Working on an essay? Need to rewatch a few lectures? Or maybe you just need some inspiration?
A change of scenery is often the best way for students to spark fresh ideas.
And luckily for you, York is bursting with student-friendly cafes, libraries and public spaces, all just a stone’s throw away from the University of York campus.
Here are our favourite study spots near University of York campus to make your studying a little more inspiring.
cafes
200 Degrees
Great coffee. Good connection. Gooey cinnamon rolls. What more could the humble, hungry studier want?
200 Degrees is a real Yorkie favourite, and for good reason. Located in the heart of the city centre, 200 Degrees is an easy commute from the University of York campus. Expect a hearty menu and impressive latte art, all served by a talented team of coffee connoisseurs. The interiors are pretty vibey, too – perfect for both focused and casual study sessions.
And for you vegans out there, don’t worry. 200 Degrees offers a range of vegan sweet and savoury treats, so no one has to go without.
Top tip: Grab a table near the wall to secure a plug socket. Also it’s cashless, so don’t forget your wallet.
gatehouse coffe
Only a 20-minute walk from University of York campus, Gatehouse Coffee is perfect for a coffee-and-cram study session between lectures. Loved for its cosy corners and medieval architecture, this cafe is a thing straight from a fairy tale.
Stylishly designed with low lights, stone-clad walls and Harrington sofas, studying outside the house has never looked so good. There’s even an outside terrace; the perfect study spot on a sunny day.
Like a lot of York, it’s a historic building = plug socket deficiency. Don’t forget to charge your devices before arriving to avoid disappointment (we learned that the hard way).
the perky peacock
Introverts, welcome to your idea of heaven.
The Perky Peacock offers a quiet slice of solitude. This riverside cafe blends historic character with welcoming charm, making it a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike.
The kitchen cooks up everything from traditional porridge, sweet treats, and Yorkshire-style bacon baps, so you’re sure to find all the brain fuel you need here to get things done.
It’s also a lovely spot to exhale and relax after your studying is over. Consider your calm restored.
However, seating is limited, so try and get in early. It’s usually quieter on weekdays than weekends.
MAE CAFE
An underrated study spot gem, Mae Cafe is a lovely little find.
With spacious seating, a homely menu and perfectly poured coffee, this small cafe has a lot of heart. It also opens at 7:30am, making it the ideal place for early morning workers. But what we love most about this place is the team. The service really is a 10/10.
They only opened a few weeks ago, so go and show them some love. Give it a few months, and we’re sure Mae Cafe will be a York household favourite.
THE MASONS ARMS
Okay, hear us out.
A pub may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of a good study spot, but they’re actually some of the quietest places to work on midweek mornings and afternoons.
The Masons Arms is a Tudor-style inn that perfectly epitomises Yorkian pub culture. Located near the City Wall, this old-school watering hole wraps visitors in its traditional charm. Plus, with an extensive food and drink menu, free Wi-Fi and parking, it’s surprisingly conducive to productivity.
Not convinced? Go and try it. And why not reward yourself with a well-earned pint after you close your laptop?
LIBRARIES
UNIVERSITY OF YORK LIBRARY
A trusty choice for every University of York student. We’re probably preaching to the choir by recommending the University of York Library, but it’s a staple for a reason.
The University of York Library spans three sites – the Morrell, the Fairhurst and the Burton. There are bookable and non-bookable rooms, designated break spaces, and even sensory rooms. With quiet rooms for focused study and open spaces for group working, you’re sure to have access to the space you need.
Plus, University of York students will benefit from:
- Free library resources including eResources
- Easy access to books (in fact, you can borrow up to 75 items at once!)
- The Maths Skills Centre and the Writing Centre
- Four sensory rooms
- A Family Study Room
Learn more about the University of York Library’s full offering.
PIAZZA BUILDING
Need somewhere a little more tucked away? Book one of the seminar or computer rooms for complete concentration.
For University of York students based closer to Campus East, the Piazza Building is a great option. Equipped with over 30 flexible learning spaces, a lakeview restaurant and resource centre, it’s the ideal setting for solo and group study.
ROWNTREE PARK READING CAFE
As the name suggests, Rowntree Park Reading Cafe is the place to pick up the pen and turn some pages.
With free Wi-Fi, comfortable seating and a menu stacked with delicious breakfast, lunch and dinner options, Rowntree Park Reading Cafe has it all. You can even borrow books through the cafe’s full library service. Cute, right?
As a family-friendly community cafe, it can get busy. Students may struggle to find a quiet corner on weekends and during peak hours. It may be better to save this one for a midweek morning or less intensive studying.
PUBLIC SPACES
THE GUILDHALL
Want to mix with the wider crowd and work alongside creatives outside of your university?
The Guildhall is a great place to seek inspiration and feel part of York’s professional community.
Conveniently located in York city centre, The Guildhall offers the full package including private offices, coworking hubs and hot-desk spaces. Not to mention 24/7 access, high-speed internet, secure bike storage and free hot drinks.
This is a more expensive option, however, with hot-desking day passes starting from £20 per day.
If you’re a more experienced student, The Guildhall could be worth looking at.
YORK HUB
Mature students, this could be a great option for you.
York Hub is one of the city’s favourite co-working spots. Known for its professional yet collaborative environment, it’s home to a warm remote-working community.
With prices starting at £120 per month or £29 a day, it could be a brilliant option for Masters and PhD students who are looking to connect with local creatives and professionals.
What’s your favourite study spot in York? Have we missed your favourite one? We’d love to know!
