Welcome to the June Edition of the Visit Solihull Newsletter!

Summer is finally here, and Solihull is buzzing with excitement! As the days grow longer and the sunshine brightens our borough, there’s plenty to look forward to—from family-friendly events to outdoor adventures and vibrant community gatherings.

June is packed with incredible experiences! The Core is bringing a fantastic line-up of must-see shows, while Digbeth Dining Club is set to transform the gardens into a foodie paradise.

Plus, there are amazing new offers to take advantage of and some exciting sustainability initiatives making a positive impact across the borough.

Stay tuned for all the latest updates—you won’t want to miss a thing!

June at The Core Theatre

The Core Theatre in Solihull town centre has a packed programme of shows and events throughout June.

On Thursday 5 June, the acclaimed production of Tennessee Williams' timeless masterpiece A Streetcar Named Desire starring Gillian Anderson, Vanessa Kirby and Ben Foster comes to the big screen at The Core Theatre, courtesy of NT Live.

Then on Friday 6 June, relive the nostalgic days of wartime Britain as the delightful D-Day Darlings take you on a musical journey back to the heart of 1940s with a patriotic and uplifting show.

Saturday 7 June sees a celebration of one of world’s most popular duos with The Carpenters – Voice of the Heart 2025, featuring classic Carpenters hits.

On Friday 13 June you can see The Amazing Mr Hackwood, a humorous historic drama, in the Studio at The Core. Also in the Studio, on Saturday 14 June is magical shadow puppet show Gaby Gulliver’s Travels – this matinee show is ideal for families and young children!

Another NT Live cinema screening, Dr Strangelove, starring Steve Coogan comes to The Core on Wednesday 18 June. Then on Friday 20 to Saturday 21 June, Peterbrook Players and Solihull on Stage unite to present The Show Must Go On! - a stunning concert featuring music, dance and acting.

Towards the end of June there are more shows including Englishman in New York – The Very Best of Sting (26 June), 80s nostalgia spectacular Calling Planet Earth (27 June) and a celebration of the best music of the swinging 60s with Twist and Shout (28 June).

Last but not least, on Saturday 28 June The Core hosts its FREE Artists and Makers Summer Market – pop in any time between 10am and 4pm and browse unique, handmade and artisan goods from local artists and creatives. Find out more at The Core Theatre, Solihull

Visit Knowle Business Expo

Join us on Friday 6th June from 9am to 2pm at the Greswolde Arms, Knowle, for our first-ever Business Expo! Discover local businesses, listen to insightful talks, take part in speed networking, and connect with business owners in our community.

Meet our local MP, Saqib Bhatti MBE, alongside Knowle’s Ward Councillors, who’ll be available for questions. This free event is a fantastic opportunity to support and engage with local enterprises—from financial services and HR experts to caterers, videographers, health professionals, and wellness coaches.

Programme:
🕗 8:15am – Networking breakfast with Saqib Bhatti MBE (£5 ticketed event)
🕘 9:00am – Doors open (free entry)
🕙 10:00am – Guest speaker: Phil Webb, VU AI – Making AI Work for You
🕦 11:30am – Guest speaker: Sam Hufton, Pull the Pin – Supercharge Sales & Marketing with AI & Automation
🕐 1:00pm – Speed Networking with Rachael Jackson, Women in Business Network
🕑 2:00pm – Event close

For details, visit: Visit Knowle Business Expo

Visit Knowle Quiz Night

📅 Friday 20th June 📍 Knowle British Legion 🕖 Doors open at 7pm
🍽️ £13 per person, including fish & chips from Knowle Fish Bar
🎟️ Tickets: Get yours here

Swinging Summer Ball

📅 Saturday 16th August 📍 Old Sil’s, Warwick Road, Knowle
💃 1940s-themed Dinner & Dancing with live music by Alex Norman!
🎟️ Tickets: Get yours here

June in the Gardens

Digbeth Dining Club

Once again the Gardens will host our friends from Digbeth Dining Club, transforming the Archery Lawn with vibrant food and drink to inspire the taste buds. The bustle of stalls amid the backdrop of June planting schemes makes for a great day out. Tickets must be bought in advance from Digbeth Dining Club itself as we cannot take walk-ups.

Yoga, Brickwork and Foraging In the Gardens

Always a plethora of ways to experience Mother Nature, and June will see morning and evening yoga, heritage brickwork days as part of our ongoing wall repairs, and foraging walkshops in the historic Parkland. All bookable through our website.

Vegan Garden Party

The Vegan Market returns to the Gardens in June. Not simply an opportunity to eat great food, but also a chance to engage in discussions and themes surrounding growing, food systems and sustainability. Central England Concert Band will also be here on the day, giving a resounding party feel to the day - perfect way of spending a Sunday!

Japanese Day

Enjoy authentic Japanese food across the day with our good friend, Yumi Grindley, who will be here cooking. Normal entry fees apply

To book activities and fine out more, visit the Castle Bromwich Hall Gardens Website!

Life's precious moments deserve a celebration and that's easy with the party package at the Crowne Plaza Solihull! ✨

🥂 Enjoy a drink on arrival, a delicious evening buffet and exclusive use of the De Limesi suite and private event bar.

