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    Study in Lancaster

    City guide

    A cathedral city with royal connections and the Lake District nearby, Lancaster has a thriving arts scene.

    Lancaster has a rather historical aura. The architecture is nice and picturesque, people are kind, and the stores are varied. It is very close to the sea, and there are plenty of areas where you can stroll. Not to forget, it’s one hour from Manchester, and pretty close to The Lake District as well. The weather is typical for Northern England, but I’ve enjoyed many sunny days on campus. (Lancaster University student)

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    • Aditi

      University College Birmingham
      Finance and Accounting
      I am Aditi Ghevade, from the city of Mumbai, India. Currently pursuing my postgraduate studies in Finance and Accounting, I find immense joy in delving into the intricacies of financial systems and exploring the world of numbers. Fluent in English, Hindi, Marathi, and even French, my multicultural and multilingual background has equipped me with a versatile skill set.

    • Abdul

      University of Lincoln
      Architecture - BA (Hons)
      “Hi! Feel free to ask me any questions about the courses here in Lincoln and also about the city itself. I am more than happy to help you with any questions you might have.”

    • Abby

      Swansea University
      Sport and Exercise Science, BSc (Hons)
      I am a keen swimmer and am part of the University Swim team and have competed in the BUSL swim league as well as Welsh Varsity representing the university. The swim team is comprised of a range of abilities. I love what I study and am passionate about Sport Psychology and hope to pursue it as a Masters when I graduate. I am in my second year of the degree course and am loving it so far, so any questions about my course or the swim team are more than welcome.

    • Accalia

      University of Sussex
      Law with International Relations LLB (Hons)
      I would love to be engaged in various sectors specifically Media, Law and International Business, My end goal is to be an international consultant for Caribbean small businesses.

    • Abbey

      Leeds Trinity University
      Criminology with Police Studies BA Combined (Hons)
      I am looking at going into the police after university and doing their graduate detective program. I enjoy watching all sorts of true crime documentaries.

    • Adrianna

      Bangor University
      Marine Biology
      Hi, I'm Adrianna. I'm from North West England. I decided I wanted to do marine biology, when someone did an online talk at my college all about the marine environment and biology. My main hobbies include sewing; gaming; watching films and series; and spending time with friends and family. Some of my favorite games are Animal Crossing; Slime Rancher; and Stardew Valley. Some of my favorite movies/series are: How to Train Your Dragon; Vampire Diaries; Grey's Anatomy; and Disney movies.

    • Abigail

      University of Lincoln
      Dance - BA (Hons)
      Hi, I'm Abi and I'm a third-year BA (Hons) Dance Student. I'm from Suffolk. I started dancing from the age of 3 in Ballet, Modern and Tap and then also started training in Contemporary, Irish and Ballroom & Latin dance before completing both GCSE & A-level Dance. I'm now continuing my passion here at UOL and hope to continue this into a professional career!

    • Aaliyah

      University of Hertfordshire
      Animation, film, games and creative media
      Hi, I'm Aaliyah! I am a final-year Games Art student and want to work hard to hone my skills and improve as a character artist! I am also a producer so if you want to talk about that specialism within Games and VFX then feel free to ask. You might be feeling a bit worried or uneasy about what there is and what the course entails but I am here to answer all your questions. No matter how big the question or how small :) Whilst I'm not in the other animation pathways (3D/VFX, 2D animation, Comic & Concept Art) I can always give my knowledge in those areas too. Just pop a message over! Very excited to talk about the courses with you :D

    • Abigail

      Bournemouth University
      BA (Hons) Film
      Hi, I'm Abigail and I'm a third-year Film student! I'd be very happy to answer anything about filmmaking and media related questions at Bournemouth University, and what it’s like to move out for the first time and settle into a new city! :))

    • Aditya

      University of Glasgow
      Medicine [MBChB]
      Hello everyone, This is Aditya. I am a 2nd Year international medical student at the University of Glasgow. My aspiration is to become a cardiologist with a special interest in interventional cardiology and cardiac physics. I am open to any questions you guys might want to ask about the university, the medical school, or even the city and how it’s been adapting to a new culture as an international student :)

    • Abdul Rashid

      University of Aberdeen
      Biotechnology, Bioinformatics and Bio-business MSc
      My current career plan is to delve deep into the core of bioinformatics and try as much as possible to make it easy for future prospects in that field of study.

