Ashley And Strathcona Buildings, Birmingham University

Ashley and Strathcona Buildings Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Guide: University of Birmingham Historical Sites

Date: 14/06/2025

Introduction

The Ashley and Strathcona Buildings, located on the University of Birmingham’s Edgbaston campus, are celebrated examples of Brutalist architecture and pillars of the university’s mid-20th-century expansion. As Grade II listed structures, they are not only vital academic spaces but also significant contributors to Birmingham’s architectural and cultural heritage (Historic England; BBC News; Birmingham Conservation Trust). This comprehensive guide provides essential information on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, campus highlights, and practical tips for making the most of your visit to these iconic buildings.

Historical Background and Architectural Significance
Features of Brutalist Architecture
Visiting Hours and Ticket Information
Accessibility and Visitor Facilities
Getting There and Travel Tips
Nearby Attractions and Campus Highlights
Guided Tours and Events
Interior Layout and Academic Functions
Influence on Campus Life
Visitor Experience and Photography Tips
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Conclusion and Call to Action
References and Useful Links

Historical Background and Architectural Significance

Constructed between 1961 and 1964, the Ashley and Strathcona Buildings were designed by the renowned architectural firm Howell, Killick, Partridge and Amis. Their creation was part of a wider university expansion reflecting Britain’s post-war optimism and the democratization of higher education (University of Birmingham; BBC News). Both buildings exemplify the bold geometries and raw materiality of the Brutalist movement, with exposed concrete, strong lines, and functional design features that prioritize adaptability and accessibility.

As Grade II listed sites, their preservation is vital to Birmingham’s heritage. They stand alongside other modernist icons in the city, such as The Rotunda and the Ringway Centre, representing an era of innovation in British architecture (Creative Boom).

Features of Brutalist Architecture

Brutalism, derived from the French “béton brut” (raw concrete), is characterized by:

Exposed Concrete Facades: Showcasing the natural texture of concrete, a practical post-war material (Creative Boom).
Geometric Massing: Emphasizing bold shapes, blocky forms, and pronounced vertical/horizontal lines.
Functional Expression: Clear articulation of stairwells, service cores, and circulation routes.
Integration with Landscape: Siting within courtyards and landscaped walkways that foster interaction and movement.

The Ashley and Strathcona Buildings embody these principles, making them touchstones for architecture enthusiasts and students alike.

Visiting Hours and Ticket Information

General Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (university term time). Weekend access is typically limited to special events or open days (University of Birmingham Visiting Information).
Tickets: Entry is free for general visits. Special lectures, performances, or guided tours may require advance booking or a nominal fee.
Guided Tours: University-led campus tours, including these buildings, are available and recommended for deeper historical and architectural insight (University of Birmingham Visitor Centre).

Accessibility and Visitor Facilities

The University of Birmingham ensures accessible facilities across campus:

Step-Free Access: Both buildings have ramps and lifts for wheelchair users.
Accessible Toilets: Available throughout the buildings and campus.
Assistive Technology: Support for visitors with sensory or additional needs.
Wi-Fi: Free campus-wide Wi-Fi.
Dining: Several cafés and eateries are nearby, including the Bramall Music Building café.

For detailed accessibility information, see the university’s accessibility guide.

Getting There and Travel Tips

Location: Edgbaston campus, University of Birmingham, B15 2TT.
By Train: Alight at University Station (7 minutes from Birmingham New Street); the buildings are a short walk from the station.
By Bus: Several bus routes serve the campus from Birmingham city centre.
By Car: Limited visitor parking is available; public transport is recommended during term time.
Campus Map: For navigation, consult the Edgbaston campus map (PDF).

Nearby Attractions and Campus Highlights

Enhance your visit by exploring these nearby sites:

Old Joe Clock Tower: The world’s tallest freestanding clock tower.
Barber Institute of Fine Arts: Renowned art gallery and concert venue.
Winterbourne House and Gardens: Edwardian botanical gardens.
University Botanical Gardens and Green Heart: Ideal for a stroll or relaxation.

These attractions provide a fuller experience of the university’s unique blend of history, culture, and landscape (Visit Birmingham).

Guided Tours and Events

Campus Tours: Bookable through the University Visitor Centre, often including the Ashley and Strathcona Buildings.
Heritage and Architecture Events: Especially during Birmingham Heritage Week.
Public Lectures, Exhibitions, and Performances: Hosted throughout the year, often in Strathcona’s arts and music spaces.

Check the university’s events calendar for the latest information.

Interior Layout and Academic Functions

Ashley Building: Home to the Birmingham Business School, featuring modern lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and student common areas.
Strathcona Building: Houses the School of Languages, Cultures, Art History, and Music, with flexible seminar spaces, language labs, and performance venues.
Design Features: Modular construction allows for adaptable teaching spaces and communal areas bathed in natural light.

These facilities reflect the university’s commitment to academic excellence and innovative learning environments.

Influence on Campus Life

The Ashley and Strathcona Buildings help define the University of Birmingham’s academic and cultural identity. They serve as hubs for interdisciplinary collaboration, public engagement, and student life, fostering a spirit of innovation and inclusivity that continues to shape the university’s legacy (University of Birmingham Campus Tours).

Visitor Experience and Photography Tips

Photography: Permitted in public areas; please seek permission before photographing classrooms or events.
Best Times to Visit: Weekday mornings or early afternoons, outside peak term times, are generally quieter.
Respect Academic Activities: These are working academic spaces—please be mindful of ongoing classes and research.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Are the buildings open to the public year-round?
A: The Ashley and Strathcona Buildings are primarily academic facilities but are accessible during open days, public events, and by appointment (University of Birmingham Visiting Information).

Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: No, general access is free. Some events or tours may require tickets.

Q: Are the buildings accessible to visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, both offer step-free access, lifts, and accessible toilets.

Q: Can I take photographs inside?
A: Yes, in public areas. Please ask permission for classrooms or performances.

Q: How can I book a guided tour?
A: Visit the University of Birmingham Visitor Centre for tour schedules and booking.

Conclusion and Call to Action

The Ashley and Strathcona Buildings stand as lasting symbols of Birmingham’s modernist ambitions and the University of Birmingham’s forward-thinking spirit. A visit here offers not just architectural inspiration but also a window into the university’s dynamic academic life and broader city heritage.