Still looking for accommodation? The five best halls for Uni of Birmingham students – and why

What do you think of when you hear “student halls”? For some students it might be along the lines of box rooms, noisy neighbours, flimsy furniture, messy housemates and high prices. If this is you, do not fret. At the University of Birmingham, there are some gems that will give you a more comfortable experience.

If you’re an incoming fresher, here’s the rundown. The university has three villages, Selly Oak, Pritchatts Park and The Vale. Each comes with a unique feel, easily distinguishable once you’ve lived in halls for a few weeks. But to the newcomers, it might help to have a bit of insight so it is not a complete shock to your system.

This list will help you differ where the sports night fiend’s live versus the more chilled out students. For those who are wanting a quieter place to live, here are the top accommodations across the villages, ranked from the worst to best.

5. Bournbrook, Selly Oak

Bournbrook, via Google Maps

Located in Selly Oak, Bournbrook is minutes from campus and next door to the sports facilities. The flats are top notch for daily convenience and, of course, sports enthusiasts will find this accommodation particularly advantageous with the football and tennis courts basically being your back garden.

Another tick on the box is their ensuite bathrooms- arguably the biggest privilege a university student can have, particularly in first year. You could be living with up to five housemates in this option, making it less cramped unlike most eight bedroom accommodation.

The biggest drawback, however, is its location. Conventionally, Selly Oak is for second years, and freshers all flock the the Vale. Despite this, you’re only a stroll away from the Vale, so do not be daunted! Joe*, a recent graduate said about Bournebrook: “ It kinda sets you up for living in Selly after cause you’re already more familiar with the area.”

Some rumours claim that Bournbrook can sometimes be an antisocial choice, one to note if you’re looking to find a bubbly flat.

But Lucy*, a second year student disagreed and told The Tab: “You’ll find social people anywhere, so it just depends on who moves in.”

The Birmingham Tab’s ranking:

Loudness: 4/10

Social life: 5/10

Friendly neighbours: 6/10

4. Shackleton, The Vale

Shackleton, via Google Maps

Located in the Vale, Shackleton is one of the most popular first year spots, hosting around 3,500 students. Offering peaceful views of the lake and bang in the middle of the student village, Shackleton combines this scenery with a real hustle and bustle of student life. Generically, Shackleton students are the sociable kind,  but since they are living within the Vale’s central social hub they can be the stay-in type at the same time. This accommodation is for anyone who wants the best of both worlds.

The walk to campus is around 20 minutes, which to some might not be very appealing. But, most of the Vale is the same distance, and once you get used to it, it’s not too bad! Even so, a slightly longer walk to campus with nice scenery might be just your cup of tea in the mornings.

Students also love it because it’s just above the Shack, the main social hub of the Vale. So, Shackleton’s residents can get involved in university life without needing to walk anywhere. This would be pretty appealing on a rainy day. Students also have a gym and shop in the building, making it a one of a kind option in the entirety of student accommodation.

There are up to five flatmates in shared bathroom accommodations or five to eight in ensuite rooms. But, a recent resident of Shackleton pointed out: “I do think the bedrooms can be a bit small compared to Mason and Chamberlain.”

The Birmingham Tab’s ranking:

Loudness 8/10

Social life 9/10

Friendly neighbours 8/10

3. Pritchatts Townhouses, Pritchatts Park Village

Pritchatts Townhouses, via Google Maps

The university recognises Pritchatts Park for its sustainable, leafy and social atmosphere. It is 12 minutes from campus and 15 minutes from Harborne high street, making it super convenient for all parts of your university life.

In the Oakley Court and Ashcroft Townhouses, you have between nine and 12 flatmates. This sounds like a lot, but having more flatmates increases the chances of meeting people who you will really gel with. Also, the social spaces are noticeably large for a student accommodation, so you can all cook and relax together. Generally, students who choose to live in this accommodation prefer a calm, peaceful environment and distance from the heavy partying environments that are found in Selly Oak or on the Vale.

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Typically, it is two students per bathroom, which is pretty lucky for halls, especially at a decent price.  Greg*, a recent resident of the Pritchatts Townhouses told The Birmingham Tab: “I couldn’t recommend Pritchatts enough as an accommodation.”

The Birmingham Tab’s ranking:

Loudness 2/10

Social life 6/10

Friendly neighbours 9/10

2. Jarratt Hall

Jarratt Hall, via Google Maps

Whilst it is in Selly Oak, Jarratt Hall might be just what you are looking for as a first year. There are plenty of amenities nearby and it is a maximum ten minute walk to campus; perfect if you don’t want to feel the pressure of getting to lectures on time after a late night out.

Amy*, a student who used to live in Jarratt confirmed: “It’s not the fanciest looking place, but convenience wise it is I reckon the best first year accommodation in the uni.” There is also praise from students for the more culturally diverse range of students that end up living in Jarratt with a lot of international students choosing to call it home.

However, despite the suggestion that Selly Oak is the most vibrant social atmosphere, Amy added: “You don’t get to be around as many first years.” Selly Oak is usually a student location for after first year, so some freshers might find it more isolated.

The biggest praise for Jarratt comes down to the Aldi that is right next door, so if you are on a tight budget, this accommodation has you covered.

The Birmingham Tab’s ranking:

Loudness 6/10

Social life 7/10

Friendly neighbours 8/10

1. Chamberlain

Chamberlain, via Google Maps

As a part of the Vale student village, Chamberlain is made up of a contemporary 20 storey tower and three lower-rise blocks. So, many residents have a soft spot for the panoramic views of Birmingham and the lakeside location.

It’s sometimes nicknamed Tory Towers because according to other students, it is the bougiest accommodation. Whilst it has its stereotype, it promises you one of the most comfortable experiences for first year.

You get an ensuite room, which is arguably in high demand amongst students, even if you pay extra to get it.

It is often described as having a premium feel to it. So, Chamberlain goes into top spot for accommodation because of its beautiful surroundings and luxurious reputation.

The Birmingham Tab’s ranking:

Loudness 8/10

Social life 9/10

Friendly neighbours 6/10

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Featured image via Google Maps and Unsplash