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The 16 Best Coffee Shops in London to Study

For students and professionals looking for a peaceful and inspiring place to study or work, London's coffee shop scene offers a plethora of options. With a diverse range of atmospheres, coffee blends, and study-friendly amenities, finding the perfect spot to focus and concentrate can be a daunting task. Whether you prefer cozy nooks, hipster vibes, or minimalist spaces, there is a coffee shop in London that will cater to your specific needs.

So, if you're looking for a conducive space to immerse yourself in your studies or work, look no further. Below is a curated list of the 16 best coffee shops in London to study, where you can sip on a delicious cup of coffee while getting productive.

Our method for this guide

Before ranking this guide we review each business's track record, what its customers say and how clearly it explains its work. The result is an editorial selection that we update as things change.

Featured positions are clearly marked and only offered to businesses that already earned their place in the guide.

Top 3Complete listMapHow to pick one

Standout options

Each option links to its full entry below.

#1
Host Café
4.7548 reviews
#2
The Wren Coffee
4.7412 reviews
#3
The Coffee House
5.028 reviews

Browse 16 local options

Host Café, London#1
Notable strengths

  • A customer mentioned enjoying the quiet and comfortable vibe of the café, perfect for relaxing alone or with friends.

  • Another visitor highlighted the café's transformation from a chapel into a coffee shop, praising the exceptional coffee and sandwiches.

  • One reviewer from Costa Rica found the café to be an incredible place with good food and a tranquil ambiance.

  • Another customer applauded the café's unique concept of utilizing a church space for a coffee shop, offering a one-of-a-kind experience.

Host Café

4.7548 reviews
St Mary Aldermary, Watling St, London EC4M 9BW, United Kingdom

Host Café is a charming coffee shop located in a historical church in London. The café offers a unique experience with a peaceful atmosphere for customers to enjoy their time. The café provides a variety of service options including takeaway and dine-in services. Customers have praised the café for its great tea selection and welcoming atmosphere.

Visit Host Café for a peaceful and enjoyable coffee experience in the heart of London!

The Wren Coffee, London#2
Notable strengths

  • Welcoming and spacious atmosphere with great lighting and friendly staff.

  • Delicious coffee and excellent spot for work or study.

  • Beautiful architecture and unique experience.

The Wren Coffee

4.7412 reviews
114 Queen Victoria St, London EC4V 4BJ, United Kingdom

The Wren Coffee is a cozy coffee shop located in London, United Kingdom. They offer a variety of services and features that cater to their customers, such as outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options. The coffee shop is known for its great tea selection and welcoming casual atmosphere. Customers have raved about their experience at The Wren Coffee:

These positive reviews highlight the appeal of The Wren Coffee and its dedication to providing a delightful coffee shop experience for its customers.

The Coffee House, London#3
Notable strengths

  • Loved the delicious coffee and cozy atmosphere, felt like a maze of wonderful cubbyholes suitable for meetings.

  • Great flat white and a conducive environment for working.

  • Fabulous hidden gem with a great selection of sandwiches, cakes, and daily changing dishes.

  • Good place once you find it, enjoyed the flat white and pistachio bun.

The Coffee House

5.028 reviews
8 John Adam St, London WC2N 6EZ, United Kingdom

The Coffee House is a charming coffee shop located in London, United Kingdom, known for its cozy atmosphere and great tea selection. They offer various service options like outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in, making it a versatile spot for different preferences.

One key highlight of The Coffee House is its live performances, adding a unique touch to your visit. With options for breakfast, lunch, and dessert, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The vegan and vegetarian options are also a big hit with customers.

With an impressive rating of 5.0 based on 28 reviews, The Coffee House is definitely a must-visit for coffee lovers in London. Whether you're looking for a relaxing spot to enjoy a cup of coffee or a place to catch up with friends, this coffee house has got you covered.

Alchemy Café, London#4
Notable strengths

  • One of the best coffees in town with fantastic extraction and flavor.

  • Unique and delicious drinks like Earl Grey Hot chocolate and outstanding baked goods.

  • A favorite coffee place known for excellent coffee and millionaire’s shortbread.

