50+ Things to Do in Birmingham 2025

Best Things to Do in Birmingham for Students

Birmingham has over 80,000 students and endless things to do, no matter your budget. You’ll find plenty of free fun, like canal walks, exploring Cannon Hill Park, or checking out local museums and street art. Budget-friendly options include street food at Digbeth Dining Club (£5–8), nights out at PRYZM (£2 entry on Fridays), and even a trip to Cadbury World (£12 with a student discount). Whether you're based in the city centre or a bit further out, most student accommodation in Birmingham is well-connected, making it easy to get around and enjoy the best of the city.

Birmingham is also home to several world-class universities, including the University of Birmingham, Birmingham City University, and Aston University, attracting students from all over the world.

If you're new to the city, you'll love these fun facts about Birmingham that every student should know, from hidden canals to its surprising Hollywood connections. They’ll help you see the city in a whole new way.

What makes Birmingham stand out is its energy and diversity. With over 200 nationalities and a young, vibrant crowd, it’s one of Europe’s most student-friendly cities. There’s always something going on, from live music and vintage markets to comedy nights and escape rooms. Whatever your vibe, there’s something here for you.

Quick Student Budget Guide

Before exploring the city, check out our guide to affordable student accommodation in Birmingham near top universities; it’ll help you save money on rent and stay close to the action.

Want a deeper look at the best student accommodation in Birmingham? Check out the top luxury student accommodation in Birmingham. The variety of accommodation options is one of the many benefits that make Birmingham an ideal study destination.

Free Things to Do in Birmingham

Explore Birmingham's Canal Network

Birmingham has more canals than Venice - 35 miles vs Venice's 26! These waterways offer free entertainment year-round.

Best canal walks for students:

• Gas Street Basin: Instagram-worthy houseboats and waterside cafes
• Jewellery Quarter to City Centre: Perfect study break walk (30 mins)
• Birmingham Back to Backs: Historic worker houses tour

Student tip: Download the Canal & River Trust app for self-guided tours and hidden spots locals love.

Parks & Green Spaces

Cannon Hill Park

Location: 2 miles from the city centre

Birmingham's "People's Park" spans 80 acres with something for every student. Free activities:

• Tennis court bookings (yes, completely free!)
• Boating lake for Instagram photos
• Mac Birmingham Arts Centre events
• Perfect picnic spots with friends

Best time: Spring for flowers, summer for outdoor events

Warley Woods

Location: 15 minutes from the city centre

Stress-busting woodland is perfect for exam periods. Massive trees create natural study retreats. Why students love it:

• Peaceful atmosphere for mental health breaks
• Beautiful autumn colours (September-November)
• Winter wonderland vibes with frost and snow
• Free outdoor gym equipment

Museums & Galleries (All Free!)

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery 

Location: City centre

The world's largest collection of Pre-Raphaelite art, plus medieval treasures and contemporary exhibitions. 

Want to explore more cultural spots? Check out our guide to the best museums in Birmingham for students to discover hidden gems, free exhibitions, and student-friendly experiences across the city.

Student highlights:

• Free WiFi for research projects
• Edwardian Tearooms for affordable coffee
• Regular late-night openings during term time
• Study spaces in quiet galleries

Ikon Gallery 

Location: Brindley Place

Contemporary art gallery with constantly changing exhibitions.

Secret student tip: Take the lift - there's a surprise waiting (we won't spoil it!).

Other Free Cultural Spots:

• Lapworth Museum of Geology: Perfect for science students
• Barber Institute of Fine Arts: Near the University of Birmingham
• Thinktank Science Museum: Hands-on exhibits for all subjects

Student Nightlife & Entertainment

Best Student Clubs & Bars

PRYZM Birmingham 

Location: Broad Street

Birmingham's biggest student club with four rooms and world-class DJs.

Student deals:

• Friday nights: £2 entry
• Drinks from £2.50 all night
• Different music in each room
• Regular student takeover events

The Ruin

Location: Digbeth

Budapest-inspired ruin bar in a Grade II listed building. Instagram-worthy shabby chic decor hides Birmingham's best cocktails.

Why students choose it:

• Creative cocktails at student prices
• Live music nights
• Near Digbeth Dining Club for pre-drinks food
• Unique atmosphere for dates

Lab 11

Location: Digbeth warehouse district

Gritty warehouse club perfect for dancing until dawn.

