Eating and drinking

Food is very much part of everyday life at the RCA, and there are a number of venues which cater to ensuring staff and students are fed and watered properly, despite the College's compact size. 

From the vibrant ArtBar, to the always-packed Canteen, all tastes are catered for.

Dyson Café
Open throughout the day selling Hot food, sandwiches, snacks and hot drinks. Vending machines are available when it’s closed.

Open Monday to Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm. Closed at weekends.

DesignBar

The new Design Bar on the Ground floor of the Dyson Building is now open and provides a larger and more inspiring social and informal break out space for students and staff, while retaining the ability to showcase inspiring work from programmes across the College. The Design Bar will offer the opportunity to host events requiring hot and cold food and/or a licensed bar.

The ArtBar

The ArtBar is the only space on campus led by RCASU, so if you're looking for some delicious drinks and want to support your fellow students, that's the place to be. A vibrant space where students can socialise and take advantage of some of the best-priced drinks in west London. It holds regular late nights, cocktail promotions and different parties and events throughout the year.

Great decks and a mighty PA can accommodate all musical tastes. We have regular DJ nights, Quiz nights and cocktail nights!

On warm evenings our large terrace overlooking the Albert Hall is one of the best places in London to have a drink. We solely employ current students and any profits go directly back into the Students' Union.

The Refectory

The Canteen offers respite in the middle of the day for a chat with friends and staff over a hot meal. It offers choices of meal (including a vegan option), a salad bar and desserts, and is generally packed at lunchtime. 

Open Monday to Friday 12pm – 2.30pm. Closed at weekends.

Fernery Café

The Fernery Café in Darwin Building is open throughout the day selling sandwiches, snacks and hot drinks. Vending machines are available when it’s closed.

Open Monday to Friday 8am – 5pm. Closed at weekends.

Garden Café

The Garden Café is open throughout the day selling sandwiches, snacks and hot drinks, offering space for students to take a a break throughout the day or get together for a chat over a coffee.

Open Monday to Frida, 8.30am - 4pm. Closed at weekends