London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Hey everyone! If you're anything like me, sometimes you just need a change of scenery from the Keppel Street Library to really get in the zone and power through your studies. Lucky for us, our LSHTM campus is surrounded by some fantastic hidden gems around London; perfect for a productive study session. I've spent some time exploring and found a few personal favourites that I'm excited to share with you. So, grab your laptop and let's find your next favourite study nook!

1. Wellcome Collection reading room

Just a stone's throw from campus, the reading room at the Wellcome Collection is a truly unique space. It's not your typical quiet library; it's a vibrant, open space with comfortable seating, bean bags, and fascinating objects and books all around you.

• Pros: It’s an incredibly inspiring and creative environment. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a great place for reading and brainstorming. It's free to enter and has free Wi-Fi. And this is the kicker… They have bean bags. Yes, bean bags! Which is lovely for power napping!
• Cons: It can get a bit busy and isn't always the quietest spot, so it might not be ideal for intense, focused work that requires absolute silence. However, if you need a quieter space in the building, you can move to the library, which is located on the first floor of the building
• Practical Tip: No payment is required to enter or use the space. The Wi-Fi is reliable, just be prepared for a bit of background buzz.

2. Store St Espresso

I stumbled upon this place on a coffee run, and it's a fantastic find! The upstairs cafe is lovely, but the real treasure is the basement. It's a cosy, more secluded space with a great atmosphere for studying.

• Pros: The coffee is top-notch, which is a definite plus for those long study sessions. The basement is generally quieter than the main cafe area.
• Cons: It's a popular spot, so finding a seat during peak times can be a challenge. You'll also need to buy a drink or a snack to use the space.
• Practical Tip: They offer Wi-Fi; simply ask for the password when you place your order. My advice is to arrive early or during off-peak hours to secure a good table.

3. Dillon's Cafe in Waterstones (Gower Street)

The Waterstones on Gower Street is an icon, and its Dillon's Cafe is a perfect student haven. The large tables, especially, are brilliant for spreading out your books and notes. Being surrounded by books is always a plus for academic motivation!

• Pros: The ambience is both scholarly and serene, making it ideal for focused work. The cafe offers great coffee and snacks to keep you fuelled.
• Cons: It can get quite busy with both students and shoppers. You’ll likely need to purchase something from the cafe to justify a long stay.
• Practical Tip: The Wi-Fi is free and generally reliable. Those large tables are in high demand, so you might have to share with other studious bookworms.

4. The British Library

Okay, this one isn't exactly a secret, but with its sheer size, you can always find a workspace that suits your needs. The British Library is an awe-inspiring place to study, and it's just a short walk away.

• Pros: It’s one of the world's largest libraries, offering a vast collection of resources. The atmosphere is incredibly grand and motivating. There are numerous reading rooms and spaces to choose from.
• Cons: You need to register for a free Reader Pass to access the reading rooms, which can take a bit of time on your first visit. It can also be quite crowded.
• Practical Tip: Registration for the Reader Pass is free, but you'll need to bring the required ID. Once you're in, the Wi-Fi is excellent. Explore the different reading rooms to find your favourite vibe.

5. Momo's Garden Cafe in Gordon Square

When the weather is nice, there's nothing better than studying outdoors. Momo's Garden Cafe, tucked away in the beautiful Gordon Square, is the perfect spot. It's a peaceful little oasis in the middle of the city.

• Pros: The garden setting is incredibly relaxing and a great way to de-stress while you work. It's a lovely spot for reading or some light work on your laptop.
• Cons: It's a seasonal spot, so it's best enjoyed on warmer, drier days. Seating is limited, and you'll need to purchase something from the cafe.
• Practical Tip: The Wi-Fi can be a bit hit-or-miss since you're outdoors. It's ideal for tasks that don't require a super-strong internet connection. Grab an iced coffee and enjoy the fresh air!

So there you have it—my top alternative study spots around London away from LSHTM! I hope this provides you with some new ideas for when you need to adjust your study routine. 

• Read: History of public health in London - A walking tour with Megan
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• We put together some of the walk routes for you to enjoy the most out of London.
• Contact Sarah via our student ambassador pages.