Rachel's experience living in Battery Park

Hi, I'm Rachel

My first year in student accommodation was an unforgettable experience. I was fortunate to call Battery Park in Selly Oak my home away from home. This accommodation, partnered with the University of Birmingham, is primarily designed for first-year students, offering a supportive and vibrant community. I was lucky enough to secure a premium en suite room, and the view from my window was simply stunning.

Accommodation

Battery Park is a self-catered accommodation, which I absolutely loved. It gave me the independence to explore my culinary creativity and prepare delicious meals daily in the shared kitchen. My flat housed four other students, though Battery Park offers flats accommodating either four or five people. For those preferring women-only flats, this option is available as well. I appreciated the layout and sizing of my room, kitchen, and the building as a whole—it truly felt like a thoughtfully designed space for students.

One of the main reasons I chose Battery Park was its modern and stylish appeal, both inside and out. I watched countless videos while deciding where to live, and this one stood out. With facilities like pool tables, a cinema room, and extensive study spaces, I felt confident I’d thrive here. My room was equipped with a spacious desk and chair, alongside compartments to organize all my essentials. Although the wardrobe was a bit on the smaller side (a challenge for someone with far too many clothes!), I managed to fit everything I needed. The bathroom was a decent size, featuring a standard shower section—though I did wish the showerhead was detachable, I still enjoyed many relaxing hot showers.

Location and Convenience

Situated in Selly Oak, Battery Park is surrounded by a wide array of shops, making it one of the best-located accommodations in the area. It connects directly to a large Sainsbury’s in the retail park, with other shops like Superdrug, McDonald’s, and Nando’s just a short walk away. As a fitness enthusiast, I was thrilled that the gym was only a four-minute walk from my door. Other amenities, such as Aldi and various food outlets, were also within a ten-minute walk.

The proximity to Selly Oak train station was another significant perk. Located just across the bridge, it offered convenient access to Birmingham city centre and made traveling home incredibly easy. This connectivity added to the convenience of living at Battery Park.

Community and Support

One of the standout aspects of my experience was the vibrant and inclusive community at Battery Park. The staff worked tirelessly to ensure residents felt safe and comfortable as we navigated our first year of university life. Weekly activities and events, such as crêpe days, pizza nights, and pool competitions, helped foster a sense of belonging.

The reception team was always available to assist, and their friendliness made settling in much easier. During Freshers’ Week, the accommodation hosted numerous activities to encourage us to meet new people and make connections. Thanks to these events, I made lifelong friends—something I will always cherish.

Battery Park offered not just a place to live but a supportive and welcoming environment that helped me transition smoothly into university life. I am incredibly grateful for the friendships and memories I made during my time there. If you’re considering student accommodation at the University of Birmingham, I wholeheartedly recommend Battery Park—it truly made my first year unforgettable!