If you’re looking at going to university, you’re probably weighing up whether to commute or ‘live in.’ One of the benefits of Edge Hill is that while we have amazing accommodation, we’re also greatly connected if you’d prefer to commute to university.
Commuter benefits
Here at Edge Hill, we harness an inclusive and welcoming culture which you’ll feel a part of from the moment you join, and as a commuting student this is no different. You’ll still be able to access events on campus and you’ll even have an event just for you. Commuter breakfasts are held regularly in Creative Edge so you can grab a free tea or coffee and a snack to start your day the right way.
This is the perfect opportunity to unwind from your commute so that you can prepare yourself for a day of study and meet other commuting students. You never know, you could meet someone who has the same commute as you. And on the other days of the week, you can access 41 Below in the Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine. Here you’ll find microwaves, hot and cold refreshments and snacks so you can refuel ready for your day ahead.
Thinking of commuting to Edge Hill? No problem. We’re situated in a great location so we’re easily accessible by multiple modes of transport.
Car
If you’re planning to drive to university, you’ll be able to park in our car park, free of charge. But you’ll need to apply for a parking permit, which is subject to you meeting our eligibility criteria. You can help the environment and guarantee yourself a space by taking part in our car share scheme, which will also save you money by splitting travelling costs with a friend.
Bus and train
Ormskirk has its own bus and train stations within walking distance of our campus. So once you’re there, you’ll be just a 10-minute walk away from your studies. Even better, you don’t need to walk. We have our very own Edge Link Bus (EL1) which can collect you from Ormskirk bus station and bring you directly onto campus. What’s more, it’s free with your student ID.
Bike
Another option for you to consider is cycling. Not only is it good for the environment, it’s also good for your health. Here at Edge Hill, you can become a member of the Bike Locker Users’ Club (BLUC) to store your bike in any of the BLUC lockers on campus. Or you can use any of our Sheffield stands and wall-mounted racks free of charge.
Commuting to Manchester St James’
St James’ campus is ideally located on Manchester’s Oxford Street, close to rail and bus networks. Your closest train station is Manchester Oxford Road and your nearest tram stop is St Peter’s Square. And don’t forget about the Manchester Bee buses too. If public transport isn’t for you, there are plenty of parking options in and around Manchester for you to access.
A good tip for those of you who choose to travel by train is to buy a 16-25 Railcard. This will save you a third on each journey. Are you a mature student over the age of 25 planning to study full time? You’re still eligible to apply for this Railcard so you can save on travel too. Make sure to look out for any other travel passes that can help you to save money on your journey.
Student life
If you’re thinking of living in Ormskirk or commuting to campus, you can still dive headfirst into student life. Get involved in open mic night, take a seat for stand-up comedy, learn a language and more. To make sure you’re in the know about all events happening on campus, make sure to sign up to the Student Life Portal as soon as you become a student. This is the best way to see all the things that are happening on campus and to book your place.
A great way to meet people outside your course is by joining one of the Students’ Union’s clubs or societies. There are over 100 Societies, from Anime to the Chappell Roan inspired ‘Pink Pony Club’, so you’re sure to find something to inspire you.
Every Tuesday and Thursday between 8am and 9am, you can grab a free tea or coffee and a snack to start your day the right way from Creative Edge. Exclusively for commuting students, you’ll get to meet and chat with other students who also commute to university. It’s the perfect way to give your mind a rest before you head to your lectures. And it’s a great way to make new friends. You never know, you could realise that you share the same journey too.
We’re proud to be a part of Ormskirk with its vibrant atmosphere, welcoming community and stunning natural surroundings. Situated in Lancashire, the heart of North West England, Edge Hill students enjoy stunning scenery on local walking routes, lively cafés and bars, and delicious food from a range of restaurants right on their doorstep. Ormskirk is the perfect mix of picturesque surroundings and vibrant life with everything a student could want (and more).
When studying at Edge Hill, Ormskirk is right on your doorstep too – just 10 minutes on foot or two minutes on our free shuttle bus.
Take a picnic to Coronation Park.
Enjoy live music and seasonal events in Ormskirk town centre.
Browse the bargains on offer at the twice-weekly market. Think traditional stalls selling freshly baked foods, fruit and vegetables, clothes, gifts and artwork.
And if you’re looking for somewhere to hang out with friends or to do some work with a coffee, you’ll find variety of cafes and lounges with free Wifi.
Reduced Accommodation Costs: Commuting eliminates the need for university accommodation, saving money on rent, utilities, and potentially meal plans.
Lower Living Expenses:Living at home can significantly reduce overall living expenses, allowing you to save more money for other needs or invest in your studies.
Support and Familiarity:
Family Support: Living at home provides access to family support, which can be valuable during the challenging periods of university life.
Familiar Surroundings: You’re likely to know the best places to go, study, relax, and find help, saving time and effort in finding these resources.
Fewer Distractions: Living at home can mean fewer distractions compared to university halls, allowing for a more focused study environment.
Flexibility and Productivity:
Time Management: Commuting can encourage better time management as you need to plan your travel and study time effectively.
Productive Commute: You can use your commute time to read, do some work, or listen to educational content.
Greater Independence: While living at home, you still have the freedom to manage your own schedule and make your own decisions.
What is a commuter student?
A commuter student is a student who attends a university or college but does not live on campus, instead traveling to and from their home or other off-campus accommodation for classes and studies.
Will I save money as a commuter student?
Commuting to university can generally save money compared to living on campus, but everyone’s situation is different. If you are currently living with family then you may save money on:
Accommodation Costs: You won’t have to pay for university accommodation, which can be a significant expense.
Meal Plan Costs: You won’t be tied to a university meal plan, allowing you to cook your own meals and save money on food.
Utilities: You won’t have to pay for utilities like electricity, gas, and water at a university residence.
General Upkeep: You won’t have to worry about the general upkeep of a university room.
On the other hand, you’ll also need to factor in the additional costs of commuting to university. These could include:
Transportation Costs: You’ll need to factor in the cost of commuting to and from university, which could include public transport fares, fuel costs, or car maintenance.
Travel Time: Commuting can take up a lot of time, which could affect your study time and social life.
Food Costs (Outside of Home): If you eat out or buy snacks while on campus, you’ll need to factor in those costs.
Unexpected Expenses: Always budget for unexpected expenses, such as car repairs or public transport issues.
Is it easy to commute to Edge Hill?
Commuting to Edge Hill University from Ormskirk is relatively easy, with options including a short walk from Ormskirk train station or the free EdgeLink bus service from Ormskirk bus station.
Train: Ormskirk train station is a short walk from the campus.
Bus: The EdgeLink bus (EL1) provides a direct route to campus from Ormskirk bus station, running every 20 minutes during term time and is free for staff and students with a Unicard.
Walking: You can also walk to campus from Ormskirk via Ruff Lane or St Helens Road, taking approximately 15 minutes.
Driving: The campus is also easily accessible by car, with parking available for staff and students.
Sustainability: Edge Hill University encourages sustainable travel options, including the EdgeLink bus, bike lockers, and cycle to work schemes.
Will I still be able to get involved with student life as a commuter student?
Of course! You have access to all of the same events that on-campus students have, plus your own dedicated commuter activities such as the commuter breakfasts. Check out the information above for more ideas on how to get involved in student life.