  • Friendly staff, delicious coffee art, and quick service in a cozy atmosphere.

Alchemy Café

4.6303 reviews
8 Ludgate Broadway, London EC4V 6DX, United Kingdom

Alchemy Café is a cozy coffee shop located in the heart of London. They offer various service options such as Takeaway and Dine-in. Customers rave about their great tea selection and enjoy offerings like Coffee, Free water refills, and Small plates. With a rating of 4.6, this café has gained popularity for its exceptional quality and service.

Here are some key points summarizing customer reviews:

Visit Alchemy Café for a magical coffee experience that exceeds expectations.

Store Street Espresso, London#5
Notable strengths

  • Love the atmosphere and natural sunlight

  • Delicious coffee with a hint of cocoa note

  • Plenty of seating indoors with good focus ambiance

  • Big and tasty pastries, even though slightly overpriced

Store Street Espresso

4.5988 reviews
40 Store St, London WC1E 7DB, United Kingdom

Store Street Espresso is a cozy coffee shop located in London, United Kingdom. This spot offers a variety of services and features to enhance the customer experience. With options for outdoor seating, takeaway, dine-in, and even a selection of healthy options, this cafe caters to a diverse range of preferences.

One of the highlights of Store Street Espresso is its great tea selection, perfect for those looking for something different. The atmosphere is described as casual and cosy, making it an ideal place to relax with a cup of coffee or work on tasks.

Customers have left positive reviews about their experiences at the cafe.

These reviews reflect the overall satisfaction of customers who have visited Store Street Espresso. Whether you're looking for a place to work, catch up with friends, or simply enjoy a good cup of coffee, this cafe has something for everyone. Visit their website for more information and plan your next visit to Store Street Espresso.

Origin Coffee at The British Library, London#6
Notable strengths

  • One of the best specialty coffee shops in London with skilled baristas and professional equipment creating art.

  • Quality coffee presented nicely, great for a quick stop before catching a train.

  • Small coffee shop with fresh and strong coffee, limited non-dairy milk options, but overall a nice spot near the train station.

  • Consistently high coffee standards with a cozy atmosphere, although the seating may not be ideal for working with a laptop.

Origin Coffee at The British Library

4.5444 reviews
The British Library, 96 Euston Rd., London NW1 2DB, United Kingdom

Origin Coffee at The British Library is a charming coffee shop located in London. The establishment offers various services and features that make it a popular choice among coffee enthusiasts.

Customers can enjoy outdoor seating while sipping on a delightful cup of coffee or tea. The cozy and casual atmosphere provides the perfect setting for relaxation.

Highlighted by its Great tea selection, Origin Coffee at The British Library also offers desserts for those with a sweet tooth.

Customer reviews rave about the quality of the coffee and the friendly service provided by the staff. Here are some summarized reviews:

Curators Coffee Studio, London#7

Curators Coffee Studio

4.5394 reviews
9A Cullum St, London EC3M 7JJ, United Kingdom

Curators Coffee Studio is a charming coffee shop located in London, UK. They offer a variety of services and features to ensure a delightful experience for their customers. With options for outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in, guests can enjoy their favorite beverages in the setting of their choice.

One of the highlights of Curators Coffee Studio is their great tea selection, which caters to tea lovers looking for a unique and flavorful experience. The coffee offerings are also top-notch, making it a go-to spot for coffee enthusiasts.

The atmosphere at Curators Coffee Studio is described as casual and cosy, providing a relaxing environment for guests to unwind and enjoy their drinks. The establishment is also wheelchair-accessible, ensuring that everyone can comfortably visit and indulge in their offerings.

Customer reviews consistently praise Curators Coffee Studio for their exceptional service, delicious beverages, and inviting ambiance. With a rating of 4.5 stars, it's clear that patrons appreciate the quality and experience provided by this beloved coffee shop.

Goswell Road Coffee, London#8
Notable strengths

  • Excellent customer service with exceptionally nice staff.

  • Great coffee options with a variety of vegan choices.

  • Comfortable atmosphere with friendly baristas.

  • Hit or miss coffee quality, but overall a lovely spot to relax and enjoy a drink.

