A complete guide to the best cafes to work in London by area, from Soho to East London, with coffee shops perfect to study, work on your laptop, read and write!
Ever since I became a freelance writer and, later, a full-time blogger, I’ve been literally chasing new work spots when I live in London.
There are many different coffee shops, libraries, and whatnot to work in the city, but they’re not all laptop-friendly: that would be way too easy, wouldn’t it?
So I thought to put together all the guides I’ve written in the past about study cafes and sort them out for you by area.
Whether you’re looking for a cafe to work in London Bridge, Soho or Covent Garden, you’ll find here all the best – most are independent, and really cute!
Best Cafes to Work in Central London
Best Cafes to Work in London Bridge and Southbank
Tate Modern Cafe, Southbank
If you need power outlets and would like to work on plush seats, the Tate Modern cafe has free WiFi and is extremely popular with digital noamds.
Come early, and if you don’t necessarily need to charge your phone/laptop, the plush seats towering over the main hall are great to sit down with a notebook and your thoughts.
National Theatre Espresso Bar
If you’re looking for study spots open late, the National Theatre foyers are open until 11 pm most days, but if you’re really holding on to the thought of working at a cafe, check out the Espresso Bar.
Free WiFi, power outlets and a quiet background – the only downside is the National Theatre Espresso Bar closes at 5.30 pm.
Roasting Plant Cafe
Located on Borough High Street, close to London Bridge station, Roasting Plant Coffee is a peaceful cafe to do some work.
There are few power outlets there, so come with your devices charges – you’ll love it if you’re fond of coffee shop sounds whizzing around you while you’re studying.
Crol & Co
Located on Dunton Road near Borough Market, Crol & Co has a gorgeous wooden rustic vibe and artisan-made coffee.
This is a quite small coffee shop, but still quite underrated, so you’re most likely to find a seat at any time of the day.
Watchhouse, Tower Bridge
The Watchhouse in Tower Bridge requires a few minutes’ walk through More London, but it’s a solid spot to work because it offers lots of power outlets and free WiFis.
It’s not huge, so you’ll probably only be able to stay for a few hours so the cafe ensures turnaround – make sure you get some breakfast or brunch there at some point: it’s fresh and really tasty.
Fuckoffee, Bermondsey Street
Located on the old industrial Bermondsey Street, Fuckoffee, which has other locations in Bethnal Green, offers Award-winning specialty coffee.
There, you’ll find free WiFi, power outlets, and some really amazing cakes with a vibe that’s quirkier and sharper than chain coffee shops.
Lantana Cafe
Lantana Cafe focuses on Australian dishes and coffee, and beyond breakfast, brunch, healthy food and even vegan bites, it’s also a spacious cafe in which you can work.
The brand advertises the fact they’re a laptop-friendly cafe, and with several locations across town, including Shoreditch, it’s a must-have on your list of study spots.
Mouse Tail Coffee, Borough High Street
Mouse Tail Coffee’s location at the front of the John Harvard Library on Borough High Street makes it a quirky little spot to visit for delicious pastries, snacks and sandwiches to nibble on in between tasks.
The library pretty much always has seats available, with power outlets embedded right onto the tables.
While you’re not allowed to eat in the library, Mouse Tail Coffee has enough tables that you might want to read or write there while sipping on specialty coffee.
Best Cafes to Work in Marylebone, Central London
31 Below, Marylebone High Street
Looking more like an instagrammable cafe than a proper work cafe, 31 Below on Marylebone High Street is decently-sized and offers lots of tables with power outlets and free WiFi downstairs.
It’s open from 9 am to 10 pm several days during the week; do come early as it can get busy, especially at weekends.
Watchhouse, New Cavendish Street
The Watchhouse cafe on New Cavendish Street is much bigger than the one close to Tower Bridge, and you’ll find digital nomads, freelancers and students working there at every hour of the day.