Student scene:

• Birmingham's bassline music
• Affordable entry for skint students
• Alternative crowd and underground vibes
• Perfect for post-exam celebrations

Live Music Venues

O2 Academy Birmingham

Location: Bristol Street

Major venue hosting the biggest artists year-round.

Student perks:

• Advance booking discounts
• Student rush tickets for some shows
• Multiple rooms for different genres
• Walking distance from the city centre unis

The Sunflower Lounge

Location: Smallbrook Queensway

Intimate venue perfect for discovering new bands.

Why it's student-friendly:

• Cheap tickets (often under £10)
• Support local Birmingham artists
• Small venue means amazing atmosphere
• Great for music students networking

Food & Drink Scene

Street Food & Budget Eats

Digbeth Dining Club

Location: Lower Trinity Street

Birmingham's legendary street food market under the railway arches.

Student favourites:

• Buddha Belly: Vegan curries £5-7
• Fat Snags: Gourmet hot dogs £6-8
• Beki's Brownies: Perfect desserts £3-5
• Urban Cheesecake: Instagram-worthy treats

When to go: Friday nights for full atmosphere, Saturday for family-friendly vibes

Cultural Dining Experiences

Birmingham's Famous Balti Triangle

Location: Ladypool Road area

Birmingham invented the Balti curry in the 1970s - experience authentic local culture. Best student-friendly spots:

• Shababs: Top-rated, reasonable prices
• Royal Watan: Operating since 1984, under £10 mains
• Al-Frash: Student discounts available

International Food Scene

• Chinese Quarter: Budget-friendly, authentic meals
• Jewellery Quarter: Trendy cafes and independent restaurants
• Selly Oak: Korean, Indian, and Middle Eastern (near the University of Birmingham)

Hungry for more? From bottomless brunches to £5 curries, our guide to the best student-friendly restaurants in Birmingham covers all the top picks across every budget.

Cultural Activities in Birmingham

Theatre & Performing Arts

Birmingham Hippodrome

Location: City centre

Home to Birmingham Royal Ballet and major touring productions. Student opportunities:

• Rush tickets from £10
• Student memberships with discounts
• Free pre-show talks
• Broadway musicals and contemporary dance

The Alexandra Theatre

Location: Station Street

120 years of entertainment featuring West End shows.

Student benefits:

• Advance student tickets
• Jersey Boys, Grease, and Chicago productions
• Comedy nights and opera
• Educational theatre workshops

Music & Concert Halls

Symphony Hall

Location: Broad Street

World-renowned acoustics hosting the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra. Free student events:

• Lunchtime concerts during term
• Open rehearsals
• Educational workshops
• Classical to contemporary programming

Outdoor Activities

Adventure Sports

Ackers Adventure

Location: Small Heath

The outdoor activity centre is perfect for student groups.

Activities available:

• Tobogganing (£8 students)
• Climbing walls
• Kayaking sessions
• Archery experiences
• Team building for societies

Sports & Fitness

Edgbaston Reservoir

Location: Near the University of Birmingham

Free Saturday Parkruns at 9 am with the student community. What to expect:

• 5km timed run every Saturday
• Supportive running community
• Beautiful reservoir views
• Post-run coffee meetups

Star City Birmingham 

Location: 10 minutes from the city centre

Massive entertainment complex perfect for student group activities. Student-friendly activities:

• 25-screen cinema (UK's biggest)
• 28-lane bowling alley
• Escape rooms from £15
• Free parking (massive saving!)

Shopping & Retail Therapy

Iconic Shopping Destinations

Bullring & Grand Central

Location: City centre

160+ shops, including the iconic Selfridges building, students love photographing. Student shopping strategy:

• Student discount cards are widely accepted
• A mix of high street and affordable options
• Connected to New Street Station
• Food courts for budget meals

The Custard Factory

Location: Digbeth

Birmingham's creative quarter is in restored Victorian factories. What makes it special:

• Independent boutiques and vintage stores
• Street art is perfect for Instagram
• Creative workshops and exhibitions
• Chance & Counters board game cafe

Unique Shopping Areas

Jewellery Quarter 

Location: 10 minutes from the city centre

Produces 40% of the UK's jewellery - perfect for special occasion gifts. Student benefits:

• Student discounts at many workshops
• Museum of Jewellery Quarter (free entry)
• Historic architecture for photography
• Independent cafes and bars

Study-Friendly Spots

Best Study Locations with Food

Productive Study Environments

Library of Birmingham

Location: Centenary Square

The largest public library in the UK has incredible study facilities.

