Roses

Roses is an annual competition between Lancaster and York Universities, organised by the host Students' Union, with over 50 different sports over one weekend.

A team of male students celebrate victory in the Roses Tournament.

Roses is almost here!

Roses takes place over the weekend of 3-5 May 2024. To keep up to date with all the action, you can follow it live at Roses Live.

Roses Live

A major highlight in the University year

A female hockey player takes a swing at the ball on an indoor court.

Photograph: Lancaster University Students' Union

The two institutions take turns hosting, with students competing in more than 50 different sports and 100 fixtures over one weekend early in the summer term. Events range from more conventional sports such as football, hockey, and swimming to ballroom dancing, chess and debating.

History in the making

A football match at Roses. Lancaster plays in red, York in white.

Photograph: Lancaster University Students' Union

The first competition took place more than 50 years ago, in 1965 and since then, the competition has become stronger, the rivalries more intense, and the celebrations ever more deserving. Home or away, it's always too close to call and an all-round great weekend. Each player, each team, makes a little piece of history as they compete.

Bringing people together

Three students hug and laugh to celebrate a Lancaster victory at the Roses.

Photograph: Lancaster University Students' Union

Whilst the main focus of the weekend is on our sports teams competing, students, staff, alumni and the local community come together and get involved to make the competition even more of a spectacle. With huge support from the Students' Union and the Sport Lancaster Team, Roses hosts a wide range of cultural events alongside the sporting events.

A winning collaboration

The Facilities Sport Lancaster team and Students' Union work tirelessly year-round to support the teams and societies. The Students' Union website has more information about how you can get involved and sign up.

Students Union Reps in Alex Sqaure