The University of York

University Information, Campus and History
(York, Yorkshire, England, UK)

York University in Yorkshire, England was first planned and discussed in 1647, although it was not actually founded until over 300 years later, in 1963. When the University of York first opened its doors there were just 200 students, based in three main buildings, which included King's Manor and the nearby historic Heslington Hall.

Just one year later, the 200-acre / 80-hectare Heslington Campus of York University was developed and landscaped, with the introduction of a vast lake. The lake itself is surrounded by the main York University college buildings and remains one of the biggest lakes lined with plastic in the whole of Europe, becoming an important nature sanctuary, with seasonal fishing. A number of old buildings in the heart of York are also part of the vast university complex. Further expansion plans have been recently proposed by the University of York, known as 'Heslington East'.

One of the most eye-catching buildings at York University is Central Hall, a semi-octagonal structure used for notable theatrical productions and concerts throughout the year. Sir Jack Lyons Concert Hall is also used for similar events at the university, together with a number of the colleges.


Today, the York University campus has expanded considerably and is now home to more than 10,000 students, around 30 main academic departments, eight separate colleges and number of research centres. York University is ranked in the UK's top ten universities and operates an unusual collegiate system. Each of the eight university colleges act independently, often treated as individual communities. The eight colleges currently operating at York University are as follows:

• Alcuin
• Derwent
• Goodricke
• Halifax
• James
• Langwith
• Vanbrugh
• Wentworth

Facilities

Standing on the outskirts of York, close to the village of Heslington, York University offers an excellent array of facilities and amenities, both in the campus and nearby. In the village of Heslington itself, just a short distance from York University, you will find four banks and two friendly pubs.

The Heslington campus at York University contains a wealth of sporting facilities, both indoor and outdoor. These include playing fields and pitches, an athletic union (UYAU), jogging trails and an impressive sport centre, complete with tennis, badminton and squash courts. Student accommodation is available all around the campus in various halls of residence. The onsite Accommodation Office is to be found within the Information Centre on Market Square and is happy to offer advice regarding lodging, short-term guest rooms, rent banding and Landlord insurance, for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Although there are innumerable hotels and guest houses scattered around the city, available rooms can become rather scarce during the height of the summer season. The city's main Tourist Information Centre (TIC) stands on Exhibition Square, just off Museum Street, and for a small charge provides a useful accommodation booking service. On the north-western side of the city, B&Bs are particularly plentiful within the Bootham area, while to the south-west of York city centre, consider staying on Bishopthorpe Road, Scarcroft Road or Southlands Road. York holiday cottages and apartments are available and tend to best suit families looking for more space, with a choice being located throughout York and in nearby towns, such as Selby and Wetherby.

Famous Students

Over the years, York University has produced many notable scholars, a number of whom have become famous individuals in their own right. Former noteworthy university students include Sunday Times Editor - John Witherow, past BBC Director General - Greg Dyke, television comedian - Harry Enfield, and acclaimed photographer - Robin Messer, together with numerous authors and members of parliament.

Contact University of York:
Address: Information Centre, Market Square, University of York, Heslington, York, YO10 5NH, England, UK
Tel: +44 (0)1904 32 0000 Fax: +44 (0)1904 32 3433 Email: info-centre@york.ac.uk Website: http://www.york.ac.uk