travel west midlands students

Student guide to the West Midlands

If you want to study at a university in the West Midlands, it's probably a good idea to find out about the area before you make any big decisions – and our handy student guide can help!

The West Midlands is an educational powerhouse with the second largest population of any region in the UK and a large network of universities including some of the most prestigious in the country.  

Nearly six million people live here, with its post-industrial landscape a reminder of the West Midlands’ historical significance, and its 11 universities are an essential part of its future. If you’re interested in studying at one of these superb institutions, our student guide to the West Midlands will break down key elements of what you can expect from uni life in the region and help you find your best experience. 

Student activities in the West Midlands  

• Nightlife in the West Midlands  

Student accommodation in the West Midlands  

• Student costs in the West Midlands  
• What the West Midlands is known for  

Universities in the West Midlands

The West Midlands is full of things to do on a modest student budget. In addition to the student bars, pubs and clubs that you’d expect, there is a unique selection of attractions and activities that can only be found in the region. 

Gaze upon the landscape which inspired J.R.R Tolkien to write The Lord of the Rings. Explore the museums documenting the birth of the industrial revolution. Wander the red brick streets of Birmingham or Wolverhampton and retrace the steps of enterprise and progress. 

The sport of rugby was invented in a town of the same name, and the region is known for producing many top-flight football teams such as Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Bromwich Albion. There are plenty of opportunities to go and see a local fixture, with student concession tickets available. 

Or you can simply grab a bite to eat from one of the many international cuisines represented in this contemporary and cosmopolitan region. There are plenty of street markets and high-end shopping districts which can be readily browsed on a student budget. 

Check out our guide to the top ten things to do in the West Midlands

Nightlife in the West Midlands 

The West Midlands has several large population centres, including Birmingham, Coventry, Stoke-on-Trent, and Wolverhampton, which each offer a fantastic night out and fab entertainment options. 

Eating out is inexpensive, with a basic meal costing between £10 to £12.50 on average and the price of a pint of beer averaging less than £4.25 across the whole region, and as little as £2.75 in Wolverhampton! There are many student-friendly pubs, clubs and bars, and you will often find weekday student nights with discounted entry fees. Big cities like Birmingham and Coventry have a really good selection of events, including jazz sessions, disco parties and more.  

There are a huge range of pubs and sports bars running special events like pub quizzes and themed parties, and a lot of information about the local nightlife can be found through your university’s students’ union, so be sure to swing by at the start of the night and see what’s on. 

Whatever your preference, you’ll be able to find it here, and an added bonus is that taxi prices are cheaper than in most other UK regions, so you’ll be able to get home safely at the end of the night. 

Across the West Midlands, most institutions offer student accommodation in university-owned halls of residence buildings, which are typically very close to campus and have loads of additional advantages such as inclusive insurance, internet, utilities bills and building security. Another factor is the undeniable social aspect of living among hundreds of your peers, making it very easy to meet people. 

Rooms are typically organised within a shared self-catered apartment of 3-8 students, mainly with communal bathroom facilities or an ensuite, and sometimes with entire studio apartments available. Average prices are between £120 and £190 a week for a contract which lasts the duration of your first-year studies. Some universities such as the University of Birmingham and Coventry University offer catered accommodation options, which are a little more expensive but have the significant advantage of saving you time by not needing to buy ingredients, cook and clean up after your meals. 

Private rental prices in the West Midlands are fairly consistent between locations, and a city centre studio apartment in either Birmingham, Wolverhampton, Coventry, Warwick, Stoke-on-Trent or Worcester costs between £670 to £820 per month. Sharing an apartment with friends is a good way to lower this cost, and a three-bedroom flat in the city centre ranges between £1,000 to £1,800 per month.  

Student costs in the West Midlands 

Additional student expenses include transport, groceries, extra-curricular supplies, and entertainment. 

Travel is a consideration, especially if you end up living a little further out from campus. Public transport is quite reasonably priced across the region, with a one-way bus journey usually costing between £2.20 to £2.50 per ticket. Similarly, wherever you choose to study, a monthly bus or rail pass starts at around £50 which is comfortably less than £2 per day for unlimited use. 

West Midlands grocery rates are generally more affordable than in the south of England, especially in London. The most inexpensive average prices are found in Stoke-on-Trent, although most cities have easily accessible low-cost outlets such as Costcutter, Aldi or Lidl where you can reliably spend less on good quality food. Many towns run weekly markets where you can pick up fresh produce at bargain prices – especially towards the end of the day. 

It’s a good idea to keep a small cash reserve in case of emergency printing or photocopying situations. It doesn’t need to be very much money, but it might save you a lot of fuss down the line. 

