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A woman enjoying a drink in the RCM cafe A woman enjoying a drink in the RCM cafe

What's on / Café

Café

Visiting the RCM

A relaxing space for a light bite

Our café, The Carolean, serves barista-style coffees, sandwiches, snacks and hot food in spectacular surroundings. Enjoy your refreshments inside or out, with access to our brand new 1851 Courtyard and accompanied by the sounds of music across the College. 

Healthy food options are available, including a salad bar with locally sourced seasonal ingredients.

Situated on the ground floor in the new Cotes-Burgan Atrium, our café is fully accessible.

Opening hours

Café

  • Monday–Friday: 8.30am–4.30pm
  • Saturday: 8.30am–4.30pm (term time only)

Holiday opening hours

  • Mon 15 – Fri 19 December : 9am–3pm
  • Mon 22 – Tues 23 December : 9am–3pm.

The cafe is then closed until Mon 5 Jan.

Term time opening hours resume on Mon 5 Jan 2026.

Last issues and returns are 15 minutes before closing time.

Our café bar on the ground floor opens from 5pm for most mid-week concerts in the Amaryllis Fleming Concert Hall, Britten Theatre and Performance Hall. The bar serves a range of wine and bottled beverages in addition to barista-style coffees, sandwiches and snacks.

Find us

The Royal College of Music is one of London's most vibrant musical centres. Located in South Kensington – an important cultural quarter – we are within easy reach of local museums, parks and other attractions, as well as dining options and transport links. 

We are delighted to welcome music lovers, tourists and prospective students throughout the year. 

Getting to the RCM