    • Abigail

      University of Essex
      Criminology
      Hello! My name is Abi, and I'm currently in my third year doing Criminology with Counselling Skills. I aspire to go into the police force to be a detective! I love helping others and cooking. Alongside my degree, I am doing some content creation and photography as a fun hobby as I also have a passion for both of those things.

    • Aayan

      City St George's, University of London
      Actuarial Science BSc (Hons)
      I did my Foundation year from INTO City, University of London. Currently doing BSc Data Analytics and Actuarial Science. I plan to work in Data / AI Field, I have strong interest in Trading and Content Creation 😊.

    • Adrianna

      University of the Arts London
      Public Relations
      ✨Public Relations student passionate about creative storytelling & making an impact through strategic marketing. 📈Obsessed with digital analytics, media research 🔍, and fostering real connections within the media world! 🤝 👩‍🎓Active as a Peer Mentor, Senior Student Ambassador, and Media School Rep – always here to help and share my journey! 🌟 💡 Let’s chat all things PR, media, and beyond!

    • Advika

      University of Glasgow
      Common Law [LLB]
      Hey there ! I am Advika from India🇮🇳 and I am a third year Common Law student. I would be happy to answer all your questions about the university, studies, student life, or anything else. Please feel free to chat 😊

    • Adam

      Coventry University
      Sports Coaching BSc
      Hi there👋, My name is Adam and I am currently a first year Sports Coaching student and a lifelong Coventry habitant. Sports has been a massive part of my life which has lead me to studying the Sports Coaching Bachelor Degree here at Coventry. I am looking to pursue a career within Sport Coaching as I look to teach and coach others the amazing thing that is sport🤩. Feel free to ask me questions about the Sports Coaching Course and elements of University life😃 ⚽️🏀🎾🏓🏏

    • Abbie

      Leeds Trinity University
      Primary Education (Early Years 3-7) with QTS BA (Hons)
      Hi I’m Abbie 🫶🏻. I am a primary education student here at Leeds trinity completing my first year currently. I live at home and commute in for my lectures. I am a course representative so look very closely into student feedback. I am also the mental health officer for Leeds trinity and look forward to building campaigns to help those at trinity! I was very nervous joining university but realised very quickly it’s like family where everyone is supportive and tries to help at any opportunity. The campus is beautiful and I love to study in lots of different spaces to change up the scenery every now and again! I have a dog walking business to satisfy my love of animals and am also a student ambassador for university. I work part time in a pub not far from the university and love to go running in my spare time to clear my mind! I came from sixth form to university and knew what course I wanted to do. I’m here to answer all of your questions about life at university hoping to give an insight on the student life and what to expect!

    • Abdullah

      Liverpool John Moores University
      Computer Science, BSc (Hons)
      Currently in my second year, I’m focused on making the most of my degree and building a strong foundation in my field. After completing my bachelor’s, my plan is to pursue a master’s in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics. I’m passionate about using AI to tackle real-world challenges, and eventually, I’d love to work in a tech company that’s leading the way in innovation. My vision is to be part of projects that push the boundaries of what technology can achieve—I’m excited about what the future holds!

    • Adeola Priscillia

      Coventry University
      MSc International Business Management
      I am currently studying International Business Management and have a background in education. Although I’ve recently started as a student ambassador, I bring previous customer service experience, which has strengthened my communication and interpersonal skills. I’m passionate about pursuing a career in global business, combining my interests in education and international management.

    • Abigail

      City St George's, University of London
      Politics BSc (Hons)
      Hi, my name is Abigail and I am a 2nd year Politics undergraduate, who wants to become a lawyer in common law. I am happy to answer questions regarding university, a career in law, etc! ❤️

    What Lancaster's famous for...

    Lancaster Castle

    Lancaster Castle’s origins date back almost 1,000 years. This Grade 1 listed building occupies a city-centre hilltop location. The castle is now a must-see visitor attraction offering guided tours, events, a police museum and a café.

    Lancaster Cathedral

    Lancaster nightlife, according to students

    The Sugarhouse is the main place that Lancaster University students go for nights out. It is student-run, making it a safe environment. There are also other pubs and bars which are popular, including Vibe. (Second year student, Lancaster University)

    Williamson Park and Ashton Memorial

    Williamson Park is home to the iconic Ashton Memorial and 54 acres of beautiful parkland with enchanting woodland walks and breathtaking views to the Fylde Coast, Morecambe Bay and the Lake District fells and mountains. At the park you can visit the Butterfly House and small animal zoo which is home to meerkats and marmosets.

