Once the boxes are unpacked, the first few weeks in a new home are usually spent figuring out the basics. Where do you get a pint of milk at 9 pm? Where can you go for a run or a stretch? And what exactly are you supposed to do with all that packing cardboard?
Here are a few starting points to help you settle in.
Doing the food shop
Depending on where you’ve moved from, the shopping options here might feel a bit different. Because the Quarter is largely made up of independent businesses and apartments, we don’t have the standard shopping range right on the doorstep, but you have plenty of choices nearby.
For the big weekly shop, the Tesco Superstore at Spring Hill is the closest large option. However, if you have a car, you’ll find that many locals prefer to drive out to the large Sainsbury’s in Selly Oak, which is a popular choice for the full weekly run.
Alternatively, if you want to save yourself the trip, home delivery is a convenient option. You will see Ocado and other supermarket vans around the neighbourhood daily, it is often the easiest way to manage a big shop, especially if you are living in an apartment without a car.
For everyday bits and pieces, there are several smaller supermarkets that stay open late, including the Tesco Express stores on Frederick Street and Newhall Street, and the Co-op on Newhall Square. These are ideal for grabbing dinner on the way home.
When it comes to fresh food, the Quarter is well known for its independent bakeries. Whether you need a fresh loaf of sourdough or a treat for the weekend, places like The Bakehouse on Northwood Street or Saint Kitchen on Saint Paul’s Square are worth trying.
Finding some green space
In an urban neighbourhood, knowing where to find a bit of quiet outdoor space is important.
St Paul’s Square is the most common choice, a green square centred around the church. It’s popular for a reason, offering benches and grass that fill up quickly on sunny days. It’s a great place to sit with a coffee, but it can be lively.
For something often quieter, Warstone Lane and Key Hill Cemeteries are widely used by residents for walks. It might seem unusual if you’re new to the area, but these are beautiful, historic green spaces that act as parks for the local community. They are full of trees and pathways, making them perfect for a short loop to clear your head.
If you want a longer route, the canal towpaths are easy to access. You can head towards the city centre or out towards the reservoir for a change of scene.
Movement and gyms
If you’re looking to work out, you don’t need to travel far. The area has a high concentration of fitness options, ranging from 24-hour commercial gyms to smaller, independent studios.
There is a real mix here: you’ll find 24-hour options like The Gym Group or PureGym nearby for convenience. But if you prefer a more specialised environment, independent studios like SMR Fitness or MK Reformed offer dedicated spaces for strength training and Pilates. Most offer drop in sessions or trial passes, so you can try a few out to see which atmosphere suits you best.
Rubbish and Recycling
If you are in an apartment block, you’ll likely have a communal bin store. However, for larger items or excess cardboard (like those moving boxes), it helps to know your options to avoid overfilling the shared bins.
Getting settled
It takes a little while to build up your own map of the area, but hopefully, these pointers help you tick off the essentials. As you explore, you’ll find your own favourite shortcuts and shops that make the neighbourhood feel like home.
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