Social and cultural activities

Goodenough Members get access to a vibrant social and cultural programme, inspired and driven by their interests and talents. By joining the College's community of exceptional postgraduate students, new Members have countless opportunities to share and develop their interests whilst forging lasting friendships.

The social and cultural side of life at Goodenough College is one of its major strengths. The College runs a detailed events programme, delivered by the Dean and the Events team, which is enhanced by activities run by Members themselves. Our Members study subjects ranging from bioengineering to opera performance and bring a host of talent, interest and experience to College life.

The College’s stunning facilities create many opportunities to socialise. Members can meet and chat over meals in the historic Great Hall, at Freddie’s bar, in the quads, while relaxing in the garden or on the rooftop terrace.

Clubs and societies

One of the great ways to start getting involved in the social and cultural life of the College is to join clubs and societies created and run by Members. Goodenough College has dozens of Member-run clubs and societies from cooking to creative writing, yoga to running, art to science. The clubs and societies not only widen horizons and enhance academic studies, but are also often the starting point of lasting friendships.

Cultural weeks

Goodenough Members regularly hold cultural weeks to encourage other Members to learn more about their culture and heritage. Events range from themed evenings, such as Latin American or Afro-Caribbean nights, to panel discussions, talks, exhibitions, films, plays and displays of arts and crafts from different cultures around the world.

“The best cultural week event I attended was Latin American Week. I was part of the organising committee, and it was incredibly special to see our efforts come together in cultural events – such as a photo exhibition and a joyful party for the entire Goodenough community.”

Grecia Pérez Calderón, Goodenough College Member 2023-24

Music performances

Throughout the year Goodenough Members get multiple opportunities to attend concerts, including opera and piano performances, organised and performed by our talented music postgraduates. Members can also take part in informal jazz and popular music sessions or join the College choir.

Some of the College’s most exciting annual music events include Music Week, and the Goodensemble Orchestra’s concert, which is part of the prestigious Bloomsbury Festival.

Art exhibitions and workshops

Goodenough College is home to many postgraduates studying the arts who are encouraged to organise art and photography exhibitions in the College. One of our Members’ previous exhibitions was ‘In Visibility’. This exhibition, which celebrated International Women’s Day, was displayed in the College’s Great Hall, and organised in collaboration with the Guilds and Liveries of London.

The College is also home to a thriving Creative Writing Group, and there are frequent poetry readings and arts and crafts workshops which enrich the life of the College.

Dining events

Each year the College hosts five Faculty Dinners, which bring together Members according to the discipline they study. Held in the Great Hall, Faculty Dinners are a great opportunity to network with special guests, who are often leading academics, MPs, representatives from the City of London and key industry leaders with expertise relevant to the field of study.

Goodenough Members also get opportunities to participate in free dining events which help them to bond with other Members and to make new friends in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.

Discounted tickets to the Royal Albert Hall

Goodenough College has its own Box at the Royal Albert Hall – one of London’s most iconic venues. College Members get prime seats with superb views of the stage at heavily discounted price (tickets for high-profile performances at the Royal Albert Hall can cost £100 or more).

In previous years College Members have had the opportunity to see Ed Sheeran’s and Dua Lipa’s sold out shows, among other prestigious events, including the world famous ‘BBC Proms’, for only £12 a ticket.

Apply to Goodenough College

The 2025-26 accommodation application portal is now open. You are advised to apply as early as possible.