As the new academic year gets underway, Mandela Hall in Falmer House has reopened its doors and is available for your use.

Falmer House is home to the University of Sussex Student’s Union. Mandela Hall was closed last year for roof repairs, but these are now complete, and the space is once again available. If you’ve not had a chance to visit yet, we recommend heading to Falmer House to take a look or even better, attend an event in this iconic Sussex space!

Learn more about the University of Sussex Students’ Union.

Did you know…

Falmer House is a Grade I Listed building, meaning it is of exceptional architectural interest. It was designed by Sir Basil Spence, our original campus architect.

When Falmer House opened in 1962, Mandela Hall was known as the Old Refectory. It was a space where students could meet for meals and drinks. In 1978, it was renamed to the current Mandela Hall, in honour of Nelson Mandela – the imprisoned leader of the African National Congress.

Mandela Hall has hosted more than dinners in its rich history. From Jimi Hendrix and Pink Floyd in the 1960s, The Who and The Clash in the 1970s and Blur in the 1990s, many a band has filled this iconic space. Read Alumni memories of these music events.