Sharks, shows and show-stopping food – Solihull in autumn

If you’re looking for ways to make your autumn more extra, read on for suggestions that’ll set you up for exactly that. From living the high life in Michelin-starred Solihull restaurants, to unleashing your inner Bear Grylls on high-octane adventure experiences, the vibrant West Midlands “town in the country” is nothing but surprising. Add to that off-roading thrills, fabulous theatre productions, and opportunities to shop, village-hop and bop along to sensational shows, and it’s fair to say Solihull is a thoroughly refreshing destination.

Enjoy world-class comedy, music, theatre and food at the iconic NEC

This autumn will see the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) – the UK’s largest events space, no less – host happenings to please all tastes and interests.

In the market for live music? Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds will be taking to the stage, with other notable acts like Kasabian also set to perform at bp pulse LIVE this autumn (part of the NEC complex).

If that wasn’t enough, the winter Good Food Show will serve a feast of festive flavour, with live demos from the likes of James Martin and Tom Kerridge.

Looking for family-friendly activities? Nearby, Solihull’s Core Theatre will bring the magic of The Jungle Book to life this autumn. Plus, the town will host a range of events for kids during the half-term break, including Halloween-themed fun and a Diwali celebration. Check out Visit Solihull for a full list of activities.

Editor’s tip: while in town for an autumn NEC event, get a head start on your Christmas shopping by heading to modern malls like Touchwood and Resorts World, and visiting the villages of Knowle and Dorridge, both of which boast a bounty of indie boutiques.

Experience off-roading thrills in an iconic Land Rover

Showcasing the remarkable off-road prowess of legendary all-terrain Land Rovers, petrol heads will be in seventh heaven during their Land Rover Driving Experience.

Options range from taster sessions – justifiably billed as “possibly the most adventure-packed 60 minutes you can have” – to a full-on Explorer experience that’ll have drivers living their best off-road life on an epic three-day expedition.

We also rate the Heritage Drive that puts you behind the wheel of an iconic 1952 Series 1 Defender 110, and love the fact that 11-17-year-olds can enjoy a Young Off-Roader session.

Whichever wild ride you go for, guidance from expert instructors will have you tackling challenging off-road terrain in adrenaline-charged style.

Editor’s tip: if embracing the great outdoors sits high on your priority list, be sure to explore Solihull’s glorious green spaces in all their golden-hued, autumnal majesty to see exactly why Solihull is esteemed as a Tree City of the World, and holds 17 Green Flag Awards.
 

Get high-octane kicks at Bear Grylls Adventure

Staying on the adventure theme, offering eleven epic experiences that put different skills to the test, Bear Grylls Adventure also has an inclusive “adventure is for everyone” ethos. 

As a result, visitors of pretty much every age and ability level can get involved, with Adventure Guides on hand to instruct, inspire and enhance your enjoyment of each and every offering.

If you have a head for heights, try the indoor climbing walls, go zip-lining, enjoy the exhilaration of the freefall iFLY wind tunnel, and navigate the 36-obstacle high ropes course, which happens to be the tallest in Europe.
Back on the ground, try your hand at axe-throwing, archery and shooting, or venture underwater to cage-snorkel in the company of tropical fish and blacktip reef sharks.

For the ultimate underwater experience, book a 120-minute shark dive.
 

Feast your epicurean heart out at Grace and Savour

As Solihull restaurants go, dining experiences don’t get more romantic – or delectably experiential – than the Michelin-starred Grace and Savour.

Built into the walls of the Victorian Walled Garden at historic Hampton Manor, this highly esteemed restaurant is also impossibly scenic.

With a focus on British farming and fishing, every delectable dish on Grace and Savour’s seasonal tasting menu is suffused with sustainability.

Think pine-smoked wild boar, grass-fed beef brisket, and buttery monkfish, all served from an open kitchen.

Editor’s tip: for the ultimate epicurean experience, stay overnight in a Walled Garden Suite. You’ll be treated to a chef’s tour of the garden ahead of your evening meal, before bedding down in elegant style.

Have your taste buds tantalised at Toffs at Hogarths

After dazzling diners at Toffs – another of the best Solihull restaurants –  for the past few years, multi-award-winning chef Rob Palmer has recently relocated to the handsome Hogarths Hotel.

Surrounded by 27 acres of countryside in Dorridge, Toffs at Hogarths sees the esteemed chef showcase his legendary passion for sustainable seasonal cooking, courtesy of produce sourced from the three local counties of Worcestershire, Warwickshire and Herefordshire.

Whether you want to relish a sumptuous Sunday roast, or fancy a full-on three-counties feast, foodies are in for a treat at Toffs.

Editor’s tip: for a slice of fairy tale magic – along with several slices of cake and savoury delights – take traditional afternoon tea in the woods. 

Eat, drink and live the high life at Sky Bar and Restaurant

Excuse the pun, but it’s true to say Sky Bar & Restaurant – located in Solihull’s entertainment district – really does elevate dining out.

If you’re hungry for hearty food to warm your soul as it fills your belly, a new autumn and winter menu has just dropped. 

Think comfort-food favourites like bangers and mash served in giant Yorkshire puddings, and a moreish dessert menu that includes irresistible old-school classics like sticky toffee pudding.  

Also boasting a classy cocktail kitchen, secret garden and fancy afternoon teas, Sky Bar & Restaurant is a top spot for casual daytime dining through to full-on nights to remember. 
Editor’s tip: elevate teatime at the Sky Bar by upgrading to an Afternoon Tea Spa Experience.

Tempted to take a trip to Solihull this autumn? Discover more great things to do in this endlessly surprising “town in the country” – from activities that’ll keep the whole family happy, to special Solihull restaurants that take dining out to the next level.

For more information on Solihull, visit visitsolihull.co.uk and  www.solihull.gov.uk.

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