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2 people walking down path in between green trees

Birmingham: spaces to relax

Is Birmingham a green city? You might be surprised. This is one of the UK’s greenest major cities with lots of spaces to breathe and relax outside your studies.
2 people walking down path in between green trees

With more than 8,000 acres of green space, Birmingham gives you places to reset and reconnect, including:

  • Leafy student neighbourhoods like Edgbaston, Harborne, and Moseley
  • Local parks on your doorstep, not hidden away on the edge of the city
  • Green campus spaces that support wellbeing and your ability to focus during your studies.
  • An image of Cannon Hill lakes and green trees against blue skies.

    Cannon Hill Park

  • An image of Highbury Hall, an old manor house in green gardens, against blue skies.

    Highbury Hall

  • An image of a rest house in Bournville, amongst grass and trees.

    Bournville

  • People sat on grass in park with a big ferris wheel in the background.

    Cathedral Square (affectionally known as 'Pigeon Park')

Positioned at the centre of the UK, our city is within easy reach of the Malverns, the Peak District, Shropshire, Stratford-upon-Avon, and only a 90-minute train journey from many of the UK’s other major cities (London, Bristol, Manchester and Liverpool to name just a few).

An image of a canal, with geese on a grass bank besides, surrounded by trees and greenery.

Explore nature your way

Birmingham’s canal network weaves through the city, conveniently connecting our campus, neighbourhoods and social spaces. Whether you walk or cycle, it’s often one of the calmest ways to experience city life.

When you want to explore further afield, you can:

  • Take a short walk to Cannon Hill Park, where there are lots of spaces to relax and unwind.
  • Explore Sutton Park, one of Europe’s largest urban parks – perfect for longer walks – and make sure to look out for the wild ponies!
  • Reach countryside, towns and villages easily by train, such as the nearby Lickey Hills – a student favourite with woodland walks and panoramic views; or Clent Hills, with rolling countryside and some of the Midlands’ best sunset spots.
  • Cycle woodland trails at Cannock Chase, a giant outdoor playground and an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with picnic spots and forest trails.