London's Finest Coffee Shops For Studying

I’m a bit finicky in that I don’t like to work at home nor do I particularly like working in a library. Home is too casual and a library is too quiet. I prefer an ideal mixture of the two: a laid-back atmosphere with hushed conversation, good music, and even better coffee.

Back in the US, the baristas at my favorite coffee shop knew exactly what I ordered (a soy cappuccino). It suffices to say that when I moved to London finding a good coffee shop was at the top of my priority list.

So, without further ado, I’ve compiled a list of my five favorite coffee places for studying in London. The list is in no particular order; each spot has a unique charm. If and when you’re even in London and in need of a pick-me-up, one of these shops will certainly do the trick.

1. Timberyard

Located in Soho, TY can get quite busy. However, they have excellent coffee and delicious food, including vegan options. If you can find a place at a table, you’ll be surrounded by young professionals slamming away at their keyboards and light chatter as some companies use TY as a co-working space.

2. Brown and Rosie

This place is in South Kensington near the Victoria and Albert Museum. The baristas are friendly and the atmosphere is hushed and calm. Full disclosure, I actually ordered tea here, but it was perfectly steeped. I also had a slice of quiche which may have been the best slice of quiche I’ve ever had. It’s the perfect place to read a novel or that dense research paper for your Monday lecture.

2. Monmouth

Iconic London coffee place. However, I will warn you that the Borough Market location does not have Wi-Fi. Also, the queue for the coffee can wrap around the block at peak times. But, if you go early in the morning Monmouth is perfect for studying as it is much less crowded. Also, their coffee is bang-up delicious.

4. Crêpe Shop and Art Café

Confession: I don’t go here for the coffee, though their coffee is good. I go here for the crêpes. A friend and I stumbled upon this little shop in Whitechapel one evening when we were both on the hunt for sweets. Their crêpes are sensational, come in giant portions, and are very reasonably priced. If you’re in need of a bit of sugar, make this place at the top of your list.

5. Fleet Street Press

Near the King’s College Strand Campus, this little gem boasts well-made coffee and yummy cakes and pastries. There’s a cosy basement with ample seating making Fleet Street a nice place to work on some revision after a lecture.

Finally, I will say, London can be quite pricey and I would recommend planning your dining out strategically. Still, there is so much to do here, and I would highly recommend finding your niche and exploring the city as much as you can.

If you would like to find out more about studying in the UK, please contact one of our Advisors.