My Experience

Choosing a university is a huge decision, and for me, the University of Surrey stood out from the very start. My journey began when I was about 15 years old, during a school trip where I was lucky enough to visit the campus. Even then, I loved the feel of the place—the open spaces, the welcoming atmosphere, and the buzz of student life.

A few years later, when I was in Year 13 and seriously considering my university options, I attended an Open Day. This experience helped me solidify my decision. A student ambassador led a small group of us – around five families – on a tour. She showed us key locations across the campus, Stag Hill, where most lectures take place. She was really friendly and answered all the questions I had, telling me the good and the bad, making the whole experience even more enjoyable and giving me a real understanding of life at Surrey. I then went to Manor Park to have a look around, which primarily housed student accommodation at the time… but now there’s Manor Park Social too!

Aside from the tour, the Open Day also included informative talks. These covered everything, from how the university operates, to details about accommodation, helping me understand more about student life at Surrey. I particularly enjoyed talking to the student ambassadors, as they gave me a real insight into university life beyond what you find on websites or brochures.

What ultimately won me over were a few things: the stunning lake on campus (with barbecues you can book over summer!), the friendly and welcoming environment, the sense of safety, and the nearby town centre. Of course, course content is important, but at the end of the day, university will be your home for at least three years—so choosing a place that feels right for you is crucial. I grew up by the sea, so having open space and nature nearby was essential to me, and Surrey was the only university that offered that.

What to Expect on an Open Day at Surrey

If you’re considering Surrey, attending an Open Day is the best way to get a feel for the university. Here’s what you can expect:

Getting Around & Parking: Parking on campus is limited, but there are plenty of parking options in town just a 10-minute walk away. The Bedford Road Car Park (Bedford Rd, Guildford GU1 4SJ) is the closest to the university.

Arrival & Accessibility: Check-in is usually at the Austin Pearce Building on Stag Hill campus. This will be specified in the emails you receive before the event. If you have accessibility requirements, visit the Information and Accessibility Point at Austin Pearce for assistance, including wheelchair availability and guidance on the most accessible routes. We also offer accessibility tours for anyone who may have difficulty with stairs or hills, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors.

Free Shuttle Bus: A free shuttle bus runs approximately every 15 minutes from 8am to 4:30pm, connecting Guildford train station, Stag Hill campus, and Manor Park campus.

Campus & Sports Park Tours: Campus tours depart regularly from the Austin Pearce Building and last around 45 minutes to an hour. Student ambassadors guide small groups around key locations, providing insights into student life and answering questions. Surrey Sports Park, located a few minutes’ walk from Manor Park, is worth visiting if you’re interested in sports societies, swimming, or gym facilities.

Library Access: The library is open for visitors throughout the day. Simply head to the first floor via the stairs or lift and let the desk staff know you’re visiting—they will allow you to explore.

Talks & Presentations: Subject-specific talks: These are a great way to learn about your chosen course from lecturers and gain insight into what studying at Surrey is really like. General talks cover topics such as “Welcome to Surrey,” “Applying to Surrey and Student Finance,” “Careers Services and the Professional Training Year,” “Accommodation at Surrey,” “Study or Work Abroad,” and “Foundation Year.” These talks run multiple times throughout the day, so check the schedule in advance to plan your visit and avoid clashes with tours.

PATS Marquee: In addition to tours and talks, make sure to visit the PATS Marquee, where student societies set up stalls. If you’re interested in student life beyond academics, this is a great chance to meet members, explore different societies, and find activities that interest you. Whether you’re into sports, arts, or cultural groups, there’s something for everyone!

Important Places to Visit

Now that I’m a student here, I’ve discovered the key places where I spend most of my time. If you want to get a real feel for the university, make sure to check out:

• Manor Park: The main accommodation area with a great social space, Manor Park Social, and Surrey Sports Park.
• Stag Hill: The heart of the campus, featuring the library, The Hive, The Nest, the lake, Rubix’s (Surrey’s student nightclub), and popular food spots like Hillside.
• Guildford Town Centre: A short walk away, perfect for shopping, dining, and exploring your new home beyond campus.

Exploring Guildford If you have time after the Open Day

I’d highly recommend exploring Guildford town centre. It gives you a great feel for what your weekends and free time might be like. There are plenty of restaurants in town—my personal favourite is Positano, an Italian restaurant offering two courses for under £15 during the week. If you’re looking for something familiar, Guildford has all the usual places like McDonald’s, KFC, Nando’s, Bill’s, and Turtle Bay.

You can also grab food on campus at places like Hillside and Wates House. These will be pointed out during your tour, but if you’re unsure, just ask a student ambassador—they’re always happy to help!

Final Thoughts Looking back

I’m so glad I chose Surrey. The Open Day gave me the chance to experience campus life, talk to students, and see for myself what makes this university special. If you’re thinking about Surrey, I’d definitely recommend attending an Open Day – you might just find it’s the perfect place for you too!

Sign up for Open Day notifications here → Open Day Booking Alert

If you have questions about open days, or anything to do with student life at Surrey, give one of our ambassadors a message! → Chat To Our Students