The Force Awakens in Solihull with so many May Events to Explore

Solihull is buzzing with a variety of exciting events happening throughout the month!

From vibrant VE Day celebrations to fun-filled half-term activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, you’ll find fantastic dining offers and thrilling updates from our local businesses.

Don’t miss out on a few exclusive deals we have in store—keep your eyes peeled!

Knowle High Street to Host Vibrant VE80 Community Celebration on May 10th, 2025

Knowle High Street will come alive on Saturday, May 10th, 2025, as the community celebrates 80 years of peace since the end of World War II in Europe. From 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, visitors can enjoy a day filled with entertainment, artisan markets, and local community spirit.

Entertainment & Activities

Live performances will feature the elegant Debonaire Dance Troupe and 1940s singer Amy Price. An open mic will highlight local talent, including Emily McCarthy, Garfield Mayor, Hannah Hamer, Lily Hughes, Freddie Hobbis, and El Sam. DJ Diego will keep the energy high throughout the day.

Artisan Market & Local Talent

Stroll through vibrant stalls offering local produce, handmade crafts, jewellery, and specialty items, from Spirit of Birmingham whiskey to fine olive oils. The Warwickshire Wildlife Trust will also be present.

Knowle’s Community Spirit

Visitors can purchase Knowle-themed merchandise designed by artist Jackie Roberts, including tote bags, coasters, framed prints, and keyrings. Community groups such as The Knowle Society, local Scouts and Girl Guides, Citizens Advice, and the Knowle Party in the Park will showcase their work.

Crowd-Favourite Dog Show

Pet’s World will host a friendly dog show featuring categories like Cutest Puppy, Prettiest Girl, and Best in Show. Entry is £3, with proceeds supporting Wythall Animal Sanctuary.
Food & Vintage Attractions
Food vendors will serve BBQ, wraps, kebabs, Indian cuisine, pizza, and desserts. Local pubs and cafes will offer refreshments. Vintage military vehicles and classic cars will be on display.

Road Closures & Parking

Road closures will be in place from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM, but public car parks will remain open.

Join us in Knowle for a day of entertainment, community spirit, and celebration!

Morris into May

May the Fourth Be With You…

Curtailed by storms, the stars of our famous Wassail, return to the Gardens for an afternoon of May Morris Madness on 4th May. Enjoying drop-in and Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens, punters will witness a merry dance of Beorma Morris. Encouraged to dress in white, a May Monarch will then be chosen from the visitors who will lead the forces of light (Summer) against the forces of the dark (Winter) in a veritable dance off, chasing the folkloric Winter away. We will also welcome Dan Mercer for a falconry arena display. Given the date, there may also be an appearance of lightsabres…

Blossoms

Though the climate is changing, May will see our Inner and Outer Heritage Orchards full of blossom. Coinciding with the launch of our ‘Sparkling Cream Teas’, we are encouraging people to bring picnics and spend a relaxing few hours amongst wildflowers and orchard blossom.

Whitsun Half Term

The May Half Term will see a range of family-based activities across most of the weekdays, including Hapa Zome - a Japanese form of translating the pattern of leaves and flowers into sheets of linen and cotton - and make your own bird feeders. People can then look forward to the children’s falconry experience towards the end of the week, where our friend Dan Mercer will have a host of raptors to entertain families.

Looking Ahead

As our Summer Season kicks off, we are looking forward to a range of music and theatre to enjoy the Gardens with. Digbeth Dining Club returns to us, as well as our hosting of the Vegan Garden Party and Japanese Day - there is a host of events to get excited about!

To find out more visit the Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens Website 

Welcome back to The Core Theatre!

May sees The Core Theatre reopening in style with the Mayor of Solihull’s fundraising variety performance, We are Solihull on Sunday 4 May – experience an evening of spectacular performances, including music, dance, magic and more!

Cinema returns to The Core Theatre with the National Theatre Live showing of The Importance of Being Earnest on Thursday 15 May. Enjoy a joyful reimagining of Oscar Wilde’s most celebrated comedy on the big screen.

