Easter Magic in Solihull with Fun for the Whole Family!

Spring is in full bloom, and Solihull is bursting with exciting events and magical experiences for the whole family. Step into a fairy tale at Snow White’s Kindness Cottage in Touchwood or get creative at the Cinderella-inspired workshop at Resorts World. Plus, don’t miss the action-packed itinerary at Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens, where adventure awaits all Easter break long!

Whether you’re craving delicious eats, eager to spark your creativity, or simply looking for a fun day out, we’ve got all the details to make your April truly unforgettable.
So, pour yourself a cuppa, get comfy, and let’s dive into the best of Solihull!

Get creative with classes at the Core!

Looking to try something new, develop your skills or build your confidence? There’s a full range of creative adult classes and courses starting after Easter at The Core.

Professional journalist Wersha Bharadwa leads the ten-week Creative Writing course (Monday evenings from 28 April). You’ll learn a range of new skills and techniques to make your writing stand out. More experienced writers can join The Write Space to develop their skills further (Thursday evenings from 1 May).

Explore different artforms with Studio Kavachi - the four-week daytime Pencil and Charcoal Course (Wednesday mornings from 30 April) welcomes all abilities. Budding artists can also join Art Classes with Vicki Gorman (Thursday mornings/afternoons during term time), with lessons covering a range of different subjects.

The ten-week Intermediate Acting – Creating Character course (Thursday evenings from 1 May) offers those with some acting experience a deeper-dive into creating characters onstage.

Light 52 is a ten-week photography course at advanced level (Thursday evenings from 1 May), guiding photographers through developing a style and building a portfolio of work.

If you’ve ever wanted to be a stand-up comic, try From Couch to Comedy (Monday evenings from 28 April). Led by comedian Rachel Sambrooks, this ten-week course will culminate in you performing a five-minute routine to an audience of friends and family!

The Core also runs creative courses for young people, including Solihull Young Writers (Wednesday evenings from 30 April) and The Core Youth Theatre for ages 7-10 and ages 11-16 (Thursday evenings from 1 May).

There are even more classes and courses at The Core to choose from - view the full programme and book online at Activities.

In Conversation with Samuel Burr

Join Solihull Libraries on Saturday 12 April from 11am to 12:30pm for an inspiring event with Sunday Times bestselling author Samuel Burr, celebrating the paperback release of The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers.

Enjoy a fascinating talk as Samuel shares his writing journey, discusses life as a bestselling author, and answers audience questions in an open Q&A session. The event concludes with a book signing, where copies will be available for purchase from The Heath Bookshop.

Refreshments can be purchased at our Encore café. Be sure to save the date and book your ticket through the Core website!

Newbie and Me in Solihull is the ultimate baby store for new parents and parents-to-be.

Offering expert advice, high-quality baby essentials, and a personalised shopping experience, it’s your one-stop destination. From prams, strollers, and car seats to nursery furniture and décor, their curated selection ensures you find the perfect items for your little one.

A standout feature is the in-store pram test track, where parents can try pushchairs on various terrains for real-life assurance. Their free car seat fitting service and educational in-store events add even more value, making parenthood a little easier. With a welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff, Newbie and Me truly understands the journey of parenting.

As a special offer, use code VSN&MBHAM in-store to enjoy 10% off your purchase (terms apply). Visit Newbie and Me Birmingham today and experience the difference!

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays announce major expansion for Winter 25/26 from Birmingham Airport

Jet2.com and Jet2holidays have unveiled a significant expansion of their Winter Sun and City Breaks programme from Birmingham Airport for Winter 25/26. Additional seats are now available, offering customers and independent travel agents enhanced flexibility for winter escapes.

Responding to growing demand, the season for Porto has been brought forward, with flights and city breaks starting on 12th February 2026, perfect for February half-term travelers seeking culture, history, and cuisine. The Winter Sun programme has also expanded, with added services to destinations like the Canary Islands, Cyprus, Turkey, Alicante, Madeira, and more.

Holidaymakers enjoy leisure flights, ATOL-protected packages, and award-winning customer service, as Jet2.com has earned accolades like Which? Travel Brand of the Year three years running, and recognition as a Which? Recommended Provider for nearly a decade.

Steve Heapy, CEO, expressed gratitude to customers and independent travel agents, highlighting the expansion’s alignment with rising demand. Tom Screen, Aviation Director at Birmingham Airport, praised the tailored increase in services.

Notable additions include flights to Porto, Lanzarote, Alicante, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria, among others. For more details and bookings, visit www.jet2.com or www.jet2holidays.com.

Birmingham Airport has announced Wilson James as its new partner for Assisted Travel services, starting from 1st April 2025. This move aims to enhance customer experience, especially for passengers requiring support. Wilson James, known for expertise in training, innovation, and customer care, was selected after a competitive process.

