You’ve explored the campus, now let’s explore the city!

Written by Isabella, 2nd year History student

One of the most beautiful spots in Birmingham is Colmore Row. It holds a beautiful square and St Philips Cathedral and the Grand Hotel as well as 23 listed buildings! It’s a lovely spot for some quiet within the hustle of the city centre.

Isabella - headshot
Isabella

After having a look around our beautiful University campus, you’ll want to see the scenery that surrounds it! With activities for everyone, and unique sites, the city of Birmingham has it all.

Winterbourne House and Gardens

Less than a 10 minute walk from the University Campus is Winterbourne House and Botanical Gardens, opened to the public in 2010 after being redeveloped by the University of Birmingham. With stunning sights and a lovely tea room, Winterbourne House makes a lovely stop off and place to take your parents when they come to visit.

  • Swan boats at Cannon Hill Park

    Cannon Hill Park

    A 10 minute drive from campus and located near the student Vale Village, in Edgbaston is Cannon Hill Park. With tennis courts parks, lakes and tea rooms, Cannon Hill is the perfect spot for a picnic and is a keen spot for runners.

Shopping

The Bullring is the UK’s largest city centre-based shopping centre and is personally my favourite place to shop! It has everything you could possibly need – from the largest Primark in the world to one of England’s four Selfridges. Across the road is The Mailbox, which holds lots of high-end and designer brands such as Harvey Nichols.

Temple Street

My favourite place for date nights and bottomless brunch is along Temple Street which has an array of bars and restaurants right outside of Birmingham New Street Station. From Italian to Mexican to Indian, it has cuisine to everyone’s taste and is so convenient.

  • Birmingham-city-centre-Victoria-square

    Colmore Row

    One of the most beautiful spots in Birmingham is located in-between Snow Hill and New Street Station and is called Colmore Row. It holds a beautiful square and St Philips Cathedral and the Grand Hotel as well as 23 listed buildings! It’s a lovely spot for some quiet within the hustle of the city centre.

Cadbury World

It’s impossible to write a blog about Birmingham without mentioning Cadbury’s World, located in Bournville and only 6 minutes away from the University! Offering afternoon teas, tours and lots of free chocolate, Cadbury’s World is a must-see site and accessible for all of the family!

Broad Street

The prime spot for a classic night out is located on Broad Street with 2 Wetherspoons (one with a dancefloor) for pre-drinks, and a range of clubs from Rosie’s to Popworld and many fast-food chains for those post-drink cravings. It’s a staple for many University students and located within walking distance from the Vale Village and with easy train access from Selly Oak.

  • Birmingham-city-centre-pigeon-park

    Peaky Blinders Walking Tour

    The Peaky Blinders Tour around Birmingham is an amazing way to explore the city as well as see the real film sets seen in Peaky Blinders, whilst learning lots of history along the way! You will also visit some previously mentioned places as part of the tour such as The Bullring, Colmore Row and Temple Street, so is an amazing opportunity and way to see the sights.