and the bizarre, noisy and marvellous Beorma Morris troupe will lead the way, we will sing and dress the trees with cider soaked toast and generally make a big noise…An event for all ages.
Book tickets and find out more at Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens
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Solihull's town centre turns in to festive village wonderland.
The Solihull Festive Village, in situ until December 22nd, has transformed the town centre into a Christmas wonderland!
Expect to find a Christmas Bar placed in the heart of the Festive Village along with an array of wooden festive chalets, showcasing a wide range of hot foods to sample and cold items to take home for that Christmas pantry as well as arts and crafts.
Market opening times are 10:00-18:00 Monday-Saturday and 10:00-16:00 Sundays.
Families are invited to really get into the spirit of things on Saturday 14th December at the Solihull Christmas Fun Day.
Enjoy the Solihull Festive Village and then be mesmerised by the Living Snow Globe – the ultimate Christmas attraction for young children and families.
There will also be Festive Choirs with us on the day to make Solihull town centre feel even more Christmassy!
And for those who like to help those not as fortunate, the Jingle Bell Jog is returning on Sunday, December 8th.
Help us spread plenty of festive cheer by donning a Santa suit and completing the Jingle Bell Jog to raise money for homeless charity Change Into Action.
Run, walk, dance, jog or jingle your way around our family-friendly 2.5km fun run through Solihull town centre. Don’t worry about the training, this festive run is about dressing up and coming together with friends and family!
For more information on all of Solihull BID’s Christmas activities, visit their website
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Birmingham Panthers Netball New Year Camps!
Kick off 2025 with a New Year’s resolution to elevate your game! Loved our last camps or missed the chance to sign up? Well no worries! We have you covered this Christmas. Now’s your chance to secure your kids a spot on the Panthers’ New Year Netball Camps.
Thursday 2nd Jan & Friday 3rd Jan, the Birmingham Panthers are hosting action-packed camps for aspiring netball stars, aged 10-15, across four locations in the West Midlands/Gloucester.
🗓️ Jan 2-4
⏰ 9am - 3pm
💸 £50 for a full day
Your kids will have the chance to elevate their game through a series of skills sessions and positional workshops, speed and plyometric training, athlete education and match play. There will also be special guest appearances by some of our NSL and NXT Gen players.
With limited places available, get your kids the perfect Christmas experience to train with the best and take their skills to the next level
Book your place at the Panthers New Year Camp here.
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Give the gift of presence this Christmas! 🎁
Festive dining at the Crowne Plaza Solihull isn’t just about delicious food - it’s about connection. Put the phone away, pause the festive rush, and take a moment to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Your presence is the best gift you can give to your friends and family this Christmas.
Festive dining is available in the Terrace restaurant for lunch and dinner, priced at £30 per adult, £19 per child (ages 3-12), and free for little ones under 3, until Sunday 22nd December 2024.
Children can dine from the festive menu or dine from our children’s menu.
For information and to book now Visit the Crowne Plaza website
(Please note, all festive dining must be pre-ordered 5 days prior to dining)
Forget trying to squeeze everyone in when there’s room at the inn! ⭐
If you have friends and family visiting this Christmas, they don’t need to battle for couch space when they can enjoy a great night’s sleep in one of the cozy bedrooms at the Crowne Plaza Solihull.
This holiday season, let them take care of the bed and breakfast whilst you enjoy quality time with your loved ones – hassle free! 🛌🏽
Prices from £85* per night
Book now at The Crowne Plaza Solihull
(*T&Cs apply)
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Festive family events and activities at Newlands Bishop Farm
This December, Newlands Bishop Farm in Solihull is brimming with festive cheer, offering a variety of events and activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Christmas Sales Day
On Saturday, 7th December, from 10am to 2pm, the farm is hosting a special Christmas Sales Day. Browse unique, handcrafted gifts created by the talented individuals at the farm and other local crafters. From festive decorations to wooden crafts, there’s something for everyone. Seasonal treats and hot drinks will be available from Berry’s Café, and visitors can also spend time with the friendly farm animals.
Christmas Tree Sales
High-quality Christmas trees are available throughout December, with a variety of sizes to suit every home. Bring holiday magic into your home while supporting this wonderful local Charity. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for their arrival!
