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Canvas The Old Fire Station, Birmingham
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About the Property
Canvas The Old Fire Station, located at Aston St, Birmingham, B4 7DA, United Kingdom, brings together style, comfort, and convenience in one of the city’s most iconic student residences. Offering a choice of modern en suites, studios, and non en suite apartments, it allows students to pick between a sociable shared setup or the independence of private living. Its location makes it especially attractive for anyone looking for student accommodation near ONCAMPUS Coventry, with Aston University, which is just a 4-minute car ride, and ONCAMPUS Coventry is only a short 1-minute drive away. That means students can stay close to classes while also enjoying the cultural energy and nightlife Birmingham is known for.
Birmingham welcomes over 80,000 students each year, making it one of the United Kingdom’s biggest education hubs. Living at Canvas The Old Fire Station puts you right in the heart of the city, where affordability meets opportunity. The average monthly cost of living in Birmingham ranges from £900 to £1,000, noticeably cheaper compared to cities like London. Students also benefit from a high employment rate of around 75%, ensuring a wide range of part-time and graduate job opportunities. Safety is another key factor here, with Birmingham holding a safety index of 56, making it a secure place to live. Beyond the essentials, the city offers a thriving cultural scene, music events, and food from every corner of the globe. For those curious about student life here, this detailed student city guide to Birmingham gives a deeper look at why so many students choose to study and live here.
What makes Canvas The Old Fire Station special is its unique mix of historic charm and modern student-focused design. The building combines quiet study areas with buzzing social spaces, so residents can balance academic focus with a lively community. Surrounded by cafés, restaurants, shops, and green spots, this is one of the most sought-after student accommodation in Birmingham, delivering both convenience and a sense of belonging.
Features
At Canvas The Old Fire Station, students can choose from a variety of modern room types, including Bedroom Silver Mid Level, Bedroom Bronze Mid Level, and the Ensuite Silver Upper Level. Rooms has been thoughtfully designed with comfort and practicality in mind. You’ll find a bed, desk, and comfy chair set up for productive study sessions, along with wardrobes, underbed storage, and drawers to keep everything organised. A dedicated desk space ensures that students always have a quiet corner for coursework or late-night reading. With stylish interiors and the convenience of modern design, it’s easy to see why Canvas The Old Fire Station is one of the most popular choices for Birmingham City student accommodation. Students can also check out the Canvas The Old Fire Station photos to get a closer look at the spacious layouts and welcoming design.
Beyond your private space, The Canvas – The Old Fire Station offers excellent facilities that make student life easier and more enjoyable. With bills included covering water, electricity, gas, and internet, you don’t need to worry about juggling multiple payments. The high-speed free Wi-Fi from 100 MB/s ensures that both studying and streaming run smoothly. The residence is fully furnished and comes with dedicated study spaces and lively social spaces, perfect for connecting with other students. Added conveniences such as an on-site laundry and a calendar of on-site and virtual events bring an extra layer of ease and community to everyday living. For those who like to stay active, the in-house gym makes it simple to balance health and studies. Safety and well-being are also prioritised at Canvas The Old Fire Station. A 24/7 team is always on hand to offer assistance, while wellbeing support ensures students feel cared for throughout their stay. With such a strong mix of private comfort, community facilities, and reliable safety measures, it’s no surprise that Canvas The Old Fire Station reviews highlight the property as one of the most reliable and welcoming choices in the city.
Location and What's Hot?
Living at The Old Fire Station Birmingham, means being right in the centre of the action, with everything a student could need within walking distance. From convenient shops to buzzing nightlife, the location is designed for students who want the full Birmingham experience. Canvas The Old Fire Station is also well connected to top universities, with BPP University-Birmingham just a 5-minute drive away, and Birmingham City University only a 5-minute car ride from the property. This makes Canvas The Old Fire Station one of the best picks for anyone searching for student accommodation near Birmingham City University. Beyond academics, the city itself is packed with things to see and do, and if you’re keen to discover some of the best attractions, guides like best things to Do in Birmingham give a great overview of how much the city has to offer.
When it comes to food and drink, students have plenty of choices nearby. Popular spots like Sue’s Cafe, Boston Tea Party Birmingham, and Perch are ideal for a relaxed coffee or study break. The café culture in the city is thriving, and places like these are just the beginning. For proper meals, you’ll find plenty of student-friendly restaurants close to Canvas The Old Fire Station. Whether it’s quick bites at Wok&Go, the Caribbean flavours at Karibbean Kruz, or the flame-grilled dishes at Rio’s Piri Piri, there’s always something different to try. In fact, the city’s diverse food scene has made it a hotspot, with guides on the best restaurants in Birmingham showcasing just how much variety is at your doorstep.
