Solihull Archives - Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens

Medieval Combat – watch, cheer, learn: A Demonstration Battle Day

Glynis Powell — Sat, 18 Jul 2026 10:00:00 +0000

A Medieval Tournament….. but perhaps not as you know it from the more romantic films.

Join us in the Gardens on Saturday 18th July for some exciting and thrilling full contact combat sport in clanking armour.

Birmingham Medieval Combat are a martial arts sports team basing their activities on the foot combat tournaments of the 14-15th Century, similar to Jousts.

On this day they will be treating us to some skillful duels and noisy group battles – all unscripted ‘ouch’- in the Gardens.

Across the day there will be plenty of opportunities to talk and ask questions of the combattants, to learn about theior skills and techniques and to understand the growing popularity of this modern version of the ancient sport.

Likely shape of the day – subject to change

11am – Duels and Weapons Combat demonstration
11.30 -1pm – Prebookable Adult Beginners Class (10 spaces only) BOOK HERE
1.30pm – Armoured martial arts and group battle
3pm – Group battle and …… eek free for all skirmish

The BMC team will be onsite all day offering adhoc fights, answering questions and showcasing their weapons and equipment.

No need to book for the event day –

Normal Entry Fees to the Gardens apply

£5-£6.60 See main website page

Cafe open… come and picnic.. if you dare

Suitable for all ages to watch – but please note these are noisy and unscripted fights

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New funding to restore our nature…

Glynis Powell — Sat, 16 May 2026 09:04:21 +0000

Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens are absolutely delighted to announce the award of a generous £89,300 grant from HS2, marking the beginning of an exciting eighteen-month project entitled Restoring Nature, Creating Access.

This significant funding brings renewed hope and determination as we embark on vital restoration and improvements throughout our cherished historic gardens and city green spaces.

This grant will allow us to undertake a transformative project, including restoration of boundary trees, replenishing hundreds of metres of box hedging lost to BoxMoth, enhancing biodiversity, opening up new and improved access paths, and championing composting and sustainable practices within the Gardens and local community.

The funding is from HS2s Community and Environment Fund (CEF) which was created to provide benefits to communities along the line of route that are demonstrably disrupted by the construction of the new railway. Further information about CEF can be found at: https://www.groundwork.org.uk/hs2funds.

Head Gardener, Denise Seckham, shares her pride in the largely volunteer team’s resilience, as they thoughtfully balance the requirements of the historic gardens’ early18th-century design with contemporary environmental needs. The loss of the emblematic Box hedging in recent years has been a real test, emotionally and physically, but this new support inspires renewed efforts and optimism for the future.

Liam Byrne, MP for HodgeHill and North Solihull, whose constituency included the Gardens and Parkland says

“The work done by the charity on the Gardens and Parkland is inspiring. The funding from HS2 will provide much needed support for the Charity to continue to look after these valued and valuable historic green spaces. It will enable to continue expand

community participation and foster deeper appreciation of this unique natural environment by facilitating access to leisure and providing formal training opportunities.”

The CEF funding in combination with vital financial contributions from the Stanley Smith Horticultural Trust UK and The Rowlands Trust means our Gardens are now well-placed to tackle these challenges, safeguarding the historic character of the estate while embracing innovation and sustainability. The project is due to commence in early summer and will run through to the end of 2027, working hand-in-hand with our ongoing seasonal maintenance and the rhythm of nature itself.

The Gardens team is deeply committed to minimising disruption for visitors and ensuring that our vibrant calendar of events and activities continues uninterrupted.

Community engagement and volunteer involvement remain at the heart of everything we do, in keeping with our forty-year tradition, and we warmly invite everyone to keep an eye out for ways to participate as this exciting project unfolds. Together, we are shaping an inspiring future for Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens!

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Summer Hapa Zome Workshop

Glynis Powell — Thu, 30 Jul 2026 11:30:00 +0000

Learn all about the art of Hapa Zome, have a ago and take home your creation.

Hapa Zome is a fun and creative way of connecting art and nature.

Originally from Japan, it involves pounding leaves, flowers and other natural materials onto fabric and paper to create colourful and beautiful patterns.

What to expect-

You will be introduced to Hapa Zome with a demonstration from our instructor.
After that it’s time for you to experiment, explore which materials work better and why,
Create your own Hapa Zome print to take home with you.

