University of Central Lancashire

Students' Union

Every student is automatically a member of the UCLan Students’ Union, which exists to help students get the most out of their time at university. Students can get involved in all sorts of activities, opportunities and events at every campus, as well as accessing independent advice, getting fair representation, voting in union elections and more.

The students’ union is led by students, for students, and is independently run. They’re committed to making sure the community is at the heart of everything they do. They have hundreds of reps to support students throughout their course, including the Full-Time Elected Officer Team, Course Reps, School Presidents and the Students’ Council. Together they ensure that feedback is heard and help ensure the best possible experience.

There are over 150 societies, sports clubs and volunteering opportunities to join.

On the Preston Campus is the students’ union shop, café and the ever-popular Source Bar, open every day during term time for food, drink, live sport and events.

Clubs and Societies

The students’ union has more than 150 societies, sports clubs and volunteering opportunities on offer. There’s something for everyone. Students can pursue a new hobby, express creativity, get political, explore faith, meet new people, and can even approach the union to start their own society if it’s not already offered.

At university sport can be played competitively or just for enjoyment. Volunteering enables students to gain new skills and make a difference in the community and there is the potential to receive the Livesey Award in recognition of all this hard work. 

City Life

Preston enjoys the best of both worlds: a vibrant student city, together with beautiful green spaces to relax and unwind in. The city centre is a five-minute walk from the university. Its bustling high street features a wide range of shops and restaurants, plus lots of hidden gems – from quirky fashion boutiques to independent cafes, bistros and tapas bars. Preston Market will delight foodies and bargain hunters.

When night falls the city really comes alive. Students can dine on cuisine from every corner of the world, sip cocktails in speakeasy-style lounges, sample local ales in historic taverns, or dance the night away in a club. The city is home to a thriving music scene, with live comedy, theatrical productions and street festivals all year round.

The city is lively and modern, but it also has a proud local heritage with Gothic churches, remnants of the Industrial Revolution and beautiful Georgian architecture. Preston also has a reputation as one of the safest cities to live in. It holds Purple Flag status, awarded for its low crime rates, vibrant nightlife and excellent range of visitor attractions.

Preston is one of the best-connected cities in the UK. Its railway station is a 10-minute walk from campus, with easy access to some of the North West’s best attractions, and within a one-hour journey of the bright lights of Liverpool and Manchester, or the historic city of Lancaster. London is around two hours away by train.

Cost of a pint This is the average cost of a pint.

Source: IDP Connect 2019

£2.80

per pint