UCA Epsom: A Guide to the University for the Creative Arts Campus

# UCA Epsom: A Guide to the University for the Creative Arts Campus

UCA Epsom is home to one of the University for the Creative Arts' four campuses across the South East. Located on Ashley Road (postcode KT18 5BE), the Epsom campus specialises in fashion, media, communication and related creative disciplines, attracting students from across the UK and internationally. If you're considering studying at UCA Epsom—or are already a student here—this guide covers everything you need to know about student life in this Surrey town.

!Epsom High Street showing the Ashley Centre shopping centre and Clock Tower

Photo: Oscar248 / Wikimedia Commons CC BY-SA 3.0

About UCA Epsom and Creative Courses

The University for the Creative Arts is a specialist institution dedicated to nurturing creative talent. UCA Epsom focuses particularly on fashion, media, communication, and related creative subjects, offering undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in these disciplines. The campus sits in the heart of a market town with excellent transport links to London—crucial for students pursuing careers in fashion, media, and the creative industries, where much of the UK's action happens.

For detailed information on courses, entry requirements, and the application process, visit the official UCA website.

Getting to UCA Epsom: Transport and Accessibility

One of UCA Epsom's greatest strengths is its connectivity. The campus is a short walk from Epsom town centre and very well served by public transport.

By train: Both Epsom and Stoneleigh train stations are within easy reach. Epsom Station, just 5–10 minutes' walk from campus, offers regular services to Victoria and Waterloo via South Western Railway and Southern. This means you can reach central London in around 40 minutes, making it straightforward to attend industry events, internships, or networking opportunities. For a detailed guide to the station and timetables, see our Epsom train station guide.

By bus and car: Local bus services connect Ashley Road to the wider area, and there is parking available on campus and in surrounding streets.

By bicycle: Epsom's size and relatively flat terrain make it very bike-friendly, and many students cycle to campus from nearby accommodation.

Student Accommodation: UCA Halls and Private Renting

UCA Epsom operates student accommodation options, and there is also a healthy private rental market in the town—particularly in the KT17, KT18, and KT19 postcodes.

UCA halls of residence offer a fantastic way to settle into student life, meet peers, and be integrated into campus community from day one. Many first-year students choose halls, and they are competitively priced for the South East.

Private renting in Epsom is generally more affordable than in central London or many other university towns. Properties range from studio flats to shared houses, with most concentrated near the town centre and within walking or short bus distance of Ashley Road. For a comprehensive overview of living costs, neighbourhoods, and the local rental market, check our guide to living in Epsom.

Contact UCA's accommodation office for halls availability, or use local property portals and student-focused lettings agencies to explore private options.

Why Epsom Works for Students

Location and London Access

Epsom sits just 14 miles south-west of central London, making it an ideal base for creative students. You're close enough to attend industry events, internships, and networking sessions in London's fashion, media, and creative hubs, but far enough away to enjoy a more relaxed, affordable pace of life outside the capital.

Town Centre Amenities

The Epsom town centre is compact and walkable, with everything a student needs. The Ashley Centre is an indoor shopping mall with high street brands, while the pedestrianised Upper High Street hosts independent shops, cafés, and restaurants. Wednesday and Saturday markets on the High Street add buzz and character. The iconic Clock Tower (1847) is the heart of the town and a natural meeting point.

Food and Drink

Epsom has a good range of cafés, restaurants, and pubs that welcome students. Highlights include:

- Dastaan (Kingston Road) – Michelin Bib Gourmand Indian cuisine
- Yaadein (Stoneleigh) – Indian restaurant
- Everest Spice (near the station) – Nepalese and Indian food
- Beijing Palace and Mei House – Chinese options
- Historic pubs like The Rifleman, The Jolly Coopers, and the Spring Tavern offer casual hangouts and a sense of local community.

Entertainment and Culture

For cinema, the ODEON Luxe Epsom (in the Ashley Centre) and Epsom Picturehouse (Upper High Street) both show mainstream and independent films. The Epsom Playhouse (Ashley Avenue, ~460 seats) hosts theatre, music, and comedy—great for a night out.

Outdoor Space

Epsom Downs is a huge draw. This 800-acre chalk downland plateau is freely open to the public 365 days a year and is perfect for running, walking, or simply getting fresh air between lectures. It's also the home of the world-famous Epsom Derby (held on the first Saturday of June). Nonsuch Park (200 hectares, free entry) is another green space with historical interest—it was built on the site of Henry VIII's former palace. Ashtead Common is also nearby, offering further opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Student Support and Campus Life

As a specialist creative university, UCA has a strong focus on studio-based learning and industry collaboration. The Epsom campus benefits from being part of the wider UCA group, which means access to a network of creative professionals, alumni working in top creative firms, and opportunities for collaboration across the four campuses.

The town itself has a welcoming, community feel—it's busy enough to be lively, but small enough that you'll quickly feel at home. The student population is integrated into the town's fabric, and local businesses are used to supporting students.

Practical Essentials

Postcode: KT18 5BE

Supermarkets: Waitrose (High Street) and Sainsbury's (Kiln Lane) are both nearby for student shopping.

Medical: Epsom Hospital is on Dorking Road, though note it does not have an A&E department (A&E is at St Helier Hospital, Carshalton, if needed).

Council: Epsom & Ewell Borough Council handles local services and planning matters.

Banks and services: The town centre has all major banks and services.

In Summary

UCA Epsom offers specialist creative education in a well-connected Surrey location that balances affordability, London access, and quality of life. Whether you're a prospective student weighing your options or a current student finding your feet, Epsom is a genuinely supportive place to study. You'll have access to industry opportunities in London, a lively local town for day-to-day life, outstanding green spaces, and a community that values creative talent. Welcome to UCA Epsom.