Cafes Near Campus (and bring your laptop!)
BETH FLAHERTY AND ELLIE HIBBERD FIND THE BEST CAFÉS AROUND CAMPUS FOR A CHANGE OF SCENE FROM THE PRINT ROOM MAYHEM.
DILLONS
The location of Dillons could not be more convenient – opposite Malet Place. Although the odds are that you’ve heard of this one already, it’s definitely worth pointing out. It’s a relative newby to the area, at just two years old, but it blends in seamlessly among the bookshelves of Waterstones as though it has always been there. All the essentials are ticked off – good coffee, plenty of seating and reliable wifi. The bonus at Dillons is the food. Lunch is accounted for with plenty of vibrant salads and paninis. As is that afternoon treat, with lots of indulgent cakes and pastries on offer. Don’t worry, you deserve it after all that work. – BF
82 Gower St, London WC1E 6EQ
BLOOMSBURY COFFEE HOUSE
Bloomsbury Coffee House is a firm favourite. Buried under the terraces of Tavistock Place, it’s easy to miss, but that only adds to its charm. During the week it’s an excellent spot to work in, and a fair few hours (and coffees) can easily slip by here. It’s a great social space, too, perfect for group sessions or a casual catch up. This is another great lunch spot for foodies, with a fresh menu that changes daily. For those lazy Sunday mornings, BCH is especially known for its brunch menu. Think, avo on sourdough with sweet halloumi, and French toast with berries. Or, a classic Full English. But fear not – there’s 10% discount for students. – BF
20 Tavistock Pl, London WC1H 9RE
STORE ST ESPRESSO
Between the bustle of Tottenham Court Road and the academic hub of Senate House, Store St Espresso is a refreshingly luxe change from the cheap and cheerful UCL cafés. The pared-back décor of pure white walls, thick wooden tables and potted succulents, along with the friendly staff who bring the drinks straight to your table, creates the perfect fuss-free space for a study break. But be wary that, for reasons unknown to me, there is no wifi here from 10am until 4pm, so don’t bring your laptop in the hopes of bashing out another 1000 words of your essay unless you can manage without using all those tabs open on your browser. Think of this more as a relaxing spot to escape the stresses of Senate House library and enjoy a good quality, ultra-hipster coffee, and maybe even a hunk of carrot cake, the likes of which you won’t find on campus. – EH
40 Store St, London WC1E 7DB
TAP COFFEE NO. 114
If you’re feeling in particular need of treating yourself, bypass the Greggs and the Tesco meal deal on Tottenham Court Road and step into Tap Coffee No. 114 for a wholesome, homemade lunch and quality coffee that will turn you off Print Room for the foreseeable future. It’s all about the aesthetics in this on-trend coffeehouse, with old treacle pots-turned-sugar bowls, milk served in mini glass bottles alongside your tea or coffee, and low-hanging light bulbs, complete with an old bike hoisted above the sign outside. Aim for quieter hours to guarantee a seat in this popular spot, and bring along a book or your laptop to blend in among the studious clientele. – EH
114 Tottenham Court Rd, London W1T 5AH