Gurkha Kitchen Cranfield — Restaurant in England

I’ve been a regular at The Swan / Ghurka Kitchen for some time and often come here with friends for drinks. It’s always been a nice social spot for us, and I typically order drinks every time we visit.

However, I wanted to share a disappointing experience that made me feel both unwelcome and discriminated against due to a medical condition.

I have been medically diagnosed with coeliac disease, which means I have to follow a strict gluten-free diet—this is not a lifestyle choice, but a serious medical necessity. On a recent visit, I came with friends who ordered snacks from the kitchen, but unfortunately, there were no safe gluten-free food options available, especially on a Saturday.

As someone with coeliac disease and diabetes, it’s vital that I’m able to eat something safe to avoid health issues. So, I brought a small gluten-free snack for myself and was eating it quietly while also enjoying a drink I purchased from the bar.

A member of staff came over and told me I wasn’t allowed to eat outside food. I completely respect the general policy and tried to politely explain that I medically cannot eat anything from the kitchen, and that this was not a preference but a necessity. Her response was to walk away and laugh. I tried again to explain the situation calmly, but she ignored me entirely.

This experience was incredibly upsetting. If you have a medical condition, particularly one involving dietary restrictions, I would strongly caution you against visiting this venue. You may not be treated with understanding or basic respect.

It’s worth noting that coeliac disease is recognised under the UK Equality Act as a disability, and if a venue refuses a medically necessary accommodation while offering no safe alternative, this could amount to discrimination. I’m currently considering whether to raise this further with Coeliac UK or other relevant bodies.

It’s unfortunate, as I’ve enjoyed this place for years. But I can’t in good conscience recommend it to others in the coeliac or allergy community after...

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