Living in Birmingham | University College Birmingham

40%

Students make up over 40% of Birmingham’s young adult community, so you’ll be right at home here.

Our city is
our campus

With London less than 90 minutes away by train and major rail and bus stations just minutes from campus, Birmingham puts you right where the action is. Nearly 40% of the city’s population is under 25, giving it a young, lively buzz that feels made for students.

From late-night food spots and coffee shops to green spaces, culture and live entertainment, there’s always something happening right on your doorstep. Plus, access to a city packed with businesses, start-ups and opportunities to kick-start your career.

For everything a student wants, there’s no place better than ‘Brum’.

Student city tour

From station to campus

The best of both worlds

Love city life? Birmingham has the energy, food spots and social scene to keep you busy from day one. Whether it’s grabbing street food with friends, finding your new favourite coffee place, or heading out after lectures, there’s always something going on.

But when you need a breather, the city’s got that covered too. With 8,000 acres of parks and green spaces, plus miles of canals winding through the city, it’s easy to slow things down without ever leaving Birmingham.

Easy to get to, easy to get around

Based in the heart of the UK, Birmingham is one of the country’s best-connected cities - so living or studying in Birmingham means travel is simple. Trains, buses, the Metro and major motorways are all close by - plus Birmingham Airport for trips further afield. Getting around couldn't be easier.

90%

90% of the UK is within four hours of the West Midlands

High street to hidden gems

From the big brands you know to unique independent finds, Birmingham is made for student life. Shop iconic spots like the Bullring and Grand Central, then explore indie favourites at the Custard Factory and Great Western Arcade.

Love food? You’re just minutes from buzzing street food and independent kitchens at St Paul’s Market and Society — perfect for quick bites and late-night cravings.

Check out Visit Birmingham's top indie restaurants

Birmingham is one of the UK's top cities for new start-ups, making it great for student entrepreneurs.

Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is one of only a handful of places worldwide to hold World Craft City status.

51%

Over 50% of the city’s population is ethnically diverse, making it one of the UK’s most multicultural cities.

Big city energy

Birmingham is built for live moments. From huge gigs and comedy shows at Utilita Arena Birmingham and Resorts World Arena to pop-ups, festivals and late-night events across the city, there’s always something going on.

The city’s creative roots run deep too - from fashion and jewellery to music, art and street culture - with loads to explore in independent spaces, museums and galleries dotted across Birmingham. Whether you’re into live music, comedy, exhibitions or just soaking up the city vibe, you’ll never be stuck for things to do.

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Your sporting community

Our city plays host to a wealth of major sporting events and top sports organisations. Birmingham hosted the Commonwealth Games in 2022, opening up a huge array of opportunities for students and graduates in the city and throughout the region. Find out more about how our university got involved in the Games, including hosting Team Scotland on campus.

And it’s not just international athletics. Birmingham is home to celebrated sports teams like Aston Villa, Birmingham City and Warwickshire Country Cricket Club, as well as scores of sporting events, ranging from WTA tennis to England cricket matches and the All England Open Badminton Championships.

Living at home while at uni

Did you know over 70% of our undergraduate students live at home while at university?

So don’t worry about missing out or being cut off. You don’t need to move away to have the best time and the most amazing student experience. Here are a few ways to make the most of this exciting period of your life.

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Guild of Students

Run by students, for students. As soon as you enrol at University College Birmingham, whatever level you are studying at, you automatically become a member of the Guild.

Student Ambassadors

Our Student Ambassador scheme provides opportunities for flexible, part-time work that will fit around your studies while you enhance your CV.

Student charter - University College Birmingham

Student life

Discover more about our University and living in Birmingham – all you need to know about our accommodation, Guild of Students and what life is like in our vibrant city.