Whether you’re living in Selly Oak, Harborne, the City Centre, commuting to campus or living in halls, finding things to do that don't cost a fortune can sometimes feel like a challenge.
Let's be honest, being a student often means trying to make your money stretch a little further. Whether you’re living in Selly Oak, Harborne, the city centre, commuting to campus or living in halls, finding things to do that don't cost a fortune can sometimes feel like a challenge.
The good news is that Birmingham has loads to offer, and some of the best days out can cost barely anything! Here are a few ideas that my friends and I have enjoyed during our time at University.
Get outside
Sometimes all you need is a park, a speaker and a few friends. Birmingham has plenty of green spaces that are perfect for a low-cost day out. Cannon Hill Park is a popular choice for students, offering plenty of space to relax, have a picnic and spend some time with friends. If you're based closer to campus, Selly Park Recreation Ground is an easy way to get everyone together for an afternoon outdoors.
One of my favourite things we’ve done is organise a barbecue or a casual get-together where everyone brings one or two things to share like snacks, drinks and food. Instead of one person spending a lot, everyone chips in and you end up with a full barbecue for a fraction of the cost. You can also do this in your back garden.
You don't need to spend money on entertainment either. Bring a pack of cards, a football, a frisbee or try classic group games like 21 dares, charades, “would you rather” and team challenges to turn a simple afternoon in the park into something more memorable.
Explore somewhere new
It’s surprisingly easy to stick to the same places around campus but Birmingham has loads of free spots that are worth exploring. For University of Birmingham students, Winterbourne House and Garden is free to enter with a valid student ID and offers a peaceful escape from busy lectures and studying, with beautiful gardens, walking paths and spaces to relax.
If you’re heading to the city centre, Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery is a great free option with exhibitions covering art, history and culture.
On campus, Lapworth Museum of Geology is another free attraction that offers a chance to explore fascinating collections and learn something new. Both are great places to spend a few hours, whether you're looking for something educational or simply a quiet environment to unwind.
Keep an eye out for student events and deals
Before making plans, have a look at what the Guild of Students and the University are running. Throughout the year, the Guild website and social channels share free and low-cost events, wellbeing activities, volunteering opportunities, and campaigns happening both on and off campus. They’re a great way to meet new people, try something different and make the most of your student experience without spending loads.
It’s also worth checking for student discounts and cheaper off-peak prices before booking activities. Board game cafés, crazy golf venues and other entertainment spots may offer reduced prices, so having your student ID to hand could save you some money.
It’s the people, not the price
My favourite budget activity has to be charity shop shopping. My friends and I have found board games, jigsaw puzzles and card games for just a few pounds. We’ll take them back home, make some snacks and spend the evening playing together. It’s become one of our cheapest traditions and definitely one of the funniest.
Looking back, some of my favourite memories at university haven’t been the expensive ones. They’ve been spontaneous games in the park, finding new board games in charity shops, cooking together or spending an afternoon exploring somewhere new.
University is about making memories, not spending the most money. Birmingham has plenty to offer, with opportunities to explore, try something new and enjoy time with friends, whatever your budget.
Written by Support Assistant, Samantha Halcrow