The best coffee shops for studying in Bristol

Any university student will know that the library can be crowded and boring at times, and not the best environment for inspiring motivation and creativity during the essay writing or revision season.

Luckily, Bristol is full of cafes which suit all types of students, whether you prefer a quiet, secluded space or somewhere with a bit more going on. Here are some ideas to get you started on finding that perfect studying spot away from campus...

Arnolfini

The Arnolfini is a slightly lesser-known spot for studying in Bristol. There is a café serving drinks and food, but there is also a study room where you are able to bring your own food and drinks and use the space as you like.

It's great for group studying and discussions, but also lends itself well to those longer study days as you can save on food if you bring your own. The harbourside terrace out front is also great for getting some fresh air during your study breaks. 

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

For a more scenic studying scene, the Bristol Museum and Art Gallery has a café serving fresh, homemade, Fairtrade and organic food. And what better way is there to spend your study break than wandering around the exhibitions on offer? 

• Find out about the latest exhibitions in Bristols

East Village Café

In the heart of Clifton Village, this vegetarian café offers delicious plant-based foods including brunch, light lunches and cakes. They even have an exciting superfood latte menu, to help fuel your study session. The beautiful décor boasts lots of greenery to complement the healthy menu, with tables both inside and outside, meaning this is the perfect place to study whatever the weather.  

Credit: East Village Cafe

Coffee No. 1

A relaxed and affordable local coffee chain with branches in most corners of the city, Coffee No. 1 provides a cosy and bustling atmosphere for a more relaxed study environment than the silent libraries. The café offers a range of interesting drinks such as turmeric and matcha lattes, and white hot chocolate. There are plenty of tables and sofas, providing an environment suitable for individual or group study.

Boston Tea Party

Another much-loved local cafe chain and popular student spot, the Boston Tea Party boasts a huge muti-level garden and plenty of indoor seating at its Park Street branch, plus several other cafes across the city. There is free Wi-Fi and an extensive food menu serving cakes, smoothies and lunches. The café prides itself on its sustainable and plastic-free ethos, powered by green energy and ethically sourcing their ingredients. 

Credit: Boston Tea Party

Mickey Beans 

Mickey Beans is a stones throw from Bristol University campus, so you really can’t find a more convenient place to study if you don’t have much time between lectures. The café has a small garden, and tables at the back of the café, meaning it is slightly quieter for studying. The café has a great selection of ‘build your own’ sandwiches, and hot drinks using local coffee beans from Extract Roasters. The friendly staff are always happy to chat if you need a study break, and they offer student discount too!

Rough Trade

Rough Trade, a music and culture store in the city centre, houses a café area where you can study whilst enjoying the music. The store regularly holds live performances too, allowing for a seamless transition from work to play in the evening. 

The Crafty Egg

The Crafty Egg is in the middle of buzzing Stokes Croft, with window seats looking out over the street art opposite. The menu delivers a range of breakfast options, both with and without eggs, as well as smoothies and hot drinks. The relaxed and casual setting is great for both working and for chatting during study breaks. 

Credit: The Crafty Egg

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About the author

Emma Hanson is a third year English Literature student at the University of Bristol. She enjoys modernist literature, art and volunteering within the community.