The Take That Experience will recreate the magic of Take That live on stage with their ‘Greatest Hits Tour’ on Friday 16 May, giving their audience a night they’ll Never Forget! Then, on Friday 23 May, Whole Lotta Shakin’ comes to The Core - the only theatre touring tribute show in the world celebrating Shakin’ Stevens, the UK’s most successful pop artist of the 80s.

The last few tickets are available for Flowers and Friendship Bracelets on Thursday 29 May - the ultimate pop concert featuring the biggest hits from Taylor Swift, Sabrina Carpenter, Olivia Rodrigo and more. And on Saturday 31 May, The Opera Boys return to The Core Theatre for two showstopping performances celebrating the greatest musical theatre songs of all time!

The entertainment continues into June and beyond – VIEW THE FULL PROGRAMME HERE.

Shake Things Up — The Cocktail Collection Has Arrived at Crowne Plaza Solihull!

Relax and unwind at the Terrace lounge and restaurant, the ideal spot to connect, refresh, and enjoy the moment. And what better way to elevate your experience than with our expertly curated cocktails? Our new Cocktail Collection features a selection of hand-crafted cocktails, thoughtfully chosen by our skilled mixologist. With a seasonal menu, you can enjoy beloved classics like the refreshing mojito, as well as creative twists such as the indulgent White Chocolate Martini.

As a special treat, enjoy 10% off cocktails this month when you show this newsletter*.

(*T&Cs apply – Not valid with any other promotions or discounts. Ask our team for more details.)

Find inspiration at the Crowne Plaza Solihull Wedding Fayre!

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

The stylist and beauty team from John Lewis Solihull will be on hand as well as a host of suppliers, including:

• Bridal and Menswear
•  Photography
•  Florist
•  Live music and DJs
•  Cakes

FREE entry and parking - Get your ticket to attend....

Voco St. John's Solihull Hotel – A Contemporary Retreat in the Heart of Solihull

Voco St. John's Solihull is a stylish, modern hotel that blends upscale comfort with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Conveniently located in the heart of Solihull, just minutes from Birmingham Airport and the NEC, the hotel is ideal for both business and leisure travelers. It’s nestled within walking distance of Touchwood Shopping Centre, offering easy access to a variety of shops, restaurants, and local attractions.

The hotel boasts 180 well-appointed guest rooms featuring plush bedding, smart TVs, and thoughtful touches like eco-conscious amenities and premium toiletries. Guests can enjoy a relaxing stay with access to a leisure club that includes a fully equipped gym, indoor pool, sauna, and steam room.

For dining, the on-site Brasserie serves up modern British cuisine in a relaxed setting, while the bar offers a great spot to unwind with a drink. Voco St. John's is also a sought-after venue for meetings and events, with 13 flexible meeting rooms and a grand ballroom that can accommodate up to 800 guests.

Whether you're attending a conference, planning a wedding, or simply enjoying a weekend escape, Voco St. John's Solihull delivers comfort, convenience, and contemporary charm in equal measure.

Opening on 21 May at Solihull’s Courtyard Gallery, Belongings is an inspiring group exhibition showcasing the work of 20 diverse artists from the West Midlands. These artists, who recently formed the Midlands International Artists Collective (MIAC), bonded during Solihull College & University Centre’s inaugural ‘Get Gallery Ready’ bootcamp.

Exploring themes of belonging, identity, journey, heritage, and multiculturalism, the exhibition will feature a variety of works—including paintings, photography, weaving, textiles, ceramics, and mixed-media pieces.

The notion of home as a place of belonging emerges strongly in Belongings. Fiona Carr’s paintings incorporate floral wallpaper, evoking domestic histories, while Sandra Palmer (Brummy Artist) presents digital collages that frame multiple senses of self. Daya Bhatti stitches stories of South Asian heritage into traditional garments, reflecting layered identities, and Hasret Brown’s geometric paintings embrace Turkish influences through centuries-old artistic traditions.

The exhibition also challenges spaces where individuals feel alienated. Artist Editoriat explores public spaces where women often feel unsafe, using text and imagery to highlight issues of belonging.

