Being a humanities student means lots of researching, reading and writing. So, chances are that you’ll inevitably become well acquainted with an on-campus or at home study spot. Whether you commute or live on-campus, it’s handy to have some alternative places to work up your sleeve for those days when you’re in need of a change from your usual environment or the Mile End campus is just too crammed.
Studying at a university in London comes with the benefit of having the city’s best student-friendly (and completely free) facilities at your fingertips – so make the most of it!
From libraries to cultural centres and parks to bookshops, here are some alternative study spaces in London to help you get the most out of your student experience.
1. The British Library
This is perhaps one of the most obvious spots on this list – and for good reason. The British Library boasts 150 million items and Reading Rooms space with a maximum capacity of 1200 people. Access to the Reading Room requires online pre-registration for a Readers Pass as well as transferring your belongings into a transparent bag at the cloakroom/lockers. If you don’t fancy that, you can settle for a seat in the main building or a spot in one of the library’s eateries.
Free Wifi ✓
Nearest stations: King’s Cross / Euston
Opening times and visitor information: https://www.bl.uk/visit
2. Senate House
Access to the Senate House library is free to Queen Mary University students and you can pre-register online. Its research collections provide a wealth of resources which cover literature, the arts, humanities and social sciences. Located between the fourth and seventh floors, the peaceful study spaces and grand reading rooms make for a student favourite.
Free Wifi ✓
Nearest stations: Russell Square / Goodge Street / Tottenham Court Road
Opening times and visitor information: https://www.senatehouselibrary.ac.uk/visiting-the-library
3. The Barbican Centre
One of London’s most exceptional arts and learning centres, the Barbican provides a range of vibrant and cosy spaces to work both inside and outdoors – so it’s worth exploring. Located on level two, the Barbican library showcases special collections in art, music, finance and on London. They also offer practice pianos and computers to use in a quiet study space.
Free Wifi ✓
Nearest stations: Barbican / Moorgate / St Pauls
Opening times and visitor information: https://www.barbican.org.uk/your-visit
4. The Southbank Centre
Located on the scenic Southbank, as the name suggests, this world-class arts centre offers a variety of study spaces such as the Archive Studio, Hayward Gallery and National Poetry Gallery as well as terraces with views of the Thames. That’s not to mention the relaxed foyers and cafés, which provide a comfortable and communal space to work with friends while still being productive.
Free Wifi ✓
Nearest stations: Waterloo / Embankment
Opening times and visitor information: https://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/visit
5. Wellcome Collection and Library
The Wellcome Collection is a museum exploring the connections between science, medicine, life and art. Not only does the museum contain a spectacular reading room and cosy café,
the large library hosts special collections on health, medicine and the human condition. It also provides plenty of desk and sofa seating, as well as the option to book study rooms.
Free Wifi ✓
Nearest stations: Euston / Warren Street / Kings Cross
Opening times and visitor information: https://wellcomecollection.org/pages/WwLIBiAAAPMiB_zC
6. The British Film Institute (BFI) Reuben Library
Another highly established venue on the buzzing arts and culture scene is the BFI Southbank, the UK’s leading cinema. However, the BFI is also home the calm and compelling Reuben Library specialising in film, television and photography, with ample study space provided in the Edwin Fox Foundation Reading Room.
Free Wifi ✓
Nearest stations: Southwark / Lambeth North / Waterloo
Opening times and visitor information: https://www.bfi.org.uk/education-research/bfi-reuben-library
7. Other University of London Libraries
Queen Mary students can access most University of London libraries for reference during term time. This includes UCL, SOAS and Royal Holloway to name a few. Make the most of the resources and facilities available by checking individual university websites for pre-registration and eligibility.
List of University of London member institutions: https://london.ac.uk/ways-study/study-campus-london/member-institutions
8. One of London’s Many Parks
Victoria Park, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, St James’s Park, Hyde Park, Green Park, Regent’s Park, Hampstead Heath…the list is endless. Whether it’s just you or a group of friends, pack some snacks and head to one of London’s many parks for an alternative outdoor study space (when the weather is right, of course!).
Extensive list of London parks: https://secretldn.com/london-parks-gardens-list/
9. Book Shops
When the weather isn’t on your side, you can spend hours browsing and reading in one of London’s huge Waterstones or Foyles bookstores. Many of these book shops provide cosy seating areas, free Wifi and have cafés – which make for a great casual study session.
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Hopefully this list provides some ideas for where to have your next study session. London is a diverse and thriving city that has much to offer. So, whether it be a local café or buzzing cultural institution, be sure to explore different parts of London to discover your own spots that suit your unique needs and preferences.
Check out more online posts from the Queen Mary History Journal including academic essays, creative writing, advice articles and reviews: https://qmhistoryjournal.wixsite.com/qmhj/blog
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