Whether you need a break from the hallowed walls of your college campus or are studying as a part-time or post-graduate student, we’ve got a list of the best study spots around the city.
Art Cafe
What: Laidback cafe with a large menu, exhibiting local art
Where: 14 New Rd,OX1 1LT
When: 7am-7pm Mon-Fri, Sat 7:30am-7pm Sun 8am-7pm
Why it’s One of the Best Study Spots in Oxford:
An ever-changing gallery of beautiful art, flavoursome well-priced food and great coffee make this an obvious pick. Study spots in Oxford are often crowded, but three floors of seating and a chill atmosphere make the Art Cafe conducive to deep work.
Tip: Try the Matcha Latte! It’s fantastic.
Common Ground
What: ‘Social Workspace’/Cafe specifically aimed at students and remote workers
Where: 37-38 Little Clarendon St, OX1 2HF
When: Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 8:30am-5:00pm, Sun Closed
Why it’s One of the Best Study Spots in Oxford:
In a wacky, artfully graffitied space that was once a Barclays Bank branch, Common Ground Workspace set out specifically to create one of the best study/work spots in Oxford. Think lots of plugs and extensions, free wi-fi, lots of desk space and work tables, and comfy couches. Like the Art Cafe, it’s dotted with a rotating array of local artwork. Friendly staff and quality coffee and cake.
Tip: See what’s going on! Because of its ethos and ample space, Common Ground is also a very popular venue to hire, with regular classes, exhibitions, meet-ups and events.
George and Danver
What: Ice Cream Parlour and Cafe
Where: 94 St Aldates, OX1 1BT
When: 9am - 11pm every day
Why it’s One of the Best Study Spots in Oxford:
With three locations, this Oxford-exclusive cafe makes all their own ice cream (the best in town, in this writer’s opinion) in the basement of their Jericho branch. For great study spots in Oxford, the St Aldates shop deserves a particular mention. The central location, long opening hours and quiet downstairs seating make this place a winner. The Wifi blind spots downstairs can also be a distraction deterrent.
Tip: If you’re looking for something more substantial, G&D’s is also known for its excellent bagels.
Pret on Cornmarket
What: Large, Centrally Located Branch of Pret
Where: 26-27 Cornmarket Street, OX1 3EY
When: Mon-Sat 6:30am-8:30pm Sun 8:00am-6:30pm
Why it’s One of the Best Study Spots in Oxford:
Pret is sort of like Costa with higher self-esteem. This branch is split over two levels in an old building, rustic-chic with wood beams, high ceilings and ample seating. Thanks to its location and long opening hours, and pretty good coffee, it’s one of the most beloved study spots in Oxford. The reason it’s made the list, however, is actually their coffee subscription: up to 5 free hot/iced drinks a day for £25 a month. For those who prefer to study in cafes, this can equal a huge saving. I have the subscription myself and can confirm that it’s well worth the price tag.
Tip: Pret is on the Too Good To Go app, so you can usually grab a bag of sandwiches and pastries for a few quid towards the end of the day.
Gulp Fiction
What: Used bookstore and cafe in the historic Covered Market
Where: Unit 28, 29 Covered Market, OX1 3DU
When: 10:30am - 5:30pm every day
Why it’s One of the Best Study Spots in Oxford:
Tucked away inside the Covered Market, Gulp offers study space, coffee and a book-y atmosphere away from the university. Cosy and down to earth.
Tip: Have a stack of unwanted books? Gulp will take them off your hands, paying £1/book for whatever they take and donating the rest to charity (or returning them to you, if desired!).
Oxford County Library
What: The Central Branch of the Oxfordshire Public Libraries
Where: Queen Street, Westgate, OX1 1DJ
When: Mon-Thu 9am-8pm Fri-Sat 9:30am - 5:30pm, Sun Closed
Why it’s One of the Best Study Spots in Oxford:
Hear me out. It may seem faintly ridiculous to study at the public library and not the beautiful and historic college buildings. But! The best study spots in Oxford allow you to tune out the world and get on with your work - which might not be the case within the university walls. The County library is reliably quiet, calm and cool, with an abundance of seating and plugs and - unlike the other options on this list - no pressure to spend money.
Tip: The cheap, high-quality printing services available are worth knowing about!
Peloton Espresso
What: Cosy Cowley Road cafe with outstanding coffee
Where: 76 Cowley Road, OX4 1JB
When: Mon - Fri 9am - 5pm Sat-Sun 9-5pm
Why it’s One of the Best Study Spots in Oxford:
This cyclist-and-dog-friendly spot is cheerful, colourful and intimate - and serves incredible coffee. All ingredients for a productive and mood-brightening study session.
Tip: The banana bread is out of this world!
Cafe Nero at Blackwell’s
What: Chain coffee shop located in Oxford's biggest bookstore
Where: 1st floor of Blackwell’s Bookshop, 48-51 Broad St OX1 3BQ
When: Mon-Sat 10:00-5:30 during term time, Sun 11am-4pm
Why it’s One of the Best Study Spots in Oxford:
As a disclaimer for including two nationwide chains on this list, I’ll admit I'm not particularly passionate about Caffe Nero’s coffee. The location, however, is too quintessentially Oxford to leave out. Blackwell’s has a range of student discounts and promotions, and the cafe itself has ample seating, strong wifi and a great view of the Sheldonian Across the street. Because the cafe is within the shop, you can also take books to your table for reference before you potentially purchase.
Tip: The bookshop regularly hosts free author talks, so check event listings while there!