We've listened to your feedback about wanting greater value, flexibility and choice when eating at West Dean, so we are introducing some important changes to our catering services.

From the 1 October 2025, we will only be offering a 'pay as you go' model for all dining. Essentially, the choice of what you eat, how much you eat and where you eat will be entirely up to you.

You'll be able to bring in your own food or choose from any catering outlet on the West Dean estate. You'll still get the same high quality, locally sourced food you're used to if 'eating in', but with our new 'pay as you go' model, you'll have greater transparency on pricing and more choice in how you spend your money. 

More choice means greater flexibility and better value, plus you'll get to soak up more of the West Dean experience on your meal breaks as you can eat wherever you like!  

FAQs

Why are we introducing this change?
We're introducing this change to provide students with greater flexibility and autonomy in their choices. By offering the ability to select what they want and as much as they need, we aim to cater to individual preferences and requirements. Additionally, we are committed to maintaining clear and transparent pricing, ensuring that students can make informed decisions without any hidden costs. This approach not only empowers students but also enhances their overall experience by making it more personalised and straightforward.

When will the changes come into effect? 
The changes will come into effect for courses taking place on or after the 1 October 2025. This means that any course reservations made for courses taking place from this date onwards will be subject to the pricing structure. It's important to keep this date in mind when planning your future courses to ensure you're aware of any new requirements or adjustments that may apply.

What will be different? 
While the core menu and offerings will largely stay the same, we're excited to introduce a few new features to enhance your experience.

Expanded lunch options: We're broadening our lunch menu to include lighter, healthier choices that cater to a variety of tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a more substantial meal, there's something for everyone.

All-day Stewards Bar & Cafe: The new Stewards Bar Cafe will be open 9am-5pm, offering a delightful selection of snacks throughout the day. Perfect for those moments when you need a little pick-me-up or a tasty treat.

What are the benefits?  
Tailored solutions: You can select options that perfectly align with your unique needs and preferences, ensuring a personalised experience. 

Adaptability: Whether your requirements change over time or you need flexible options allow you to select accordingly.

Convenience: Enjoy the ease and convenience of having choices that fit into your schedule easily. 

Cost-effectiveness: Flexible options often come with various pricing plans, enabling you to find something that suits your budget. 

Can I see an example menu? 
Our menus are crafted daily using fresh seasonal produce from the West Dean Gardens and local suppliers, so our offerings vary depending on what's at its best.  This sample menu provides a taste of what will be on offer in the College Dining Room for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

Where can I eat on campus? 
There are some great options for dining on campus! 

College Dining Room: This is your go to for a variety of meals throughout the day. Whether you're looking for a hearty breakfast, a nutritious lunch, or a satisfying dinner, the Dining Room has you covered with a range of options to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

The Stewards Bar & Cafe: Perfect for a quick bite or a snack between classes. The Stewards Bar & Cafe offers a convenient spot to grab something on the go, and will be located in the Stewards Bar.

Gardens Restaurant: The Gardens Restaurant is located in the Visitor Centre and offers a relaxed setting to grab breakfast or lunch including a selection of sandwiches, pastries, and beverages.

Each of these locations has its own menu so you can choose based on what you're craving or how much time you have.  

Will there be specific times I can buy food and drink?

College Dining Room

• Breakfast: 8am–9am
• Lunch:12pm–1.45pm
• Dinner: 6pm-7.45pm   

The Stewards Bar & Cafe

• Cafe: 9am–5pm
• Bar: Monday-Saturday 5pm-11pm and Sunday 6pm-10pm 

Gardens Restaurant

• January– February
  Monday-Friday 9.30am-4pm and Saturday-Sunday 9am-4pm
• March–October
  Monday-Friday 9.30am-5pm and Saturday-Sunday 9am-5pm
• November–December
  Monday-Friday 9.30am-4pm and Saturday-Sunday 9am-4pm 

West Dean Village Stores

• Monday–Friday 8am-5pm
• Saturday-Sunday 8am-4pm 

Will tea and coffee, fruit and biscuits still be included as part of my short course?
Good quality English grown tea, herbal teas and fruit teas, and locally roasted coffee will be included. Unfortunately, fruit and biscuits won't be included.

Will the changes affect my short course fees? 
Fees are regularly reviewed. Short course fees for courses taking place from 1 October 2025, will not include meals, but will include tea and coffee during breaks.

How will the scheme work?
Whenever you want to purchase food, you simply pay for it at the time of each transaction. There's no need for prepayments or subscriptions. You have the freedom to choose what you want to eat and pay for it right then and there. This approach allows you to enjoy a variety of food options without any long term commitments or upfront costs.

How do I pay?
To make a payment, you can use either a credit or debit card, or contactless payment device. Simply proceed to the till located in the Dining Room, where our staff will assist you with the transaction.

What is my discount? 
The prices for College Dining Room are already inclusive of a generous student discount, which is represented as (10%). This means that as a student, you are already benefiting from a reduced rate, making it more affordable for you to access our services.

How will discounts be applied?
Discounts for students will be automatically applied at the till when making a purchase. to the marked prices. It's a seamless process designed to make selecting your meal easier and more convenient for students.

Is there a minimum spend? 
No, there is no minimum spend required. 

Do I need to pay at every meal, or can I settle in full at the end? (e.g. do I need my wallet with me/what if I forget my wallet) 
Each meal must be paid for at the time. If you forget your wallet, you won't be able to get food. So, it's important to always have your wallet or method of payment with you.

Is the first evening dinner of courses still included? If not, is it mandatory to attend? 
All meals, including the first evening dinner, will now be on a 'pay as you go' model. For courses starting in the evening, the mandatory first teaching session will start at 7.30pm to 9pm. You are welcome to arrive earlier to eat in the College dining room prior to this if you wish, to be ready for the 7.30pm prompt start to your course. 
Accommodation on the first night can still be booked, students staying are free to dine as they wish, students attending the first evenings teaching but not staying can attend and have dinner if they wish.   

Are dinners still included as part of Summer Schools or Conservation courses? 
No, dinners are generally not included as part of Summer Schools or Conservation courses. However, there is an exception for Summer Schools, when a special dinner is often organised on the final night. This event allows participants to celebrate their achievements, socialise, and enjoy a memorable evening together.

If I am buying a course as a gift, can I include meals / is there a voucher option? 
While it's a thoughtful idea to include meals or a voucher option when gifting a course, unfortunately, this isn't possible at this time.

If I am awarded a short course bursary will that cover meals? Will it cover all or some? 
If you are awarded a short course bursary, it will cover all your meals. However, please note that this policy might change in the future, so it's a good idea to stay updated with any announcements.