Search:

For the food lovers

From campus cafés and quick bites to independent restaurants, markets and global food districts, you’ll find plenty of ways to explore new flavours, grab something on the go or enjoy a relaxed meal with friends.

Food on campus

For quick and convenient food on campus, there are a number of cafés and restaurants across the University of Hertfordshire, including The Oval Café, EleHouse and other campus food spots, where you can pick up hot meals, coffee, cold drinks and snacks between lectures.

People eating at a food hall

Local restaurants and dining in Hertfordshire

For well-known restaurant chains just a short walk away, head to the Galleria shopping centre, conveniently situated between our two campuses. From familiar favourites such as McDonald's and Burger King, to popular dining spots including Wagamama, Prezzo, Pizza Express and Nando's, there’s a wide range of cuisines to choose from, often with student discounts available.

For something a little more special, St Albans city centre offers a strong mix of independent restaurants and contemporary dining. Popular choices include The Waffle House, one of the area's best-known independent restaurants, and Lussmanns Sustainable Kitchen, which focuses on seasonal, responsibly sourced ingredients.

Nando's restaurant

Local food markets

Combining affordable, high-quality global cuisine with lively surroundings, food markets are a great way to explore new dishes while hanging out and having fun with friends. On campus, there are weekly stalls, from gluten free brownies to bread and bakery items.

St Albans Market see over 150 traders sell fresh farm produce, handmade treats and international street food alongside clothes, gifts and more at this vibrant gathering in the heart of the city.

Street Food Monthly brings pop-up eateries to Hitchin (25 minutes by train) and others Hertfordshire towns each month. This free festival packs together the best local traders, live music and DJs for a “proper feel-good atmosphere”.

The monthly Verulam Farmers’ Market in St Albans, is a smaller affair focusing on local and seasonal produce from regional farmers and artisan producers – ideal for students looking for fresh food in a more traditional market setting.

Food at a food market

London food districts and global flavours

One of the best things about Hertfordshire is that we have London right on our doorstep – which is famously one of the best, global food scenes in the world. Serving every cuisine under the sun from street bites to Michelin-starred restaurants, visiting is an absolute must for any true foodie.

Spitalfields Market, Borough Market and Camden Market bring together street food, emerging trends and independent eateries in lively social settings, making them ideal places to discover something new. Meanwhile, Chinatown London is packed with restaurants, bakeries and food spots serving authentic East and Southeast Asian cuisine in one of the capital's most vibrant food districts. 

London food markets