“To the students I say that the honour and dignity of this university are largely in your hands, and I look to you to initiate and hand down worthy traditions to your successors.”  Spoken by King Edward VII at the formal opening of England’s first civic university, these words preceded 125 years of creativity, discovery, action and ideas at the University of Birmingham. 

Through film, art and objects, this exhibition delves into the stories of the people behind the institution, exploring the ‘worthy traditions’ that have been passed on and reinvented.  From civic foundations to transformation in times of crisis, to student life past and present, explore over a century of history with University Collections.  

The exhibition is in Aston Webb Building at University of Birmingham. There is a café in the Bramall nearby open weekdays also 8am-4pm.

How to get there
Getting to the University: Frequent trains from Birmingham New Street reach University Station in 10 minutes, a short walk from campus. Regular buses (X61 and 63) also serve the University. Cycling is encouraged, with dedicated routes, and secure lock up on site. Visitor parking is available at Northeast Multi-storey Car Park (Pritchatts Road, B15 2SA).

Organised by University of Birmingham – University Collections