Studying in Lancaster

Lancaster University and the University of Cumbria (formerly St Martin’s College) are both seen as very much part of this historic city.

If you are thinking about becoming a student in Lancaster, contact us for some information about the area, and what makes it such a great place to study, work and live! Both university campuses offer a lively community atmosphere, with accommodation, shops, cafes and bars on site. Although you may live in during your first year, don't forget to venture out into Lancaster city centre, and take advantage of the high street and boutique shops; nightlife and entertainment; restaurants and coffee shops; and historic venues and museums - including, of course, the castle. Venturing a bit further afield on a sunny day (only about 3 miles from Lancaster city centre, and very easy by bus or train!) you'll come to the seaside resort of Morecambe - what better than a picnic and a game of beach cricket with friends?

We hope you'll come and study in Lancaster - it'll be the best few years of your life!

If you've just started at one of the Lancaster Universities, make sure one of the first things you do (apart from joining many different clubs at the freshers’ fair!) is to pop into Lancaster Visitor Information Centre on Meeting House Lane. They can help you make the most of time spent in the district and ensure you don't to miss out on exploring this fantastic part of the country.

Lancaster University Lancaster VIC is useful for when you wish to book accommodation for visiting family and friends. Also try and remember that local accommodation is always in high demand around Graduation time, so try to book in advance. The VIC will help you select suitable accommodation and will liaise with the accommodation operator on your behalf to secure your booking.

If you are studying in Lancaster - A must is to visit Lancaster Castle (for a guided tour) and the Ashton Memorial in Williamson Park. The views from the Ashton Memorial give fantastic views of Morecambe Bay, the Lake District and the Forest of Bowland which will definitely inspire you to explore further afield! Again Lancaster VIC can give you a host of ideas for places to visit inside and out of our district, and can help you with travelling around the area by offering National Express and Stagecoach booking services, and the opportunity to buy season bus tickets (Stagecoach MegaRider and MegaRider Plus).

Students at University of Cumbria There are a great many things to see and do in the area, and a fantastic number of exciting events, including outdoor performances in Williamson Park; festivals by the sea; music, art and sporting events. Tickets to a number of events at the Platform arts and music venue in Morecambe, and Williamson Park, can be bought online here, or you can download our 2011 What's On Guide to give you a taste of the main events on offer.

The VICs (both Lancaster VIC and Morecambe VIC) also carry a great range of merchandise, perfect as a reminder of your time studying in the area, or as gifts to take home to family and friends. A great selection of Taste Lancashire food; local art, paintings and jewellery; books, maps and guide books, mean that you'll be spoilt for choice! You can also buy a selection of these gifts online and we will post them out to any UK address.

Lancaster University runs the "Purple card" scheme in conjunction with a large number of Lancaster and Morecambe businesses.

Whether you’re going out for a meal, having your hair cut or even getting the bus – the Purple card is the little piece of plastic you don’t want to be without!

Available Purple card discounts can be found through our Pocket Lancaster website and iPhone app – all businesses in Lancaster are listed along with the fantastic discounts available! Visit Pocket.lusu.co.uk

For more helpful information about the University Students' Unions please visit:

• Lancaster University Student Union

• University of Cumbria Student Union