Curated by Birmingham-based art historian Ruth Millington, Belongings embodies the power of collective artistic collaboration. The exhibition culminates the ‘Get Gallery Ready’ bootcamp, supported by the West Midlands Combined Authority.

Brian Prangle, one of the exhibiting artists, remarks:
"This exhibition is proof of how artists can build meaningful creative communities. It’s more than art on the walls—it's about connection, shared journeys, and finding a place of belonging."

For press enquiries, contact bootcamps@solihull.ac.uk.

Roll With Us: The Ultimate Sushi Experience at Yakinori Solihull 🍣

Ready to master the art of sushi? Step into Yakinori!

Solihull’s Sushi School – where fun meets flavour in a hands-on experience that’s as exciting as it is delicious. Whether you're a total beginner or a seasoned foodie, our expert chefs will guide you through every slice, roll, and sprinkle of sesame.

In this interactive masterclass, you’ll learn the secrets of perfect sushi rice, how to roll like a pro, and even craft your very own signature sushi creations. Expect laughs, learning, and a LOT of tasting along the way.

Ideal for date nights, birthdays, team socials or just ticking something off your foodie bucket list, the Yakinori Sushi School is a one-of-a-kind experience you’ll be raving about for weeks. Plus, you’ll leave with a certificate, your own sushi mat, and the skills to impress at your next dinner party.

Located right in the heart of Solihull, this experience brings the spirit of Tokyo to your doorstep. Spots fill up fast – so don’t wait. Grab your chopsticks and book your place today.

👉 Book your class now at yakinori

RECORD PASSENGER YEAR FOR BIRMINGHAM AIRPORT

Birmingham Airport (BHX) had a record year in 2024/25 with over 13 million passengers during 2024/25, a new peak for the transport hub. Latest figures issued by BHX reveal that 13.004 million passengers travelled through the airport in the 2024/25 financial year.

The figure was bolstered by a record March, which saw over 950,000 passengers travelling through the airport, a 3.8% increase compared to the same period last year. Birmingham Airport remains on track to exceed this figure this year with close to 14m passengers forecast to travel through the transport hub in 2025/26.

To accommodate this continual growth, the airport has announced further investment in both terminal facilities and infrastructure to improve the customer experience including an additional baggage carousel in the north terminal, a reconfiguration and expansion of the south immigration area and two further security screening lanes.  Whilst operational areas and capacity is top of the development list the airport recognises the experience that it provides to its customers and as part of this a new food and beverage area, to cater for the increase in customers, is planned to open in 2026.

Nick Barton, CEO of Birmingham Airport said: “It’s been another record year for Birmingham Airport with more customers than ever choosing to travel through BHX. This new record, which finished with a record March, shows BHX is on its way to its forecasted passenger milestone of 18m by 2033.

“Construction works on our infrastructure and terminal facilities have already commenced to accommodate this growth as we further enhance our customer experience including two additional security search areas expanded terminal facilities and new concessions.”

For the latest Birmingham Airport news, please visit the Media Centre here.

Grace & Savour Among Top Three UK Restaurants in 360° Eat Guide

Grace & Savour is proud to be recognized as one of the top three restaurants in the UK in the prestigious 360° Eat Guide, earning three circles, the highest accolade for sustainability. This recognition highlights the restaurant’s commitment to ethical sourcing and responsible gastronomy, working exclusively with UK farmers and suppliers who prioritize long-term environmental care.

Founded in Scandinavia by Pär Bergkvist, the 360° Eat Guide was created to champion transparency and accountability in sustainable dining. The rigorous evaluation process included multiple interviews, restaurant visits, and documentation reviews to verify sustainability initiatives. Grace & Savour’s commitment to purchasing whole animals and collaborating with independent growers was key to earning this honor.

Chef David Taylor expressed deep pride in the recognition, stating that the team continuously seeks new ways to enhance sustainability, from energy consumption to staff well-being.

Upcoming collaborations include a May 7 event with St Barts in London, a July 21 overnight experience with Pine, and a June 8 four-way collaboration at the Manor House.

