Explore Birmingham

Our campus at the University of Birmingham is a beautiful place filled with history and fantastic attractions, much like Birmingham itself!

Get Exploring!

We’re sure you can’t wait to get here and explore all that campus, and the city has to offer, but until then, get to know Birmingham, watch our ‘how to’ videos and read our tips on living in accommodation.

Birmingham and Beyond

Whether you prefer to shop ‘til you drop, get away from the crowds in the great outdoors or brush up on your history knowledge, there’s something to do around every corner in Birmingham (otherwise known as ‘Brum’) so get exploring!

Explore Map Of Birmingham

Arts and Culture

There’s a piece of history to discover down every street in Birmingham. We have some great museums and art galleries, such as the Thinktank and Ikon. Want to watch the latest plays and musicals? Visit the Hippodrome or the Alexandra. Plus, a short train from Birmingham Moor Street station could lead you to the Royal Shakespeare Company in Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon.

Shopping and Eating

You’ve probably heard of the Bullring shopping centre, but there are many more places to shop and eat in Birmingham! Go outlet shopping at Resorts World or stay in the City Centre to go vintage shopping in Digbeth. Looking for food and drink options? Check out the Arcadian or sit alongside Birmingham’s renowned canals at Brindley place (did you know we have more canals than Venice!).

Nightlife and Evening Entertainment

There’s no shortage of evening entertainment in Birmingham. Digbeth is worth exploring if you’re into grassroots venues or quirky pubs, there are cinemas near Five Ways and in the City Centre, plus we have two big arenas in the city if your favourite artist is coming to town. If club nights are more your scene, check out Broad Street or head to our iconic FAB nights on campus!

Birmingham and Beyond

Sometimes it’s nice to get some fresh air and discover new places. Near campus you can explore Winterbourne House and Gardens for free with your student ID card and experience the ultimate feeling of tranquillity. If you’re after a longer walk in the country, we’re a short train ride away from Malvern Hills. We’re also not far from some iconic sights like Warwick Castle or the Iron Bridge in Telford.

a photo of train boards at new street station

Transport

Birmingham has so many transport links to help you navigate the local areas, with an extensive tram, train and bus network. New Street Station, Birmingham's central hub of train travel, is just a short 15-minute journey from University Station on campus and connects you to the rest of the UK. View our How To Videos to find out more and learn how to use a bus and a train.

Time To Thrive

We want you to make the most of your time living in halls!

Residence Life Team

Are you moving into student accommodation this year? We want you to make the most of your time living in halls, so our Residence Life Team deliver a range of fun events and activities so you can get to know your new flatmates.

Our student staff team also provide wellbeing support for those living in student accommodation, based on their own experiences.

Meet Your Residence Life Team Explore Your Accommodation

a photo of students carrying boxes of luggage

a photo of a student holding a water bottle decorated at a crafts event

a photo of a student with a dog at a guild event

How To…

Living in accommodation or another country or city is a big change, especially if it’s your first time living away from home. We’ve compiled a collection of videos covering everything from using a washing machine, to getting to campus and using public transport in Birmingham, all to help you settle in.