Ultimate Guide to the Edge Hill University Open Day
Plan your visit, explore award-winning facilities, and make the most of your prospective student event at Ormskirk.
Updated 4 min readEdge Hill University
Introduction to Your Edge Hill University Open Day Experience
Choosing where to study for your undergraduate degree is one of the most important decisions you will ever make. For students eyeing up institutions in the North West of England, attending an Edge Hill University open day is an absolute must. Widely celebrated for its stunning award-winning campus in Ormskirk, Lancashire, Edge Hill offers a unique blend of modern facilities, historic charm, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
Whether you are comparing university league tables, checking out accommodation options, or trying to figure out which course suits your career ambitions, walking around the physical grounds during a prospective student event gives you an authentic feel for student life that a prospectus simply cannot match. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your trip, from planning your travel to asking the right questions.
Planning Your Journey and Knowing the Open Day Dates
Before packing your bags, you need to secure your spot. Edge Hill University hosts multiple open days throughout the academic year, typically spanning autumn (September and October) and summer (June). Checking the official open day dates well in advance is crucial because popular subject talks and campus tours fill up fast.
Ormskirk is exceptionally well-connected. The university campus is just a short walk or a quick bus ride from Ormskirk railway station, which has direct links from Liverpool and Preston. If you are driving, the campus offers ample free parking on event days, with clear signage directing visitors to designated parking zones near the main reception areas.
What to Expect During Your Campus Visit
Stepping onto the 109-acre landscaped campus for your campus visit can be breathtaking. Edge Hill has invested heavily in its infrastructure, featuring state-of-the-art facilities like the Creative Arts building, the £9 million Ormskirk campus Catalyst building (housing a modern library and student services), and advanced health simulation suites.
When you arrive at the Welcome Hub, you will receive a lanyard, a campus map, and a personalized itinerary. Student ambassadors—easily spotted in their bright hoodies—will be scattered across every pathway to guide you, share their personal experiences, and answer any candid questions about living in Lancashire.
\"I was initially nervous about moving away from home, but the student ambassadors on my open day were so welcoming and honest about student life. It completely changed my mind about Edge Hill.\" - Chloe, BSc PsychologyKey Highlights and Facilities to Explore
To make your time worthwhile, make sure your itinerary includes stops at these essential campus locations:
Must-Visit Locations on Campus
- The Catalyst: Discover the multi-million-pound library, IT support desks, and careers zone.
- Accommodation Villages: Walk through standard, en-suite, and townhouse-style student rooms.
- The Student Union (SU): Check out the social spaces, bars, and over 70+ societies available.
- Faculty Buildings: Tour the specialized labs, TV studios, sports halls, or clinical simulation wards specific to your degree.
Preparing Your Questions to Ask Faculty and Staff
An open day is your two-way interview. While the university is showcasing why you should study there, you need to determine if they meet your academic and personal needs. Having a list of prepared questions to ask academic staff and financial advisors will help you cut through the marketing noise.
Essential Questions for Your Visit
- How many contact hours (lectures, seminars, practicals) will I have per week for this course?
- What kind of placement or study abroad opportunities are integrated into the syllabus?
- What is the breakdown of assessment types (exams vs. coursework vs. presentations)?
- What mental health, disability, and wellbeing support services are available on campus?
- What financial support, bursaries, or scholarships can I apply for as a first-year student?
Utilising the Virtual Tour Before or After Your Visit
Can't make a physical date, or want to re-explore a building you missed? Edge Hill provides an immersive virtual tour accessible via their website. It is a brilliant digital tool featuring 360-degree panoramas of lecture theatres, accommodation rooms, and social spaces. Many prospective students use the virtual tour beforehand to plan their physical route or afterward to double-check room layouts before submitting their UCAS choices.
Understanding Living Costs and Accommodation
An important part of any university visit is assessing where you will sleep, eat, and socialise. Edge Hill guarantees campus accommodation for first-year students who apply by the priority deadline. Below is an overview of typical weekly costs for on-campus living compared to private renting in Ormskirk.
| Accommodation Type | Average Weekly Rent (On-Campus) | Average Weekly Rent (Private Local) |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Room (Shared Bathroom) | £110 - £125 | £95 - £110 |
| En-Suite Room | £140 - £160 | £120 - £140 |
| Self-Contained Townhouse | £150 - £175 | N/A |
Summary Checklist for Your Edge Hill Trip
To ensure your trip runs smoothly, keep this final checklist in mind:
Open Day Success Checklist
- Download the Edge Hill open day app or save your digital itinerary.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—the campus is vast and picturesque!
- Bring a notebook or use your phone to jot down thoughts immediately after each talk.
- Take plenty of photos of different accommodation blocks to help compare later.
- Grab lunch at the campus food outlets to sample student catering options.
Attending an open day is the single best way to validate your university choice. By knowing what to look out for, asking insightful questions, and experiencing the welcoming spirit of the Ormskirk campus, you will be well-prepared to take the next big step in your educational journey.