For reservations and event updates, visit Grace & Savour’s website.

Birmingham Airport Achieves Net Zero Milestone

Birmingham Airport (BHX) has announced a significant sustainability achievement: thanks to recent investments in solar energy, the airport has been powering 100% of its required energy usage at certain times of the day. This marks a major step toward net zero carbon operations by 2033.

BHX began its solar journey in 2012 with rooftop panels on the terminal. Last year, it expanded efforts with a £10 million solar farm featuring over 12,000 panels. To maximize energy efficiency, the airport also installed 90kWh lightweight solar film on the North Terminal, reducing heat absorption and improving sustainability.

Beyond environmental benefits, the transition to solar energy reduces reliance on the grid, helping mitigate market price volatility. Recognizing these efforts, Birmingham Airport was recently shortlisted for the Energy Transition Impact Award at the Midlands Sustainability Excellence Awards 2025.

Simon Richards, Chief Financial and Sustainability Officer, stated:
"The spring sunshine has allowed us to sustainably generate 100% of our peak daytime power needs, saving over 500 tonnes of carbon since launching our solar array last year. This milestone underscores our commitment to reducing emissions and driving sustainable innovation."

For more details on Birmingham Airport’s Net Zero policy, visit their corporate website.

Exciting family events at resorts world this May

Petting Zoo Friday 16th May

Get up close and personal with a selection of friendly rescued animals when Animal Club bring their mobile petting station to Resorts World! They will be in our atrium at 10am - 11am on: Friday 16^th May. The Animal Club is an interactive experience for you and your toddler. You will meet a range of friendly rescued animals assisted by their knowledgeable animal handlers. There will also be plenty photo opportunities for you to enjoy!

Eco Market 17-18^th May

Wild Earth Movement are bringing their Eco Market back to Resorts World every 3rd weekend of the month. Their next market is on Saturday 17th - 18th May, 11am - 5pm, in our Atrium. You'll be able to enjoy an Eco Artisan Market with plenty of handmade and unique items, delicious cakes and sustainable gifts. 

Don’t forget! Our eco sensory play session with Wild Earth Movements is on Monday 19^th May between 10-12. 

Wild Science Half Term Event

This May Half Term, we are excited to welcome Wild Science to our atrium on Monday, May 26th, and Tuesday, May 27th. From 10 AM to 12 PM, children will have the opportunity to participate in an animal petting zoo session, where they can learn about various animals and interact with them.  From 1 PM to 3 PM, there will be captivating science demonstrations in the atrium, where children can witness fascinating chemical reactions, explore the wonders of electricity, and delight in the joy of bubbles—an activity everyone loves!

We will also host a free picture hunt, allowing children to win a treat and a free science experiment sheet. All activities are free and available on a drop-in basis, suitable for children aged 2 and up, with parents required to stay with their children.

THE BULL’S HEAD IN EARLSWOOD UNVEILS FRESH NEW LOOK FOLLOWING SIX FIGURE RENOVATION

The Bull’s Head pub in Earlswood, Solihull, has re-opened with a fresh new look after completing a £600,000 refurbishment.

Owned by hospitality business Thwaites, the pub has enhanced its al fresco offering with a new outdoor space – named The Barn at The Bulls Head – which centres around an outside bar, with cosy nooks, a striking fire and heater for year-round drinking and dining, while table tennis and interactive games help keep little ones entertained - perfect with summer just around the corner.

Inside, the property has been completely transformed with a stylish new bar, a large space ideal for private dining for anniversaries, birthdays and other special milestones, or corporate get-togethers, and a new restaurant area, perfect for guests calling in for a quick pint or those looking to sample The Bull’s Heads exciting new menu.

The family and dog-friendly inn’s new menu focusing on fresh local ingredients, while a new buffet offering and a trendy donut wall is perfect for casual weddings. The changes mean the pub has also been able to expand its wedding offering and is now able to host large wedding receptions for up to 120 guests.

The project has seen five new jobs created within the local community, with a 40-strong team now working at The Bulls Head.

