High Table Guest Nights

Missing the energy of dinner at Hall, or seeking a chance to reunite with fellow Exonians? Our Guest Nights are a wonderful opportunity to visit Exeter, dine at High Table, and catch up with old friends.

‘…thank-you for arranging our visit yesterday…the overriding feeling was one of being made very welcome in the College…’ – The Venerable Godfrey Stone (1968, Geography & Theology)

How do my dining rights work?

We are always delighted to welcome alumni and friends back to Exeter! After completing your studies at Exeter you are invited to dine at High Table three times over the academic year, and on the first occasion you attend each year we will be very happy to cover the cost of your meal. Please note that wine is chargeable – as are guest tickets – and Special Guest Nights will incur a small surcharge whilst using dining rights. When registering, select the ‘Alumni – Dining Rights’ ticket option. Depending on availability and whether you attend as a group, you may be seated on the centre table, rather than at the high table.

When can I use my dining rights?

You can utilise your dining rights at Guest Nights (High Table Nights). These take place on select Wednesday and Sunday evenings during term time. Special Guest Nights differ from Ordinary Guest Nights in that we offer the tradition of second dessert and a dessert wine following the three-course meal. These Special Guest Nights are held throughout the year, at least once per term. Please see our booking page for available dates.

Can I bring a guest?

You are very welcome to bring two guests to High Table. Groups of three may be seated in the main body of the Hall. Please note current undergraduates and school age children (even if they are 18) are not allowed to dine on High Table.

Is there a cost involved?

We try to keep costs low so that we can host as many alumni as possible. On the first occasion that you dine with us each year, Exeter will cover the cost of your meal, but the cost of a guest’s meal and that of any alcohol for you or you guest are all chargeable.

Costs are as follows:

Ordinary Guest Night

1. Alumni – (Dining rights) without wine: Complimentary on first visit in academic year

2. Alumni – (Dining rights) with wine: £20.60 each

3. Alumni or Guest – without wine: £45.00 each

4. Alumni or Guest – with wine: £65.60 each

Special Guest Night

1. Alumni – (Dining rights) without wine: £9.55 each

2. Alumni – (Dining rights) with wine: £42.85 each

3. Alumni or Guest – without wine: £55.70 each

4. Alumni or Guest– with wine: £89.00 each

All prices include VAT where relevant and are per person. These prices are valid until 30 September 2025 and will be updated prior to the 2025-26 academic year starting.

What are the timings for Guest Nights?

Alumni are invited to arrive at the SCR for 7.15pm. Dinner is served at 7.30pm in Hall.
Ordinary Guest Nights conclude around 10.30pm, with Special Guest Nights concluding closer to 11.30pm.

What else happens during the Guest Nights?

On Sundays you are more than welcome to attend evensong at 6.00pm in the Chapel before dinner. On Wednesdays we also often hold a Rector’s Seminar before dinner, so do check the website or enquire with the Development Team to see if one is taking place.

Is there anything else I should know?

The dress code for Guest Nights is lounge suits on Wednesdays and black tie on Sundays – academic gowns are certainly not obligatory, although if you wish to bring yours out of the cupboard, you are more than welcome!

How can I book?

Bookings are now open and you can book here. If you have any questions, please contact the Development team. We look forward to seeing you in College!

‘…it was an enjoyable evening, and good to meet the Rector properly…’ – Sir Roland Jackson (1976, Molecular Immunology)