    Williamson Park

    Lancaster nightlife, according to students

    If clubbing isn't your scene, there are plenty of pubs, most of which do a quiz which is super popular among students, like The Pendle Witch. There are some lovely bars for fancier drinks, like Tipple or The Crypt, for a more special occasion. (Third year student, Lancaster University)

    Student life in Lancaster

    Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.

    Low on cash

    Williamson Park is my go-to. There are lots of walks, a little cafe, and a mini wildlife park (£4 entry) which has meerkats, a butterfly farm, and rabbits – it is a lovely day out. (Third year student, Lancaster University)

    Treat yourself

    Tipple cocktail bar is a fantastic date night idea: board games, classy environment, affordable, and table tennis table. (Third year student, Lancaster University)

    Friday night out

    Most of the student population is at The Sugarhouse or Vibe. Ye Olde John O'Gaunt in town is a great spot with live music every weekend night, while The Crafty Scholar often shows sport on huge screens. (Third year student, Lancaster University)

    Sunday chilling

    Atkinson's is a small coffee chain with three cafes in Lancaster: the Music Room, the Hall and the Castle Cafe. All are great and relaxing spots to do work, meet with friends, or just enjoy a specialty coffee or tea. (Third year student, Lancaster University)

    When family visit

    [It would be] lovely to go to the Lake District or nearby beaches with family, if they come up with their car. They would also love a walk around the castle to see some of Lancaster's culture. (Lancaster University student)

    Feeling cultural

    There are lots of vintage markets and poetry evenings held in the Storey building, many free or cheap to enter. (Second year student, Lancaster University)

    Catch up with mates

    The Water Witch has to be my favourite pub. It’s cute and cosy, but still a great atmosphere for a catch up – plus [it's] easy to get into town, or back to campus after. (Second year student, Lancaster University)

    Grab a bite

    GoBurrito for loaded fries and burrito meals for a reasonable price, and is open for end of the night food on weekends. The Whale Tail Cafe is a great vegetarian restaurant for amazing full English breakfasts. (Third year student, Lancaster University)

    Lancaster in pictures

    Lancaster Castle

    The view of the Lancaster Castle courtyard, from inside the Atkinson's Castle Cafe. This is a peaceful and modern cafe with a beautiful view over the newly renovated interior of the castle, a great place to study on weekends, or a social space for catch-ups with friends and family days out. (Anna Gniwotta, third year student at Lancaster University)

    Lancaster Castle

    Living in Lancaster, according to students

    Bowerham – this area tends to have bigger houses than the town centre. It is in-between uni and town, so easy to get to both. There are regular buses in both directions, although these can get pretty full in the mornings and at the end of the day. It is up a hill, so it can be a pain to walk back! On the whole, it's a nice area though. I'm planning to live there next year too. (Second year student, Lancaster University)

    The Woodland Trail on campus

    The Woodland Trail on campus. For me, it's a great place to unwind and get away from work for a little while. (Holly, Lancaster University student)

    Lancaster Woodland Trail

    Living in Lancaster, according to students

    City centre – it’s a really central location with good access to the train station, bus stop, and local shops. It’s handy to live further into the central town, because the bus starts there and you’re more likely to get a seat (the bus can fill up quickly if you live further out). It’s still very quiet despite being in the centre of town. Great location for nights out as the nightclubs are all pretty much in the centre of town too, so you can walk home rather than getting a taxi. (Third year student, Lancaster University)

    Lancaster Museum

    Lancaster Museum, a place where I spent many weekends. A really relaxing place to visit to get away from the stress of uni life. (Atlas Patrick, Lancaster University student)

    Lancaster Museum

    Lancaster skyline

    View of Lancaster from the Castle Gateway. It shows the beautiful history and architecture that Lancaster has. (Lauren Snooks, third year student at Lancaster University)

    Lancaster skyline

    Living in Lancaster

    Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.

    Where you'll find students

    • City centre
    • Bowerham
    • Moorgate

    Local transport

    • Weekly ticket: £20
    • Stagecoach Bay 7 Day MegaRider ticket
    • Bus

    Student money tips

    There is a large market every Wednesday and Saturday on Market Square, Market Street, and Cheapside, with fresh groceries and hot food, usually including vegan, vegetarian, and halal options. There is also the oriental supermarket on Common Garden Street, where you can get spices and pantry staples for cheap prices. (Second year student, Lancaster University)

    The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.

    ​Discover more savings on student life in Lancaster with UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.

    Study options

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