£2,500 for up to 60 guests - Some Friday and Saturday dates are still available* 🍾

Find out more at the Crowne Plaza Solihull

(*Valid for event dates before the end of November 2025 and additional guests charged at £25 per person)

Together in Solihull

Enjoy a fun afternoon of free entertainment and activities in Theatre Square (next to The Core/Touchwood) in Solihull on Saturday 21 June, with performers representing the diverse culture of Solihull.

'Together in Solihull' runs from 10am until 4.20pm and will feature DJ sets of world music, community musicians from Afghanistan, a Ukrainian children’s orchestra, traditional dance from Hong Kong, Tango and Salsa dancing, Indian dance, music workshops, face painting and Mehndi.

No need to book, just turn up! Find out more at Together in Solihull

Energy Upgrade Grants Now Available for Businesses

Businesses can now access a free energy assessment and between £1,000 and £100,000 in government-funded grants through the BEAS (Business Energy Advice Service) programme.

Through BEAS, businesses can:

• Upgrade to solar panels, energy-efficient lighting, heating, and more
• Reduce energy costs
• Cut carbon emissions and boost sustainability

From factory floors to hospitality venues - and everything in between, BEAS can help you lower operational costs and invest in smarter, more sustainable energy solutions.

To be eligible, businesses must meet certain criteria, including using 25,000 kWh or more of energy per year.

Check your eligibility today using the BEAS Calculator and start your energy-saving journey.

Find out more and apply here at Business Growth West Midlands - BEAS

SOLIHULL MUSIC FESTIVAL (JUNE 20-22)

The Solihull Music Festival returns for 2025 and, as always, our landmark free music festival has something for everybody!

Organised by Solihull Business Improvement District and being held from 20th – 22nd June, there will be music of all genres to enjoy at our FREE family event with the main stage in Mell Square and over 15 venues around the town centre hosting the action.

The Continental Street Market, organised by RR Events, will also be in town with live music accompanying the delicious market delights.

Catch some fantastic artists on our Mell Square stage and then enjoy more intimate performances in some of Solihull town centre’s best hospitality venues. All performances are FREE!

For more details, visit the BID website

West Midlands Tourism Awards 2026: Applications Open

Entries for the 2026 West Midlands Tourism Awards are now open, celebrating the best people, places, and experiences in the region’s visitor economy.

Now in their sixth year, the awards recognize top accommodation, event venues, food & drink settings, and heritage attractions across 17 categories. Eligible applicants must be based in Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Solihull, Wolverhampton, and other West Midlands areas.

New for 2026 is the Outstanding Contribution to Tourism award, honoring individuals who make a lasting impact on the region’s visitor economy. Written nominations (up to 500 words) are encouraged.

For the first time, the Tourism Event/Festival of the Year category will be publicly voted on, allowing communities to have their say.

Cllr Sharon Thompson, Deputy Mayor of the West Midlands, said:
"Tourism is a vital sector, supporting nearly 150,000 regional jobs. These awards recognize incredible businesses and individuals creating meaningful visitor experiences."

Key Dates:
📅 21st July: Deadline for 15 categories
📅 30th November: Deadline for Tourism Event/Festival of the Year & Outstanding Contribution to Tourism

Eligible winners will automatically qualify for VisitEngland’s National Awards for Excellence. This year’s national ceremony takes place on 4th June, with West Midlands nominees including St Mary’s Guildhall, Black Country Living Museum, and Mallory Court Hotel & Spa.

For details and to apply, visit West Midlands Tourism Awards

Experience an unforgettable Summer at Resorts World…

Live Music

Get ready to dance and sing your heart out and make the most of your Summer Fridays & Saturdays with live music at The World Bar!

Enjoy the perfect weekend set-up with your favourite gin combo and live performances from 9:30pm!

Check out all the shows we have coming up for you this Summer! 

June Eco Market

Wild Earth Movement are bringing their Eco Market back to Resorts World. The next market is on Sunday 22^nd June, 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 23^rd June between 10-12. 

Summer Staycation

One roof, one price, ALL the options.

We have new staycation packages available at Genting Hotel from just £139! Stay, dine, spa and play at the heart of Resorts World this summer.

You'll discover our rooftop Sky Bar & Restaurant, the luxurious Santai Spa, retail therapy in our outlet mall and all the entertainment you need with Cineworld, Escape Hunt, Hollywood Bowl and much more!

See all our packages here and book now for your next relaxing break away! 

Sneak Peek- Dino Fridays – Free Fun at Resorts World Birmingham!

Roar into the summer holidays with free dinosaur-themed activities every Friday from 25th July to 29th August!

Encounter a towering T-Rex, a mighty Stegosaurus, and adorable baby dinos, then dig deep to uncover prehistoric fossils, plus giggles guaranteed with the hilarious Comedy Cavemen!  Enjoy story-time, hands-on crafting, and a dino picture hunt around the building - plus plenty more surprises along the way!

For schedules and full event details, visit ResortsWorldBirmingham.co.uk from 11th June.