WiFi, a few power outlets, a super cool coworking atmosphere – that’s, however, a spot to visit first thing in the morning since the Marylebone cafe closes at 5.30 pm on weekdays.
Arro Coffee, Chiltern Street
Arro Coffee on Chiltern Street has got to be one of the smallest cafes to work in London, but for some journaling or reading, it’s great – and an amazing breakfast spot.
That one is the exception to laptop friendly cafes in London, in that I wouldn’t take out my laptop there.
The Marylebone Corner, York Street
Another great cafe for some light work, The Marylebone Corner on York Street is more of your local breakfast and coffee shop.
Maybe a spot you’d want to visit to schedule your work for the next week/month, with places still quite affordable compared to those of the Marylebone area.
Caffe Royale, Crawford Street
Caffe Royale offers plenty of seating space, but come with your laptop and phone charged as there are very few power outlets – however, there is free WiFi.
It’s central enough that you can reach Oxford Street and Mayfair in minutes, with a cute, local coffee shop vibe.
RIBA Cafe Bar, Portland Place
The RIBA Cafe is one of the most underrated – and lesser known – cafes to work in Marylebone, in that it’s plainly hidden.
Walk to Portland Place, enter the Royal Institute of British Architects, and you’ll find a large cafe in which you can settle and start working on your laptop straight away.
Ole & Steen, Wigmore Street
There’s nothing to dislike about Ole and Steen on Wigmore Street: it’s huge, has power outlets and free WiFi, and both the pastries and the chai latte are amazing.
It’s open from 7.30 am to 8 pm every day of the week, even on Sundays, although I’d recommend coming on weekdays and as early as possible.
Best Cafes to Work near Oxford Street, Mayfair and Tottenham Court Road
Lavelle Coffee, Rathbone Place
There’s definitely good opportunity to do productive work in Lavelle Coffee on Rathbone Place, close to Italian Bear Chocolate and right off Oxford Street.
Lavelle Coffee has plenty of seating space, free WiFi, some power outlets, and is open from 7 am to 5.30 pm, so if you want to have a full workday, come in early.
Ole & Steen, Bedford Avenue
Free WiFi, power outlets and an amazing coworking atmosphere – that’s what you’ll find at Ole and Steen on Bedford Avenue.
You’ve got some of the best cinnamon buns in the city here, opening hours from 7.30 am to 8 pm most days, as well as lots of seating space and there are always people working on their laptops.
The Ambrose Cafe, Tottenham Court Road
The Ambrose Cafe is located on the first floor of furniture department store Heal’s, in the middle of Tottenham Court Road.
Free WiFi, ample (and comfortable!) seating space and power outlets everywhere may make you want to relax more than work!
Jova London, Charlotte Street
Located in Fitzrovia’s pretty Charlotte Street, Jova London has a coffee shop on the ground floor, but also hot desking available as well as meeting rooms in the basement.
You can either pop in for a coffee and use both the free WiFi and power outlets for a bit, or decide to rent a hot desk by the hour or for the day.
Kafi, Cleveland Street
Located super close to Tottenham Court Road, Kafi offers incredibly delicious coffee, free WiFi, and a comfortable setting.
It’s however really small, so I’d recommend popping by to read, write, or for some light work only.
Best Cafes to Work Near Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square
Ole & Steen, Charing Cross Road
One of my personal favorite cafes to work in London, the Charing Cross Road branch to Ole and Steen, which makes the corner with a Chinatown street.
You’re 30 seconds away from Leicester Square, with opening hours from 8 am to 8 pm everyday, WiFi and power outlets.
Coffee Island, Upper St Martin’s Lane
Not only will you find incredible pastries and drinks at Coffee Island, but you also have an upper floor that translates into a really cool study space.
Coffee Island opens from 7.30 am during the week, and if this one’s more on the indie side of the spectrum, it’s great to work for a bit.
