10 Best Places to Study in London

Understand Your Study Habits and Preferences

Before we give you our recommendations on the best places to study in London, it's important to understand your own study habits and preferences. Everyone has their own rhythm when it comes to productivity and focus. Some of us are morning people who thrive during the early hours, while others are night owls who do their best work in the dead of night. Similarly, some find comfort in studying with a friend, while others prefer the tranquillity of complete solitude. 

So, start by considering your personal style. Do you work best in a lively environment or a quiet one? Do you prefer structure, or are you more flexible? With a clear sense of your preferences, you can read on to find the study spots in London that suit your vibe.

Best Places to Study in London: Libraries, Museums & Art Galleries

1. The British Library 

If you are looking for the best places to study in London, the iconic British Library is a must-visit! As the UK's national library, it boasts the largest collection of books and resources in the world. With free Wi-Fi and extended hours—open seven days a week from 9:30 am to 8 pm on weekdays—it’s a prime choice for students and researchers alike. Given its popularity, don't be surprised if the open workstations are bustling with activity. However, by signing up for a free membership, you can gain access to the reading rooms, where you'll find a quieter, more focused environment perfect for uninterrupted study sessions. 

2. Welcome Collection

Just a 10-minute walk from the British Library is another excellent study spot: the Wellcome Collection, a unique museum/library that combines medicine, health, science, and art. It's often recommended by university students as one of the best places to study in London. This museum offers rotating exhibits, a café, a library, and a reading room—all with free Wi-Fi access. The reading room in the Wellcome Collection is particularly noteworthy, featuring comfortable sofas, intriguing sculptures, a diverse selection of books, and captivating paintings. Quietness is valued in this space, ensuring a calm and intellectually stimulating atmosphere that's ideal for focused study sessions. 

3. The National Art Library at the Victoria and Albert Museum

The National Art Library is another gem for art lovers, especially those interested in fine and decorative arts. Nestled within the Victoria and Albert Museum and overlooking the John Madejski Garden, this library offers a peaceful and quiet setting for study. With over 1 million items in its literature and art collection, free Wi-Fi, and a calm ambience, it's an ideal location for art and design enthusiasts as well as anyone in need of a focused study environment. Access to the library requires registration, which can be completed on the Victoria and Albert Museum's website. Open on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, the National Art Library is a unique resource where students and researchers can explore a wealth of art and design materials, offering an inspiring choice for those with a creative or academic focus.

4. Kensington Central Library 

Kensington Central Library occupies a prime location in London, offering a spacious and tranquil setting that's conveniently close to both Holland Park and Kensington Gardens. This public library, which is a Grade II* listed building, is notable for its high architectural and historic significance. It was designed by the renowned architect E. Vincent Harris, who is also responsible for the grand Manchester Central Library, and features a distinctive Gothic style. Inside, the library provides free Wi-Fi and public printers, catering to all your study and research needs. Its spacious interiors offer ample room to spread out and work, while its quiet atmosphere allows for uninterrupted focus. Whether you're preparing for exams, working on assignments, or conducting research, Kensington Central Library's calming environment, rich history, and excellent amenities make it an ideal place to study.

5. Canada Water Library 

If you prefer a contemporary setting, Canada Water Library is an architecturally striking study spot in the heart of Southwark, London. This library stands out for its sleek design and expansive views of the surrounding area. Inside, you'll find free Wi-Fi, public computers, and printing services, all designed to support your study needs. The library's multi-level layout includes quiet study areas as well as spaces for group work, providing flexibility depending on your preferences. Additionally, Canada Water Library is part of a larger complex that includes a theatre and a café, making it easy to take breaks and enjoy a snack or coffee without venturing far from your study session. 

Best Places to Study in London: Cafés

6. Shaman 

Shaman London is a scenic café with a French-inspired touch, offering an ideal co-working space for anyone looking to settle in for a few hours of work. With a soothing atmosphere and a quiet setting, it's easy to lose track of time as you focus on your tasks. The café is well-equipped with power sockets near comfortable seats, ensuring you have a reliable spot to charge your devices, and it provides fast Wi-Fi to keep you connected. Frequented by office workers and students alike, the noise level remains pleasantly low, allowing you to work in peace. The Shaman Café has two branches: one in Aldgate, open every day from 7 am to 8 pm, and the other in Bermondsey, open every day from 7 am to 4 pm. This café is a great option for those seeking a relaxed yet productive environment.

7. Watchhouse 

WatchHouse is a state-of-the-art brew bar with multiple branches spread across London - so don't be surprised if you stumble upon one while searching for a place to study. A particularly recommended location is in the East Wing of Somerset House on the Strand. Located within one of London's most iconic cultural institutions, this café provides a vibrant atmosphere that's perfect for a focused study session. The 90-minute time slot policy on tables during peak periods ensures that you can have a concentrated burst of productivity without overstaying your welcome. Whether you need a quick break from exploring Somerset House or a reliable place to study in central London, WatchHouse has you covered.

8. Cafebotanical

Cafebotanical is an all-day café and lounge with a strong focus on organic, sustainable, and vegetable-forward offerings. Its sleek interior design, combined with a great atmosphere, creates a perfect setting where you can immerse yourself in study or work. The floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, providing an uplifting and energising ambience. This open and airy environment, along with the café's stable Wi-Fi, ensures you have everything you need for a productive study session or a comfortable spot to get some work done.

9. The Hoxton, Holborn 

Who would’ve thought that a hotel café could be one of the best places to study in London? The Hoxton, Holborn, located in the hotel lobby, offers a comfortable and inviting spot to get some work done. With great service and big, cosy sofas, it’s easy to settle in for a productive study session. Despite being in a hotel, there's no minimum spending requirement, and free Wi-Fi ensures you can stay connected. The noise level can be expected to vary, given its setting, but the lively atmosphere might be just what you need to keep your energy up. 

10. The Wren Coffee

Tucked away in the converted church of St Nicholas Cole Abbey, the Wren Coffee offers a unique study experience. Here, you'll find cosy tables set beneath a grand rococo ceiling, with soft, dappled light streaming through the modernist stained-glass windows. The café is open Monday to Friday, though it closes briefly on Thursdays from 12:45 to 14:00 for St Nick’s Talks. Throughout the year, it also hosts various events, adding a lively twist to the peaceful setting. The Wren Coffee is perfect for those seeking an alternative study location, combining a peaceful atmosphere with a touch of history.

From spacious libraries to cosy cafés, we've shared some of the best places to study in London. But the list is inexhaustive. We only want to bring in a bit of everything, for everyone. Whether you prefer the hushed atmosphere of a library, the artistic qurk of an art gallery, or the lively buzz of a café, the beauty of London is that there's always something—and somewhere—that suits your style. Explore the city, find your perfect spot, and let it inspire you to reach new heights in your studies.