A new community cafe is set to open in a Birmingham park, offering 'good value' food and drink. Named Hive in the Park, it will be operated by Birmingham Hospice and located in the historic Rookery House in Rookery Park, Erdington.
The cafe will be open seven days a week, serving breakfasts, lunches, sweet treats, children's meals, and beverages. It aims to provide a 'warm and friendly' space for local residents to gather and enjoy affordable refreshments.
Grand Opening Event
A grand opening ceremony will take place on Friday, May 1 at 10am, featuring a ribbon cutting. Attendees can enjoy entertainment from jazz trio Rhythm & Bone throughout the morning. Everyone is invited to come along, purchase food and drinks, and explore the new space.
A Historic Venue
Rookery House, dating back to 1727, was once the family home of anti-slavery campaigner William Wilberforce. It later served as Erdington Town Hall and council offices until 2008. The building has been converted into apartments by Cameron Homes, and the cafe marks the final stage of its redevelopment.
Michelle Stuteley, Director of People and Culture, said: “We have created a welcoming place which will bring the community together. People can come along and enjoy a drink and a bite to eat while also learning more about the services the hospice provides. We cater for all ages, and we are also very dog friendly.”
Community Impact
Birmingham Hospice has been part of Erdington since 1910. The cafe extends its community relationships and will offer information about hospice services. It will also be available for community groups to book outside opening hours. The initiative has created 40 volunteering opportunities, helping local people develop skills and give back to the community.
Paul Bytheway, chief executive of Birmingham Hospice, said: “We are committed to building on the strong relationships that our teams have already forged in the local communities we serve. Our new community cafe in Rookery Park is a natural extension of that work and is one more way we can be there for people when they need us. Hive in the Park reflects our deep and longstanding connection to Erdington, which we have been proudly serving for more than a century.”
Opening Hours and Location
Hive in the Park will be open Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm, Saturday from 9am to 2.30pm, and Sunday from 10am to 2.30pm. The address is Rookery House, Rookery Park, 4 Wilberforce Way, Erdington, B24 9AT.