Best Cafes to Work in Soho
Söderberg, Soho
The first Swedish bakery cafe I ever visited in London is Bageriet on Rose Street, but it’s unfortunately way too tiny to get productive work done.
Enter Söderberg, its large tables and its creativity-inducing atmosphere, perfect for a couple of hours’ worth of writing or studying in a minimalist setting.
The Colombian Coffee Company, Greek Street
Located on Greek Street, one of the most famous streets in Soho, The Colombian Coffee Company offers some of the most delicious coffee you’ll ever have in London.
The atmosphere is laidback, with traditional music playing on the speakers and a really quiet background perfect for whoever is looking for cafes to work in Soho.
Best Cafes to Work near Covent Garden, The Strand, Holborn and Fleet Street
Redemption Roasters, Drury Lane
The Covent Garden branch to Redemption Roasters, located on Drury Lane, is neither too big nor too small, with power outlets scattered throughout the cafe.
The fact that it’s tucked away in the heart of the Covent Garden area makes it that little bit more underrated, with delicious coffee, fresh pastries and homemade sandwiches.
The Hoxton, Holborn
Not technically a work cafe but a hotel, The Hoxton in Holborn has a perfect lobby for freelancers, students, and digital nomads to work from.
It’s spacious and lively at breakfast and lunch, but you’ll still find lots of people working on their laptops there – and it’s really close to Tottenham Court Road Station.
Fleet Street Press, Fleet Street
Located just off Fleet Street, Fleet Street Press is a small, rustic coffee shop with the most amazing pink latte in London.
There’s free WiFi but almost no power outlets; come with your laptop charged, and then, pay a visit to London’s secret historical sites located just minutes away.
Roasting Plant Coffee, Strand
Located only a few minutes from Covent Garden, Roasting Plant Coffee on The Strand is huge, and one of the most minimalist-looking coffee shops in this guide.
Plenty of seating space, free WiFi, and power outlets to plug in both your laptop and your phone – the perfect setting to be focused.
Pickwick Coffee Club, Fleet Street
Pickwick Coffee Club is decently-sized and provides free WiFi as well as some power outlets throughout the coffee shop.
If you find yourself near St Paul’s Cathedral, why not enjoy a cup of matcha latte or cappuccino alongside a delicious vegan croissant or pain au chocolat before work?
Soho Coffee Co, The Strand
Soho Coffee Co on The Strand is one of the biggest cafes to work in London, and serves amazing brownies, cookies, salads and wraps – and multicolor cakes!
There’s free WiFi and some power outlets, and lots of seating space for you to grind until you drop.
Host Cafe, St Mary Aldermary Church
Located on the super cute Watling Street, in the imposing St Mary Aldermary Church, Host Cafe is a really instagrammable spot in addition to offering a spacious study space.
There are only a few power outlets in the coffee shop, since it is, after all, located in a still-in-use church, but there is free WiFi for people looking to work for up to one hour and a half.
Host Cafe also doubles as a coworking cafe for those looking to stay all day.
You must book in advance by filling out a form or contacting them on Whatsapp (they only answer on weekdays). If you’d like to stay up to 4 hours, you’ll pay £10, and £18 between 4 and 10 hours, and include two drinks.
The Wren, St Nicholas Cole Abbey
Located inside the St Nicholas Cole Abbey, The Wren is mostly visited by people looking to chill during the day, or before they start touring the city.
We’re close to St Paul’s Cathedral, and since the cafe is established inside an old church, it’s easy to get inspired there – perfect for that hour of reading or to scribble away in your notebook.
Best Cafes to Work in East London
Best Cafes to Work in Canary Wharf
Ole & Steen, Crossrail Place
Ole & Steen in the Canary Wharf Shopping Centre is a bit smaller than, say, their cafe on Tottenham Court Road, but the opening times are perfect if you’re looking for coffee shops to work all day.
It’s open from 8 am to 9 pm on weekdays, and from 8 am to 8 pm on weekends.