Goswell Road Coffee

4.5579 reviews
160-164 Goswell Rd., London EC1V 7DU, United Kingdom

Goswell Road Coffee is a charming coffee shop located at 160-164 Goswell Rd., London EC1V 7DU, United Kingdom. They offer a variety of services and features to cater to their customers. Some of the service options include takeaway and dine-in choices. The café features fast service and a great tea selection for patrons to enjoy.

This cozy spot is known for its delectable coffee and organic dishes. They also provide healthy options and vegetarian choices for those with dietary preferences. Customers can indulge in breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dessert options.

The inviting atmosphere at Goswell Road Coffee is perfect for individuals or groups looking for a relaxed setting to enjoy their drinks and meals. The café is known to be casual and cosy, making it a popular gathering place. Additionally, they offer amenities such as clean restrooms for added convenience.

Here are some key points from customer reviews:

Notting Hill Coffee Project, London#9
Notable strengths

  • Customers appreciate the ambiance and live plants in the cafe.

  • Many enjoy the consistency and quality of the lattes.

  • Visitors highlight the chill vibe and affordable prices for drinks.

  • Some patrons rave about the delicious pastries and unique coffee blends.

Notting Hill Coffee Project

4.5286 reviews
63 Notting Hill Gate, London W11 3JS, United Kingdom

Notting Hill Coffee Project is a popular coffee shop located in London. The cafe offers a variety of services, including Outdoor seating, Takeaway, and Dine-in options. Customers can enjoy a wide selection of coffee in a casual and cosy atmosphere.

One of the highlights of Notting Hill Coffee Project is their great tea selection. Customers have praised the cafe for its flavorful and smooth coffees, hospitable baristas, and overall great atmosphere.

With a rating of 4.5 based on 286 reviews, Notting Hill Coffee Project is a must-visit destination for coffee lovers in the area.

Page Common Coffee House, London#10
Notable strengths

  • Convenient location near popular areas like Soho and Covent Garden

  • Clean and newly renovated hotel rooms with friendly staff

  • Delicious coffee available in the lobby area

  • Spacious rooms with comfortable bedding and excellent service

Page Common Coffee House

4.5181 reviews
G/F, Page Common Coffee House, 8 St. Martin's Pl, London WC2N 4JH, United Kingdom

Page Common Coffee House is a charming coffee shop located in the heart of London. The business offers a variety of services to cater to every customer's needs, including outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options. With a cozy atmosphere and a great tea selection, customers can enjoy their favorite beverages while taking in the city views from the rooftop seating area.

The accessibility options provided by Page Common Coffee House ensure that all customers feel welcome, with features like wheelchair-accessible entrances and seating. The business also offers a range of offerings, including coffee, organic dishes, and vegan and vegetarian options for those with dietary preferences.

Customers have left glowing reviews for Page Common Coffee House, highlighting its convenient location and friendly staff.

With a 4.5-star rating and rave reviews from customers, Page Common Coffee House is a must-visit spot for coffee lovers in London.

Coffee Island, London#11
Notable strengths

  • A taste of Greece in London with authentic coffee and delicious food

  • Good coffee but pastry options could be improved

  • Beautiful latte art, tasty croissants, and excellent service

  • Nice coffee but unfriendly staff and stale bakery items

Coffee Island

4.41,566 reviews
5 Upper St Martin's Ln, London WC2H 9EA, United Kingdom

Coffee Island is a charming coffee shop nestled in London. With a stellar rating of 4.4, this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. The establishment offers a variety of services and features, including outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in options. One of its highlights is the diverse coffee selection, perfect for coffee connoisseurs.

Customer reviews rave about this cozy coffee haven. Here are some key points summarizing their experiences:

If you're looking for a place to unwind with a warm cup of coffee or grab a quick bite, Coffee Island is a must-visit destination in London. Let their delightful atmosphere and top-notch service elevate your coffee experience.

