Explore London in the most productive way!

It’s always a great time to explore London, but it is easier said than done with exam season underway and the new term approaching. One way to take advantage of the city whilst focusing on uni work is to try out new study spots around the city. Not only will it diversify your study sessions, but it can also make them more productive! I have prepared a list of lovely places that are perfect for this (all of them personally tested by me).

Queen Mary study spaces

Before exploring the rest of London, it’s worth checking out the multiple study spaces on Queen Mary campuses. The libraries are divided into silent, quiet and discussion zones, so you can choose a study spot depending on your preference. There is of course the Mile End Library, which has a great capacity and a particularly nice view from the third and fourth levels. It has many charging stations, vending machines and everything you need for a productive study session. Although convenient, the library gets busy during the day, so a great alternative is Canalside, located in France House. It is a small and peaceful space that overlooks the canal, offering the same benefits as the Mile End Library, including being open 24/7.

However, Whitechapel Library is by far the most beautiful place across all campuses. Located right next to Whitechapel station, it has a distinctive Victorian interior that creates a very special vibe. Keep in mind that there are also many spots inside the campus buildings, such as the Graduate Centre, where you can comfortably sit and work as well!

Barbican Centre

The modernist architecture that combines brutal concrete with warm interiors and green spaces gives the Barbican Centre its unique aesthetic. Those who live on the Charterhouse Square campus may already know about it, but for others this can be a hidden gem. Barbican is a huge arts centre in East-Central London, it is a public space where among other things you can find many spots for studying. Not only can you sit on a comfy sofa, armchair, or at the desk; you can also grab coffee or food from one of the three restaurants there and treat yourself to a nice movie or an exhibition afterwards. If you prefer a quieter environment, there is a library on the second floor - just be sure to check their opening hours, as it closes quite early on some days. They also offer Young Barbican membership, which provides many discounts. Don’t miss out!

The best way to get there is by taking the tube to Barbican station, but you can also get off at St. Paul’s and enjoy a lovely walk to the Centre. From the Mile End Campus, you can take bus number 25 as well.

British Library

We’ve all heard of it, but have you been inside? The building offers a lot of seating in the common areas and coffee shops, but you can also enter one of the reading rooms for a chance to study in perfect silence. This is especially helpful if you get easily distracted or want to avoid the library’s louder spaces. Keep in mind that there are some rules when you go into the reading rooms as some of the oldest and rarest books are stored there. You get access to these rooms with the reader’s pass that you can get on-site, it takes around 10 minutes, and you only need a proof of address and a photo ID. The reader’s pass also allows you to borrow books from there. The library tends to get quite busy closer to the evening, so my advice is to get there in the morning.

The best way to get there is by taking the tube and getting off at the King’s Cross St. Pancras, and you can also take bus number 205 that stops near the library.

Southbank Centre

Located along the Thames in the heart of Central London, this public space is definitely worth exploring. Not only does it have unique architecture and bright interior, but there are also many stores and coffee shops nearby. You can choose to sit outside, but during the colder days you would probably prefer to stay indoors. If you want to grab some food, you should stop by Southbank Food Market. The Centre also hosts many great talks and performances, make sure to check them out as it is a perfect way to reward yourself for a productive day.

If you want to travel there, take the district line from Stepney Green or Mile End to Embankment station, and walk for 15 minutes, crossing the Golden Jubilee bridges.

Waterstones (Euston Square)

This bookstore with coffee shop is a bit farther from the campuses but studying there can be part of a nice day out in Central London. It is perfect for relaxed study sessions with coffee and a sweet treat. This space is good for discussions and boosting your creativity, making it ideal for brainstorming or group study. Afterward, you can explore the bookshop, whether you're looking for academic resources or just something fun to read. I am sure you will find something for yourself as there are four floors filled with all sorts of books. The area around Waterstones is beautiful as well, with several nearby parks, perfect for a refreshing walk once you've finished studying or if you need a break.

You can get there either by taking the tube to Euston Square Station or catching a bus number 205 and walking for 15 minutes.

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Hope this article helps you to feel more confident in exploring some new spots across London. And may your study sessions be productive and enjoyable!