Al Titterington, Terminal Operations Director at Birmingham Airport, expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing Wilson James' strong track record and focus on vulnerable customers. Elizabeth Hegarty, Managing Director at Wilson James, highlighted their commitment to delivering seamless and dignified travel experiences. The company plans to leverage its Disability Stakeholder Forum, which includes individuals with lived experience, to shape service improvements.

Last year, Birmingham Airport received a ‘GOOD’ rating for its accessible services from regulators who set high service standards. Feedback from over 2,000 assisted travel users showed 64% rated the service as very satisfactory. The airport expects even greater passenger volumes during this upcoming busy period and looks forward to providing improved support.

This partnership aligns with Birmingham Airport's goal of delivering exceptional service during its busiest year ever. Wilson James’ expertise and dedication to innovation are set to make a significant positive impact on the customer journey.

Birmingham Airport Celebrates Most Waste Efficient Year Ever on Global Recycling Day

Birmingham Airport (BHX) is celebrating its most waste efficient year ever with its recycling rate for terminal operations exceeding 75%.

Birmingham Airport (BHX) is marking its most waste-efficient year, recycling 76% of terminal waste—its highest rate to date. This success is attributed to the Mobile Segregation Unit (MSU), introduced last year, which has prevented over 1,200 tonnes of waste from becoming non-recyclable. The unit's data-driven waste management approach has significantly surpassed BHX’s previous recycling goal of 65%, making it one of the most sustainable UK airports.
The MSU also enables reuse and donation of certain items left behind by passengers. Over 36 tonnes of items such as toiletries and pushchairs were donated to local charities, including Let’s Feed Brum and St Basils, within the past year.
Tom Denton, Head of Sustainability at BHX, emphasized the MSU's positive impact, noting a 20% increase in recycling rates in just a year. As the world observes Global Recycling Day, BHX encourages travellers to consider permitted items to reduce waste. Passengers are reminded of liquid restrictions (no more than 100ml per item) and urged to use reusable bottles, which can be refilled at free water stations.
Additionally, lost items contribute to waste. The airport advises contacting Luggage Point for lost belongings, reducing unclaimed property. Learn more about BHX’s sustainability efforts on their corporate website

Spring Has Sprung at Boston Tea Party!

Exciting news for foodies—our brand-new Spring Menu has launched, at Boston Tea Party cafes across Solihull, Birmingham, the Midlands, and the South West. Prepare your taste buds for an irresistible line-up of fresh flavours, vibrant dishes, and indulgent treats!

🌟 What’s New?

Cauliflower Shawarma Flatbread & Bowl:Packed with flavour and topped with hot honey halloumi—a must-try!

Glebe Farm Granola: Crunchy, wholesome goodness that’s perfect for your morning.

Milkshake Magic: Chocolate Oreo, Strawberry Ripple, and Lotus Biscoff Milkshakes—homemade with ice cream and finished with clouds of whipped cream.

🥤 Smoothies Just Got Better! Joining our homemade smoothie family are Berry Peachy, Pineapple Coco, and Strawberry Banana—refreshingly fruity blends to brighten your day.

👧 Kid’s Menu Glow-Up

Little ones are in for a treat with new and improved options they'll love.
Get ready to welcome spring with bold flavors and exciting new choices at Boston Tea Party. Don’t miss it—pop by your nearest café and savour the season with us! 🌸

Experience the Magic of Snow White’s Kindness Cottage this Easter at Touchwood

Families are invited to step into a fairy-tale adventure at Snow White’s Kindness Cottage, running from Saturday 12 – Sunday 27 April. Nestled in a charming woodland setting, this enchanting event promises a celebration of kindness, creativity, and community spirit.

Guests can meet Snow White and her woodland friends while enjoying activities like crafting friendship bracelets, learning the joy of giving, and adding their masterpieces to the Blossom Tree Art Display—a colourful symbol of kindness. Families can also embark on the Kindness Trail, exploring acts of kindness and ways to spread happiness this Easter.
Spaces for the cottage are limited, so book now at Touchwood events!

Fairy Tale Faces Every Saturday in April Families can enjoy free face painting sessions every Saturday from 11am to 3pm in Jubilee Walk. Let talented artists transform little ones into woodland creatures or fairy-tale princesses for an extra magical touch—no booking needed.

St George’s Day Knight School Celebrate St George’s Day with Knight School workshops, teaching kids chivalry, swordplay, and bravery. Special events promise unforgettable fun for the whole family!

The 2025 West Midlands Tourism Awards celebrated the region's vibrant visitor economy at Edgbaston Stadium on Tuesday, 18 March. The event crowned 15 winners in categories like "Experience of the Year," "International Tourism Award," and "Ethical, Responsible and Sustainable Tourism Award." Participants represented a wide range of destinations, including Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Ironbridge, Leamington Spa, Market Drayton, Shipston-on-Stour, Shrewsbury, Solihull and Warwick.

