How can I visit or explore the University of Stirling campus?

Updated

The University of Stirling offers two ways to explore its campus: an online virtual tour you can start at any time, and an on-campus Undergraduate Open Day you book in advance. The virtual tour suits anyone who wants a first look from anywhere; the Open Day suits prospective undergraduates who want to see courses and campus in person. Both are accessed through the university's website, stir.ac.uk.

Explore online with the virtual tour

The university's home page features a "Take a virtual tour" section that invites visitors to "step into the University of Stirling and start exploring today." This is the lowest-commitment option: no booking, no travel, and you can move through the campus at your own pace.

Use it when you are:

  • Comparing Stirling with other universities before deciding whether to travel
  • Located outside the UK or unable to visit in person
  • Wanting a quick sense of the campus layout and facilities before an application decision

The site presents the tour as a starting point for exploration rather than a substitute for an in-person visit, so treat it as a screening step rather than a final decision tool.

Attend an Undergraduate Open Day

The home page advertises an Undergraduate Open Day on Saturday 24 October, described as a chance to "find out about our courses and explore our beautiful campus." Booking is required — the page shows a "Book now" link alongside the event.

What the Open Day is positioned to cover, based on the site:

  • Undergraduate courses (the university offers a wide range of single and combined undergraduate courses)
  • The campus itself

How to book

  1. Go to stir.ac.uk.
  2. Find the Undergraduate Open Day listing on the home page.
  3. Follow the "Book now" link to reserve your place.

The site does not state a fee for the Open Day, and it does not state whether booking closes before the date — so confirm details on the booking page rather than assuming.

Which option fits your situation

Your situation Better starting point
Early research, no travel planned Virtual tour
Deciding between universities Virtual tour first, then Open Day
Ready to compare courses in person Undergraduate Open Day (book ahead)
Interested in postgraduate or research degrees Check the site's postgraduate and research degree sections; the advertised Open Day is specifically undergraduate

Before you go

  • Check for updates. The Open Day date shown on the home page is a specific listing, and event details can change. Confirm the date and your booking on the site before travelling.
  • Match the event to your level. The advertised Open Day is for undergraduates. If you are looking at Masters courses (the site notes September and January start dates) or PhD, MPhil and Professional Doctorates, look for the relevant section rather than assuming the undergraduate event covers you.
  • Use the virtual tour as preparation. If you book an Open Day, walking the virtual tour beforehand can help you arrive with specific questions about the spaces you want to see.

The university describes itself as the Scottish University of the Year and the UK Sports University of the Year, with sport highlighted across its courses and community — worth noting if athletics or sports facilities are part of what you want to see on a visit.