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Cheap Things To Do In Birmingham As A Student

  • Writer: Nicole So
    Nicole So
  • Mar 17
  • 4 min read
Canal with colorful barges, red brick buildings, and modern architecture under a blue sky with clouds. "The Canal House" visible. Calm mood.

Written by Nicole So


Birmingham is one of the best cities in the UK for student life — and the good news is, you don’t need loads of money to enjoy it.


From free museums and canal walks to cheap activities and student-friendly events, there’s plenty to do in the city without draining your bank account.


Whether you’re trying to make your student loan last or just looking for something to do midweek, here are some of the best cheap things to do in Birmingham students love.


Jump to

  • Free things to do in Birmingham

  • Cheap activities under £10

  • Outdoor spots and parks

  • Social things to do with friends

  • Tips to save money in Birmingham


Free things to do in Birmingham


Library of Birmingham


Rooftop garden with geometric-patterned building facade, greenery, and walkway. Cranes and city skyline in background under clear sky.

The Library of Birmingham is one of the most underrated spots in the city.

You can study, explore the building, or head up to the rooftop garden for views over the city — completely free.


It’s also a great alternative to uni libraries if you want a change of scenery.


Why students love it:

  • Free entry

  • Rooftop views

  • Great study spot


Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery


Historic square with a clock tower and ornate monument under a clear blue sky. People sit on steps, enjoying the sunny day.

If you want something cultural (without spending anything), this is one of the best options.


The museum is free to enter and houses one of the UK’s largest art collections, making it a good way to spend an afternoon between lectures.


Why students love it:

  • Free entry

  • Central location

  • Good for a chilled afternoon


Walk along the canals


Canal at dusk with narrowboats reflecting in the water. Red brick buildings line the banks, and the sky is a serene blue, creating a peaceful mood.

Birmingham actually has more miles of canals than Venice, and they’re one of the best places to walk around for free.


Areas like Brindleyplace and Gas Street Basin are especially popular for relaxed walks or catching up with friends.


Why students love it:

  • Completely free

  • Nice views

  • Good for walks or runs


Cheap activities under £10


Mini golf, bowling, and games


If you’re looking for something more social, Birmingham has loads of fun activities like crazy golf, bowling, and arcade bars.


Many places offer student deals or off-peak pricing, so you can usually do something fun for under £10–£15.


Spots like BOOM BATTLE BAR are popular for group activities, especially when you can split the cost with friends.


Go karting or trampoline parks


For something a bit different, activities like go karting or trampoline parks are popular with students and often offer discounts or group deals.


They’re a great way to break up the week or celebrate the end of exams.


Outdoor spots and parks


Scenic view of a brick bridge over a green, reflective pond. Lush trees and pink flowering bushes surround, creating a tranquil atmosphere.

Cannon Hill Park


Cannon Hill Park is one of the most popular green spaces for students.


It’s huge, free to enter, and perfect for picnics, walks, or just relaxing with friends.


Sutton Park


If you want something even bigger, Sutton Park is one of the largest urban parks in Europe, with lakes, woodland, and walking trails.


It’s ideal for day trips, especially in the summer.


Lickey Hills


For great views and a proper escape from the city, Lickey Hills is a popular spot for walking and hiking.


It’s a bit further out, but worth it if you want a change of scenery.


Explore markets and the city centre


Places like the Bullring and local markets are great for wandering around without spending money.


Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s a good way to spend a few hours in the city.


Live events and gigs


Birmingham has a strong live music and comedy scene, and many smaller venues offer cheap or student-priced tickets.


You’ll often find events happening throughout the week that cost less than a typical night out.


Study cafés and coffee catch-ups


Sometimes the simplest plans are the best.


Meeting friends at a café, studying together, or working remotely is one of the most common (and affordable) ways students spend time in Birmingham.


And if you’re grabbing coffee or food while you’re out, it’s always worth checking Student Beans for discounts — you can often save at places like wagamama, Greggs, or Caffè Nero, which makes those casual meet-ups even cheaper.


Tips to save money in Birmingham


If you want to keep your spending low, a few simple habits go a long way.


  • Look for student discounts and deals

  • Take advantage of free museums and parks

  • Go out during off-peak times

  • Split costs with friends for activities

  • Walk instead of using transport


Using platforms like Student Beans regularly can make a noticeable difference — even small savings on food, coffee, or activities can add up over the month.


Final thoughts


You don’t need a big budget to enjoy student life in Birmingham.


Between free museums, canal walks, parks, and affordable activities, there are plenty of ways to explore the city without spending much.


And when you combine these with student discounts through Student Beans, it becomes even easier to enjoy the city while staying within your budget.



Unlock even more with Student Beans


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