These Nottingham businesses are offering free meals to school children during half term

They are supporting Marcus Rashford’s campaign to ensure that no child goes hungry during the October holidays


Following the Government’s decision against directly funding free meals for eligible school children during the October half-term, businesses around the UK have rallied together in support to provide these children free meals during the break.

Here are some of the amazing Nottingham businesses who are taking part in this campaign, and what types of food they’re offering:

1. The Pudding Pantry, Burton Street

Image: The Pudding Pantry

Located just opposite The Gym in the city centre (but don’t let that put you off!), The Pudding Pantry is a perfect little spot for brunch, afternoon tea, or dessert – it would make a cute date spot too (post tier-three)!

Their menu ranges from all-American brunch to freakshakes. My recommendation would be their fluffy American pancakes with any of the various toppings that the menu offers – they are probably the best I’ve ever had.

They are currently offering a sandwich and a treat for all children eligible for free school meals this week.

2. Rose & Crown, Derby Road

Image: Rose & Crown

Our very own Rose & Crown is also taking part in the campaign.

A UoN favourite for those post-lecture pints and G&Ts on the benches outside, but also a serving a large pub food menu inside.

They are offering a free hot meal for eligible school children, both to eat in and takeaway.

3. UoN Men’s Football Club/St. Paul’s RC Church, Lenton Boulevard

Image: UoN Men’s Football Club

Our university men’s football team have made us proud on the pitch numerous times, but now off the pitch too.

They have partnered with St. Paul’s RC Church and are offering lunch packs containing a free sandwich, juice, crisps, fruit and sweet treat at the Church this week. A great representation for our university, well done boys!

4. Café Sobar, Friar Lane

Image: Café Sobar

A contemporary European café, but also Nottingham’s only non-alcoholic bar – fancy a Sans-gria or a Mock-arita?

All profits made in the café-bar go to Double Impact, a charity supporting drug and alcohol recovery. And they’re helping out more people this week – they are offering a free meal, drink and a piece of fruit to eligible school children, and a hot drink for parents. All the customer needs to do is ask a member of staff ”Is Marcus in?”

5. Geek Retreat, Flying Horse Walk

Image: Geek Retreat Nottingham

A friendly environment for sci-fi, anime, board game lovers and more. Here you can meet others who share the same interests as you, play board games, trade your merchandise or maybe even create your own milkshake in the café part of the store.

They are supporting the campaign by offering a free lunch (worth up to £10) to any child, 16 and under, this week.

6. Nottingham Street Food Club, Victoria Centre

Image: Nottingham Street Food Club

Focused on generating money back into independent Nottingham businesses, this location is perfect for those who want to try a bit of everything.

This pop up includes four different local traders which are on rotation, so you can try a variety of street food in one sitting – including Korean and Mexican cuisines, and there’s plant based options too!

They are offering a free street food meal from one of their vendors and juice to eligible children.

These are just a few of Nottingham’s businesses who have stepped in to support struggling families during this half term, after our government chose not to – and for that, we thank them dearly.