This workshop is suitable for children aged 5-13 YO. (All children must be accompanied by an adult.)

All materials supplied and instructions on the day will be relatively simple for you to work and create together, or individually .

FREE …The ticket also includes a general Gardens entry for child and single accompanying adult.

This Workshop is supported by The National Lottery Awards for All.

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King Arthur and the Holy Fail

Glynis Powell — Tue, 21 Jul 2026 15:00:00 +0000

Our Medieval summer continues with the return of Three Inch Theatre’s wonderful family friendly show..

An epic tale of Arthurian adventure and medieval mayhem.

In a land of daring quests, dashing knights, and endless jousting, there lived a would-be hero – waiting in the wings – who went by the name of Arthur. When Camelot is rocked to it’s core by a tragic – and frankly improbable – incident involving a large table of an undisclosed shape, Arthur is thrust into the quest of a lifetime. Will he bravely battle through blistering cold and scorching fire to save his beloved realm, or will he crumble as fate refuses to cooperate?

Destiny awaits, chivalry calls, and the quest to end all quests begins. Saddle up – things are about to get legendary.

★★★★★ – “So entertaining…laugh-out-loud funny”

★★★★★ – “Riotously fun. Hugely enjoyable”

★★★★★ – “The ultimate British theatrical experience” – Hastings Independent Press

★★★★★ – “Great fun for the whole family…my kids are still talking about it!”

On Tuesday 21st July, join us at Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens. Bring your own cushions, and camping-chairs and join us for this most epic of quests. Come prepared for the weather – the performance will continue come rain come shine!

Tickets from £20 -£60, (under 5s’ Free)

Early Bird (ends Apr 30th)

Standard ticket £21.20
Family (2+2) £58

May onwards:

Standard Adult £24
Under 18 £12
Family (2+2) £63.50

BOOK HERE

(external site)

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WildFoodUK Foraging Course

Glynis Powell — Fri, 24 Apr 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Foraging safely… Even here in the city, Nature offers wonderful habitats and food for free. Join us and WildFoodUK for a fascinating stroll in the ‘urban countryside’. A first level course in foraging.

Castle Bromwich Hall and Gardens represent a rare example of a 17th century Jacobean country house, complete with its original garden setting and parkland. Situated only five miles from Birmingham City centre, the hall is now in private ownership, but 40 acres of historic garden and the parkland are managed by Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens Trust. The site contains a mosaic of habitats including formal gardens, orchards, woodland, wetlands and grasslands making it ideal for all year round foraging!

Our Foraging Courses begin with a short introduction to Wild Food UK, what to expect from your day and a brief summary of the general countryside codes, including our Foraging Code.

Heading off at a leisurely pace, your instructor will teach you how to safely identify the different species of edible and poisonous plants and mushrooms that you discover. This exploration will take about 2.5hrs, during which we’ll take a break for a homemade refreshment, such as our Hogweed & Wild Garlic Soup or Elderflower Champagne!

Then it’s back to the meeting point for a tasty wild food meal. This will include a selection of foraged homemade treats created by your instructor, and a dish made with what we have collected during the walk.

All of our food is seasonal, so what you are served depends on what is growing at that time of year. In Spring we will be making use of the fresh wild greens and in Autumn, the array of tasty wild mushrooms that the area has to offer.

You will receive a comprehensive set of Wild Food UK ‘Course Notes’ a few days after your course. This email will contain links and articles relating to the plants and mushrooms we discovered or discussed during the day.

Dates

Friday 24th April (12-3.30pm)
Sunday 10th May (12.3.30pm)
Saturday 11th July (10am- 1.30)
Sunday 16th Aug (12-3.30pm)

Castle Bromwich Hall and Gardens has free parking, a courtyard cafe and toilet facilities. There is usually a charge to enter the gardens, but if you are attending a course with us we will cover the cost.

Discover more about this Historical Landmark: Castle Bromwich Hall and Gardens

N.B. Please be aware of the possibility that you will also cover Steep slopes, rough woodland on this course.