Christmas Tipi Grotto
From Saturday, 23rd November to Saturday, 21st December, the farm transforms into a winter wonderland with its Christmas Tipi Grotto. Meet Father Christmas, write letters to the North Pole, and craft reindeer food to take home. Each paying child receives a handcrafted gift, while children under two are gifted a Christmas book.
Christmas Table Centre Workshop
On Friday, 20th and Saturday, 21st December, learn to create stunning centrepieces at the Christmas Table Centre Workshop. All materials are included, along with tea, coffee, and mince pies. We also have regular wreath making workshops throughout November and December.
Breakfast with Santa
Join us on Monday, 23rd December for Breakfast with Santa at Berry’s Café. Families can enjoy a festive breakfast while children meet Father Christmas. Book via berrys.cafe@familycaretrust.co.uk.
Berry’s Café is open throughout the festive period: Monday to Friday, 10am–2pm, and Saturday to Sunday, 9am–3pm. Keep an eye on the Berry’s Café Solihull Facebook page for updates on specials and festive treats.
Celebrate the season, create lasting memories, and support the incredible work at Newlands Bishop Farm!
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Santa comes to Touchwood for Christmas celebrations!
From a magical visit to Santa’s Grotto, to gift shopping, enjoying live carols, and celebrating your work party with dinner and drinks, there really is something for everyone at Touchwood Solihull this festive season!
Santa is back in residence this year at his enhanced Christmas Grotto, every day until Christmas Eve. Eagerly waiting to receive wish lists, and with a sack full of gifts for the little ones, Santa is on hand to bring the festive cheer with parents able to treasure the moment with a photo! Don't forget to look out for Touchwoods incredible Snow lion!
The Grotto is located on Jubilee Walk. Book your ticket online so the elves can reserve your space.
Touchwood’s Christmas programme also includes the annual School Choir Competition, which gives local school children a stage to entertain shopping guests with well-known festive songs and a sprinkle of Christmas magic.
For those searching for the perfect gifts for friends and family this Christmas, Touchwood has over 80 shops to choose from. Whether they’re into cooking, a fashionista, or have their eye on something sparkly, there’s plenty of choice – from ProCook and Oliver Bonas to John Lewis and Yankee Candle. Shoppers can also purchase a gift card for a loved one, so they can enjoy their own day out at Touchwood.
Lucy Burnett, Marketing Manager at Touchwood, said: “With classic favourites such as Santa’s Grotto, to brand new acts including an appearance from the Snow Lion, we are so excited to launch this year’s festive programme of activities at Touchwood.
“Guests are invited to join in the fun, whether it’s enjoying the entertainment right up until Christmas Eve, gift shopping for loved ones, or rounding off the year with dinner and drinks at one of our restaurants, we look forward to bringing the Christmas cheer!”
Find out more about Touchwood
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Unwrap the magic of Christmas at Cranmore Park
Celebrate the festive season in style with private corporate party packages from just £49 per person.
Contact the Cranmore Park team today to secure your December event and let the holiday cheer begin. Your dedicated Event Elf will help you create an unforgettable evening and bring your event to life, guiding you every step of the way and providing a bespoke 5-star experience.
- A Sparkling Arrival: Kick off the night with a glass of fizz.
- A Festive Feast: Indulge in a mouth-watering 3-course meal, crafted by our award-winning chefs.
- After-Dinner Delights: Relax with freshly brewed coffee or tea.
- Dance the Night Away: Groove to the beats of our live DJ.
- Plus, enjoy these extra festive perks:
- Customisable Drinks Packages: Sip on your favourite tipples.
- Themed Celebrations: Add a touch of magic with unique décor.
- Late-Night Fun: Keep the party going with a cash bar until midnight.
- Safe and Sound: Our partner taxi service will ensure a smooth ride home for your guests.
Conveniently located in the heart of Solihull, Cranmore Park offers easy access, plenty of parking, and preferential hotel rates.
Make this Christmas one to remember at Cranmore Park. Talk to the Cranmore Park team on 0121 713 4450 or email: info@cranmorepark.co.uk
Visit their website to discover more!
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Experience the Magic of Christmas at Resorts World
It's time to deck the halls, turn up those Christmas songs and get ready for lots of festive fun here at Resorts World.
Our outlet stores have great gifts for under the tree and everything you need to get festive party ready. Whether you want to suit up and go all-out or simply find the perfect finishing touches for your Christmas party, you'll find them here.