Read more about the cost of living as a student in the West Midlands

What the West Midlands is known for 

The West Midlands is the home of legendary playwright and poet William Shakespeare, who was born and lived in Stratford-upon-Avon, where you can still visit his house today. 

The West Midlands boasts 11 major universities... 

• Coventry University  
• University of Warwick  
• University of Birmingham   
• Aston University  
• Newman University, Birmingham  
• University of Worcester  
• Keele University  
• Birmingham City University  
• University of Wolverhampton  
• Staffordshire University   
• University College Birmingham   

The region’s 11 universities offer a huge variety of courses and student experiences. Find out which one is the right choice for you by booking some open day campus visits , where you can view the facilities as well as meet current students.  

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Top 10 places to visit in the West Midlands

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 1, 2023

England’s West Midlands area may not be the first choice for visitors to the UK but it is worth exploring to discover its many hidden charms. If you are on a road or rail trip around the UK consider adding some of the places highlighted in this article into your itinerary.

The West Midlands of England is made up of the following counties – Warwickshire, Staffordshire, Shropshire, Worcestershire, and Herefordshire. The area’s major cities include Birmingham , Coventry, Wolverhampton, Stoke-on-Trent and Walsall.

Visit the birthplace of Shakespeare – Stratford upon Avon

Visit warwick castle, visit the heart of the industrial revolution at ironbridge.

• For chocoholics don't miss a day at Cadbury World in Bourneville

Tour ideas in the West Midlands

Step back into the past at the black country museum, birmingham city centre and canals.

• Burton-on-Trent's National Brewery Centre Museum – NOW CLOSED

German Christmas markets in Birmingham

Shugborough hall, fast facts – west midlands, final thoughts about the best places to visit in the west midlands, 10 places to visit in the west midlands.

A trip to Stratford-Upon-Avon is a bucket list destination for many visitors to the UK. This medieval market town is located in the English county of Warwickshire and is known throughout the world due to its connections to perhaps the most famous writer of all time – William Shakespeare.

William Shakespeare was born in Stratford in 1564 and died there in 1616.

There are many tour options available in Stratford including a hop-on hop-off bus which takes you to all the important spots in Shakespeare’s life including his birthplace, Anne Hathaway’s cottage (located 1.5 miles outside Stratford), and Mary Arden’s Farm.

I would recommend the bus as it is the easiest way to get around to see all the important sights.

Read more | Stratford-upon-Avon tour | Best day trips from London by train

There really are many fantastic castles to visit in the UK but Warwick Castle is a firm favourite and offers a great day out for families.

Construction of the castle on the River Avon in Warwickshire started soon after the Battle of Hastings in 1068 with the stone castle taking shape in the 12th century.

For present-day visitors, there are lots of activities during the summer months including jousting tournaments, the dragon slayer show, birds of prey shows, archery displays, trebuchet show and more to appeal to all the family.

Warwick is an easy day trip from London and is one of 7 castles within easy reach of the capital.

Read more | Warwick Castle (and 6 other must-see castles) near London

Ironbridge in Shropshire is named after the iron bridge that spans the river Severn. The bridge built in 1779 was the first to be constructed of iron anywhere in the world. The smelting of iron using coke was started in the village of Coalbrookdale – a groundbreaking process.

Ironbridge was the birthplace of the Industrial Revolution and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. 

Read more | Visiting Ironbridge birthplace of the Industrial Revolution

For chocoholics don’t miss a day at Cadbury World in Bourneville

The original 1879 site of the Cadbury brothers’ chocolate factory is in Bournville in Birmingham. Bournville (like Saltaire in Yorkshire ) was a Victorian model village created by John Cadbury where workers at his factory were provided with housing, schools, hospitals and other amenities. 

Don’t miss the Bournville Heritage Walk around the area which details places to visit and points of interest.

If chocolate is your thing then take a visit to Cadbury World and discover how chocolate is manufactured (and try some of the samples along the way)

Read more | Bournville Heritage Walk | Cadbury World

Like the wonderful Beamish Open Air Museum in the North East of England , the Black Country Living Museum gives visitors a sense of what life was like in the 19th and early 20th centuries. 

Costumed characters share stories of life in the area and shops and houses preserved in time really give a sense of what life was like in one of the world’s most heavily industrialised areas. There is lots to do at the Black Country Living Museum so prepare to spend the day there.

This was a favourite destination for school trips when I was a history teacher and if you have an interest in learning about life in England for the working classes this is an excellent museum to visit.

If you are a fan of UK TV shows you may be interested to know that it has featured in the popular period drama of Peaky Blinders .

