Lozells, Villa and Soho Road
Here’s an area that’s known right across the city as a centre of multicultural activity. A place with a vibrant cosmopolitan feel, where streets buzz with busy shoppers and residents. The bustling shopping area is at the very heart of the community, delivering not just groceries and supplies, but the distinctly unique atmosphere of the place too.
SHOPPING
The shopping experience in and around Lozells, Villa and Soho Road is not just about groceries and supplies. The friendliness and community spirit creates a special atmosphere about the place. Asian sweet shops, West Indian bakeries, ethnic fashion items expertly made from luxurious materials are complemented by stunning, bespoke items in jewellers’ windows. This is an area with around three hundred independent retailers – and that means there’s a wealth of choice for shoppers to enjoy – and a range of experiences they won’t find anywhere else.
DINING
You could describe this area as a home from home for world cuisine. It’s a place where the tastes and flavours of so many countries weave an enticing aroma for residents and visitors. Caribbean, Indian, Chinese, Mediterranean, African, Eastern European… there’s food from everywhere, all waiting to be enjoyed.
SPORTS AND LEISURE
Handsworth Leisure Centre and Swimming Pool, set in leafy Handsworth Park, is within easy walking distance of the shopping area. Along with the gym and the pool there are team and racket sports and exercise and fitness facilities to be enjoyed. The gym also offers many activities in ‘women only’ sessions. And the leisure centre is a great place to hold safe and fun children’s parties too.
Handsworth Library on Soho Road is well worth a visit for anyone planning to explore the area more fully. Not far from the library is the historic Soho House where, back in the 1800s, the famous industrialist Matthew Boulton and leading scientists and inventors met to discuss new ideas. It seems that even then the area was a place of inspiration and creative energy.
