Shirley in Solihull has long held a reputation as a fantastic place to live, but it’s now gaining even more attention from home movers looking for a spot that offers everything – strong schools, a lively high street, plenty of green space, and good value homes.
As Director of Martin & Co Solihull, I’ve helped hundreds of buyers and sellers make their move in B90, and if you’re thinking of doing the same, this local guide will help you get to know the area a little better before you take the next step.
Why move to Shirley?
Sitting just south of central Solihull, Shirley has the feel of a self-contained town. It’s within easy reach of Birmingham, but far enough out to enjoy a slower, family-friendly pace of life. It borders Hall Green and Dickens Heath to the north and south, with Solihull town centre just 10 minutes away by car.
Shirley is known for its strong sense of community. Whether you’re popping to the local butchers or attending a school fair, it doesn’t take long to feel part of something here. The pace of life is relaxed but not sleepy. For families in particular, it ticks all the boxes: plenty of schools, a safe environment, and lots to do.
Transport-wise, it’s incredibly well connected. You can drive to the M42 in under 10 minutes and reach Birmingham Airport in 15. Shirley Station puts Birmingham city centre just 20 minutes away by train, and regular buses link the area to nearby towns.
Property market snapshot: what does your money get you in B90?
Shirley’s property market offers a good mix of traditional and modern homes. You’ll find roomy 1930s semis, post-war terraces, modern townhouses, and large detached homes tucked into quiet cul-de-sacs. There are also several new-build developments in and around Shirley for buyers after a turnkey finish.
According to Rightmove, the average property price in B90 is around £350,000, with detached homes averaging £500,000+, semis in the region of £350,000, and flats around £200,000. That’s notably more affordable than nearby Solihull town centre, making Shirley especially attractive to families upsizing or first-time buyers making their next move.
Buy-to-let investors are also taking notice, thanks to strong rental demand and reliable yields. The mix of housing types and tenant profiles — from young professionals to families — keeps Shirley’s lettings market active throughout the year.
If you’re wondering how much your home might be worth, get a free, no-obligation valuation from us at Martin & Co Solihull.
Schools in Shirley: top-rated education on your doorstep
One of Shirley’s biggest draws is its schools. Families move here with education top of mind, and it’s easy to see why.
You’ll find a wide choice of highly regarded primary and secondary schools. Tudor Grange Academy and Light Hall School are consistently rated highly by parents and have strong Ofsted ratings.
For younger children, St James’ C of E, Shirley Heath, and Blossomfield Infant School are all popular and well-regarded options. The area also benefits from several nurseries and early-years providers, making it easy for parents to find care that fits their schedules.
For families exploring independent education, there are several private schools within reach, including Solihull School and Eversfield Prep.
Shirley High Street: shops, food, and local favourites
Shirley’s high street is the heart of the community. Centred around Stratford Road and the modern Parkgate Shopping Centre, it blends big-name brands with independents and plenty of spots to grab a coffee or a bite to eat.
You’ll find everything from M&S Foodhall, Asda, and Lidl to local favourites like Wedges Bakery and Panchuli Indian Restaurant, which is often named one of the best places to eat in Solihull. The mix of convenience and character makes Shirley’s high street a real bonus for local residents.
Beyond the big chains, there’s a growing number of independent shops, beauty salons, and cafes. Shirley also hosts monthly markets and seasonal events, especially in the lead-up to Christmas.
Green spaces and family fun
For families and outdoor lovers, Shirley offers more than just urban convenience. It has a surprising amount of green space for an area so close to Birmingham.
Shirley Park is a much-loved local gem. Recently refurbished, it includes a large playground, skate park, and beautiful open space perfect for picnics and walks. Palmers Rough, a woodland area with a nature trail, is ideal for weekend adventures.
Nearby, you’ve also got easy access to the scenic Stratford-upon-Avon Canal towpath and the Malvern and Brueton Parks closer to Solihull centre.
For rainy days or after-school clubs, families often head to Tudor Grange Leisure Centre, which has a swimming pool, gym, and fitness classes for all ages. Local sports teams, from football to cricket, also provide great options for children looking to get active.
Getting around: transport and travel links
Shirley is perfectly placed for commuters and frequent travellers. Whether you’re heading into Birmingham for work or jetting off on holiday, you won’t be short of options.
Shirley Station has direct links to Birmingham Moor Street and Snow Hill, making it a popular choice for city workers who want more space at home but still need to be close to the action.
Drivers benefit from quick access to the M42, M40, and A34, and Birmingham Airport is just 15 minutes away by car or taxi. Regular bus routes also make it easy to get around without relying on a car.
What’s it like to live in Shirley?
In short, Shirley offers balance. It’s big enough to feel vibrant but small enough to feel personal. You can walk to the shops, bump into neighbours, and feel genuinely connected to where you live.
For buyers, it offers great value, especially compared to central Solihull or Harborne. For sellers, demand is steady year-round, particularly for family homes and modern new builds.
At Martin & Co Solihull, we often hear from clients who moved to Shirley “for the schools” and stayed for the lifestyle. It’s a place where children can walk to school, you can enjoy a coffee while running errands, and the weekend brings everything from football matches to farmers markets.
Whether you’re a first-time buyer, a growing family, or downsizing, Shirley caters for all stages of life.
Ready to make your move in B90?
If Shirley sounds like somewhere you could see yourself, why not take the next step?
At Martin & Co Solihull, we’re proud to offer local property knowledge, friendly service, and expert advice to buyers and sellers across the B90 postcode.
Book a free valuation or browse homes for sale on our website.
Whether you’re selling your home, starting your property journey, or just curious about what’s next, we’re here to help.
