Living in Solihull: Why it’s the perfect place to call home in retirement

Solihull is a charming town located in the West Midlands, and is the perfect place for retirees to call home for many reasons, its natural beauty, thriving economy, excellent transportation, and a welcoming community. It is also a popular destination for those who are looking to explore its rich history and vibrant culture.

 

Why Solihull?

 

1. Its natural beauty

Solihull is a picturesque town that boasts beautiful parks, gardens, and nature reserves. The town has over 1,500 acres of parks and open spaces, including Tudor Grange Park, which is a popular spot for picnics, jogging, and outdoor activities. There is also the Malvern and Brueton Park, featuring a lake, playgrounds, and walking trails for both leisurely strolls and more challenging routes. The surrounding Warwickshire countryside is particularly stunning, with rolling hills and charming villages, giving residents a chance to explore the natural beauty of the region.

 

2. Its thriving economy

Solihull has a thriving economy, with a variety of industries represented in the town. Some of the largest employers include Jaguar Land Rover, Nationwide Building Society, and Siemens. There’s also a vibrant retail sector, with high-end shops and boutiques located in the town centre.

 

3. The excellent transportation

Solihull is well connected with excellent transportation links. It’s located just a few miles from Birmingham International Airport, offering flights to destinations around the world. It’s served by two train stations: Solihull Station and Olton Station, providing regular services to Birmingham, London, and other major cities. It’s also located closely to several major motorways, including the M6, M40, and M42, making it easy to travel to other parts of the country by car.

 

4. The welcoming community

Solihull has a friendly and welcoming community, with a strong sense of local pride. Residents are from a wide variety of backgrounds, and there are plenty of community groups and events to help newbies feel at home. The diverse population means that there is always something interesting to discover for all age groups in terms of food, culture, and entertainment. It is also home to a number of sports clubs and teams, including football, rugby, cricket, and tennis for everyone to get behind.

 

Solihull hotspots

 

1. Visit the National Trust properties

There are several National Trust properties in and around Solihull that are perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in history and culture. The Packwood House, Baddesley Clinton, and Coughton Court are all within easy reach of Solihull and offer beautiful gardens, fascinating exhibitions, and stunning architecture.

 

2. Visit the Birmingham Botanical Gardens

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens are a 15-acre oasis of beauty and tranquillity located just a few miles from Solihull. The gardens are home to over 7,000 plants and offer a range of activities, including guided tours, seasonal exhibitions and special events.

 

3. Enjoy a day at the races

The Warwick Racecourse is located just a short drive from Solihull and offers a fantastic day out for those who enjoy horse racing. Even those who aren’t into racing can still have a fantastic day no doubt! The course hosts regular events throughout the year, so keep your eyes peeled.

 

4. Take a trip to the NEC

The NEC is a world-class exhibition centre that hosts a large variety of events throughout the year, including trade shows and concerts catering for people of different ages and interest.

 

5. Visit the Touchwood Shopping Centre

The Touchwood Shopping Centre in Solihull offers a great day out for our readers that enjoy perusing the shops. With over 80 stores and restaurants, there is something for everyone.

 

6. Take a stroll along the Stratford-upon-Avon Canal

The Stratford-upon-Avon Canal is a beautiful waterway that stretches from Stratford to Birmingham. A lovely option to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the towpath, take a boat trip or simply enjoy the stunning views. 7. Attend a concert at Symphony Hall Symphony Hall is a world-renowned concert venue located in Birmingham, where you can enjoy a range of concerts and events, including classical music, jazz and pop.

 

Where to live in Solihull?

 

Many choose to downsize in retirement for various reasons, such as a reduction in maintenance and to free up some capital, but a large amount of these people are not aware that a retirement property is a great solution. Retirement villages like Solihull Village offer a new lease of life for the over 55s, giving residents the chance to be a part of an active and vibrant community. Our philosophy is that later life is for doing more, not less, all with the added bonus of everything being under one roof! It is ExtraCare’s newest development having only opened its doors in 2021, but it is filling up nicely now and is bustling with a wonderful community spirit throughout. There are still a few one and two bedroom apartments left to be snapped up, so be sure to get in touch to book your tour!

 

Address:

Solihull Village,

Victoria Crescent,

Shirley,

B90 2FH

 

Phone 0121 809 9660

 

Email solihull@extracare.org.uk