Read more | The Black Country Living Museum

Did you know that some people claim that Birmingham has more canals than Venice, Italy? Although this may be open to debate the fact remains that with over 35 miles of canals Birmingham’s industrial heritage is undeniable. During the 19th century, the canals were used to transport coal, iron and other goods.

I recommend heading to The Mailbox where the Worcester and Birmingham Canal passes along the back of the building. There are some great bars and restaurants with lovely views overlooking the canal on Broad Street.

Also don’t miss the excellent shopping opportunities offered at the Bullring in the centre of Birmingham (and the German Christmas Marke t held annually in December)

Read more | The Mailbox Birmingham

Burton -on-Trent’s National Brewery Centre Museum – NOW CLOSED

If you like beer you will probably know that the town of Burton-on -Trent is synonymous with the brewery trade. 

Burton was the home of the Bass family who played a vital role in the development of brewing. In fact, the distinctive Bass trademark was the UK’s first registered trademark!

To find out more about the brewing process and the history of the trade in the town take a guided tour of the National Brewery Museum.

The museum was sadly closed in 2022.

Since 1997 German traders have come to Birmingham for the annual Christmas market. It is recognised as the largest authentic German market outside of Germany and Austria and is one of the UK’s most popular Christmas markets and is very busy particularly during evenings and weekends. 

With more than 80 stalls and some tasty food options (think bratwurst, mulled cider, gluwien and weissbier) don’t miss the Christmas market in Birmingham from mid-November to late December (note – the market is cancelled for 2020)

The market can be found around Victoria Square and New Street in the centre of Birmingham.

Read more | Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market

Shugborough Hall (built in 1863) is located in Great Haywood in Staffordshire is a Georgian mansion famous for its walled gardens and follies found in the beautiful grounds. 

Shugborough Hall is owned by the National Trust . Check the website for opening times and prices.

Read more | Shugborough Hall

• WHAT TO READ – Anita and Me by Meera Syal, Astonishing Splashes of Colour by Clare Morrall and The Road to Lichfield by Penelope Lively
• WHERE TO STAY: Click here to find the best hotels in the West Midlands
• WHAT TOURS TO BOOK : Click here for recommended tours in the West Midlands
• WHAT TO EAT – Balti, Staffordshire Oatcakes, Cadbury chocolate
• PRINCIPLE TRAIN STATIONS – Birmingham stations including Birmingham International, Coventry, and Wolverhampton.

ⓘ TIPS

• Birmingham is a major shopping hub – head to the Bullring for a great day out! Cannock Chase is a popular destination and is considered an area of outstanding natural beauty – perfect for those who enjoy the outdoors.

Now you have lots of ideas for your visit to England’s West Midlands!

Struggling to decide which of England’s 9 regions to visit? Why not take a look at my other area guides to England which include the North East , North West , East Midlands , Yorkshire , East of England , South West and South East .

Visiting Scotland and/or Wales ? Check out my top 19 places to visit in Scotland and my top 10 choices for Wales

Find more inspiration for your travels in my England Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

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Adult fares are applicable to all passengers aged 2+. Adults under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel alone on any European service unless accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over or they have a letter of authority from a parent or guardian.

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Children aged under the age of 2, must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. Unaccompanied children will not be carried.

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A travelcard gives you more freedom to travel by bus in the west of england. you don’t have to carry any cash on you and you can use it on any bus*, including the new metrobus services..

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When buying tickets online, you’ll be able to collect them at a metrobus iPoint 2 hours later, or on the bus (except First buses and metrobus services) and Bristol Park & Ride sites the following day from 6am (when ordered before 11pm).

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Sign up on our Travelcards portal . Your balance and tickets will not be protected against theft and loss until you register your card.  

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Order one online from our Travelcards portal now or get one from any bus service in the West of England (except First services and metrobus services), First Bristol and Bath travel shop, or an available metrobus iPoint, visit our  frequently asked questions  for more information.

Did you know you can also use your Travelcard to hire a vehicle from the Co-Wheels Car Club? After you receive your Travelcard, visit  co-wheels.org.uk/bristol  to register.

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You can top up your Travelcard with different tickets that can be used in different services. But, which one is the best one for your journey and where can you buy it? Have a look below to find out.  If you need more information please have a look at our frequently asked questions before contacting us .

When buying tickets online, you’ll be able to collect them at a metrobus iPoint 2 hours later, or on the bus (except First, Stagecoach, and metrobus services) and Bristol Park & Ride sites the following day from 6am (when ordered before 11pm).

Simply hold the card to the machine on the bus. If you have more than one ticket on your card, advise the driver of which ticket you would like to use. If boarding a First bus the machine will automatically select the ticket for you depending on your destination.