If you're all about the Christmas catch-ups then we've got the perfect spot for every occasion. From team parties and NYE events to mates nights out and dinner with the family, choose from a wide range of restaurants and entertainment options for the perfect night!
All that PLUS lots of festive fun happening throughout December from live music and entertainment to free fun for the kids; we've got more of your favourite things to do this Christmas here at Resorts World!
Head to our atrium every weekend with FREE kids’ activities:
On 7th December, we will be joined by Bjorn the life sized animatronic Polar Bear, alongside, Reindeer Food & Letters to Father Christmas. On Sunday 8th, 15th & 22nd December, Bonkas are back and will be hosting a Christmas craft workshop for the little ones to get involved in. On 14th, joining us are non-other than the Christmas Gliding life size Toy Soldiers who will glide around for 3x 30-minute interactions where you will be able to get fantastic photos with the Nutcracker soldiers. 21st & 22nd December, Christmas Trees A-live: Meet Christmas trees like never before with Joogleberrys walking, talking and dancing trees. You are guaranteed to have a tinsel-tastic time with them and get great photos with the whole family.
Our popular hunt will also return on all of our event days. So keep your eyes peeled for our naughty Elves and explore Resorts World while you track them down.
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Christmas Cocktails and New Year’s Eve Extravaganza at Brightsmith on the water!
It’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas! From Christmas cocktails to a glamorous New Year’s Eve extravaganza, Brightsmith on the Water is the place to be to make this festive season special.
Christmas Cocktails
Join us for Christmas cocktails, guaranteed to get you in the festive spirit. Go for a Spiced orange, the ultimate taste of Christmas. Or a Crimbo fizz, sweet and bubbly with a bit of sparkle.
New Year’s Eve
What’s New Year’s Eve without a party? Join us for an evening of elegance and excitement as we welcome the New Year in spectacular fashion! Upon arrival, welcome drinks will be served, followed by a tantalising five meal course and a glass of fizz at midnight to bring in the New Year. As well as fabulous food and drink, enjoy entertainment from saxophonist and DJ, Paul Martyn throughout the night. Book now for just £85pp!
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Birmingham Airport Sustainability Update 2023-24
Birmingham Airport has released its latest Sustainability Update, supporting its five-year Sustainability Strategy and goal of net zero by 2033.
Key Developments:
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Carbon Emissions: Continued reduction following the switch to a 100% renewable energy supplier in 2022, achieving a 25% reduction against the 2019 baseline.
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Accreditation: Awarded Level 3 (Optimisation) Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) from Airports Council International (ACI) Europe for the second year, recognizing decarbonizing activities and stakeholder engagement.
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Sustainability Week: Inaugural event raised awareness through activities linked to key sustainability themes.
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Sustainable Aviation Fuel: Ongoing discussions with partners to target sustainable aviation fuel supplies in line with government policy.
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Waste Management: Achieved industry-leading recycling rates of over 80%, recognized with two International Excellence CSR awards.
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Night Flying Policy: Review underway with the Airport Consultative Committee to update the policy, ensuring growth and benefits for the West Midlands region.
Simon Richards, Chief Financial and Sustainability Officer, commented: “Tremendous steps have been taken towards our goal of low-carbon growth and becoming a Net Zero Carbon Airport by 2033. Our Sustainability Strategy keeps us on target and measurable in our actions.”
The airport also made significant progress against the Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark (GRESB), improving its score from 56% in 2019 to 82% in 2023.
To find out more on our sustainability strategy click here and for more on our 2033 net zero journey here.
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easyJet Expands at Birmingham Airport with New Aircraft and Routes
easyJet will base two additional aircraft at Birmingham Airport, supporting around 800 jobs. Since opening its base in March 2024, the airline has more than doubled its network, launching 23 new routes and flying 53% more passengers in its 2024 financial year.
Key Highlights:
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New Routes: Gran Canaria and Malta starting next summer.
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Popular Destinations: Majorca for beach packages and Amsterdam for city breaks.
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Financial Performance: 34% improvement in profit before tax, reaching £610 million, driven by a record summer and a 56% increase in easyJet holidays’ profits.
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Passenger Growth: Over 1.6 million customers flew to and from Birmingham, up 53% from last year.
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Economic Impact: Each UK-based aircraft supports around 400 jobs and £27 million in UK gross value added (GVA).