FWD:Coffee, London#12
Notable strengths

  • Lovely quirky cafe just off Old Street. Friendly barista, fast service, ample seating, and a decent food selection. Great spot for early risers. (Rating: 5)

  • Grungey and eclectic ambiance that fits the neighborhood. Enjoyed a decent matcha latte that wasn't too sweet. (Rating: 4)

  • Good coffee, great croissant, and lively 90s music make for a pleasant experience. Free Wi-Fi adds to the appeal. (Rating: 5)

FWD:Coffee

4.4642 reviews
161A Whitecross St, London EC1Y 8JL, United Kingdom

FWD:Coffee is a cozy coffee shop located in London, UK, offering a range of services and amenities to enhance the customer experience. Some of the key features include outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in options, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Customers can enjoy a great selection of coffee in a casual and cozy atmosphere that is family-friendly and LGBTQ+ friendly.

With a solid rating of 4.4, based on 642 reviews, FWD:Coffee has garnered positive feedback from its patrons. Here are some summarized customer reviews:

Whether you're looking for a chill spot to hang out, get some work done, or grab a quick coffee to go, FWD:Coffee has something for everyone. So why not stop by and savor the taste of their delicious brews!

Workshop Coffee, London#13
Notable strengths

  • Delicious blend of Kenyan and Rwandan coffee in a cortado

  • Lovely coffee, albeit small portions and limited pastry selection

  • Excellent flat white, but filter coffee quality could be improved

  • Very polite staff, great coffee, and cozy ambiance

Workshop Coffee

4.4522 reviews
80A Mortimer St, London W1W 7FE, United Kingdom

Workshop Coffee is a popular coffee shop located in London, United Kingdom. They offer a variety of services and features to their customers, including Takeaway and Dine-in options. Their specialty lies in crafting exceptional coffee, with a selection of well-crafted espresso-based drinks.

Some key points from customer reviews include:

Quiet Coffee, London#14
Notable strengths

  • A customer mentioned the place as a hidden gem, with specialty lattes and coffees at reasonable prices.

  • Another customer highlighted the fresh-made bagels and sandwiches using high-quality ingredients.

  • A visitor praised the lovely interior design, excellent cappuccino, and courteous service.

  • One client recommended trying the flat white with pistachio syrup for a unique coffee experience.

Quiet Coffee

4.4153 reviews
Unit C, Quiet Coffee, 11 Strand, London WC2N 5HR, United Kingdom

Quiet Coffee is a cozy little cafe located in London. They offer a variety of service options like Takeaway and Dine-in. The atmosphere is described as casual and cozy, making it the perfect spot for a quiet cup of coffee. Customers have praised the great selection of specialty lattes and coffees, as well as the fresh-made bagels and sandwiches.

Notes Coffee Roasters & Bar, London#15
Notable strengths

  • Hot chocolate was average, but the brownie with ice cream was good.

  • Super cute café with delicious breakfast and plenty of gluten-free options.

  • Excellent coffee quality and a delicious menu selection for breakfast and brunch.

  • Decent long black coffee, but it can get a bit loud during peak times.

Notes Coffee Roasters & Bar

4.11,344 reviews
31 St Martin's Ln, London WC2N 4DD, United Kingdom

Notes Coffee Roasters & Bar in Trafalgar Square is a popular coffee shop known for its great tea selection and casual, cosy atmosphere. Customers have praised the friendly service and nice ambiance, making it a go-to spot for a delightful coffee experience. Here are some key points from customer reviews:

If you're in London and looking for a cozy place to enjoy a cup of coffee or a lovely brunch, Notes Coffee Roasters & Bar is a fantastic choice.

Department of Coffee and Social Affairs, London#16
Notable strengths

  • Warm atmosphere and friendly staff.

  • Delicious food options like focaccias and pastries.

  • Wide selection of coffee blends to choose from.

  • Clean and cozy ambiance perfect for hanging out or working.

Department of Coffee and Social Affairs

4.1944 reviews
3 Lowndes Ct, Carnaby, London W1F 7HD, United Kingdom

Department of Coffee and Social Affairs is a vibrant cafe nestled in the heart of London. This welcoming spot offers a range of service options including outdoor seating, takeaway, and dine-in experiences. The cafe features a great tea selection, making it a favorite among tea enthusiasts.