Students looking to enjoy the nightlife will also love being based here. Popular pubs like Sacks Of Potatoes, The Bull, and The Queens Head are all nearby, offering a great mix of lively atmospheres and budget-friendly drinks. For bigger nights out, Birmingham is home to a huge range of clubs and bars, many of which are highlighted in guides to the best clubs in Birmingham. This ensures students at Canvas The Old Fire Station never miss out on the city’s after-dark scene.
On the practical side, living here also puts you close to everyday essentials. Grocery shopping is easy with Raees Shop 24/7 and Tesco Express just a short walk away. For health and pharmacy needs, both Paul's Pharmacy and Boots Pharmacy are conveniently located nearby. If you’re in the mood for some retail therapy, Newtown Shopping Centre offers plenty of options for fashion, essentials, and more. All of this makes Canvas The Old Fire Station not just a place to live but one of the most convenient choices for Birmingham student accommodation.
Commute
Students staying at Canvas The Old Fire Station benefit from excellent transport links that make getting around Birmingham straightforward. The nearest bus stops, Aston St / Gosta Green, and JW1, are just a short walk away, offering quick access to different parts of the city. For tram services, Bull Street tram station is close by, connecting you smoothly to Birmingham’s wider network. If you’re travelling longer distances, Birmingham Snow Hill travel terminal is within easy reach, providing both train and tram services. For international students or those planning trips abroad, Birmingham Airport can be reached conveniently, making this one of the most well-connected options for students.
Video Tours
Explore the property through a virtual walkthrough and discover a variety of in house amenities all at highly affordable rents.
Room Types (39)
7 Bed Shared Apartment
5 Bed Shared Apartment
4 Bed Shared Apartment
3 Bed Shared Apartment
2 Bed Shared Apartment
Silver Ensuite
Platinum Ensuite
Diamond Ensuite
Bronze Studio
Silver Studio
Gold Studio
Platinum Studio
Diamond Studio
Studio Bronze Lower Level
Bedroom Silver Lower Level
Shared Community And Utilities
Fitness And Recreation
Security
Property Services
Bills Included
Payment Policies (4)
- Pay In InstalmentThis property offers flexible instalment plan.
- Mode Of PaymentPayments accepted via credit/debit card and bank transfer. No American Express.
- Guarantor RequirementProperty accepts UK & international guarantors. Need guarantor details for every lease.
For 25-26 AY & 26-27 AY:-
Property Management is currently not accepting booking deposits. To confirm your booking, the first instalment must be paid.
For 26-27 AY:-
Students can choose between 1, 2 or 4. Prices for each instalment plan will vary slightly.
1. 1 Instalment (2% Discount)
2. 2 Instalments (0% Discount)
3. 4 Instalments (2% Premium)
4. Change Selection 4 Maintenance Instalments (Proof required / 0% discount)
For 25-26 AY:-
Students can choose between 1 or 2 . Prices for each instalment plan will vary slightly.
1. 1 Instalment (0% Discount)
2. 2 Instalments (0% Discount)
Credit/Debit card & Bank transfer.
Please note: The property does not accept payments via American Express.
For 25-26 AY & 26-27 AY:-
1. The property accepts both UK based and international guarantors.
2. The property will need details for a guarantor for every lease, even if you intend to pay in 1 instalment.
3. Your guarantor can be anyone not currently in full time education.
4. Most residents use a parent, guardian or family member. However, please note you can NOT act as your own guarantor.
Cancellation Policies (4)
- Cooling Off PeriodHolding Payment refundable within 3 days, non-refundable after. Email cancellation after Cooling Off Period.
- No Visa No PayCancellation allowed for visa decline with evidence, refund first rent minus Holding Fee.
- No Place No PayCancellation allowed if grades fail to meet university requirements before start date, partial refund.
- Replacement Tenant AcceptedCancellation requires replacement tenant approval, criteria to meet, timely requests. Administration fee applicable.
For 25-26 AY & 26-27 AY:-
If you have paid a Holding Payment when entering in to the Reservation Agreement, a cooling-off period of three (3) days applies, starting from the date of the Reservation Agreement (the “Cooling Off Period”).
If you decide to cancel your Reservation Agreement within the Cooling Off Period, you may do so by sending an email to the site team, and your Holding Payment will be refunded in full.
If you cancel your Reservation Agreement after the Cooling Off Period, your Holding Payment will be retained.
