Wolverhampton

Living in Wolverhampton

Wolverhampton is situation in the heart of England, not too far from Birmingham. It has a large network of transport connections and houses the city campus of the University of Wolverhampton.

If you've not been there before, Wolverhampton is a little bit north-west of Birmingham. In fact there isn’t really much of a gap between them, they’re so close. They sort of merge into each other, making Wolverhampton a kind of Birmingham-Lite. Being just a twenty minute train ride from the second biggest city in the UK can only be a good thing for a student with a limited budget, unless of course they have a serious shopping habit. Wolverhampton is known for it’s low living cost, so treating yourself to a well earned post-exam night out is not going to break the bank.  Of course, like all universities (and life in general), it’s only when you put the effort in that you start to get to the good stuff...

All students at the University of Wolverhampton, whether in halls or student housing, will be living very close to the city centre so you’ll be perfectly placed to take advantage of the entertainment Wolverhampton has on offer. The city has all the big name clubs you’d expect to see, but in recent years its live music scene has really been getting a lot of attention. There are several venues in Wolverhampton that are really worth keeping an eye on as they continue to attract both national and international music acts. The main one is Civic Hall, which regularly hosts a wide range of big names.

Not too far away you’ve also got the Light House, an arts centre with an independent cinema showing both current blockbusters and the smaller, classic or international films you might not get a chance to see elsewhere. Often these will be accompanied by book launches, exhibitions or events like the International Animation Festival, so keep an eye on their calendar. There’s also a Cineworld over at Bentley Bridge leisure park that shows both Hollywood and Bollywood movies, as well as some popular food outlets and a bowling alley.

Last but not least, the sport. Football is a big deal and the city is fiercely proud of their team the Wolverhampton Wanderers, or ‘Wolves’ and the team has had a lot of success over the years. If nothing else, get to know the home colours (orange and black) so that you don’t have to point at the telly and ask “Who’s playing?” when they’re on

I need to get out of the house!

• West Park: Nothing makes you forget your exam stress like lazing about in a green grassy park. They’ve also got a boating lake although, depending on who you take with you, it may be safer to stay on the bank!
• Wightwick Manor: Wandering round this Victorian manor and gardens will give you a chance to slow your brain down and enjoy your surroundings for a few hours without any other distractions.
• Shropshire: If you really, really need to get away, don’t forget that you’re actually not that far from Wales and some beautiful countryside in between. Pack a bag and a tent, and take the day off. 

Good to know

• Taxi: Hackney cabs (black cabs)
• Bus: The university operates a shuttle bus that hits all the campuses, and the city centre. Make sure you’re carrying your ID at all times if you want to get on.

10 Wolverhampton Reviews