Student life

Relaxation and study spots
Oak Hall: When you need a quiet place to relax, the Oak Hall in the main house is the perfect spot. Complete with a large fireplace, this cozy space is ideal for reading or having a chat with friends. 

The Library: For those looking for a more academic setting, the extensive Library is open seven days a week, offering a wealth of resources for study and research.  

IT Suite: Utilise the college's well equipped IT suite, available around the clock for digital work, research, or accessing online academic resources. 

Gardens: Particularly in the summer months, students make the most of the award-winning gardens. An ideal retreat for a peaceful walk, chats with friends or even independent studying. 

The Boudoir: A comfortable and cosy space within the main house, the Boudoir is ideal for group study sessions or relaxing between classes. With sofas, armchairs, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a popular spot for students to gather, work collaboratively, or take a break and enjoy catch ups with friends.   

Pubs and social spots
Steward's Bar: Our Steward's Bar on campus, with friendly staff, is open throughout the day and into the evening for students to unwind and socialise. 

The Selsey Arms: Enjoy traditional pub fare and a relaxing atmosphere at The Selsey Arms, just a 10-minute walk from campus, making it a popular student hangout. Join their weekly pub quiz

Chichester: Just a short bus ride or drive away, Chichester offers plenty of student-friendly pubs, bars and eateries that often have student deals and discounts available.  

The Fox Goes Free: Situated in the nearby village of Charlton, this charming 400-year-old pub is a favourite for its historic ambiance, roaring fireplaces, and hearty meals. It’s a short drive from campus, perfect for a weekend outing with friends. 

West Dean cafés: If you’re on campus all day but want a change of scenery, have a snack in The West Dean Village Stores Café or West Dean Gardens Restaurant. Both are great spots for catching up with friends between classes or enjoying a quiet break. 

Cultural environment
Weald & Downland Open Air Museum: A living museum with over 50 historic rescued rural homes and buildings, from as early as 950AD. An extensive archive, directly next to campus and free passes for students provides an extensive learning resource for students.  

Pallant House Gallery: Pallant House Gallery is situated in Chichester - just a 20-minute drive or 30-minute bus journey from campus.  

The Novium Museum: Chichester District's award-winning museum, located in the heart of the city centre. It’s built over the exposed archaeological remains of Chichester's Roman bath house.  

Chichester Festival Theatre: Attend performances at the renowned Chichester Festival Theatre, offering everything from contemporary drama to classic plays in a historic setting. 

Goodwood: Explore the Goodwood Estate, famous for its motor racing, horse racing, and historical tours, located just a 5 minute drive from West Dean. 

Things to do
Swimming pool: Take a dip in the Vicarage's heated outdoor swimming pool. Our campus pool makes the perfect way to relax between May and September after a busy day in the studio. 

Tennis courts: Sharpen your tennis skills on the tennis courts located in the campus gardens, with scenic views to match your game.

Sports, games and outdoor pursuits: We provide a range of sports equipment to all students. Students also have the opportunity to use our extensive 6,000-acre grounds and award-winning gardens. Enjoy windsurfing at West Wittering and dinghy sailing from Chichester Marina and other local clubs. Local tennis clubs include Chichester Lawn and Squash club. Students keen on athletics should contact David Dorning, who will introduce them to the local athletics club and can provide information on running routes.

Cycling and walking: The Centurion Way, a former railway line, is a seven-mile route for cyclists and pedestrians. Starting in West Dean village, by the A286, it ends in Westgate, Chichester, where it joins the South Coast cycle route. There are also many beautiful walks both on the West Dean Estate and within the wider South Downs National Park.

Outdoor theatre: The Pergola Theatre performs outdoors in West Dean Gardens for two weeks every year.

Find out more things to do in Sussex as a student..

Cultural environment
Beyond its gardens and eateries, Bloomsbury thrives as a cultural hub, rich in academic and artistic opportunities.  

British Museum: Home to the world's largest collection of history and culture and only a 10-minute walk away from campus! Free to visit and a great spot for personal study.

Wellcome Collection: A free Museum and library that offers thought-provoking blend of science, medicine, and art through its exhibitions and interactive displays. 

