Bold, daring and utterly vibrant: as the UK’s second biggest city, Birmingham brings the energy.
It’s the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. The beating heart of modern culture. And the youngest city in the whole of Europe.
But how to see it all?
From Vita Student Gough Street, it’s easy. You’re just a short stroll from Birmingham’s coolest neighbourhoods and cultural treasure troves.
Let’s take a walk and check out the best things to do near Gough Street.
Bullring
Once upon a time, Bullring was a medieval market (but don’t worry, you won’t find any bulls here today!).
Now, it’s a paradise for shopping, eating, and non-stop entertainment. In fact, Bullring is so iconic that the Queen of England herself first opened its doors.
Take your pick of activities here; from teeing off at “treetop” golf to replenishing your new uni wardrobe at world-famous brands like Selfridges.
Whatever you do, Bullring should be your first stop for a big day out near Gough Street: it’s a five-minute walk away.
Gas Street Basin
If you prefer the open air, head just around the corner to Gas Street Basin.
Birmingham is the Venice of the UK. Actually, it has more canals than Venice. And Gas Street Basin is a great spot to begin exploring them, admiring the characterful narrowboats moored along its banks.
Once you’ve built an appetite, duck into one of the historic pubs or restaurants overlooking the water.
Cameras at the ready: some of these buildings are centuries old and make the perfect contrast with Birmingham’s glinting modern skyline.
On a sunny day, sit outside and watch the boats drift past while enjoying a bite to eat.
Digbeth
Digbeth has officially been hailed the “Coolest Neighbourhood in Britain”. And it’s less than a 20-minute walk from Gough Street.
As Birmingham’s creative district, it’s home to free spirits and imaginative thinkers.
Here, you’ll find countless independent shops, bars, and eateries, some in sun-drenched warehouses, others in Victorian halls of industry (such as the Custard Factory, for everything from dreamy bakeries to boardgame cafes).
Look out for hand-made artworks to adorn your new studio walls and, while you wander, keep your eyes peeled for colourful street art twinkling between the fairy lights.
National SEA LIFE Centre
Let’s get one thing straight. Birmingham is not by the sea.
But that doesn’t matter when one of the biggest aquariums in the country is on your doorstep.
Flash your student ID for a special discount, then make a day of it getting friendly with marine life from around the world (such as Molokai – the giant rescued sea turtle!).
With incredible creatures and the UK’s only 360° Ocean Tunnel, a trip to the National SEA LIFE Centre gives you a well-deserved breather from coursework and lectures.
Jewellery Quarter
Almost half of all Britain’s jewellery is made in Birmingham’s dazzling Jewellery Quarter.
You could spend a laid-back afternoon simply window shopping. But if you’re after a keepsake, there are hundreds of jewellery shops to choose from – some dating to the 18th century. So, take your pick and head inside.
Afterwards, give your eyes a rest from all those diamonds for a pitstop in one of the neighbourhood’s quirky bars or restaurants. Or, if you’re feeling creative, join a ring-making workshop and design your own unique piece to take home with you.
Birmingham Back to Backs
Fancy a history lesson with a difference?
Get to know Birmingham better by stepping back a hundred years and exploring the last remaining ‘back-to-back’ houses in the city – no time machine necessary.
Steal a glimpse into the lives of the people who made Birmingham what it is on a guided tour. Think crackling fires in the hearth, cobbled courtyards, and original vintage clothes and furniture.
This is another place to have your camera to hand!
Centenary Square
Flanked by the very jazzy Library of Birmingham, Centenary Square is well worth a look – even if only to enjoy a coffee while watching it come alive with skaters at the weekend.
If you’re lucky, the fountains will be playing when you visit, transforming the Square into a giant mirror of water. During summer exam season, this is your sign to pause, cool down and soak up the atmosphere on a hot day.
Keep an eye out for festivals, and even ice skating, as Centenary Square transforms depending on the spirit of the season.
Birmingham Town Hall
No, you haven’t been transported to Roman Italy, although you’d be forgiven for thinking it.
Birmingham Town Hall is a gorgeous neo-classical building and a treat just to look at. We’re talking columns, archways – the whole shebang.
In the past, the likes of music legends such as Buddy Holly, The Rolling Stones and Birmingham’s very own Black Sabbath have rocked out within its hallowed halls.
These days, expect everything from classical orchestras to folk bands, and even the occasional comedy gig.
Music lovers: this one’s for you.
Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Just opposite the Town Hall stands Birmingham’s number one art gallery and museum.
If you’re keen to get to grips with the city, its history, and its people, this is the place to go, taking you right back to its medieval roots.
But it’s not all about Birmingham.
Want to see a hoard of gleaming Anglo-Saxon gold? Or the largest collection of pre-Raphaelite art in the world? Bring your most cultured course mates and spend an afternoon discovering everything you didn’t know about Birmingham’s historic collection.
Oh, and remember to leave time for traditional cream tea at the charming museum tearoom.
There’s no doubt that Vita Student Gough Street puts the best of Birmingham at your fingertips. Getting to know your student city has never been easier or more convenient – everywhere in this guide takes less than 25 minutes to walk to.
This is Birmingham, mere steps from your front door.