With a few power outlets here and there as well as free WiFi, the Danish coffee shop and bakery is clearly one of the best cafes to study in London around Canary Wharf.
Caravan Coffee Roasters, Reuters Plaza
There are a few Caravan Coffee Roasters spots scattered across London, and my favorite is probably the one on Euston Road, close to the British Library and the Wellcome Collection.
The Canary Wharf cafe is perfect if you’re looking for a cafe to work in London for a few hours, but avoid breakfast/brunch time.
However, WiFi is fast and free, and since Caravan Coffee Roasters in Canary Wharf is not so central, it appears it’s a bit quieter.
Best Cafes to Work in Brick Lane and Bethnal Green
Kahaila, Brick Lane
Kahaila on Brick Lane is one of my favorite cafes to work in East London; I’ll pop by even when I’m not working because it’s huge, has free WiFi, and tremendous Red Velvet cake and other American pastries.
Their rainbow cakes are outstanding, and Kahaila is a coffee shop that gives back to the community, too.
It’s super comfortable to work in this wooden, rustic yet artsy spot, two steps away from Brick Lane’s vintage shops.
Find here my full review of Kahaila Brick Lane to discover a wonderful rustic coffee shop with Red Velvet cakes, carrot and rainbow cakes, and delicious chai latte.
Oat Coffee, Brick Lane
There are not a lot of power outlets at Oat Coffee at all, but the fact that it’s a pretty big coffee shop and they’ve got very fast WiFi will allow you to sit in the back and study without anyone bothering you.
It’s really one of the local coffee shops in Brick Lane where you’ll find stellar coffee as well as a cool atmosphere, really perfect if you’re looking for cafes to work in East London.
I’d say the only downside to Oat Coffee is the opening hours, since it’s open from 9.30 am to 6.30 pm, but it’s still good if you’re not one to wake up super early.
Fuckoffee, Bethnal Green Road
There are two branches to Fuckoffee on Bethnal Green Road; I do prefer the one at the end of the road, closest to Brick Lane and Isso-Ni, a delicious halal Japanese restaurant.
This branch is bigger than the other close to the Bethnal Green Tube station, and you’re able to work on your laptop without being disturbed.
The coffee is really good, and the politically incorrect vibe of the coffee shop is really fun – no one will interrupt you if you go there to work.
The Beehive, Cambridge Heath Road
Although The Beehive in Bethnal Green isn’t that big, I do nevertheless consider it one of the best cafes to work in Shoreditch.
Located close to some of the best charity shops in Bethnal Green, like Oxfam and the Spitalfields Crypt Trust, The Beehive has quite a few seats and a soothing atmosphere that makes for the perfect coworking vibe.
Good WiFi and great drinks, plus a great selection of homemade cakes!
The Common E2, Old Bethnal Green Road
With the Common E2, you’ve got a different take on a study cafe, because it’s not just a coffee shop.
Beyond that, the Common E2 is some kind of coworking space, a coffee shop, and a place where entrepreneurs and start-ups can come and hold meetings or just work on their own.
Free and fast WiFi, power outlets, fresh coffee from local coffee roasters, and fresh cakes all day long – that’s what you can expect when you go there.
Holy Shot Coffee, Bethnal Green Road
Holy Shot Coffee is located right at the end of Bethnal Green Road, a few minutes’ walk away from both Brick Lane and Lady Dinah’s Cat Emporium.
It might feel like it’s a tiny coffee shop from the outside, but it’s got large tables, a few power outlets here and there as well as free WiFi.
Plus, if you’d like to find a good study cafe in London that also offers vegan cakes and great gluten-free options, it’s the best cafe in Bethnal Green for you!
Chaiiwala, Bethnal Green Road
The desi-inspired cafe restaurant Chaiiwala on Bethnal Green Road, has some spots at street level, but also lots of seating space in the basement.