Mick Horan, Inns Operations Director at Thwaites, said: “The refurbishment has been part of our long-term plan for the inn since it joined our portfolio. We’re thrilled to have reinvested back into the property and see this project come to life – just in time to welcome spring and kick off our best summer yet.”

Working in partnership with commercial specialists, ASD Contractors, and interior designer company, Nanu Group, the renovation took four weeks to complete.

Mamoxx opens its doors at Birmingham Business Park

Birmingham Business Park is delighted to announce the official opening of its newest addition – Mamoxx, a vibrant café bringing fresh, healthy, and delicious food to the Park’s professional community.

Now open and already welcoming visitors, Mamoxx offers a thoughtfully curated menu packed with flavour and goodness, featuring dishes like jacket potatoes with wholesome toppings and creamy avocado on sourdough toast.

More than just a café, Mamoxx is designed to be a welcoming space where people can grab a nutritious bite, enjoy great coffee, and connect with colleagues in a relaxed setting.

“We’re excited to bring Mamoxx to Birmingham Business Park,” says Zoe Moyo, Founder of Mamoxx. “Our goal is to offer fresh, high-quality food that supports a balanced lifestyle while also building relationships with the amazing people who work here.”

Lori McDonagh, Marketing, Community and Business Development Manager at Birmingham Business Park, added: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Mamoxx to the Park. It’s fantastic to see such a vibrant and health-focused business join our community. Mamoxx brings a fresh energy and offers a brilliant new space for people to eat well, unwind, and connect – it’s a really exciting development for us.”

Whether you’re after a quick, healthy lunch or a calm corner to recharge with a coffee, Mamoxx is ready to welcome you. Pop in today and be part of the buzz!

Mamoxx is located at Waterside Centre, at Birmingham Business Park, B37 7YN.

For more information, please contact: Kym Ferguson, Operations Manager Email: mammoxx3creations@gmail.com Tel: 07728827858

Get Ready for the First Ever Visit Knowle Business Expo!

Visit Knowle is thrilled to announce the launch of the very first Visit Knowle Business Expo, taking place at The Greswolde Arms. This exciting event promises a vibrant day of networking, learning, and community spirit — all at the heart of Knowle’s thriving business scene.

Join us from 9:00 am as doors open to a day packed with opportunity. Whether you're a a resident seeking local businesses to advise you, local entrepreneur, a seasoned business leader, or someone curious about the power of AI in business, there's something for everyone.

Programme Highlights:

· 9:00 am – Doors Open

· 10:00 am – Harnessing AI for Your Business – Phil Webb, VU Ai

· 11:30 am – How to Create Great Content with AI – Sam Hufton, Pull the Pin

· 1:30 pm – Speed Networking hosted by Rachel from Women in Business Network

· 2:00 pm – Event closes

Throughout the day, attendees will have the opportunity to meet with a wide range of exhibitors, including our local ward councillors and Saqib Bhatti MBE MP and representatives from Visit Knowle.

“We’re excited to bring the local business community together for a day of inspiration and collaboration,” said a Kim Hulse from Visit Knowle. “we have many hidden gems in Knowle and our Expo will help shine a light on some of the fabulous professional services and businesses that are based locally. The energy, ideas, and connections made at the Expo will help drive even greater success across Knowle and beyond.”

Don't miss out on being part of this milestone event!

Venue: The Greswolde Arms, High Street, Knowle

Date: Friday, 6th June 2025

New faces strengthen team at FBC Manby Bowdler

Leading Midlands’ law firm FBC Manby Bowdler has strengthened its Knowle office team with two key appointments.

Blake Thomas has joined the company as business development director, while solicitor Tracy Ashby has joined as a partner in the wills, probate and lifetime planning team.

FBC Manby Bowdler CEO Neil Lloyd said: “The strength in depth of our teams, are a key factor in the success of our business, and I am delighted to welcome Blake and Tracy to the FBC Manby Bowdler family.

“They both come to us with extensive experience and expertise in their respective fields and will be a real asset as we continue to grow the business within the region.”