Hosted by broadcaster Amber Sandhu, the ceremony featured entertainment from B:Music Young Performers and W!RED. It was organized by the West Midlands Growth Company, which leads the region's Destination Development Partnership.
Deputy Mayor Sharon Thompson highlighted tourism's vital role in shaping the region's positive image and supporting over 143,000 jobs. With attractions, culinary experiences, and events drawing 145 million annual visitors, tourism drives inclusive growth and development.

Winners automatically qualify for the VisitEngland Awards for Excellence in Brighton this June. Last year's successes include Telford International, Warwick Conferences, and Cotswolds Distillery.

The awards coincided with English Tourism Week (14-23 March), emphasizing tourism's importance to communities and economies. Tourism remains a cornerstone of England’s economy, supporting millions of jobs and generating £71.6 billion annually through domestic spending.

Read the full press release at Visit Birmingham

Bringing singing together in Solihull

The Solihull Choir Festival offers choirs a platform to perform, with a chance for musical directors and choir leaders to network and promote their groups. We welcome all choirs, regardless of size, genre, or ability, encouraging diversity and inclusion. Open to community groups, businesses, and schools, the event also highlights the health and wellbeing benefits of choir participation. Scheduled for the weekend of 27th–29th June 2025, it includes performance slots and a networking session. This free event is designed to inspire and connect.

Looking for Easter activities? Head to John Lewis!

John Lewis Solihull has an exciting lineup! On 19th April, join our Kids Easter Decoration Crafting Event. Suitable for ages 3+ with adult supervision, children can create personalized decorations to take home. Sessions run at 10:30am, 11:30am, 1pm, and 2pm.

Learn Easter table scaping with our Home Design Expert on 11th April (2 pm) or 16th April (11 am). This free masterclass includes tips, design tricks, and a complimentary glass of fizz.

From 7th–21st April, enjoy the Sylvanian Families Treasure Hunt. Find all six posters to win a blind bag and enter a prize draw for exciting rewards. Terms and conditions apply. For details, visit experiences.johnlewis.com.

Spring into fitness at the club Solihull!

Looking for a gym that offers a quiet, sociable, and relaxing atmosphere? Look no further than the club Solihull! 

Members have full access to our gym, swimming pool, steam room, sauna and spa pool and can enjoy a host of benefits:

•        25% off food and drinks in the Terrace Restaurant 7 days a week.

•      'Friend Friday' - complimentary guest visit on the first Friday of each month.

•      4 hours complimentary parking per day.

•        Recommend a friend and get a month’s membership on us.

Membership from just £41 per month.

Ready to make a change this spring? Call 0121 623 9901

Find inspiration for your wedding or celebration!

Join us on Sunday 11th May, between 11am and 2pm at the Crowne Plaza Solihull, for an unforgettable day of inspiration and planning. Whether you're recently engaged or finalising your big day, our Spring wedding fayre is your one-stop destination for wedding planning.

Choose Crowne Plaza Solihull as your wedding venue for a stunning all-in-one experience. From hosting your ceremony and wedding breakfast, to the reception and guest accommodation - everything is conveniently under one roof for a seamless, stress-free celebration.

🥂 Free Prosecco or soft drink on arrival
🎟️ Free to attend
🚗 Free parking 

Whilst this event is tailored to wedding couples, if you are planning a special event or birthday, it's also the perfect opportunity to explore our stunning venue, meet our experienced event planners and discuss your vision for your special event.

Get your free ticket now - Crowne Plaza Solihull Wedding Fayre Tickets, Sun 11 May 2025 at 11:00 | Eventbrite

Free Easter Holiday Fun at Resorts World!

Hop down to our atrium for our Easter activities! Join us from 14th - 15th and 21st - 23rd April as we supply all the Easter fun from meeting the Easter Bunny, to enjoying Easter crafts, games and a disco as well as testing your skills on an electronic climbing wall and discovering your creative side with a Cinderella inspired workshop hosted by Birmingham Royal Ballet.

The kids will love our creative workshops, decorating Easter decorations which they can take home to keep, to a fun and creative dance workshop with Birmingham Royal Ballet. Places are limited for our ballet workshops; you can book your spot here!

Don't forget to take part in our golden egg Easter hunt around Resorts World, we will also have prizes for the little ones who find them all.

There's also great offers around Resorts World, plus tasty deals so you and your family can eat for less during your visit! 

Bottomless At The Secret Garden

Sip sip hurray!

The Secret Garden is back, better, and BOTTOMLESS! Summer is coming and we’re more ready than ever, because all the best catch ups happen over brunch…

Pre-bookings now open for Bottomless sittings in the Secret Garden from 4th April!