Hogarths Hotel Exciting new addition!

Hogarths Hotel and Restaurants, a family-run independent venue led by Helena and Andy Hogarth located in Dorridge, Solihull, are delighted to announce the grand opening of The Coach House. A brand-new luxury conference and events suite, designed to offer an exceptional experience for business and private occasions alike.

Nestled in a beautifully restored setting within the hotels 30acres, The Coach House offers an exclusive new venue in Solihull, comprising of three elegantly designed function spaces, perfectly tailored to meet the highest standards of modern conferencing and event hosting. Each space is equipped with state-of-the-art video conferencing units and plasma screens, making it the ideal venue for board meetings, team briefings, and executive planning sessions.

For larger gatherings, The Coach House proudly features a spacious main suite accommodating up to 120 guests. This versatile room offers a refined setting for intimate weddings, stylish dinners, corporate events, and celebratory occasions, all delivered with the warm hospitality that the Hogarths brand is known for, offering the highest level of service and attention to detail.

Whether you're planning a strategic business meeting or a memorable celebration, The Coach House provides the perfect balance of luxury, technology, and charm.

Head to the Hogarths website to find out more

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.

Get Ready for an Exciting Summer in Solihull!

Solihull is gearing up for a vibrant, action-packed summer, and you won’t want to miss a moment! From family-friendly events to outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the sunshine.

Stay informed with the latest updates by visiting the Visit Solihull website, your go-to source for everything happening across the borough.

Starting this month, we’re launching Summer Fun in Solihull—a collaborative project designed to bring all the exciting summer activities together in one place. Whether you're looking for festivals, community events, or family outings, we've got you covered!

Don’t miss out—stay tuned and make this summer one to remember!

DS-Movement and European Travel Commission Urge Destinations to Get Ahead of New EU Green Rules

At IMEX Frankfurt 2025, the Global Destination Sustainability Movement (GDS-Movement) and the European Travel Commission (ETC) launched A Destination’s Guide to the New EU Sustainability Regulations, aimed at helping tourism and event destinations adapt to new legal frameworks.

Upcoming regulations—including the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the Empowering Consumers for the Green Transition Directive (ECGTD), and the Green Claims Directive (GCD)—will require increased transparency, accountability, and sustainability management. This white paper provides a roadmap for compliance, risk management, and new business opportunities.

“These regulations aren’t just about compliance; they’re about leadership,” said Guy Bigwood, CEO of GDS-Movement. “Destinations that act now will enhance their reputation and secure long-term success.”

The paper outlines three key steps:
✅ Understanding compliance roles in the new EU directives
✅ Aligning marketing claims and destination management strategies
✅ Leveraging early adoption to boost reputation, funding, and visitor trust

It also highlights the Voluntary Sustainability Reporting Standard for SMEs (VSME), which can help smaller organisations access green financing and improve sustainability leadership.

To further support the transition, GDS-Movement and ETC will host a webinar on 10th-11th June 2025, providing practical next steps.

For more details and to download the white paper, visit GDS-Movement.

Right Age, Right Sale Campaign Goes Live

The Right Age, Right Sale campaign is now live and will run until Friday 11 July 2025, aiming to reduce underage sales of alcohol, vapes, tobacco, and knives across Central England.

This regional initiative marks the launch of the new CEnTSA website, offering essential campaign resources, including a social media toolkit, e-learning modules for businesses, and compliance guidance. The toolkit provides pre-written posts, images, and captions for easy sharing.

To support businesses, three free e-learning modules are available, alongside paid training.

Additionally, in response to the ban on disposable vapes coming into force on 1st June 2025, CEnTSA has developed a targeted micro-campaign to provide businesses and stakeholders with the necessary resources.

How to Get Involved:

✅ Access and share the campaign with colleagues, businesses, schools, and community networks.
✅ Explore e-learning modules for businesses on the website.
✅ Follow and support CEnTSA’s social media efforts.

About CEnTSA

CEnTSA is the Central England Trading Standards Association, representing 14 local authorities working to improve age-restricted sales policies across the region. This campaign is the first of many collaborative initiatives aimed at fostering responsible retail practices.

For more details and to access materials, visit the CEnTSA website.

Visit England's Regenerative Tourism

Regenerative tourism is reshaping the way we think about travel. It goes beyond sustainability, aiming to leave destinations better than they were before. Visit England’s Regenerative Tourism Guide provides businesses with practical steps to integrate this approach, ensuring tourism benefits local communities, economies, and the environment.

The guide introduces the PLANT Framework—Prepare, Learn, Act, Nurture, and Transform—helping businesses transition towards regenerative practices. It emphasizes reducing waste, saving energy, and managing water while fostering partnerships and supporting local economies. Examples from across England showcase how businesses have successfully embedded sustainability into their operations, proving that responsible tourism can drive long-term success.

Regenerative tourism is more than a trend; it’s a movement towards a more thoughtful and impactful travel industry. By adopting these principles, businesses can create meaningful experiences for visitors while ensuring destinations thrive for generations to come. Whether you’re just starting or already leading the way, the guide offers valuable insights to help you make tourism a lasting force for good.

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.

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!