Venue, travel and parking
Travelling to campus for your ceremony couldn’t be easier, with great transport links to the University and free parking available (subject to availability).
The venues
The graduation ceremonies are usually held at the Guildford Cathedral. It is a beautiful venue based right next to the University campus, and offers our graduands a unique setting for a memorable occasion.
Our celebratory receptions are held in The Marquee on PATS Field, which is dressed up for the occasion to give you and your guests a memorable experience and the opportunity to share delicious, buffet-style food and drink.
Bags in the Cathedral
Graduands and guests are limited to one small bag per person in the Cathedral which must fit under your seat. A bag check will be carried out before entering the Cathedral. On arrival please be prepared to open your bag so security can have a quick look inside.
Items not allowed in the Cathedral
The following items are not permitted in the Cathedral:
- Large bags and suitcases
- Selfie sticks
- Helium balloons
- Food and drink (apart from water)
- Flowers.
Large bags and suitcases
You and your guests are advised not to bring large bags or suitcases to the Cathedral. However, if you do have to bring them, you will not be able to take them into the Cathedral with you due to security reasons and limited space.
There will be a ‘left luggage’ facility for your use at the Cathedral, but please be aware that your bags may be searched and are left at the owner’s risk. At the end of the ceremony, it is the owner’s responsibility to collect their piece of luggage.
Flowers
If you have purchased flowers from the flower stand on campus you will only be allowed to bring in smaller bouquets which need to be placed under your seat. If you have purchased larger bouquets you will not be able to bring these into the Cathedral with you due to limited space and to protect those with allergies. There is a table that will be staffed in the main entrance where flowers can be left (at your own risk) and collected at the end of the ceremony. A member of University staff will be on hand to help you with this.
Accessibility
There is a ramp via the west entrance to the Cathedral, and wheelchairs are available inside. For further information visit the Guildford Cathedral site.
Toilets
The nearest toilets to the Cathedral are in the refectory building adjacent to the flight of steps leading from the University campus, there is also disabled access for these.
First aid
First aiders will be on duty at the Cathedral.
Travel information
Find out how to get the the University by train, car, coach and from local airports.
Travel insurance advice
If you are booking travel and accommodation please ensure your travel insurance will cover you if you do subsequently need to change or cancel your bookings.
Unfortunately, the University will not be able to refund any ancillary costs, such as for travel and accommodation, should circumstances mean the event is cancelled or postponed.
Parking
All cars are to be parked in the main university car park, there is no need to book in advance.
If you require disabled parking on campus please contact our transport team. Parking at the Cathedral is only available for graduands who will find it difficult to access the Cathedral from campus. To reserve a space at the Cathedral please contact ceremonies@surrey.ac.uk.