If you’re new to Birmingham, or just looking for things to do with your friends, this city has plenty to offer! From its industrial heritage seen in shows like Peaky Blinders,
to more modern quirky cafés, bars and green spaces, Birmingham has a little of everything for everyone. If you're based around one of our many Selly Oak properties (lucky you),
you're already sitting on a goldmine of great places within walking or cycling distance!
Here are some must-see areas in Birmingham - plus a couple of bonus gems right on your new doorstep!
Brindleyplace & Birmingham Canalside
If you want to see Birmingham at its most charming, head to Brindleyplace. Nestled along the city’s historic canal network, this area blends waterside views with buzzing restaurants, bars, and galleries. Grab a coffee and stroll past the barges, or hop into the Ikon Gallery for contemporary art that’s free to explore. It’s a perfect spot for a relaxed afternoon or a low-key date night.
Jewellery Quarter
Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is steeped in history, and home to more than 100 retailers, diamond dealers and workshops. With over 200 listed buildings, the Jewellery Quarter is a living museum of Birmingham’s industrial past. Grab brunch at a local café, and browse independent shops that feel worlds away from chain-store monotony with beautiful Georgian construction.
Digbeth
Digbeth is Birmingham’s resurgent creative heartbeat. Think street art, indie bars, and converted warehouses turned into event spaces. The Custard Factory is the epicentre — home to vintage shops, tattoo studios, and pop-up markets. If you’re looking for something less sterile and aimed at young adults, this could be the place for you!
Bournville Village
Bournville Village was originally founded by the Cadbury family to house workers at their local Cadbury Factory (Home to the world famous chocolate!) It was designed to be a garden village, and promote good health among its residents. Check out the large green areas, quaint buildings, and maybe even visit Cadbury World!
Edgbaston & Winterbourne House and Garden
Edgbaston is home to the University of Birmingham’s leafy campus, but tucked away nearby is Winterbourne House and Garden — a stunning Edwardian villa with botanical gardens that feel like a secret escape. It’s ideal for a peaceful walk, a study break, or a picnic with friends.
Bonus Picks: Hidden Gems Near Selly Oak
If you’re short on time or just want something local, these spots are right around the corner:
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Lapworth Museum of Geology
Located on campus, this underrated museum has fossils, crystals, and dinosaurs — and it’s free. Great for a quick visit between lectures.
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The Creative Coffee Hub
Tucked away on Raddlebarn Road, this cosy café is perfect for studying, catching up with mates, or grabbing a chai latte and hummus platter.
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Birmingham Wildlife Conservation Park
Just a 20-minute walk from Selly Oak, this small zoo near Cannon Hill Park is home to red pandas, lemurs, and meerkats, and they even offer student pricing at only!