Student perks:

• Free WiFi and computer access
• Silent and group study areas
• 24/7 access during exams (with student ID)
• Roof garden for study breaks
• Shakespeare Memorial Room for inspiration

Day Trips from Birmingham

Easy Transport Links

Birmingham's central location makes it perfect for budget student travel.

London 

• 1 hour 20 minutes by train
• Advance tickets from £6.40
• Perfect for job interviews and cultural trips
• 16-25 Railcard saves 1/3 on tickets

Manchester 

• 1 hour 30 minutes
• Great for the Northern culture and music scene
• Student-friendly city to explore

Wales & Scotland

• Direct trains to Cardiff and Edinburgh
• Perfect for weekend adventures
• Beautiful countryside for hiking

Nearby Attractions

Warwick Castle

Distance: 45 minutes by train

Medieval castle with student discounts available.

Cadbury World

Location: Bournville (20 minutes)

Student tickets from £12 - chocolate heaven for stressed students! What's included:

• Chocolate-making history
• Free samples throughout
• Make your own chocolate
• 4D chocolate adventure

Seasonal Activities

Autumn (September-November)

• Frankfurt Christmas Market (from November)
• Warley Woods autumn colours
• University freshers events
• Theatre season launches

Winter (December-February)

• Birmingham Christmas Market - Germany's largest outside Germany
• Ice skating at various city locations
• Winter wonderland in parks
• Pantomime season at theatres

Spring (March-May)

• Cannon Hill Park flower displays
• Canal boat trips resume
• Outdoor cinema events start
• University summer ball planning

Summer (June-August)

• Digbeth Dining Club outdoor events
• Canal festivals and waterside events
• Outdoor concerts in parks
• Perfect study abroad return timing

Things to See in Birmingham: Must-Visit Landmarks

Architectural Highlights

Birmingham Back to Backs 

Location: Hurst Street

The last surviving court of back-to-back houses shows working-class Birmingham life. Student interest:

• Social history is perfect for essays
• Guided tours with stories
• National Trust student discounts
• Photography opportunities

Bullring Bull 

Location: Bullring Shopping Centre

Iconic bronze bull sculpture - mandatory student photo spot.

Hidden Gems

St. Paul's Church 

Location: Jewellery Quarter

Beautiful 18th-century church with peaceful gardens.

Perfect for:

• Quiet reflection during stressful periods
• Historical architecture appreciation
• Free lunchtime concerts
• Wedding venue inspiration (future planning!)

Fun Things to Do in Birmingham: Unique Experiences

Quirky Activities

Peaky Blinders Tour

Location: Various city locations

Follow Tommy Shelby's footsteps through real Birmingham locations. Tour highlights:

• Black Country Living Museum filming locations
• Real pubs used in the series
• Historical context of 1920s Birmingham
• Perfect for international students learning British culture

Ghost Tours

Location: City centre

Spooky self-guided tours of Birmingham's haunted locations. Locations include:

• Steelhouse Lane police station
• Gas Street Basin
• Birmingham Town Hall
• Perfect for Halloween and date nights

Interactive Experiences

Escape Live

Location: Star City

Birmingham's premium escape room experience.

Student group activities:

• Team building for societies
• Birthday celebrations
• Stress relief after exams
• Group booking discounts

Treetop Golf Birmingham

Location: Star City

Crazy golf with student-friendly pricing.

What to Visit in Birmingham: Cultural Districts

Digbeth: Creative Quarter

Birmingham's most artistic area - 5 minutes from the Bullring. What makes it special:

• Street art covers every wall
• Independent venues and bars
• Custard Factory creative hub
• Digbeth Dining Club street food
• Vintage shopping and thrift stores

Perfect for: Art students, photography, and alternative culture

Jewellery Quarter: Historic Charm

Europe's largest jewellery-making centre with 200+ years of history. Student attractions:

• Museum of Jewellery Quarter (free)
• Independent cafes and bars
• Historic architecture
• Newman Brothers Coffin Works (quirky museum)

Chinese Quarter: International Flavours

Small but authentic area near the Hippodrome.