For 25-26 AY & 26-27 AY:-
Your application for a visa has been declined. Please note that this does not include situations where your visa has been granted and subsequently withdrawn.
If you meet the above Cancellation Criteria and can provide the property with evidence demonstrating that you meet the above criteria, your request for cancellation will be granted. If you have already accepted your Tenancy Agreement and paid your first instalment of Rent at the date your cancellation request is granted, they will refund you the first instalment of Rent less any Holding Fee paid (or an amount equivalent to the Holding Fee if you booked your room after 31st July).
For 25-26 AY & 26-27 AY:-
To request to cancel your booking outside of the Decision Making Period on or after 31st July but prior to the Tenancy Start Date as set out in the Tenancy Agreement, you must meet the following criteria:
You have failed to obtain your grades to study at university and as such do not have student status.
If you meet the above Cancellation Criteria and can provide the property with evidence demonstrating that you meet the above criteria, your request for cancellation will be granted. If you have already accepted your Tenancy Agreement and paid your first instalment of Rent at the date your cancellation request is granted, they will refund you the first instalment of Rent less any Holding Fee paid (or an amount equivalent to the Holding Fee if you booked your room after 31st July).
For 25-26 AY & 26-27 AY:-
If you wish to cancel your Tenancy Agreement but do not meet the Cancellation Criteria, you may find a suitable replacement tenant, and request our approval of the same (which shall be at our sole discretion).
To request a replacement tenant, please email your property management.
Please note : Property will not agree to release you from your Tenancy Agreement, or to accept a replacement tenant, unless all outstanding accounts with property are settled in full.
For a replacement tenant to be suitable they must meet the following non-exhaustive requirements:
• be a student and meet the accommodation preferences attached to your room (for example, a female-only flat);
• not have any rent arrears under any other tenancy agreements with the landlord or its affiliates;
• not be an existing resident or have an existing academic year room booking with the landlord or its affiliates;
• sign a tenancy agreement for the entirety of the remaining term of your Tenancy Agreement and secure it with payment of any required deposit.
After the Tenancy Start Date as set out in the Tenancy Agreement, requests for room moves or for property to accept a replacement tenant to take over your tenancy will be managed based on availability and at our sole discretion. The terms of changing apartments, depending on the case, may require the signing of an amendment or a new lease agreement according to the type and rate of the new accommodation. A non- refundable Administration Fee of £50 will be payable in each instance and you will be responsible for cleaning the room in accordance with the terms of the Tenancy Agreement.
Please note : - Requests for replacement tenants received after 1 June within the Tenancy Period will not be accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s included in the price?
Am I allowed to have guests to stay?
How secure is the accommodation?
Will I need to pay council tax?
Do I need a tv licence?
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What happens if I don’t get on with my new flat mates?
Can I receive post and parcels?
Can I live with my friends?
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Canvas The Old Fire Station, Birmingham
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Student Accommodations in Birmingham
Birmingham Student Accommodation
Birmingham is the second large city in UK and it has a large student population of around 80,000 students. Finding ideal student accommodation in Birmingham, UK, such as studios, non-ensuites, private halls and en-suites can be a little difficult. Amber makes this difficult task easy by providing affordable options. One of the factors to consider while finding student accommodation Birmingham is its closeness to the renowned universities like the University of Birmingham, Aston University, and ACM Birmingham.
Amber provides budget-friendly Birmingham City student accommodation that is loaded with all the necessary facilities that one would require for a comfortable stay. If you are looking to book student accommodation in Birmingham, then don’t forget to check out these off-campus university accommodation options near the city centre campus, such as Calthorpe Court, Yugo Globe Works, and many more.
About Birmingham
Birmingham was famous for its iron & steel industry, which made it a major player in the Industrial Revolution. Over the years, Birmingham has established itself as an educational hub. There are five universities in Birmingham, including the University of Birmingham and Aston University. Hence, it attracts a large number of students from all over the world. Another thing that makes Birmingham stand out amongst the rest is that the city proves to be a great place for cultural amalgamation. Studying in Birmingham provides many opportunities for part-time jobs for students. One can easily find people from different ethnicities and backgrounds coming together and living peacefully. Birmingham is close to major cities, such as Belmont, Coventry, Leicester, and Nottingham.
Birmingham is considered the second largest city in the United Kingdom. Students will get a good exposure and an amalgamation of different cultures & backgrounds in Birmingham. However, it’s important to find the perfect student accommodation in Birmingham on time. That’s when amber comes into the picture by helping students find their perfect stay in the city. These options near the city centre are all packed up with a great range of amenities & facilities that make the stay comfortable for students, just like student halls.
