On Saturday 6 June 2015 we said goodbye to Castle Irwell, farewelling many memories and good times as it is once again transformed into a new life within Salford history. In typical Salford Students’ Union style, we helped the Alumni department of the University throw a party – supplying music, sports and a pop up Atmosphere bar.

University of Salford students have called Castle Irwell home for almost 50 years. A former horse racing track, Castle Irwell was sold to the University and city council in the 60s. They transformed it into student and public playing fields, saving it from becoming a private property development.

In 1973, the University bought the remainder of the site, and turned into the student village it stands as today. The Members Stand from racecourse days was converted into the infamous ‘Pavilion’ student bar and nightclub, which was part of local history until its closure in 2009. The Students’ Union ran and operated The Pav and it was a huge part of our identity and history. We are proud to say our Pav was the catalyst for many student memories (or loss of…) and student romances!

Over 600 former and current students returned to Castle Irwell, braving the heavy winds to enjoy sports, food and music just like the old days.

We heard lots of stories and met former students who met at the Pav and the village, and are still together today, many bringing their children along too.

We loved seeing big groups of friends who used the occasion to create a reunion with old friends, some even creating team kits to play in the football tournament.

Some students came from their room onsite, and one flew all the way from Dubai, showing that students truly cherish their experience at Castle Irwell.

You can read what it was like to live at Castle Irwell on an archived article by Alex Thorp, VP for Science and Technology – a former Castle Irwell resident and sabbatical officer.

Our students will now be closer than ever, with new student residences opening either side of the Students’ Union in University House, creating new memories and a new age of student village experiences.

To all of our former residences, Pav goers, and sports teams who called Castle Irwell their home, local or home ground we say thanks for all the memories and for being part of something truly unique.

And to the grand old lady, Castle Irwell, – we’ll never forget you.

Photos from the day can be seen on our Facebook.