The new routes and additional aircraft will provide more choices for customers in the Midlands, enhancing connectivity and supporting the local economy.
Click here for more information on easyJet’s network from Birmingham.
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We’re a bouldering centre located in the heart of Solihull, but we are so much more!
Flash is dedicated to creating an inclusive climbing community, open to all ages and abilities, whether it’s your very first step into the world of climbing or you are already a seasoned veteran, climbing is available to everyone.
Boasting a brand-new Kilter Board (the only one for 100 miles!), grades ranging from VB to V10+, a new weights gym, clubs & classes for all abilities, with regular events and competitions throughout the year – what's not to love.
Flash are passionate about introducing climbing to the next generation of little crushers. Climbing is an amazing activity for children to get involved in and helps develop social, physical and mental skills.
Flash understands the importance of the social connections that develop through climbing and aims to nurture an environment where the community can thrive. That’s why they invest in local suppliers for coffee, cakes, and food, including homemade curry.
Whether you’re joining us for your first ever climb, new to the centre, or already an experienced boulder, all participants will need to complete our waiver. If visiting with a child, please ensure you have read and adhered to our supervision policy & ratios, and completed a waiver for yourself and your child.
Sign up for monthly membership between 1st and 30th Nov, and get 20% off for three months! Find our more here
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Enjoy Free Bus Travel in the West Midlands This December!
Between Monday 9 December and Friday 13 December all of the region’s buses will be free to use from 7pm until end of service. Please visit Free Bus Travel for more information.
In addition, for residents of selected post codes there is also an offer of FREE 1 week travel on any bus in the West Midlands area for 7 days. Please visit Festive Incentive for more details on how to claim.
Visit the dedicated Winter Services webpage that will be regularly updated with links and information for Christmas and New Year timetables.
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Empower Your Business with BEAS: Cut Costs and Go Green!
Cut Costs and Go Green with the Business Energy Advice Service
The Business Energy Advice Service (BEAS) empowers small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the West Midlands, including Solihull, to lower energy costs and reduce carbon emissions, contributing to the UK’s Net Zero goal for 2050. Delivered by Business Growth West Midlands, BEAS offers free energy assessments and match-funded grants ranging from £1,000 to £100,000.
Through tailored advice, businesses can implement energy-efficient solutions such as advanced lighting systems, heat pumps, and improved insulation. These upgrades not only slash operational expenses but also enhance environmental sustainability. Through BEAS, SMEs and also access workshops, webinars, and networking events promoting a community of forward-thinking businesses committed to green practices.
This initiative is exclusively for SMEs operating within the West Midlands Combined Authority area, with additional criteria including paying business rates and being active for at least 12 months. Eligible businesses start with a complimentary energy assessment, identifying actionable opportunities to reduce energy consumption and access grant funding.
Beyond cost savings, BEAS aligns businesses with sustainable development goals, positioning them as environmentally responsible organisations.
To register for a free energy assessment and explore how BEAS can benefit your business, visit Business Growth West Midlands
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Rocket league is coming to Solihull - Tickets on sale now!
The 2025 Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) will kick off its first arena event in Solihull, attracting thousands of fans. Esports, or electronic sports, refers to competitive video gaming that engages spectators similarly to traditional sports. Rocket League combines soccer with rocket-powered cars, making it a unique experience.
The RLCS Major 1 Birmingham will feature 16 top teams from around the globe competing for the season's inaugural trophy on March 29 and 30. General admission tickets will be available through Live Nation and AXS starting October 30 at 10 a.m.
In the lead-up to the main event, the British Esports Cup will invite the public to participate in a Rocket League tournament open to UK residents aged 13 and over, with a £5,000 prize pool. Additionally, a business Esports summit, WM Esports Unwrapped, will provide networking opportunities for industry leaders during the event weekend.
Read more here
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Love Where you live competition!
Calling all Solihull residents! We’ve teamed up with the brilliant love Solihull to find out what you love most about our wonderful borough through our “Love Where You Live” Photo competition!
Focusing on showcasing our extraordinary parks, green spaces and heritage; the winning 12 images will be featured in a pop up display at Touchwood early next year. We would love a variety of images from all times of the year to really capture Solihull’s seasonal charm
To find out how to enter and all the T&C’s, head to our blogs page
We look forward to seeing your creativity! Good luck
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