Courtesy of RA Alessandra

Looking for the best spots on campus? My name is Alessandra, I’m one of the Residential Assistants here at Queen Mary and here are my top 5 spots I recommend making the most of on our Mile End campus.

1. Canalside

My favourite spot on campus hands down, perfect for lunch when the sun is out! Being next to the canal with wildlife all around and looking into Mile End Park is surprisingly calming and offers a good break from studying. Queenie the campus cat is sometimes around too! It can get quite busy so it’s quite difficult to find space to study here during lunchtime but I’m always there to unwind so this doesn’t matter too much to me personally. There are study rooms you can use if you wish to study and can’t find a bench outside.Canalside is situated just behind France House.

2. St Benet’s Chaplaincy

The place I go to when I need some quiet time. It’s such a welcoming space for all students, regardless of their faith or beliefs. A variety of creative and spiritual events are run here, I particularly enjoy the mindfulness sessions as they are free and the atmosphere inside the Chaplaincy is so serene. You can even hear and feel the trains from the tube beneath you!You can find St Benet’s Chaplaincy on the right-hand side of the main entrance to the Queens Building.

3. The Curve

The Curve really helps me out when I haven’t had time to do a food shop or don’t feel like cooking. The variety of food on the menu is a bonus, prices are competitive considering we’re in London and it’s convenient being so close to my accommodation. I enjoy grabbing lunch here with friends after lectures or there’s the option to take food away if you’re in a rush. The Curve is just past the Village Shop on the right-hand side as you walk towards Library Square.

4. Drapers

Being the closest club to halls makes Drapers a very convenient night out, no long tube journeys home! There are multiple nights out per week but my personal favourite is Hail Mary, all the sports teams get together on the last Wednesday of every month and take part in drinking socials, it’s always good fun! Events here aren’t always drink-related - from playing pool to comedy nights to Hama beading, there’s something for everyone.  You can find Drapers just next to Qmotion.

5. Ground Café

Always buzzing, I like going to our on-campus café after lectures instead of the group space in the library to discuss studies with coursemates and to grab a drink or a pastry. It’s super near the library too so if you need a break from studying it’s a good space to come to! I love the sofas there; they makes the café feel a bit more homely.The Ground Café can be found near Library Square as you walk towards the Student Union, it’s also not too far from Arts Two.

6. QM Social 

QM Social is Queen Mary's newly renovated space. This warm, inviting area features comfy sofa seating, free games, and plenty of phone charging stations, making it the perfect social workspace or hangout spot. With its modern, neon-lit design, it's great for studying or catching up with friends. ResLife also hosts events here, so make sure to stop by and enjoy the atmosphere! You can find it on Library Square next to the Bancroft building.