Tucked away in our little bubble in the heart of England, Solihull has long been regarded as one of the UK’s most desirable places to live by locals, and it looks like we’re not the only ones who think so!
Solihull has once again secured its place as one of the best locations to live in the Midlands, according to a recent survey from calculator.co.uk.
It’s place in the rankings is unlikely to come as a surprise to those familiar with this thriving town and its surrounding villages though.
Solihull’s reputation has been steadily growing, thanks in large part to its prosperous local community, excellent schools, and proximity to both Birmingham city centre and rural Warwickshire.
The town’s motto, “Urbs in Rure” (the town in the country), certainly encapsulates what makes Solihull such an attractive place to live, offering a blend of convenient, urban life and tranquil rural surroundings which appeals to families, professionals, and retirees alike.
Solihull’s winning formula
So, what is it about Solihull that consistently places it among the top locations in the country? For one, it’s hard to ignore the town’s enviable location. Often referred to as the “gateway to the West Midlands,” Solihull offers the best of both worlds: easy access to Birmingham city centre, just a short commute away by road or rail, and the peace and greenery of the surrounding Warwickshire countryside.
With fantastic transport links including the M42 motorway, a direct train line to Birmingham and London, and Birmingham International Airport on the doorstep, Solihull is perfectly situated for those who need to travel frequently for work or leisure. This makes it particularly attractive for professionals and families who want to enjoy a quieter pace of life without sacrificing access to urban amenities. Muddy Stilettos certainly agree with us, since they have also recognised Solihull villages Hampton-in-Arden and Meriden as some of the most sought-after places to live in the Midlands recently too.
A variety of homes for every lifestyle
One of Solihull’s standout features is its range of housing options. The town offers an impressive mix of period properties and modern developments, ensuring there is something to suit every taste and budget. Those who love character homes will find plenty of beautifully maintained Victorian, Edwardian, and Tudor-style properties in Solihull’s historic areas, such as Knowle and Dorridge, both of which have also come highly recommended by the Sunday Times this year as some of the best places to live in the Midlands.
Meanwhile, for those seeking more contemporary living, Solihull’s newer developments on the likes of Blossomfield Road and Lovekin Gate for the over-fifty-fives provide sleek, modern homes with all the amenities required for 21st-century life. These new-build and renovation properties, particularly around the town centre and suburbs, offer easy access to excellent schools, Solihull’s 1500 acres of green space, and enviable shopping and leisure facilities.
Top schools and family appeal
Solihull’s status as a family-friendly destination is also well earned. The town is home to some of the best schools in the region, with both primary and secondary schools consistently achieving high ratings from Ofsted. Schools such as Tudor Grange Academy and Arden School in Knowle both attract families to the area and the high standard of education, combined with a low crime rate and plenty of access to outdoor activities, makes Solihull an appealing place to raise children.
Green spaces and outdoor living
For many, one of Solihull’s biggest draws is its abundance of green spaces. Despite being a bustling Midlands town, Solihull is surrounded by countryside, and there are numerous parks and nature reserves on the doorstep. The popular Malvern and Brueton Parks, located just a short walk from the town centre, are noted as favourites with dog walkers and families, offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and wildlife watching opportunities.
Residents can enjoy peaceful walks along the Grand Union Canal, explore nearby nature reserves, or spend time at the historic Baddesley Clinton and Packwood House, two National Trust properties just a short drive away.
A thriving town centre and local amenities
Solihull’s town centre is another reason it’s so highly regarded according to Rightmove. Despite its relatively small size, locals and visitors alike enjoy Solihull’s impressive range of amenities, from the award-winning Touchwood Shopping Centre with the West Midlands’ only John Lewis store, to a bustling high street filled with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Foodies have also been particularly pleased with the dining options available in Solihull. The town has a growing reputation for its international culinary offerings, including everything from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants like Michelin starred Grace & Savour in nearby village Hampton in Arden.
In addition to shopping and dining, the town is also home to the Core Theatre, which regularly hosts performances, concerts, and community events, providing a cultural hub and entertainment for all ages.
Looking ahead
While Solihull already offers an exceptional quality of life, it is a town that continues to look towards the future. Development projects aimed at improving infrastructure and sustainability, expanding housing, and preserving green spaces ensure that it will remain one of the most desirable places to live for years to come.
