Seven hundred and fifty years in the making – and worth every one of them. On Sunday 21st June 2026, Knowle throws open its High Street for a full day of live music, street food, performances and community activities as the village marks a major milestone in its long history.
Knowle’s story stretches back long before 1276 — there is evidence of a settlement here as early as 1068 but it was in 1276 that the village first became a manor in its own right, when it passed to the widow Agnes by dower following the death of the last de Arden heir. Seven hundred and fifty years on, the village is ready to celebrate.
Entertainment
Sunday 21st June promises to be a special village occasion. A main stage will host a line-up of live performances from local acts including dance schools, Knowle Music Society, George Wilson, The Shed Men Walking and The Definitive, with entertainment running across multiple areas of the High Street. ‘Downtown’, three bands will perform outside Slow Century Records, while a few surprises are planned for the day.
Special Guests
The celebrations will be attended by distinguished guests including Christopher Loughran, the Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands, representing His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of West Midlands . Carmen Watson, the High Sheriff of the West Midlands will also be in attendance, as well the new Mayor of Solihull.
Street Food
Street food traders will be set up across the village, with something to suit every taste from freshly cooked churros and crepes to grilled meats and Italian classics.
Community stalls
Community will be at the heart of the day, with stalls from a host of local organisations including Knowle Revels, Knowle Male Voice Choir, KDBH Neighbourhood Forum, K&D Lions, the Royal Air Force Association, Solihull Soroptimists, Knowle United Reformed Church, Knowle British Legion, Challenge Adventure Group and many more. From heritage and history to community services and local clubs, there will be something to explore at every turn.
Knowle Library Grand Re-opening
The grand reopening of Knowle Library also takes place on this day. After being closed for roof renovations over the winter, Christopher Loughran, Deputy Lieutenant will be cutting the ribbon to officially reopen the Library.
History
Knowle Society will also be upstairs in Knowle Library within the refreshed Knowle Heritage Centre where you’ll be able to meet the heritage team, explore artefacts from Knowle’s past, and pick up the Society’s “A Walk in Time” heritage trail leaflet.
Knowle through the decades
Knowle’s pubs and cafes will also be getting into the spirit of the occasion with a Knowle Through the Decades theme. The Vaults will be kitted out in wartime style while The Ale Rooms will take on a 1920s Peaky Blinders feel. Further details on other venues joining the themed trail will be announced as we get closer to the day.
You’ll find Knowle merchandise and a raffle at the Visit Knowle stall throughout the day and you can talk to volunteers about the work of Visit Knowle. Further details on entertainment, activities and how to get involved will be announced in the coming weeks.
The event is led by Visit Knowle, the place-making and business support organisation for the village. Sue Thompson, Director of Visit Knowle, said, “This is such a special way of marking 750 years since Knowle became a manor. Our High Street Celebrations have always been a day of fun-filled community spirit, but this event is set to be even bigger and better than ever.”
Save the date
Come along and join in the celebrations between 11am and 5pm on Sunday 21st June.
For more information and to stay up to date with announcements, visit our dedicated 750 page.