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When needing to see a new change of scenery from Lancaster University's library, I spent many days sitting in cafes in town watching over lectures, reading and revising. My key factors assessing a study spot is seat availability, charging points, good and cheap food and music that isn't distracting. So here are my favourites, with their pros and cons.
Costa
Although it is a chain, Costa in Lancaster high street ticks every box for a perfect study spot. Breakfast and lunch options that don't break the bank, an upstairs area that is quieter, with plenty of tables and charging points. It's easily accessible with a nearby toilet and has a cozy ambiance. I found I could focus here and wouldn't be judged for working long hours. The staff are friendly and once helped me out with a charger when my phone died. As it closes at 6pm, it also means your set for those later study sessions.
Atkinsons - The Hall and Castle
If money is tight, Atkinsons might not be the best choice as it's on the pricier side. However, it offers a perfect atmosphere with a quiet room ideal for studying. Eat lunch before you go and get one of their incredible thick cookies that are insanely good and worth the £3.20. The room at the back is small, but the perfect place for studying with friends, with a relaxing atmosphere and plug points.
Not only do they have the hall branch, but they are also situated in Lancaster Castle is also great, yet not the most comfy chairs inside and fewer charging points. The sights are gorgeous, so it inspires you to sit and work for a while.
Holm
Holm is a gem for anyone seeking a bright, quaint and comforting study spot in Lancaster. It's known for its cheap yet amazing assortment of treats and Scandinavian delicacies, offering a relaxed, rustic atmosphere that's perfect for a productive session. Their yummy bagels and sandwiches are delightful, but the most incredible pastries and biscuits on show in the window truly steal the spotlight. While you're not allowed to work in the cafe on Fridays and Saturdays due to its small size, supporting this small business feels great, especially with such a nice owner who warmly welcomes guests.
Diggles
Diggles is a fantastic choice for students seeking a relaxed and budget-friendly study spot. With two central locations, it's convenient no matter where you are in town. The cafe offers a variety of affordable food options, from hearty sandwiches to tasty snacks, ensuring you won't go hungry during your study sessions. The relaxed atmosphere makes it a comfortable place to settle in and focus on your work. Both locations close at 5 pm, making them ideal for daytime study sessions. However, seating can be somewhat limited, and the decor is fairly basic and dated, which might not be to everyone's taste. Yet, it remains a great spot for students looking for a no-fuss, affordable place to study.
Herbarium
The Herbarium is a top choice for students seeking a unique study spot in Lancaster. With its welcoming and cozy atmosphere, it provides an ideal environment for focused work sessions. The cafe boasts an extensive vegan menu, with delicious and healthy food options that cater to various dietary preferences. The staff are consistently praised for their friendliness and helpfulness, adding to the overall pleasant experience. Open late on Fridays and Saturdays, The Herbarium is perfect for those late-night study marathons. However, it's worth noting that it can get quite busy, so arriving early to secure a good spot is advisable. Overall, The Herbarium offers a charming and supportive environment for students looking to combine their study sessions with great food and a friendly vibe.
M&S cafe
The M&S Cafe is a delightful spot, offering the sweetest staff and a great selection of both cold and hot lunch and snack food. Though it can get a little loud due to the closely arranged tables, the staff's encouragement makes up for it; they even cheered me on and wished me good luck while I was revising for finals. The cafe is open until 6 pm from Monday to Saturday and conveniently located by the toilets. It's also perfect for picking up a few groceries downstairs afterward, where I often hunt for yellow sticker sale foods.
Brew
Brew Cafe in Lancaster is a fantastic spot for students in need of a productive study environment. With free WiFi and a cozy atmosphere, it’s easy to settle in for a focused study session. The cafe's menu features a variety of delicious options, but the Brie and beetroot toasted sandwich is a standout, often described as to die for. Additionally, Brew offers a good selection of sweet treats to satisfy your cravings during breaks. However, the seating isn't the most comfortable, making it difficult to stay for extended periods, and the cafe can get quite busy with closely arranged tables. While the prices are a bit on the expensive side, the quality of the food and the friendly service make it worthwhile. Overall, Brew Cafe combines a welcoming ambiance with excellent food, making it a solid choice for shorter study sessions.
Printroom Cafe
The Printroom Cafe is a fantastic study spot for students, blending ambiance and convenience perfectly. Housed in a historic building, it offers a charming and spacious interior, great for both group study sessions and solo work. The menu is filled with tasty and reasonably priced options, from hearty breakfasts to satisfying lunches and snacks, keeping you fuelled throughout your study session. Their coffee and teas are top-notch too. The staff are super friendly and attentive, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. Just a heads-up, it can get quite busy during peak hours, so snagging a seat might be a bit tricky. The WiFi is reliable, which is a big plus for accessing online resources. I wish it was open on Saturdays and Sundays, but Monday to Thursday it's open til 5pm and closed at 4pm on Friday.
Tuck
Tuck is a rustic cafe and restaurant, whilst you may be sat next to more families having lunches, don't hesitate to hit the books in here as the ambience is great. With trays of freshly baked goods and bread available, you reach the jackpot when it's still warm. The seating is comfortable, allowing for longer study sessions, and the staff are friendly and welcoming, which adds to the overall pleasant vibe. The cafe closes at 4 pm, and is located nearer to the station. While it can get a bit busy, especially during peak hours, Tuck remains a good choice for a relaxed and productive study environment.
Bobs and Berts
Open til 6pm Monday to Saturday, this cafe offers a offers a diverse menu with a great selection of food and drinks, including hearty breakfast options, delicious lunch items, and an array of sweet treats. The atmosphere is upbeat and energetic, making it a great place if you enjoy a bit of background noise and music while working. The staff are friendly and attentive, adding to the welcoming vibe. However, the seating can be a bit cramped, and it tends to get quite busy, especially during peak hours, which might make it challenging to find a quiet corner. Additionally, the prices are on the higher side, which might not be ideal for those on a tight budget. Despite these minor drawbacks, Bob & Berts is a solid choice for a study spot with its lively atmosphere and tasty menu.
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