5 ways university accommodation will surprise you
If you went to university a decade or more ago, you might have rather dim expectations of a night spent in a student bedroom.
But if you’re picturing a thin lumpy bed in a chilly featureless room, think again.
University accommodation has changed dramatically in recent times, as student expectations have risen and universities have prioritised high-spec new developments. Far from slumming it, student accommodation is increasingly the ideal city alternative to a hotel.
Great location
When you’re an institution that regularly welcomes an influx of new residents from all over the world, a convenient location is essential.
A city centre university can offer great amenities on the doorstep, from authentic local food to nightlife. For more of a village feel, a campus typically provides a quieter experience. And of course, both will be easy to reach, with great transport links.
Hassle-free amenities
The modern traveller expects certain options built in to their travel. While larger hotel chains are coming around to free Wi-Fi and parking as standard, it’s certainly not universal – and the standard of internet provision often leaves a lot to be desired.
A university, however, needs a robust infrastructure year-round. Visit in the summer, and you’ll enjoy the same high-speed Wi-Fi as students and academics. Breakfast options too tend to be packed with choice, easy to reach and economical.
Genuine living
A hotel room might be charming, but it’s designed for temporary overnight stays, not for real life.
Choose a university room, and you’ll find unexpected perks come with a space meant to be lived in. A hotel ‘workstation’ is sometimes barely large enough for a laptop: a student desk and chair is bound to be more comfortable. You may find a lounge area comes with your room; perhaps even a small kitchen-diner, where you can make tea and relax away.
An immersive experience
Staying on a campus places you in a unique environment. You’re surrounded by a setting that’s dedicated to inspiring young minds and pursuing groundbreaking research.
If you’re lucky, you’ll also find striking architecture and historic buildings; maybe even a museum or two.
Perfect for conferences
Travelling for work means you want to stay somewhere comfortable, practical and easy to reach.
When you’re away at a conference, you also want to be able to network effectively, and socialise with your fellow delegates. University accommodation offers flexibility for large groups, especially when the conference is held on-site too. Attending all your events just a stroll away from where you’re staying that night means you can really focus on the day’s work – and enjoy your evening’s entertainment too.
The University of Birmingham offers an extensive range of modern, stylish en-suite bedrooms for group stays and conference guests during the summer months, set in lakeside parkland. It’s an easy walk to all campus venues, and just a 7-minute train journey to Birmingham New Street from University station. To find out more, get in touch with the Conferences & events team.
Looking for bed and breakfast stays, or a hotel? Choose from our two on-campus hotels.
