The 360-acre campus provides a pleasant environment for students and staff as well as being accessible to the public.

At Lancaster University students and staff can enjoy picnicking by the side of Lake Carter, the use of dedicated electrical barbecue stations, exploring the woodlands, relaxing in various courtyard gardens and visiting the organic garden.

Recent improvements have included:

• Revitalisation of Alexandra Square
• Dedicated woodland trail and trim trail
• Sports pitch drainage improvements
• Planting 75,000 naturalised bulbs and 5,500 woodland trees
• The creation of both meadow and wildflower grass areas.

Keep Britain Tidy run the Green Flag Award scheme in the UK on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government. It is run in partnership with Keep Wales Tidy, Tidy Northern Ireland, Keep Scotland Beautiful, the National Housing Federation and the Federation of City Farms and Community Gardens.

The scheme was established in 1996 and aims to recognise well-managed, high quality green spaces accessible to the public.

Lancaster University’s Director of Facilities Mark Swindlehurst said: “It is very rewarding to have our campus grounds recognised at such a high national standard. We strive to maintain and develop the campus through sustainable management of the site, making improvements, increasing its bio-diversity and wildlife potential. This achievement is a true testament to the fantastic team involved in maintaining the grounds.”

Green Flag Award Scheme Manager Paul Todd said: “We are thrilled to announce yet another record-breaking year for Green Flag Award parks and green spaces. The award provides national recognition for the hard work and dedication of all the parks managers, staff and volunteers who have helped to create these fantastic places for all to enjoy.”