My favourite spots on campus at the University of Birmingham

One thing I’ve learned at the University of Birmingham is that campus feels like its own little world - mixing green spaces, stunning architecture, and everyday essentials. So, here are the places that make up my personal Birmingham map so special to me:

Bournbrook Pitches

Whether I’m playing netball, cheering on the sidelines at my friends’ hockey matches, or getting swept up in the excitement of sporting events like Xplosion (American Football society’s huge annual event), these sports spaces are always buzzing. There’s just something about the atmosphere there, whether it's the mix of students training, chatting, or recovering after a great match that makes these pitches and courts feel like the heart of campus sport.

Another great aspect of this area is the stunning views from every pitch. You can see the red-brick landmarks such as the Aston Webb building and Old Joe standing tall in the background, which somehow makes even a missed shot feel romanticised.

Aston Webb

The Aston Webb building is one of the most recognisable and impressive landmarks on campus. Its sweeping red-brick architecture and the grandeur of the Great Hall give the area a distinctive academic character, much like you would see in Hogwarts. Beyond the architectural appeal, it has become one of my preferred study environments. The lectures, arched hallways, and study spaces feel calm, structured, and brilliant for focused work, making it an ideal setting when I want to concentrate or feel immersed in the university atmosphere.

Kimiko

As someone who is half Japanese, I am naturally selective when it comes to Japanese food. However, Kimiko, located just below the University Centre, consistently exceeds my expectations. It offers a range of dishes that feel genuinely familiar to me, which is not something I often find in the UK. Whether it’s a quick bowl of katsu curry, a plate of gyozas between lectures, or something comforting on a busy day, Kimiko has become a dependable part of my campus life.

University Station

Including a train station as one of my favourite aspects of campus may seem unusual, but its impact on my weekly life is significant. University Station is directly attached to the campus, which makes travel effortless and convenient. The station has undergone a renovation recently, so the station has a newly modern appearance, but it has always been safe and clean. Whether I am heading into the city centre (with a £2.70 open return ticket) or travelling home for the weekend, having such accessible transport in such close range reduces stress and saves time.

Teaching and Learning Building

The Teaching and Learning Building offers a very different atmosphere from traditional study spaces. It is bright, contemporary, and always active, which creates an environment that naturally encourages productivity. The large windows and open architectural style make it feel spacious and energising, ideal for long study sessions or group work. The café inside is another highlight, offering an impressive range of pastries and snacks that often become the fuel for the entirety of my assignments.

Campus is vast and ever-evolving, but these spots have become the heart of my daily routine by shaping my studies, social life, and sense of belonging at the University of Birmingham.