Enjoy a dish of your choice from our menu with bottomless* drinks for 90 mins in our stunning Secret Garden! We have two bottomless options available with something to suit every occasion.

New menu alert…

The word is out, our new Sky Bar & Restaurant menu is now out and we can’t wait for you to try it. If you’re joining us with friends or just can’t quite decide what you’re in the mood for, our small plates including our Sticky Chicken Wings and Halloumi Fries are a great pick! They all go perfectly with our range of drinks from the cocktail kitchen... cheers! 

BIRMINGHAM PANTHERS EASTER NETBALL MASTERCLASSES !

Have you not got plans booked in for Easter yet, or if you loved our last camps or missed the chance to sign up? Well no worries! We have you covered this Easter. Now’s your chance to secure your spaces on our exclusive Easter Masterclasses. We have 3 NSL player led masterclasses with Michelle Magee, Gabby Coffey and Ruth Hughes and an ADULT only (all ages and genders) camp with none other than Connie Francis herself!! 

Starting Monday 14th-Thursday 17th April the Birmingham Panthers are hosting action-packed Masterclasses for aspiring netball stars, aged 12-16 and Adults of all genders, at Uni of Wolverhampton, Walsall Campus! 

With limited places available, get your spaces booked today!! 

VE80 Celebrations & Upcoming Knowle Events

Join the Knowle community on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, for a vibrant commemoration of the 80th anniversary of VE Day. The High Street will host an artisan market, street food, community stalls, and entertainment, running from 11am to 5pm. Discover local businesses, view Steve Chaplin’s military vehicle collection, and participate in the Pet competition sponsored by Pet’s World.
This event is part of the nationwide VE80 commemorations, celebrating resilience, unity, and the sacrifices that secured peace in Europe. It's a time to reflect, honour, and inspire future generations.

Other Events in Knowle

Knowle Business Expo – Friday, June 6th, 2025
Visit the Greswolde Arms from 9am to 2pm to connect with local businesses, meet your MP Saqib Bhatti MBE and Ward Councillors, and listen to expert talks, including insights on winning with AI. Free entry!

Party Bingo Night – Friday, June 13th, 2025
Visit Knowle is hosting a music-fueled bingo night at Knowle British Legion. Expect tunes, fun, and prizes for £13 per person. Book your tickets at Ticketsource.

Come celebrate history, network with local businesses, and enjoy entertainment in Knowle!

Spring Edition, Restaurant Tours.

The popular Restaurant Tour experience is coming to Solihull this Spring! And some fabulous Solihull restaurants have been included in this year’s line-up.

How does a leisurely walk around Solihull town centre, delicious signature dishes and high-quality wine pairings sound? The Restaurant Tour features a self-guided dining experience over various restaurants on one Sunday afternoon. Split into six groups, you will visit 6 restaurants and enjoy 6 signature dishes and 6 wine pairings.

The experience intends to showcase the restaurants signature dishes with a thoughtful wine paring or cocktail/beer(non -alcoholic choices are also available). The tour is organised in a fixed order that is arranged on the designated free app, to make it a stress free stroll to each location. 

The tour is on Sunday 8^th June from 12pm to 5pm with tickets priced at £89pp and will include places such as Côte, Yakinori, Tap & Tandoor and Boston Tea Party.

It is a brilliant way to visit new venues in the town and try a variety of cuisines in one afternoon. 

Tiickets are available to purchase through the following link: The Restaurant Tour: discover the best restaurants in town!

Solihull Going Electric: Explore the Future of EVs at an Exciting Town Centre Event

Solihull Council is hosting its first Electric Vehicle (EV) Experience Event, “Solihull Going Electric”, in Solihull town centre on Saturday 5 April. The open event will showcase the growing range of EVs now available and allow residents to explore some of the benefits of EV adoption.

Visitors will have the opportunity to test drive a range of exciting new electric cars and bikes, speak to dealers, ask questions and learn from industry experts about the latest advancements in EV technology. Exhibitors confirmed for the event include: BYD, Vauxhall, BMW, Citroën, Mercedez Benz, Skoda, Smart, Peugeot, Fiat and Tesla, while many more are set to be announced in the coming weeks.

Organised in partnership with Let’s Experience Electric, the free event will be taking place in the town centre with displays along the High Street and across the Council House car park on Manor Square.

Find out more by visiting: Solihull Going Electric | Your Voice Solihull

Business support in Solihull 

Solihull businesses can access free and impartial support from the Birmingham and Solihull Growth Hub.  The experienced advisors can also assess your business for eligibility for the latest available business support grants – which can be used for expansion and growth (including premises fit out) and supporting the move to net zero (lighting, heating, solar panels etc).  For more information please enquire via the Birmingham and Solihull Growth Hub: Complete Form (evolutive.co.uk). 

to Stay up to date with all businesses updates and support, head to Business & Investment Services and sign up to the Solihull for success newsletter!