You might think the town’s proximity to Birmingham – and the Bull Ring – would severely hamper the town’s shopping options, with people preferring to make the journey there. But with a wonderful array of Solihull shops, the retail scene is actually exceptionally good. We don’t think you need to go elsewhere! Save yourself the time and use your travel costs on treating yourself. Take a look at our guide for where you can satisfy your shopping craving in Solihull.
Shopping in Solihull
Shopping centres
The town’s major shopping centre is Touchwood. It’s home to more than 80 stores, including John Lewis, Zara and Hollister, along with 20 bars and restaurants, plus a nine-screen Cinemax. To find out more, take a look at our page dedicated to Touchwood.
Mell Square is Solihull’s open-air shopping centre, which has been attracting bargain hunters to the heart of the town since the 1960s. There are over 90 stores for you to explore, including High Street stalwarts like TK Maxx, WH Smith, Boots, Clarks, The Body Shop, M&S and Argos, along with more upmarket names like House of Fraser, Le Creuset and The White Company.
If, on the other hand, you’re more into horticulture than high street names, then perhaps Akamba Garden Centre is for you. Essentially, it’s an African garden centre with exotic plants that you won’t find anywhere else. The owner, Chris, imports the kind of hardy plants that he knows will survive our brutal British winters. Chris is quite a character himself. He’s a speed skater who represented Great Britain in the Olympics, plus he’s spent time as a glass blower, fashion designer, artist, sculptor and gym instructor. Perhaps that’s why Akamba is such an eclectic place.
As well as plants, you can also pick up pieces of fair-trade African art, clothes and jewellery. The on-site Tribe Restaurant serves up some excellent, authentic Afro-Carribean dishes like curried goat and jerk chicken too. Plus, it’s conveniently located less than a ten-minute drive from our Solihull South (M42) hotel.
Designer shops
Make your way between Touchwood and Mell Square, and you’ll find your fill of designer shops, particularly as they’re near John Lewis and House of Fraser.
And don’t forget Flannels, just a little way out of town in Shirley. This high-end fashion chain specialises in luxury brands for both men and women, including Stone Island, Kenzo, Moschino and Giuseppe Zanotti.