Perfect for:

• Budget Chinese meals
• Cultural diversity experience
• Late-night food after clubbing
• International student communities

Places to Go in Birmingham: Transportation Guide

Student Transport Tips

Bus Travel 

• Student bus pass: £180 per term (£1.40/day)
• Day passes: £3-7 depending on zones
• Download the West Midlands Network app

Train Travel

• 16-25 Railcard: £30 annually (1/3 off all tickets)
• Three main stations: New Street, Moor Street, Snow Hill
• Local journeys: Around £3

Cycling

• West Midlands Cycle Hire: Pedal and electric bikes
• University of Birmingham cycle routes to the city
• Not ideal in the city centre due to traffic

Walking

• Most attractions are within a 20-minute walk of the city centre
• Canal towpaths are perfect for scenic routes
• Birmingham is listed as "Top 20 Most Walkable Communities"

Want to master student transport in the city? Here's our complete guide to Birmingham's transport system, from buses and trains to cycle routes.

Activities in Birmingham: Budget Planning

Weekly Student Budget Guide

Money-Saving Student Hacks

Free Activities Every Week:

• Museum visits (all free)
• Park walks and picnics
• Canal strolls and photography
• Library study sessions with events

Student Discount Apps:

• UNiDAYS: Restaurant and retail discounts
• TOTUM: Official student discount card
• Student Beans: Exclusive online deals

Budget-Friendly Social Life:

• House parties instead of expensive clubs
• Picnics instead of restaurant meals
• Free museum events instead of paid entertainment
• Happy hour deals at student-friendly bars

Here, you can also check your cost of living in Birmingham and easily keep track of your spending with our cost of living calculator.

What to Do in Birmingham: Networking & Career

Professional Development

Birmingham Business District

• Colmore Business District: Internship opportunities
• Networking events for students
• Career fairs throughout the academic year
• Professional meetups in various industries

Start-up Scene

• Innovation Birmingham supports student entrepreneurs
• Custard Factory hosts business workshops
• Tech meetups in the Jewellery Quarter
• Co-working spaces for student projects

Skill Building Activities

Creative Skills:

• Photography walks through street art areas
• Art workshops at Ikon Gallery
• Writing groups in independent cafes
• Music venues for performer networking

Business Skills:

• Toastmasters International chapters
• Chamber of Commerce student events
• Professional society meetups
• Volunteer opportunities with local charities

Not sure where to start your career journey? Explore the top universities in Birmingham to find the ones best connected to business hubs and internship networks.

Everything you need to know about the University of Birmingham, from campus life and academic strengths to networking events and career support, is right at your fingertips. It’s a great place to build both knowledge and connections.

Curious about Birmingham City University? We've got you covered. Check out everything you need to know about Birmingham City University, especially if you're looking for creative courses and hands-on industry experience in the heart of the city.

Aston University stands out for its focus on employability and real-world skills. Whether you're into business, tech, or science, here’s everything you need to know about Aston University to help you decide if it's the right fit.

Want to grow your network outside the classroom? Our guide to student societies and academic clubs in Birmingham shows how to meet like-minded students and build real-world skills.

Final Tips: Making the Most of Birmingham

Best Times to Explore

• Weekdays: Museums are less crowded, better study spots
• Weekends: Full nightlife scene, market activities
• Term Time: Student events, society activities
• Holidays: Explore further afield, seasonal events

Safety Tips for Students

• City Centre: Well-lit and patrolled, stay on main streets
• Late Night: Travel in groups, use official taxi services
• Canal Walks: Stick to well-maintained towpaths
• Emergency: Download the West Midlands Police app

Integration Advice

For International Students:

• Join the Birmingham International Student Society
• Attend cultural festivals throughout the year
• Use conversation exchange programs
• Explore religious centres representing all faiths

For UK Students:

• Embrace Birmingham's cultural diversity
• Try authentic international cuisine
• Learn about local industrial heritage
• Support independent local businesses

Bottom Line for Students

Birmingham offers the perfect balance of big city opportunities and affordable student life. With 80,000+ students from 200+ nationalities, you'll never be bored or alone.

From free museum visits and canal walks to world-class nightlife and Michelin-starred dining, Birmingham has activities for every budget and interest. The key is mixing free cultural activities with budget-friendly social experiences while taking advantage of excellent transport links to explore beyond the city.

Whether you're cramming for exams in beautiful libraries, partying in legendary clubs, or discovering your new favourite cuisine, Birmingham truly offers something for every student.

Start with the free activities to get your bearings, gradually explore paid experiences, and don't forget to document your journey - Birmingham's diverse neighbourhoods provide endless Instagram opportunities while you create memories that'll last long after graduation.

New to the city? Our complete Birmingham city guide for students covers everything from transport to culture—perfect for helping you settle in faster and make the most of student life.