Magical markets, festive theatre, motorcycle mania and social gaming – Christmas in Solihull

If you’re seeking to spice up your festive season (aside from indulging in mulled wine and gingerbread treats, that is), here we share stacks of things to do in Solihull as the countdown to Christmas ramps up. Blessed with a bounty of world-class venues, this vibrant West Midlands “town in the country” will have you and your family doing December different. From enjoying magical markets, and meeting Santa at festive theatre shows, to quaffing cocktails in gaming bars, every age, interest and budget is covered. Intrigued? Read on for ways to enjoy Christmas in Solihull, and for event-based gift ideas that’ll give your family and friends an unforgettable 2025.

Feed your hunger for high-octane thrills at Flash Climbing Centre 

Ahead of hunkering down to feed your insatiable hunger for mince pies, Flash Climbing Centre (on Vulcan Rd in the heart of Solihull) is on hand to keep all ages active, and 100% exhilarated.

Devoted to delivering inclusive experiences, the centre’s founders have created a thriving climbing community that’s open to all.

With 180+ routes in the centre at any time, everyone from boulder-tackling beginners to hardcore climbers can find their vibe – and tribe – at Flash Climbing Centre.

On that subject, while one-to-one coaching sessions are available, the vibe here is distinctly social, not least during the centre’s Flash Friday Social Night events.

So, if you want to do something different this December, check out deals and discounts at Flash Climbing Centre, including special seasonal offerings. 

Eat, drink and bring your best game to a good-time gaming bar 

Never mind rockin’ around the Christmas tree. At Spinners you get to shuffle, shoot, golf and bowl at a cool gaming bar that’s all about embracing the joys of competitive socialising through an enticing – and addictive – “play, drink, eat” ethos.

Located in Solihull’s Touchwood Shopping Centre, the fun folk behind Spinners have put their own (ahem) spin on traditional games that’ll take your festive gatherings to the next level. 

As for the games that are set to get your competitive juices flowing, take your pick from booking a session on the Enchanted Garden golf course, or trying your hand at duckpin bowling – a bijou twist on a classic. You can also enjoy the thrills of traditional clay shooting in a virtual set-up, unleash your inner Luke Littler during interactive darts games, and swoosh pucks on an old-school shuffleboard.

When you’re in need of replenishment, Spinners serves top-notch food and drinks in a stylish setting. The super-satisfying artisan pizzas and Candy Blossom cocktails come especially recommended.

All of which means, booking a space at Spinners this Christmas is sure to fire up your festive season in spirited style.

Meet Christmas characters and get creative at Mini Mugs Play Village

Next, something special for the little ones in your life – Mini Mugs Play Village, a charming child-centred venue in the heart of Solihull’s Shirley area.

Inviting imaginative play in a cosy environment, it’s a magical place in which kids can explore an exciting roleplay village and soft play zone, while the teeniest patrons will have the time of their lives bouncing around a bespoke baby area. With a café serving excellent coffee, sweet treats, breakfasts and lunches, there’s plenty to keep grown-ups happy, too. And, right now, Mini Mugs is hosting a programme of Christmas events, including opportunities to meet the Elf on the Shelf, and the (nice) Christmas Grinch.

Add to that opportunities to make your own bear, and get creative at Christmas craft and biscuit-decorating sessions, and visiting Mini Mugs is sure to add sparkle to your family’s festive season. 

So, why not treat your favourite mini-people to a play session or Christmas Event at Mini Mugs?

Festive theatre, food (and more) to warm you to the core, at The Core

A delightful Santa-themed show that lets little ones meet the big man himself — Santa’s Christmas Cracker promises joy and giggles for the whole family. Or catch Santa in Love, a heartwarming tale that reveals what happens when Santa falls head over heels!

All this, and more, is in store at The Core this December. Located on Theatre Square in the centre of Solihull, this splendid multipurpose arts venue is devoted to delivering exhilarating arts experiences for all ages and tastes.

Talking of tastes, ENCORE, the cool on-site café, is serving a top-notch seasonal menu through December. We’re talking hot roast baps, pigs under blanket toasties, and festive paninis stuffed with brie and cranberry. Feeling thirsty when it’s cold outside? Warm up with a mulled wine or Bailey’s hot chocolate.

Alongside presenting an alluring line-up of Christmas events, The Core regularly hosts concerts, exhibitions, movies and workshops, making it a must-visit venue around the year – not just for Christmas. 

That said, to elevate your festive season, browse The Core’s Christmas programme.

Make motorbike-mad mates merry at the National Motorcycle Museum 

And now for something completely different (like we said at the start, there are things to do in Solihull to suit every interest). Namely, the National Motorcycle Museum – the world’s biggest and best British motorcycle museum, which has been thrilling motorcycle aficionados since 1964.

Easily accessible from Birmingham International railway station, the museum showcases a whopping 1000+ motorcycles, with expert-guided tours providing insights into Britain’s remarkable motorcycle manufacturing innovations.

In addition to museum tours, the venue hosts events around the year. While some of these veer from the motorcycle path – including a Christmas Wool Show – a highlight of the calendar is the Museum Live event. Think dragster burnouts, demo rides and exhibitions in the company of racing legends and motorcycle celebs. And all this for free.

So, if you know someone who’s mad about motorcycles – and would happily pass up a ride on Santa’s sleigh for the chance to see some of the world’s most amazing bikes – National Motorcycle Museum tickets are just the ticket for their Christmas present.

Celebrate Christmas at the Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens

Celebrate the season in style at the Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens, an independent site with a rich history and a range of events all year long. With a Bronze Green Tourism award under its belt, the gardens are committed to sustainability while offering a memorable Christmas experience.

Catch the Owls by Candlelight event for a charming evening with these majestic creatures (with dates in January as well). For music lovers, Carols in the Courtyard on December 22nd offers a wonderful chance to enjoy seasonal tunes in a historic setting. And for a real treat, don’t miss the Singing Santa event, perfect for all ages.

Set against the backdrop of beautiful gardens, these events are a great way to enjoy Christmas.

Fast cars, footballs and feverish competition – give the gift of Rocket League gaming

A high-energy hybrid of arcade-style football and rocket-powered cars played by millions of gamers around the globe, the Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) is coming to Solihull in spring 2025.

Yep, that’s right. Across 29^th and 30^th March, the bp pulse LIVE Arena at the National Exhibition Centre will host the first trophy of the RLCS 2025 Season, in front of a live audience.

The stakes couldn’t be higher as gamers gear up to put their skills to the test in a fiercely fought contest that’ll see participants control jet-propelled cars to strike giant footballs into their opponent’s net.

Fast and furious, Solihull’s springtime hosting of the RLCS is set to showcase live gaming at its most gratifying.

As such, gifting Rocket League Championship Series tickets to the gamers in your life will extend festive-season thrills into 2025.

For even more indoor entertainment, head to Resorts World where you'll find Hollywood Bowl offering classic ten-pin bowling fun for all ages. Next door, Vortex Gaming provides an impressive array of arcade games and virtual reality experiences, making it perfect for both casual gamers and serious enthusiasts alike.

With such a richness of venues – from whopping world-class exhibition centres, to intimate family-friendly spaces, and modern multipurpose arts complexes – you’re positively spoiled for choice. 

As a result, you might just discover your new favourite places to eat, drink and make very merry in Solihull. Tempted? Discover more great things to do in Solihull.

This article was brought to you in sponsorship with West Midlands Growth Company.