Experience and environment in lime tree

What to expect while you visit

Peak and quiet times

At peak times, you can expect lime tree to have longer queues at counters, higher noise levels, and limited seating availability. The difference between peak and quiet times over the weekends is less pronounced than on weekdays.

 

If you're visiting on a weekday:

• The lime tree is at its busiest from 12pm to 1.30pm and 5pm to 6.30pm. There's also a short rush from 7.30pm to 8pm as lime tree is the last outlet on campus to close.
• The quietest times are 10am to 12pm, with a calmer mid-afternoon window from 1.30pm to 4pm. If you find busy environments difficult, visiting mid-morning or mid-afternoon is your best best.

Food counters start to open from 11.30am, so make sure to arrive after this time if you're after food.

 

If you're visiting on a weekend

• The busiest window is roughly 12pm to 2pm.
• The quietest time tends to be 3pm to 5pm; overall, weekends are significantly quieter than weekdays.

 

Lighting

Lime Tree has large windows that run along the wall, meaning most of the lighting is natural daylight. It can get quite bright at seating near the windows during certain periods of day.

There are artificial overhead lights throughout the outlet; these are brightest near the bar, and dimmest over the calm space.

 

 

Noise

Lime Tree is a social, lively space. Noise levels are generally higher than most other campus venues. Sources of noise include:

• Background music, which is loudest near the bar.
• Kitchen and food preparation sounds, which is loudest near Tiglio, Deli, and Global Plates.
• The coffee machines at Brew.
• Crowd noise, particularly at peak times. 

If noise is a concern, visiting during quieter periods or using the calm space is recommended.

 

Seating

Lime Tree has a range of seating options:

• Long bench-style seating with tables
• Long tables with individual stools
• High stools and small tables
• Booth seating
• Outdoor tables and chairs

 

Calm space

If at any point you feel overwhelmed, that's completely okay. The lime tree can be an overstimulating place, and you don't need a reason to take a break.

There is a designated calm space near the south entrance, which is available throughout opening hours during term time. It is separated form the main space by a partial wall, which gives it a more enclosed feel. 

You can expect:

• Lower noise levels, though some ambient noise from the rest of the venue is still present.
• Lower lighting.
• A range of seating options.

If you need help, any member of staff can point you to the calm area, or help you find a quieter spot. You don't need to explain yourself, just ask.

If you need to step outside entirely, the green area with benches just outside the entrance is a good spot to decompress before heading back in or moving on. You can bring trays and plates with you.