Old Dining Hall Refurbishment Complete

The Old Dining Hall is one of the most loved, and most used, rooms in College. For those matriculating before 1969 it was the setting for evening dinner, for others is it the scene of poetry recitals, plays, concerts, seminars, formal dinners and weddings.

Over recent years, it was clear the Old Dining Hall was in need of an update – not only to décor, fixtures and fittings, but also to update the electrics, small kitchen and provide better access with a disabled ramp.

Thanks to gifts from many generous Aularians, the first phase of the refurbishment began in March just before lockdown, but the contractors and maintenance team have worked hard over the summer and the refurbishment is now complete and the room is ready to be used.

The lighting and acoustics have been improved, the historic woodwork has been restored and the walls have been repainted in a green colour consistent with the early period of use of the room as a dining hall. Now the building work is complete, the portraits of former Principals will return later this term.

The Hall has been beautifully furnished with dining tables and chairs in keeping with this historic space. 60 Aularians have supported this project and are recognised with a plaque on the back of the wooden dining chairs. We will invite donors to dine in the Hall again once social distancing measures are lifted.

We are delighted this project is complete for the start of Michaelmas term and look forward to many more years of dining, learning and entertainment in this special room at the Hall.