In a new series for Solihull Nub News, we are taking a brief look back at the history of some of Solihull's oldest and quirkiest buildings. First up is Chester House - aka Knowle Library.

First added to the listed building register in 1949, Chester House in Knowle dates back at least 500 years.

The exact date the Warwick Road building was built is not known, but it is believed to have been built between 1400 and 1500.

Originally the grade II listed building was actually two houses.

It is believed the homes were combined in the 17th century, possibly used as an inn or even a farmhouse.

Around 200 years later, the building was then cut into three houses, which were combined back together in the 20th century.

It was then turned into an antique shop before coming into the ownership of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council in 1972.

Following a major restoration, it opened as Knowle Library in 1975.

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The library proceeded to close again more recently, on 28 June 2025 for roofing repairs.

It reopened at the 750th anniversary of Knowle celebrations, on 21 June 2026.

The timber framed library is one of several listed buildings in the centre of Knowle.