Places to relax

It is important to take time out from studying to let yourself recharge. By doing so you will be able to work more efficiently and feel ready to tackle your revision, essays and exams.

To help you find somewhere to relax we have put together a list of local attractions, many of which are free for University of Birmingham students.

Parks

Going for a stroll in a park can be a great way to relax. Walking, like other physical activities, can help reduce stress and increase your positivity. 

You could take a trip down to Highbury Park to see Joseph Chamberlain’s (the founder of the University) former residence, Highbury Hall.

Other local parks include:
  • Pritchatts Park (on campus)
  • Selly Oak Park
  • Queen’s Park, Harborne
  • Cannon Hill Park.

To find more local parks visit Birmingham Council’s Find a Park webpage.

Museums and galleries

Do you know the University has its own art gallery and museum?

The Barber Institute of Fine Arts’ collections includes around 150 major paintings, over 800 drawings and prints, sculptures, decorative art and portrait miniatures. The Barber is free to enter and a student discount is available for paid events. For more information visit The Barber’s website.

In the Lapworth Museum of Geology you can explore life over the past 3.5 billion years, through fossils, volcanoes, earthquakes and even dinosaurs. Entry to the Museum and its events are free of charge. Find out more on the Lapworth Museum’s website.

There are also a number of museums and galleries in the local area, including Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery, the Midlands Art Centre (MAC), Ikon Gallery and Birmingham Science Museum. For more information view Birmingham City Council’s list of culture, arts and heritage sites.

Gardens

Winterbourne House and Gardens, located on the east side of campus, has seven acres of botanical garden with woodland walks and plants from around the globe – the perfect place to relax between study sessions.

Join our Student Content Shapers, Isabel and Fatema, for a stroll around the scenic Winterbourne House and Garden

Entry to the house and gardens is free to University of Birmingham students on presentation of your ID card. For more information please visit the Winterbourne House and Garden website.

The Birmingham Botanical Gardens in Edgbaston has a wide range of plants, including four glasshouses showing tropic rainforests and arid desert, a student discount is available. Find out more on the Birmingham Botanical Gardens website.

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