First Bristol and Bath and metrobus tickets

The following First Bus products in Adult, Student, Young Person (16-21) and Child can be loaded onto Travelcards:

• Bath Zone  – 5 or 10 trip Single tickets (top up on bus only), Day, Week & Month
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These tickets will be accepted in any First buses in the Bristol Zone, Bath Zone and West of England Zone , including all  metrobus services .

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Rider Tickets  are tickets accepted by all bus operators in a given area. They are valid for travel on the day of issue and up to 2.59am the following morning.

To see the areas covered by these tickets, please visit our online Rider areas map .

The following tickets can be purchased online *, at a metrobus iPoint, and on the bus from the driver (on bus purchase not available on Stagecoach or metrobus services):

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• BristolRider Adult  – Covering approximately a 6 mile radius of the city centre. Day ticket and Weekly ticket are available online. For fares and more information about the BristolRider ticket visit this page .

* Only Adult tickets can be bought online , you can buy other tickets from the driver. Packs of 3 and 5 are also available online only.

The following tickets can be purchased from the driver and loaded onto your Travelcard on the bus**, except Stagecoach buses, (using cash or Pay-As-You-Go credit):

• BathRider  – Covering the Bath urban area. Day ticket and Weekly ticket are available. For fares and more information about the Bath Rider ticket visit this page .
• WestonRider  – Covering the Weston-super-Mare urban area. Only Day ticket available. For fares and more information about the WestonRider ticket visit this page .

** Only Adult tickets  are available to buy for your Travelcard.

Pay-As-You-Go (epurse)

With Pay-As-You-Go you can buy any available ticket using credit you load onto your Travelcard in advance.

You can top up your Pay-As-You-Go balance by registering your Travelcard at portal.squidcard.com , and collect your credit at a metrobus iPoint, or on any bus services run by the following operators:

The services that accept payments with Pay-As-You-Go balance are by the operators listed above and metrobus iPoints.

Simply hold your card to the reader on the bus and inform the driver you wish to buy your ticket with Pay-As-You-Go balance.

Using Pay-As-You-Go simply place the card on the holder, select which ticket you wish to buy and select pay with sQuid.

Some bus operators even offer special ‘smart’ discounts for customers using Pay-As-You-Go.

Please be aware that costs and terms of use of tickets are set by operators and we cannot accept responsibility for incorrect or outdated information as unplanned changes may occur.

Travelwest Travelcards team

For any Travelcard's issues, including the Travelcards portal and lost or stolen cards, please contact the SWSAL helpline. Normal opening hours: 9am – 5pm, Monday to Friday.

Major Alerts

Major updates that may affect your travel in the west of england..

• Last updated: 11:38 
• 26th March, 2024 26/03/2024

Rail disruptions from 1 April 2023 to 10 April 2023

• Status: Ongoing
• From:  29th March, 2024 29/03/24
• To:  11th April, 2024 11/04/24

Various rail services

• Last updated: 10:22 

Easter Bank Holiday bus services 29 March – 1 April

• From:  26th March, 2024 26/03/24
• To:  02nd May, 2024 02/05/24

West of England

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An easy and flexible way to travel

A Swift card is an easy and flexible way to travel around the West Midlands with a choice of tickets and ways to pay.

What are the options?

  swift card bus passes/travelcards.

• You don't get issued with a paper ticket, your smartcard is your ticket!
• Cheaper than buying tickets daily
• You can pay by a regular subscription or as a one off payment

Simply tap the Swift card on the scanner every time you board the bus!

  Swift Pay As You Go

• You can buy any of the tickets that are available on the bus 
• Never worry about having cash with you!

Place your Swift card on the scanner and let the driver know which ticket you would like. You'll be issued with a paper ticket once you've selected your ticket.

To find out which operators within the West Midlands will accept   nBus   1, 4 and 52 week passes, and Pay As You Go cards click here .

Please note not all operators will accept Pay As You Go cards.

Find out more information about our Swift card by going to our FAQ's section, just click below:

Swift card FAQ's

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• Clean air zone
• Cookie policy
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• Privacy policy
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• Read our blog
• Safer travel partnership
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• Zero emissions buses

Call or get in touch online We are here to help

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Visit National Express Coventry

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Part of Mobico Group

© West Midlands Travel Limited 2024

Passenger descriptions

Our passenger descriptions are designed to help you choose the right ticket for yourself or your fellow travellers.

Adult fares are applicable to all passengers aged 2+. Adults under the age of 16 are not permitted to travel alone on any European service unless accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over or they have a letter of authority from a parent or guardian.

Infants 0-1 Inclusive

Children aged under the age of 2, must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over. Unaccompanied children will not be carried.