Grant Museum of Zoology: Housing over 67 thousand specimens, covering the whole of the Animal Kingdom, it is certainly an interesting experience.

Dominion Theatre: This West End Theatre is a Grade II listed building and one of London's largest venues. If you enjoy a musical then the Dominion Theatre is only a 10 minute walk away from campus. 

Green spaces 
There are plenty of gardens to relax (as many as sixteen!), spend your lunch breaks and draw inspiration from all within a short distance walk. 

Gordon Square Garden: Only a minute's walk from Campus is a peaceful green space perfect for a quick escape and lunch breaks! 

Regents Park: A bit of a longer walk, but well worth it, Regent’s Park offers beautiful gardens, and the famous Regent’s Canal. It’s an ideal spot for an afternoon study session.

Russell Square: Located in the heart of Bloomsbury, Russell Square is a popular spot for students and locals alike.

Tavistock Square Garden: This large garden square has a 'peace' theme with its central statue of Mahatma Gandhi.

Brunswick Square Gardens: A tree-lined, leafy green space creating a tranquil atmosphere.

Student friendly spots
Waterstones on Gower Street: Next door to campus is Europe's largest new and secondhand bookshop. The iconic bookstore not only offers a vast selection of books, but it also has a cosy cafe making it a perfect spot for study breaks!  

Sore street espresso: Popular among students for a study spot and caffeine boost! Store street is a charming walk lined with independent cafes and shops.

The British Library: Free to enter and study in the reading rooms. A calm oasis with sources of inspiration in books and materials at your fingertips. 

Bloomsbury Coffee: Another popular cafe and study spot with comfortable chairs and affordable coffee, making it an ideal spot for students. 

Eateries

You will certainly not struggle to find places to eat at our London campus. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal with friends, the area offers a wide variety of options. 

Bloomsbury Farmer’s Market: Around the corner from Dilke House is a farmers' market with a wide selection of food stools that's open on Tuesday and Thursday lunchtime.  

The Brunswick Centre: A 10-minute walk up the road is the Brunswick Centre, home to over 24 places to eat including Gail's Bakery, Itsu and Leon.  

Cafés: So many cafés to choose from! Popular ones among students include Blank Street Coffee, Elwin and 49 Cafe.

Supermarkets: If you're on the hunt for snacks, there are plenty of supermarkets within a short walk such as Marks & Spencer, Tesco Express and a Sainsbury's Local.

Pubs and social spots
Pubs: The Bloomsbury Tavern and The Museum Tavern are a taste of traditional London pub culture. There are plenty of charming venues to choose from in Bloomsbury for a classic pub experience.

Bloomsbury bowling lanes: A retro-inspired venue where students can enjoy a game of bowling, vintage arcade games, and a lively bar. Located just a short walk from Dilke House, it's the perfect spot for a fun night out with friends.

The London Cocktail Club: This vibrant bar is perfect for students to unwind and socialise. With cocktails and games, it creates a great atmosphere.

Fight Club Bloomsbury: A winning destination for a social atmosphere with a touch of competition in dart playing.

The Top Secret Comedy Club: A comedy club only a 15 minute walk away. Perfect for an evening unwind after a day of learning.

Workshops and masterclasses 
Throughout the academic year, West Dean hosts a variety of workshops and masterclasses led by industry professionals. These events provide students with hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn new skills in their respective fields. 

Art exhibitions 
The college frequently showcases student work through exhibitions held in gallery spaces on campus. These exhibitions are a great way for students to share their creative achievements and gain valuable feedback from peers and faculty. 

Open mic nights 
Join fellow students for fun and informal open mic nights at Steward's Bar, where you can showcase your talents—whether it’s music, poetry, or storytelling. It’s a wonderful way to connect with others and enjoy a vibrant atmosphere. 

Seasonal festivals 
Participate in seasonal events and festivals that take place in the surrounding area, such as the Chichester Christmas Market or the Goodwood Revival. These events offer a chance to experience local events while having fun with friends. 

Themed social events 
Throughout the academic year, the student association organizes themed social events such as Halloween parties, Valentine’s Day gatherings, and end-of-term celebrations.