Best Student Accommodation in Birmingham
Amber has a list of purpose-built flats, studios, and budget-friendly apartments with modern facilities. Premium options such as studios and flats can range from £250 to £350 per week and often include additional services. If you want to stay in student apartments in Birmingham then amber's sorting features make it easy to choose neighbourhoods which are close to your university and will help you in saving your commuting time. Have a look at some of the best student apartments in Birmingham:
| Best student apartments in Birmingham | Nearby University | Top Amenities | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vita Student Pebble Mill, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Gym, Cinema Room, Private Study Rooms, Free Grab & Go Breakfast, Superfast WiFi, Free Housekeeping | £343 / week |
| Beechenhurst House, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Smart TV, Communal Lounge, Secure Key Fob Entry, Housekeeping, Laundry Facility | £320 / week |
| 800 Bristol Road, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Gym, Study Space, Cinema Room, Communal Kitchen, Bike Storage, High-Speed Internet | £275 / week |
| Riverside House, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Parking, Laundry, 24/7 Security, Bills Included, Transport Links | £258 / week |
| Vita Student Gough Street, Birmingham | University City Birmingham | Gym, Private Study Rooms, Free Weekday Breakfast, Basketball Court, Superfast WiFi | £257 / week |
Affordable Student Housing In Birmingham
There are different choices available for the cheap student accommodation in Birmingham include ensuite rooms, non-ensuite rooms, and studio apartments. This variety helps students find what best fits their lifestyles. Below are some of the cheap student housing options in Birmingham that you should consider:
| Affordable Student Accommodation In Birmingham | Nearby University | Top Amenities | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canvas The Old Fire Station, Birmingham | Aston University | Gym, Study Space, Social Space, Free Wi-Fi (100 MB/s), On-site Laundry, 24/7 Team | £119 / week |
| Collegiate Bagot Street, Birmingham | Aston University | On-site Gym, Cinema Room, Study Areas, Common Room, Bike Storage, Laundry Room | £119 / week |
| Canvas The Heights, Birmingham | Aston University | Gym, Cinema Room, Study Spaces, Social Spaces, Free Wi-Fi, Bike Storage | £119 / week |
| Lyttleton House, Birmingham | Birmingham City University | Smart TV, High-Speed Internet, Communal Kitchen, Living Area, Secure Entry Fob, CCTV | £125 / week |
| Calthorpe Court, Birmingham | University of Birmingham | Games Area, Study Room, Common Room, Bike Storage, CCTV, Laundry Room | £135 / week |
Cost of living in Birmingham
The total monthly living expenses for students, including rent and other costs, amounts to between £1400 and £1600. Here are some costs associated with living here, apart from the rent for your Birmingham student accommodation:
1. Food: £280 to £320 /monthly
2. Gas and electricity: £15 - £25 /week
3. Internet & mobile phone: £15 - £20 /week
4. Dinner at a restaurant: £10 - £15 /week
5. Laundry: £5 - £10 /week
6. Stationery and Textbooks: £10 - £15 /week
Best Areas to Live in Birmingham
Birmingham has many student-friendly neighbourhoods. Each student area suits different lifestyles, and students can choose a neighbourhood according to what matters to them. You might want to be near universities, find affordable choices, or enjoy a lively social scene. Here are some of the best neighbourhoods to consider:
| Area | Best For | Highlights | Nearby Institutions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Selly Oak | Social & Community | The classic "Student Village"; high density of student bars, supermarkets, and affordable housing. | University of Birmingham (Walking distance) |
| Edgbaston | Peace & Greenery | Premium feel; quieter leafy streets, popular cafes, and larger Victorian-style houses. | UoB and BCU (City South) |
| City Centre | Urban Lifestyle | High-rise living; everything at your doorstep, including the Bullring and New Street Station. | Aston University, BCU (Main) |
| Digbeth | Creative & Alternative | The "Coolest Neighborhood"; famous for street art, indie markets, and nightlife. | UCB, BIMM, and BCU |
Room Types for Student Accommodation in Birmingham
Birmingham has a wide range of student accommodation options which are designed to meet different needs and budgets. Whether you prefer privacy or a social life setup, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a breakdown of the room types:
1. Ensuite Rooms - Ensuite apartments in Birmingham have a private bedroom and attached bathroom, while other areas are shared.
Privacy: A private bathroom.
Shared Living Areas: Kitchen and lounge are shared.
Ideal For: Students wanting privacy with the option to socialize.
2. Non-Ensuite Rooms - Non-ensuite rooms have a private bedroom with a shared bathroom, making them budget-friendly options.