Blake joins the company from accounting and professional services firm PwC, where he was head of sales for the Midlands region. He has a proven track record in professional services, including leading teams, consulting on strategy and building strong and lasting client relationships. Before that he was head of business development at Gateley.

His responsibilities at FBC Manby Bowdler will include identifying and implementing strategies which optimise business growth, maximise opportunities and raise the profile and presence of the firm across the regions in which the firm operates.

As an experienced private client solicitor, Tracy brings with her a wealth of expertise honed over nearly 20 years working within law firms across the Midlands.

She advises individuals about Wills, inheritance tax planning and trusts, power of attorney, administration of estates and clients living in care or their families about fees and care settings.

Tracy joins us from her former role as a partner with Knights PLC and prior to that her career has included partnership in Midlands law firms Wright Hassall and mfg.

The Barn’s Garden & Tepee outside seating area re-opens on Thursday 1^st May!

It brings their incredible countryside views right to your fingertips, where very cute piglets and newly born calves are roaming on the fields right in front of you.

Their outside seating area is a beautiful blend of a garden area for families to enjoy more space, and a terrace area for the more casual and relaxed guests.

This year they’re launching a brand-new menu including chicken flatbreads, Asian pork wraps, smashed burgers and chicken tenders. Alongside their incredible food, their bar serves up a full offering of cocktails, mocktails, draught beer & cider, wine, mixers, soft and hot drinks.

You know what to expect at The Barn – especially since their 2 AA rosette award in 2024 – so make sure you head down. Open every day from 12pm till late, no bookings required to turn up and grab a table!

Based in Meriden, CV77LB, at The Barn At Berryfields.

NEC Group Arenas Introduce Premium Membership Packages with Exclusive Access to Newly Upgraded Spaces

NEC Group has unveiled newly upgraded premium spaces at bp pulse LIVE and Utilita Arena Birmingham, officially launched on April 27th. Designed by Method, these reimagined areas draw inspiration from the golden age of disco and the warmth of the 1970s, blending glamour with modern sophistication.

The newly rebranded bp pulse Showdeck prioritizes guest comfort, featuring a stylish lounge and bar area where visitors can relax with refreshments just steps from their seats. Both arenas now offer enhanced food and beverage menus, showcasing locally inspired dishes and premium drink selections.

To elevate the guest experience further, NEC Group has introduced two exclusive membership packages: Headliner and Icon. The Headliner Membership provides two seats at 30 or 60 events annually across both arenas, along with ticket purchase rights for additional shows. Perks include complimentary food and drinks, access to private lounges and bars, fast-track entry, dedicated parking, and post-event hospitality, supported by a dedicated Account Manager and exclusive access to artist merchandise.

The Icon Membership also grants two seats at 30 events per year and guaranteed ticket access for extra shows. Icon members enjoy prime seating, VIP entry, access to an exclusive lounge with locally inspired cocktails and dishes available for purchase, and reserved car parking. Additional benefits mirror those of the Headliner Membership, including personalized service and artist merchandise opportunities.

Jen Mitchell, Managing Director of NEC Group Arenas, highlighted the enhancements as a commitment to evolving guest expectations, delivering unmatched luxury, comfort, and exclusivity.

To find out more please visit Premium at Utilita Arena Birmingham, Premium at bp pulse LIVE.

 SOLIHULL PRIDE 2025

Solihull is set to make history with the launch of its very first Pride event this September, bringing a vibrant celebration of LGBTQ+ culture and diversity to the town centre.

The event, being organised by Solihull Business Improvement District, will take place on Saturday 6^th September and promises to be a spectacular day of inclusivity, joy, and unity for people of all ages, backgrounds, and identities.

Solihull Pride will offer a series of events and activities, including a colourful parade, live music performances and special guests including award-winning cabaret artist Fatt Butcher and celebrity hairdressers Royston Blythe and Nick Malenko. The event will be compered by esteemed local presenter Phil Oldershaw, and feature musical tributes to Madonna, Cher and Elton John.

For more details, visit the BID website

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!