Birmingham is a great place to be a student. As the second city of England, Birmingham has something for all tastes, including world-class sporting facilities, a superb arts and cultural scene and nightlife to rival any city in Europe.

Birmingham is also a shopper's paradise with many modern retail centres, restored Victorian arcades and a range of markets offering everything from designer labels to second-hand bargains. Then there is the recently-rebuilt Bull Ring, a cutting-edge urban experience offering dozens of shops,
boutiques and restaurants at the very heart of the city. Indeed, it may be Birmingham's many dining places which best convey the cosmopolitan diversity of Birmingham's people, with city restaurants serving up cuisine from all corners of the world, as well as the very best in European food. Yet there is also a quieter side to Birmingham, with green city parks and canal-side walks offering a perfect contrast to the bustle of big city life. And if that isn't enough, there is the nearby countryside of the English Midland counties, steeped in the traditions of an older country. Within easy travelling distance there is historic Warwick Castle, Shakespeare's Stratford-upon-Avon and the world-famous Ironbridge, as well as the peaceful hill country of the Malverns and Cotswolds. And for a more thrilling day out, there are regional theme parks like Alton Towers within easy reach of the Birmingham area. Getting to Birmingham couldn't be easier. The city is located at the hub of the UK's road and rail network and is served by two main line stations, Birmingham New Street and Birmingham International. It is also at the centre of Britain's national coach network connecting directly with 500 UK destinations. And for visitors from overseas, Birmingham International Airport offers direct flights to major destinations all over the world.