Best Study Spots in Bristol

Looking for an alternative to the university library? Luckily, Bristol has many other options. Here are some of our favourites in Clifton and surrounding areas for when you want to study with coffee (and maybe some cake!)

Bristol Central Library

Open every day and centrally located next to Bristol Cathedral, Bristol Central Library is a stunning place to study. Its gorgeous book-lined reference library is a silent oasis in the centre of the city and there are usually lots of spare desks to choose from. One thing to note though – it’s not as secure as university libraries, so we wouldn’t advise leaving personal belongings unattended while you nip out for coffee. Find out more about opening times on the Bristol Central Library webpage

Folk House

Secreted away down a short lane towards the bottom of Park Street, the Folk House is an adult education centre offering a vast range of creative and other courses. It’s also home to a cosy, quiet café (with a terrace) that offers fresh, home-cooked food. It’s a real little hidden gem for those looking for a more casual place to study. Check out their opening times on the Folk House website.

Arnolfini

Situated on the harbourside, Bristol’s coolest art gallery is also an unexpected study spot. There’s a large, light and airy café serving drinks and food, making it perfect for group studying. If you’re looking for something a bit quieter, there’s also their Reading Room. A big bonus is that you can soak up some culture on your breaks away from the books! Find out more on the Arnolfini site.

Society Café

This harbourside café is perfect for hunkering down for revision. With great coffee, lots of tempting cakes and a relaxed vibe, it’s ideal for study. There are also plenty of plug sockets and decent Wi-Fi to make sure you stay connected. Find out more on opening hours on the Society Cafe website.

Boston Tea Party

These guys have five branches across the city, but the Park Street one is the original. With lots of seating, an outdoor tiered garden and an extensive menu catering for all types of diners, it’s a popular spot for students. Whether it’s solo study or collaborative confab over brunch, it’s usually quiet enough (just) to grab a table mid-week. Find out more on the BTP website.

Spicer and Cole at the RWA

Situated on the ground floor of the grand Royal West of England Academy gallery at the foot of Whiteladies, the cafe run by Spicer+Cole serve a range of ethically sourced, fresh food and drink, open throughout the day serving breakfast, light lunches, cakes and great coffee. With outdoor seating overlooking the fountain, it's a gorgeous spot on a sunny day. Just be aware that they have a no laptop policy over their lunch hours. Find out more on their website.

Caffè Nero

While all the other cafes on our list are run by independents or small local-based chains, we've included Caffe Nero's Queens Road branch for those who like to study late. It has some of the latest cafe opening hours in Clifton, open to 7pm during the week. With lots of little nooks, it's perfect for an early evening study session. Find out more on their website.

The Cloakroom Café

One of our personal favourites, the Cloakroom Café is a tiny little slice of café heaven just off Park Row. First opened as a public toilet in 1904, it’s now a snug little café with a great selection of coffees, pastries and sweet treats. Check them out on their website.