Best Study Spaces in 8 Uni Cities

When you’ve spent 10 hours straight staring at the wall of your bedroom or studying at the uni library, it’s natural to want a change of scenery—but testing out different cafes and public study spaces is a lot of legwork. It generally involves traipsing from place to place, sitting on uncomfortable benches and running out of laptop battery. So for students living in the eight biggest uni cities, we’ve done the hard work for you. Thank us later.

London: The British Library

If you’re going to study anywhere, why not do it in one of the most iconic buildings in the UK? As well as being very Instagrammable, it’s also a great space to be productive, with lots of quiet spots to set yourself up with a laptop. All areas are free to access, though you’ll need a pass to get into the Reading Rooms, which have plenty of plug sockets and lights. For a more chilled environment, head to Origin Coffee.

WiFi quality: 6/10

Plug availability: 9/10

Quietness: 10/10

Edinburgh: Books N’ Cup Café

Cosy and friendly with tasty food and drink, this is sure to be your winter term fave. Students have long frequented this Home Street spot, which is open from 7.30am till 10pm seven days a week, making it ideal for early birds and night owls alike. Be sure to take your favourite book for a bit of post-study relaxation!

WiFi quality: 8/10

Plug availability: 8/10

Quietness: 7/10

Glasgow: Tinderbox

Independent and award-winning espresso bar, it’s a spacious, relaxed space in Merchant City. With great coffee guaranteed, there are plenty of plug sockets and comfortable seats too, making it an ideal place to be productive. Fancy a delicious, locally-sourced lunch? Look no further than this friendly spot.

WiFi quality: 7/10

Plug availability: 9/10

Quietness: 6/10

Manchester: Foundation Coffee House

Open early and located close to the university, this Lever Street cafe is relaxed and has plenty of room to study or socialise. You won’t feel rushed or judged if you just want to have a coffee and open up your laptop—but if you are feeling peckish, it has a wide-ranging menu that’s good value for money (and their coffee slushies are legendary!).

WiFi quality: 6/10

Plug availability: 7/10

Quietness: 6/10

Newcastle: Newcastle City Library

If you need a super productive study day, then this city-centre space is a great option. Quiet concentration is guaranteed, and with plenty of seats set over six storeys, you’re sure to find a peaceful nook to get stuff done. Plus, you’ve got lots of reference materials and books on hand—perfect for doing deep dives for dissertations or essays.

WiFi quality: 7/10

Plug availability: 7/10

Quietness: 10/10

Bristol: Arnolfini Café

Look out over the harbour from an al fresco table as you sip your coffee and wait for your locally-sourced brunch. Dreamy. And even better, UWE students also get a 10% discount after showing their ID card. As an art gallery, it’s also a great space to find inspiration—step outside for breaks in the fresh air, then end the day with a drink from Bristol Beer Factory.

WiFi quality: 7/10

Plug availability: 5/10

Quietness: 6/10

Coventry: Bean & Leaf Coffee House

Family-run and award-winning, this city centre coffee shop is independent and loved by locals and students alike. With comfy seating and warm service, you can enjoy cosy study sessions here while sipping on loose-leaf tea or speciality coffee. There’s plenty of plug sockets, too—so you never need to have that low battery anxiety!

WiFi quality: 7/10

Plug availability: 6/10

Quietness: 7/10

Leeds: Central Library

A grade-II listed building, it’s been hosting scholars since 1884—so you’re in good company! Have a productive day in beautiful surroundings, with late-night opening hours on Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. With several different departments, you’ve got lots of specialist reference materials at hand too. Plus, when you want a break or snack, you can head down to the Tiled Hall Cafe.

WiFi quality: 7/10

Plug availability: 7/10

Quietness: 10/10