Bournville in Birmingham

What are the highlights of Bournville?

Bournville is one of Birmingham’s most picturesque and desirable neighbourhoods to live in. However, it goes without saying that the majority of its visitors are here for their love of one thing in particular: chocolate.

In 1990, the Cadbury World visitors center opened at the site of the confectionery giant’s former Bournville factory. It’s still one of the most popular attractions in the city to this day, giving chocoholics and history lovers a fascinating insight into the backstory and production of the world-renowned chocolate. Take a self-guided tour of the 14 fun-filled zones, watch a live chocolate-making demonstration and, of course, tuck into some delicious freebies too.

If you want to continue your deep-delve into Bournville’s past, then Selly Manor Museum is the place to experience times gone by. Just 2 minutes from Cadbury World, George Cadbury saved and relocated the beautiful lumber building from Selly Oak in the early 1900s.

What else is there to do in Bournville?

Bournville, as well as being rich in history, is well known and admired for its charming architecture and beautiful green spaces. These tranquil neighborhoods were an important part of the village’s original design. They're intended to benefit the health and wellbeing of the local factory workers and are also well worth exploring.

Bournville Park is a wonderful place to walk around, with a play area for kids, outdoor tennis courts available to hire and a picturesque stream flowing through the middle. Alternately, the Rowheath Park and Pavilion, with its beautiful grounds and lake, has played an important role in the village’s sport, leisure, and community events since 1924.

If you’re heading to the likes of Cadbury World with the little ones and you’re looking for some more family fun in the area, the self-guided Bournville Treasure Hunt Trail will take you on a 2-hour outdoor adventure to discover all the village’s best bits.

Good to know about Bournville

If you’re planning on visiting Bournville, it’s worth noting one of its longest-standing traditions which is still (pretty much) in place today. As the Cadburys were a family of Quakers, there’s never been a public house or anywhere else that sells alcohol in the village. That is, apart from the licensed members’ bar at Rowheath Pavilion and, following a somewhat controversial petition in 2015, the village newsagent. With that in mind, you’ll need to venture a little further afield if you’re looking to experience a real taste of Birmingham’s nightlife.

Bournville is effortlessly accessible from Birmingham, just a 15-minute drive along the A38. Bournville’s own railroad station has a direct line to Birmingham New Street and there are a number of buses you can jump on, too. The route numbers 45, 47, and 144 all service the village and will get you to and from the city centre with ease.