Underrated study spots in Sheffield that you need to try at least once
Please give the IC a break
As Freshers’ Week winds down and the feral behaviour settles, it’s time to shift gears and focus on your academic journey – you know, the stuff you actually came here to do.
With assignments soon to be on the horizon, finding the perfect study space can make all the difference in staying productive and focused. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to concentrate or a livelier atmosphere to collaborate with your mates, Sheffield has loads of nice spots.
Here’s a guide to some of the best places where you can knuckle down and make the most of your study sessions.
Western Bank
If you’re a “uni of” student and you’re looking for somewhere that isn’t the IC or The Diamond, try Western Bank.
First of all, the layout of the long tables is much less stressful as your almost guaranteed to find seats – eliminating the awkwardness of wandering multiple floors to find a table in the IC.
Secondly, it’s completely silent which is great because you don’t have to overhear that one group of wafflers loudly recounting their antics from the night before. Therefore, you might actually get some work done.
And on top of that, there’s that huge window that gives you a perfect view of Weston Park. Just imagine how stunning it will look when the autumn leaves start to change or when it’s covered in snow – such cosy vibes.
The Heartspace
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Another criminally underrated ‘uni of’ study spot is The Heartspace located in the Frederick Mappin building. If you haven’t checked this out yet, you’re missing out on a hidden gem. It’s a unique space with a window ceiling letting in plenty of natural light, perfect for a bit of chill time between lectures.
It has a café on the ground floor in case you’re craving a snack and then two more tiers of seating if you’re just feeling a bit of quiet time to go over your notes. It the perfect mix of vibes – laid back, but productive.
Copper Pot
If you’re thinking of switching things up and venturing a little out of campus, then head to Division Street and pop into Copper Pot.
This independent coffee shop is a personal favourite. The menu is packed with delicious breakfast and brunch options, perfect for a morning pick-me-up, plus they’ve got an impressive selection of drinks. Oh, and here’s a twist – they even serve cocktails!
So, whether fancying somewhere to stop and get a nice brekkie or looking to treat yourself after a long laptop session, Copper Pot has you covered.
Gaard
Calling all vegans (and anyone who loves great coffee): I’ve got another Sheffield exclusive café for you – Gaard Coffee. With locations in both Kelham Island and West One Plaza, they both offer a tasty selection of plant-based food and speciality coffee.
If you head to the one just off West Street, you’ll be greeted with some seriously Instagram – worthy décor – think huge, cosy couches and twinkling fairy lights.
It’s ideal if you like a bit of background noise while you work, without being too distracting so that you can focus on them all important studies.
The Edge / Ridge
And for any of you first years, I can’t stress this enough – please do not take for granted what is right on your doorstep.
Both The Edge and The Ridge have great study spaces, so if you’re feeling a bit of late night revision or cramming for a looming deadline – then you don’t have to trek all the way to the main campus.
Come on guys, you know that 30min+ walk is the bane of your existence – why not head a few yards away instead?
Plus, The Edge bar has some scrumptious food that’s pretty cheap so again, you can’t treat yourself after all of that hard work.
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