Come and find our more about the history of Lancaster University's unique buildings on architectural tours led by Richard Brook, arranged in conjunction with our Special Collections and Archives.

The campus of Lancaster University was planned and designed by architects Peter Shepherd and Gabriel Epstein to be a 'city of learning and research' which would 'facilitate study and the easy mingling of its inhabitants'. Our architecture is characterized by a blend of historic and modern styles, with a focus on integrating buildings with the natural landscape. Constructed between 1965-1970, the site was gradually opened to students from 1968. The buildings were designed to be multi-functional and would would fulfil “a fruit salad of functions” with no segregation of different buildings. This ethos continues on campus today and within Lancaster's commitment to the local community. 

Richard Brook is an architect, historian and Professor in Architecture at Lancaster University. He has dedicated more than two decades to understanding the post-war development of Manchester and cities like it. His core interests lie in the relationships between space, politics and society, as manifested through the built environment.

The tour will feature a talk in the Library, followed by a campus tour, ending in the Library's Archives Research Centre to view materials from our University Archives. Multiple tours are planned on the 13th and 14th September. This event is open to everyone. 

 

Saturday, September 13, 2025

14:00 - 15:30

Library Events Space

Richard Brook

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