How to plan your visit to the unique Falmer campus, explore world-class Sussex courses, and experience Brighton student life first-hand.
Choosing where to spend your university years is one of the biggest decisions you will make. While websites, brochures, and national league tables provide valuable data, nothing compares to the physical experience of stepping onto campus. Attending a University of Sussex open day is your opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of a world-renowned institution nestled in the heart of the Sussex countryside, just minutes from the vibrant seaside city of Brighton.
The University of Sussex is celebrated for its progressive outlook, interdisciplinary approach to learning, and beautiful red-brick architecture designed by Sir Basil Spence. Surrounded by the rolling hills of the South Downs National Park, the campus offers a peaceful, self-contained environment that is simultaneously connected to one of the UK's most creative and diverse coastal hubs. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan a highly successful campus visit, make the most of your time on site, and discover if Sussex is the perfect place for you to call home.
The university hosts several large-scale open days throughout the year, typically during the summer and autumn months. These events are specifically timed to help you make your UCAS choices with confidence. While precise open day dates can shift slightly from year to year, major events generally occur in:
If you cannot attend a scheduled open day, the university also hosts regular campus tours on Wednesday afternoons throughout the term, as well as specialised post-applicant visit days. For those living overseas or unable to travel to Brighton, a comprehensive virtual tour is available online, featuring 360-degree views of lecture theatres, social spaces, and student accommodation.
"Stepping off the train at Falmer and walking onto campus during the October open day was the exact moment I knew I wanted to study here. The mix of green space and modern facilities felt incredibly welcoming." - Emily, 2nd Year Psychology StudentThe University of Sussex campus is located in Falmer, on the outskirts of Brighton and Hove. It is exceptionally well-connected by public transport, making your campus visit straightforward whether you are travelling from within the UK or arriving from an international airport.
Falmer railway station is located directly opposite the campus entrance. Frequent, direct trains run from Brighton Station and Lewes (taking approximately 9 minutes). If you are travelling from London, you can catch a direct Southern or Thameslink service from London Victoria or London Bridge to Brighton, then easily transfer to the Eastbourne/Seaford-bound local service to Falmer.
Brighton & Hove Buses run regular, direct services from the centre of Brighton straight into the heart of the campus. The 25, 25X, and 23 routes operate 24 hours a day, ensuring that students and visitors can easily navigate between the campus and the city center at any hour.
For those driving, the campus is situated just off the A27. However, parking on open days is highly limited. Visitors must pre-register their vehicle during the open day booking process to secure a space. The university strongly encourages the use of public transport wherever possible to align with its award-winning environmental sustainability initiatives.
| Travel Method | Average Journey Time from London | Estimated Return Cost (GBP) | Convenience Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (via Brighton) | 1 hour 20 minutes | £20 - £45 | Very High (Station on campus) |
| National Express Coach | 2 hours 15 minutes | £10 - £18 | Medium (Arrives in central Brighton) |
| Car (via M23/A23) | 2 hours (depending on traffic) | Variable (Fuel + Parking) | Medium (Limited parking spaces) |
To make the most of your prospective student event, you need a plan of action. The Sussex campus is vast, and there is a lot to see. Divide your day into three core areas: academic exploration, accommodation tours, and lifestyle discovery.
Your academic future is the core of your university experience. Head to the designated school hubs (such as the Sussex Business School, the School of Life Sciences, or the Attenborough Centre for the Creative Arts) to meet your future lecturers. These sessions provide invaluable insights into module structures, assessment methods, study abroad opportunities, and placement years.
Where you live is just as important as where you study. Sussex offers a diverse range of on-campus housing options. Use the guided accommodation tours to view various styles, including the modern, social courtyards of East Slope, the peaceful woodland setting of Lewes Court, and the affordable, classic flats of Park Houses. Student tour guides will be on hand to share their honest experiences of living in halls.
Make sure to spend time exploring the shared facilities that define Sussex student life:
An open day is your chance to interview the university just as much as they are evaluating you. Don't be afraid to strike up conversations with current students, admissions tutors, and support staff. Here are some essential questions to ask during your visit:
No University of Sussex open day is complete without taking a short trip into Brighton itself. The city's unique, creative, and inclusive culture heavily influences the student experience. After your campus tour concludes, hop on the train or the 25 bus to Brighton city centre.
Spend your afternoon wandering through the historic Lanes—a maze of narrow alleys filled with independent boutiques, vintage clothing stores, and quirky cafés. Walk down to the famous Brighton Palace Pier to enjoy the sea breeze, view the iconic Royal Pavilion, and explore the vibrant beachfront. This journey will give you a true sense of the daily commute and the fantastic lifestyle that awaits you as a Sussex student.