Bournville, the historic model village in southwest Birmingham, has been officially named the prettiest village in the West Midlands. The chocolate-box community, established in 1879 by the Cadbury family, outshone other contenders such as medieval Berkswell, rural Barston in Solihull, and Kinver in South Staffordshire, famous for its Kinver Edge Rock Houses.
A Vision of Garden Community
George and Richard Cadbury built Bournville as a green "garden" community for their factory workers, offering pleasant living conditions away from the squalor of the industrial city centre. The sale of alcohol was banned in its early years. The village's carefully planned layout features spacious parks, tree-lined streets, and red-brick cottages, making it one of the most desirable residential areas in Birmingham.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
Bournville is home to Selly Manor, a medieval house rescued by George Cadbury from nearby Selly Oak and relocated to the village. Now a fully functioning museum, it welcomes thousands of visitors and school groups each year. The Bournville Carillon, an iconic bell tower and one of the largest in the country, hosts regular recitals on Saturdays between February and December at midday and 3pm.
Parks and Walks
Bournville Park, at the heart of the village, has been central to community life since 1906. The village is a perfect starting point for walks combining Birmingham's waterways, parkland, and city streets. A 13-mile circular route takes in the IKON gallery, Gas Street Basin, Cadbury World, and the Rea Valley.
Community Hub and Accessibility
Rowheath Pavilion, a short walk from Bournville train station, has been a community hub since 1924, hosting around 400 events annually, including baby showers, weddings, quizzes, and fireworks displays. Bournville is just 15 minutes from Birmingham New Street by train, making it easily accessible for a day visit.
Comparison with Other Contenders
Other villages considered included Berkswell, known for its ancient St John the Baptist Church and 12th-century Norman crypt; Barston, a rural gem with great country pubs; Kinver, famous for its rock houses; and Henley-in-Arden, with a long High Street lined with 150 listed buildings and the famous Henley Ice Cream shop. Despite their charm, none surpassed Bournville.
National Recognition
Bournville also features in a list of the best villages in England, alongside Devon's Clovelly, Staffordshire's Ilam, Wiltshire's Castle Combe, and others. The recognition cements Bournville's status as a premier example of thoughtful urban planning and community design.