Customers have left glowing reviews for this cafe, highlighting a few key points:

Whether you're in the mood for a relaxing cup of coffee or a tasty brunch, Department of Coffee and Social Affairs is sure to exceed your expectations. So why not stop by and experience this delightful cafe for yourself?

The main points in one table

#BusinessRatingReviews
#1Host Café 4.7548
#2The Wren Coffee 4.7412
#3The Coffee House 5.028
#4Alchemy Café 4.6303
#5Store Street Espresso 4.5988
#6Origin Coffee at The British Library 4.5444
#7Curators Coffee Studio 4.5394
#8Goswell Road Coffee 4.5579
#9Notting Hill Coffee Project 4.5286
#10Page Common Coffee House 4.5181
#11Coffee Island 4.41,566
#12FWD:Coffee 4.4642
#13Workshop Coffee 4.4522
#14Quiet Coffee 4.4153
#15Notes Coffee Roasters & Bar 4.11,344
#16Department of Coffee and Social Affairs 4.1944

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Map of Coffee Shops in London to Study

London is renowned for its diverse and vibrant coffee culture, with a plethora of coffee shops scattered throughout the city. Whether you prefer a cozy independent café or a trendy chain, there is no shortage of options to choose from. Explore the map below to discover the best coffee shops London has to offer, perfect for any caffeine enthusiast. View Ranking

Choosing Coffee Shops in London

  1. Free Wi-Fi.
  2. Comfortable seating.
  3. Quiet environment.
  4. Good coffee selection.
  5. Power outlets.
  6. Study-friendly ambiance.

Frequent questions

What are the best times to visit coffee shops to study?

Consider visiting coffee shops during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and noise. Early mornings and late afternoons are usually quieter times. Weekdays are also generally less busy than weekends. Some students prefer studying in coffee shops during weekdays before work hours, usually between 7-10am. Others find late afternoons, between 4-6pm, to be a good time. It's essential to choose a time that aligns with your focus and productivity levels. Experiment with different times to see what works best for you.

What are the most popular coffee shops to study in London?

There are various coffee shops in London popular among students and remote workers for studying. Some top choices include Starbucks, Pret a Manger, Caffè Nero, and Timberyard. Other notable options include Workshop Coffee, Monmouth Coffee, Grind, and Faculty Coffee. These cafes offer a conducive environment for studying with free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating. Explore different coffee shops to find the one that suits your needs, whether it's a quiet ambiance, good coffee, or ample charging points for your devices.

How can I find quiet coffee shops in London to study?

One way to find quiet coffee shops in London is to ask for recommendations from locals or fellow students. They may know of hidden gems or lesser-known cafes that offer a peaceful environment for studying. You can also use online review platforms such as Yelp, Google Reviews, or TripAdvisor to search for coffee shops with high ratings for ambiance or quietness. Reading reviews and looking at photos can give you a glimpse of what to expect. Consider visiting coffee shops in less touristy areas or residential neighborhoods, as they are likely to be quieter compared to bustling city centers. Keep in mind that the ambiance can vary depending on the time of day and day of the week.

Are there any coffee shops with plug sockets in London for studying?

Many coffee shops in London provide plug sockets for customers to charge their laptops, phones, or other devices while studying. Look for cafes that explicitly mention their power outlets in their descriptions or reviews. Popular coffee chains like Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Caffè Nero usually have ample plug sockets available for customers. Independent cafes such as Attendant and Federation Coffee also offer charging facilities. When choosing a coffee shop for studying, check if there are enough plug sockets near the seating areas you prefer. It's a good idea to bring an extension cord or portable charger just in case the available outlets are limited.

Can I bring my own food and drinks to study in London coffee shops?

Many coffee shops in London allow customers to bring their own food and drinks to enjoy while studying. However, it's essential to be mindful of the cafe's policies and etiquette. Some cafes have restrictions on outside food and drinks to encourage customers to purchase items from their menu. Make sure to respect these rules and support the business by buying a drink or snack while studying. If you prefer bringing your own snacks or beverages, consider choosing a coffee shop that has a more relaxed policy on outside food. It's always a good idea to check with the staff or look for signs indicating the cafe's stance on this matter.

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