Privacy: Bedroom remains personal, bathroom is shared with others.
Shared Living Areas: Kitchens and common areas are communal.
Ideal For: Students looking for affordable housing with community living.
3. Shared Apartments - These student flats in Birmingham have individual bedrooms while residents share bathrooms, kitchens, and lounges. A shared house in Birmingham typically costs about £93 per week.
Privacy: Bedrooms are private
Shared Living Areas: Strong focus on social living.
Ideal For: Students who enjoy community living and making friends.
4. Private Rooms - Private apartments have a full flat with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen solely for one person.
Privacy: Full privacy with no shared areas.
Shared Living Areas: None
Ideal For: Students who want full independence can opt for private rooms.
5. Studios - Studio apartments in Birmingham are independent spaces with a bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette in one unit.
Privacy: Complete independence with private facilities.
Shared Living Areas: No shared spaces inside the unit.
Ideal For: Students who prefer independence.
6. 1-Bed Apartments - 1-bedroom student flats in Birmingham provide a separate bedroom along with a private kitchen, bathroom, and living space.
Privacy: Full privacy with a separate bedroom and facilities.
Shared Living Areas: The entire space is private to the resident.
Ideal For: Students who want a home-like setting with more space.
Student Travel in Birmingham
Common modes of travel in Birmingham include buses, trains, trams, and cycling routes, which offer flexibility and convenience to residents. Students can reduce their travel costs by using the Swift card for discounted fares on buses and trams. Below is the breakdown of the options:
| Transport Mode | Key Details | Cost (Approx.) | Student Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | Mostly National Express West Midlands. Routes 61/63 serve Selly Oak; X1/X2 for Airport/east. | £2.00 single (Swift Go); £15-£18/week (Direct Debit) | 20% Student Discount on 4-week or monthly direct debit passes via University portals. |
| Train | West Midlands Railway connects New Street, University, and Moor Street stations. | £12-£25/week (Termly pass) | Termly Season Ticket offers up to 50% off; 16-25 Railcard gives 1/3 off individual tickets. |
| Tram | West Midlands Metro connects City Centre to Wolverhampton & Edgbaston. | £2.40-£4.50 (Single); £54.30/month (Student Direct Debit) | 38% Monthly Discount for students via Swift photocard; unlimited travel across all 4 zones. |
| Cycling | Extensive routes like the A38 blue lane. New operator (Lime) from April 2026. | £1 unlock + £0.15-£0.20/min | Long-term hire (£70/term). |
Student Lifestyle & Tourist Attractions in Birmingham
Birmingham is an excellent place for studying abroad; it has a great student culture, which is very lively. In Birmingham, you will always find lots of things to do, from the energetic nightlife to the great variety of restaurants. You can explore the powerful music and arts scene in Birmingham. Almost every other day, you can see first year students enjoying street food from the Digbeth Dining Club. For sports lovers, you can watch local teams at live sporting events at The Birmingham Stadium. If you are someone who is very much drawn to shopping, then shopping lovers can visit Grand Central Birmingham.
The Balti Triangle, which is found just south of the city centre, has the highest concentration of Balti Houses in the city, & delivers the finest (in terms of quality) curries in the UK. Birmingham is the birthplace of the Balti Curry, so as such, many of these restaurants are also amongst the best in the UK. Authentic Indian food at its best! If you want to eat Chinese food, you can find many places to eat, such as Dragon’s Wok or you can browse a smorgasbord in the Chinese Quarter.
Birmingham life is full of excitement, and you can visit Cadbury World for a fun-packed day from their student apartments in Birmingham. Birmingham offers a great range of tourist attractions and green spaces that students can easily visit from their student apartments in Birmingham. Some of the other best places to visit include the Art Gallery, University Station, Library of Birmingham, Birmingham Museum, Battery Retail Park, and Thinktank Science Museum.
Top Universities in Birmingham
Birmingham offers one of the best universities in the city, which attracts a lot of students from across the world to study every year. Some of the best universities that are easily accessible from your student accommodation in Birmingham are:
| University Name | Core Courses | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Aston University | Business, Engineering, Pharmacy | Triple Gold TEF rating; New "Power Skills" (AI) in all degrees. |
| Birmingham City UNiversity (BCU) | Media, Law, Creative Arts | Top 10% for Sustainability; £500m city-center campus. |
| BIMM University | Music, Production, Songwriting | Industry-active tutors; 2026 relaunch focused on Music AI. |
| Ulster University (Birmingham) | Business, Computing, Health | THE University of the Year; 94% graduate employment rate. |