Lonsdale College exterior

Prospective Students

Thinking about coming to Lancaster? Find out what it's like to be a member of Lonsdale College.

Louise and Olivia, former accommodation manager and current college manager
Olivia, College Manager (right)

Welcome from our College Manager

Hello and welcome to Lonsdale College!

I’m Olivia, the College Manager, and I’m really pleased to welcome you to our community. Whether you’re new to Lancaster or returning for another year, I hope you’ll quickly feel at home here at Lonsdale.

Our motto is ‘Simply the Best!’ and we’re proud of our history as one of ¶¶ÒõAPPµ¼º½’s founding Colleges. But what really makes Lonsdale special is our community. From events and activities to the support available from our staff and students, there are lots of ways to get involved, meet people and make Lonsdale your own.

Take a look around our pages to find out more about College life, what’s happening at Lonsdale and how you can get involved. We can’t wait to welcome you!

Lonsdale arrivals

Welcome Week

Starting university is exciting, but we know it can also feel a little daunting. That's why Welcome Week at Lonsdale is designed to help you settle in, make friends and feel at home from day one.

Before teaching begins, you'll be welcomed by our College staff and student Welcome Reps, who are on hand throughout the week to answer questions, help you find your way around campus and make sure you feel part of the Lonsdale community.

Across the week you'll have the opportunity to take part in a packed programme of events, from relaxed socials, games and creative activities to sports sessions, and evenings in our College spaces. Alongside College events, you'll also attend important academic inductions, explore the Freshers' Fair, discover clubs and societies, and learn everything you need to know to start your Lancaster journey with confidence.

There's no expectation to attend everything. Whether you're someone who wants to get involved in every event or you'd rather take things at your own pace, Welcome Week is about helping you settle in a way that feels right for you.

By the end of the week, you'll have met new people, found your feet on campus and become part of the Lonsdale community; ready to begin your university experience.

Lonsdale College

Accommodation

In Lonsdale College, we have mostly ensuite rooms with a small number of shared bathroom facilities rooms.

For more information please, see the Accommodation website.

Lonsdale Bar

College facilities

There’s plenty of space to study, socialise and unwind at Lonsdale. From the Hub and Community Kitchen to our cosy Snug and creative Nook, there are spaces to meet friends, grab some food, play games, watch a film or simply take a break. We also have dedicated study areas and a computer room with printing facilities, so whether you’re looking to get some work done or spend time with friends, there’s a space for you at Lonsdale.

College Spaces
Founders 2025 dodge ball team
Lonsdale Football Team at Lancaster FC Stadium raising money and awareness for Movember

Sports

Lonsdale has a great range of sporting activities for students to get involved in, from football and netball to darts, pool, dominoes and table tennis. Whether you’re looking to compete, try something new or simply get involved with friends, there are plenty of opportunities to take part.

Inter-college leagues run throughout the academic year, with teams also organising regular social events alongside their fixtures. Team trials take place during the first few weeks of term, but you don’t need to be a top-level athlete to get involved; everyone is welcome.

One of the highlights of the Lonsdale sporting calendar is Founders, our three-day summer competition against Bowland. The event celebrates the friendly rivalry between ¶¶ÒõAPPµ¼º½’s two founding colleges and brings students together for a weekend of sport, competition and fun.

Charity challenge team

Inter-college competitions

As a Lancaster student, you can take part in many different inter-college competitions as part of Team Lonsdale.

Kate Bracewell

LUSU President 2026 and former Lonsdale JCR President 2025-2026

Some heartfelt words from our former JCR President Kate Bracewell:

"My time at university was shaped largely by my role in Lonsdale and my love for the college. Being apart of Lonsdale changed my university experience for the better, I had so much opportunity for development and made so many friendships and connections. Without it, I would not have had such a wonderful three years".

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