Selly Oak

What does Selly Oak offer?

Nestled in the vibrant city of Birmingham, Selly Oak is an area bursting with life, culture, and charm. This dynamic neighbourhood is home to a diverse community, including students and professionals alike, making it an ideal location for those seeking a blend of excitement and tranquillity. Boasting a range of local amenities, Selly Oak is perfect for those who appreciate the convenience of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues just a stone's throw away from their doorstep. The area is particularly popular among students, thanks to the proximity of the esteemed University of Birmingham. In addition to the academic scene, Selly Oak offers plenty of green spaces for relaxation and leisure, such as Selly Oak Park and Bournville Park. The picturesque Worcester & Birmingham Canal runs through the area, providing an idyllic setting for leisurely walks and bike rides. With excellent transport links, including Selly Oak railway station and regular bus services, residents and visitors alike can easily explore the wider city and beyond.

Top attractions in Selly Oak

1. Selly Manor Museum: This historic Tudor building offers a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing period furnishings and stunning architecture. Family-friendly exhibits and hands-on activities make it an engaging destination for visitors of all ages.

2. Bournville Park: A beautiful green space in the heart of Selly Oak, Bournville Park is a popular spot for picnics, leisurely walks, and outdoor sports. The park also features a children's play area, making it ideal for families.

3. The Lapworth Museum of Geology: Located within the University of Birmingham campus, this fascinating museum boasts an extensive collection of fossils, minerals, and rocks. Interactive exhibits and educational programmes make it an exciting destination for budding geologists and curious minds alike.

4. Stirchley Baths: This beautifully restored Edwardian swimming baths now serves as a vibrant community hub, hosting a range of events, workshops, and classes. The building's unique architecture and rich history make it a must-visit attraction in Selly Oak.

5. Cadbury World: While not directly in Selly Oak, Cadbury World is just a stone's throw away in neighbouring Bournville. This popular attraction offers a fun and interactive experience, where you can learn about the history of chocolate-making and even try your hand at creating your own sweet treats.

Best areas to live in Selly Oak

1. Harborne Lane: Offering an excellent mix of residential properties, Harborne Lane is known for its serene environment and easy access to local amenities. It is an ideal location for families, students, and professionals alike.

2. Bournbrook Road: This picturesque road is lined with beautiful Victorian houses, making it an attractive choice for those looking for a charming place to call home. Its proximity to the University of Birmingham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital makes it a popular choice for academics and healthcare professionals.

3. Tiverton Road: With a variety of shops, restaurants and parks nearby, Tiverton Road is perfect for those who enjoy a vibrant community atmosphere. Furthermore, its close proximity to Selly Oak train station makes commuting to Birmingham City Centre a breeze.

4. Raddlebarn Road: This quiet, residential area is highly sought-after by families due to its excellent local schools and easy access to Selly Oak Park. Raddlebarn Road also boasts a range of spacious properties, from terraced houses to larger detached homes.

5. Hubert Road: Located close to the University of Birmingham, Hubert Road is a popular choice for students and faculty members. This area features a range of affordable housing options, as well as convenient access to local shops, pubs, and public transport links.

6. Bristol Road: This major thoroughfare offers a mix of residential and commercial properties, with a wide range of amenities nearby. Bristol Road is well-connected to Birmingham City Centre, making it an ideal location for professionals working in the city.

7. Exeter Road: Nestled in a peaceful residential area, Exeter Road is a great option for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Its close proximity to Selly Oak Park and the Worcester & Birmingham Canal make it an attractive choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

8. Heeley Road: With its prime location near the University of Birmingham and Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Heeley Road is ideal for students, academics and healthcare professionals. Its combination of terraced houses and purpose-built flats provide a range of accommodation options for all budgets.

9. Oak Tree Lane: A charming, tree-lined street, Oak Tree Lane offers a variety of characterful properties, from period homes to modern developments. Its close proximity to Selly Oak train station and local amenities make it a convenient choice for commuters and families alike.

10. Gibbins Road: Situated near the University of Birmingham and Selly Oak train station, Gibbins Road is a popular choice for students and professionals alike. This area features a range of housing options, including terraced houses, flats, and purpose-built student accommodation.

Best things about living in Selly Oak

1. Vibrant Student Community: Selly Oak is home to a large student population, primarily from the University of Birmingham. This creates a lively atmosphere and offers ample opportunities to socialise, engage in extracurricular activities, and make lifelong friends.

2. Excellent Transport Links: With its own train station and multiple bus routes, Selly Oak offers superb connections to Birmingham city centre and other surrounding areas. This makes it easy to commute or explore the wider region, whether for work or leisure.

3. Abundance of Amenities: Selly Oak boasts a wide range of shops, supermarkets, pubs, and restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets. This ensures that residents have everything they need right on their doorstep, without having to travel far.

4. Proximity to Green Spaces: Despite being a bustling urban area, Selly Oak is surrounded by beautiful parks and open spaces. This includes the picturesque Cannon Hill Park, which offers walking trails, sports facilities, and a boating lake, providing a perfect escape from the city.

5. Housing Variety: Selly Oak offers a diverse range of housing options, from traditional Victorian terraces to modern purpose-built student accommodation. This makes it an ideal location for people at different stages of their lives, whether they're undergraduate students or young professionals seeking a thriving community.

Drawbacks to living in Selly Oak

1. Limited Shopping Options: Selly Oak is primarily a residential and student area, which means that it lacks a wide variety of shops and amenities. Residents may need to travel further afield to access a broader range of retail outlets, supermarkets, and leisure facilities.

2. Student Population: Due to its proximity to the University of Birmingham, Selly Oak is home to a large student population. This can lead to an increase in noise levels, particularly during term time and weekends, as well as issues with litter and overcrowding in some areas.

3. Traffic Congestion: Selly Oak is known for its traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. With a high number of cars, buses, and bicycles on the roads, commuting and travelling through the area can be frustrating and time-consuming.

4. Limited Green Spaces: While there are some parks and green spaces in Selly Oak, they are relatively small and can become crowded, especially during the warmer months. Residents seeking more extensive green spaces for recreation may need to venture further afield to areas such as the Lickey Hills or Cannon Hill Park.

5. Crime Rates: Selly Oak has experienced issues with crime in the past, particularly in relation to burglary and anti-social behaviour. Although efforts have been made to address these issues, it is essential for residents to be vigilant and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety and security.

Make better property decisions with Chimnie

Data technology & local insight to give you an edge

Chimnie

Chimnie helps you make better property decisions.

© 2024 Little Chimney Ltd. All rights reserved.