Tickets here

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WildFoodUK Foraging Course

Cara Beech Webb — Wed, 29 Apr 2026 10:02:00 +0000

Foraging safely… Even here in the city, Nature offers wonderful habitats and food for free. Join us and WildFoodUK for a fascinating stroll in the ‘urban countryside’. A first level course in foraging.

Our Foraging Courses begin with a short introduction to Wild Food UK, what to expect from your day and a brief summary of the general countryside codes, including our Foraging Code.

Dates

Wednesday 18th Mar	12:00pm to 15:30pm (Approx End)
Friday 24th Apr	12:00pm to 15:30pm (Approx End)
Sunday 10th May	12:00pm to 15:30pm (Approx End)

Saturday 11th Jul	10:00am to 13:30pm (Approx End)
Sunday 16th Aug	12:00pm to 15:30pm (Approx End)

Discover more about this Historical Landmark: Castle Bromwich Hall and Gardens

N.B. Please be aware of the possibility that you will also cover Steep slopes, rough woodland on this course.

Tickets here

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Yoga for Midsummer

Glynis Powell — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 17:30:00 +0000

Two immersive 90 minute open air yoga experiences to honour and celebrate the summer solstice, with the backdrop of the tranquil gardens surrounding you.

Yogi Claire will lead you in this unique yoga class is suitable for all levels, with a focus on relaxation and mindfulness.

Gentle, flowing sequences and restorative Yin yoga postures will be fused together, along with meditation, breath work, poetry, seasonal anecdotes and guided relaxation to help you feel balanced, grounded and rejuvenated.

Where exactly in the Gardens we practice is weather dependent. If it is warm and sunny we can practice amongst the trees and flowers. If the weather is less agreeable, we have the option to retreat under a canopy, protecting us from the elements, while still allowing us to enjoy the scenic gardens.

Book directly with Claire – click each date below

Sunday June 14th 10am

Friday June 19th 6.30pm

Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in and set up your mat so the class…

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Yoga for Midsummer

Glynis Powell — Sun, 14 Jun 2026 09:00:00 +0000

Two immersive 90 minute open air yoga experiences to honour and celebrate the summer solstice, with the backdrop of the tranquil gardens surrounding you.

Yogi Claire will lead you in this unique yoga class is suitable for all levels, with a focus on relaxation and mindfulness.

Book directly with Claire – click each date below

Sunday June 14th 10am

Friday June 19th 6.30pm

Please arrive at least 10 minutes early to check in and set up your mat so the class…

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Digbeth Dining Club summer tour at the Gardens

Glynis Powell — Sun, 05 Jul 2026 10:30:00 +0000

Get ready for another year of incredible street food, great music and unbeatable vibes as the Digbeth Dining Club Tour returns to the Gardens for 2026!

Join us for a feast of award-winning street food, live entertainment, and a buzzing atmosphere that’s perfect for the whole family—including your four-legged friends!

Whether you’re a foodie on the hunt for your next favourite dish or just looking for a fantastic day out you’ll find it at the Gardens on July 5th

What to expect:
A hand-picked lineup of top independent vendors serving up award winning street food!
Bring the whole crew—four legged friends included!

Where: Castle Bromwich Historic Gardens
Time Slots: 11:30am – 3pm & 3:30pm – 7pm

Please note all visitors (including gardens members) must have a ticket from Digbeth Dining Club

Book your tickets HERE

https://www.skiddle.com/whats-on/Birmingham/Castle-Bromwich-Hall-Gardens/Castle-Bromwich-Dining-Club/42277184/

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Pictures of Spring – drawing inspiration from Edith Holden

Glynis Powell — Fri, 15 May 2026 23:00:00 +0000

Expert or beginner – all are welcome to spend and hour or two ‘taking a line for a walk’ and creating drawings in, and of, the Gardens.

Having ‘adopted’ local naturalist and artist Edith Holden as our guide and inspiration, we invite all visitors to have a go at capturing a bit of Spring on paper.

There will be paper and drawing materials available to use and you are welcome to bring your own.

No pressure, no judgement…. just observe and enjoy.

Across the day, Edith Holden enthusiast and collector, Rachel Smith- Chopra, will be on hand to share her experiences and knowledge of Edith Holden’s travels around Birmingham and Solihull.

individuals, families, groups… all welcome.

All materials and activities free with Normal Gardens Entrance Fee. No need to book.

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