There are only a few power outlets there, but the cafe opens quite early, so come with your laptop charged, or just to chill with a good book and a British-Indian fusion breakie.
Gecko Coffeehouse, Bethnal Green Road
Gecko Coffeehouse on Bethnal Green Road has been open for quite some time, but it was not until a few months ago I actually got to know it.
If what you’re looking for is a spacious coffee shop with free WiFi and a few power outlets, along with delicious coffee and even vegan cakes, you’re going to love this place.
It offers a really large study space downstairs, along with delicious coffee, tea, and hot chocolate – barista-made!
Best Cafes to Work in Shoreditch
Fix 126, Curtain Road
What I mostly like about Fix 126 on Curtain Road is the fact that they have everything you would usually visit chain coffee shops for: free WiFi, power outlets, and affordable coffee.
But that’s not all: even if you don’t want to come to this coffee for work, they have amazing pastries that would be the perfect start to a Saturday between friends.
Aida Shoreditch, Shoreditch High Street
There are lots of instagrammable cafes in London, but Aida Shoreditch, with its wooden decor, part industrial and part cutecore, really has a different vibe to it.
You’ve got colorful lattes and power outlets, all rolled into a laidback setting and a cafe that doubles as a concept store.
Kybelle, Great Eastern Street
Kybelle on Great Eastern Street is located just a few minutes away from Liverpool Street, and offers free WiFi is addition to a fresh offer every single day.
There are power outlets throughout the coffee shop, but I would definitely recommend coming early if you’re looking for a cafe to study in London around the East End.
Paper And Cup, Calvert Avenue
Paper & Cup has an interesting concept: it’s an independent coffee shop established by the Spitalfields Crypt Trust, a charity that supports people trying to recover from all kinds of issues, from homelessness to addiction.
If you have light laptop work to do, it’s a really cool bookshop cafe to visit, especially since there is free WiFi there, and fresh pastries (!).
No 42 Coffee Junction, Provost Street
I think Coffee Junction is probably one of the most underrated cafes in East London.
Located between Shoreditch and Bethnal Green Road, it offers super comfortable seating, great pastries, and free WiFi in an old-school home office setting.
Ozone Coffee, Leonard Street
At Ozone Coffee Roasters, you have artisan coffee made to order, and with its rustic background, it is one of the cafes to study in London where you will feel absolutely motivated.
We’re close to Old Street Station, and I’d recommend coming early if you don’t want to queue; there are power outlets throughout the cafe and free WiFi, and locals know it’s a great work spot.
Cobalance Cafe, Shoreditch High Street
Cobalance Cafe is one of the best cafes to work in Shoreditch for whoever wants to mix coworking with delicious bites.
Located right onto Shoreditch High Street, Cobalance Cafe is not only a coworking space but a rustic, wooden, dreamy-looking coffee shop where it’s perfect to study for hours on end.
Plus, when you leave, you can treat yourself to one of the nearby restaurants, or check out some cool street art.
Allpress Espresso Bar, Redchurch Street
The Allpress Espresso Bar in Shoreditch is big enough that you can bring your PC and type away as jolly as you want.
Best known for being one of the best coffee roasters in London, this coffee shop tucked away on Redchurch Street has everything nearby.
In the surroundings, you’ll find some of the coolest street art in Shoreditch, another cute coffee shop romantically named Jolene, and lots of independent shops and old streets!
Best Cafes to Work in Liverpool Street
Polo Bar Great British Cafe, Bishopsgate
Polo Bar, dubbed the Great British Cafe, faces Liverpool Street Station and Eataly, an amazing grocery shop that also houses restaurants.
Polo Bar is open 24/7, offers free WiFi and power outlets, and if you’re looking for 24 hour cafes in London, that’s the one, complete with great service and really good drinks!
Current Cafe, Harrow Place
Probably one of the cutest cafes to work in Liverpool Street is Current Cafe. It is closed during the weekend, so you’ll have to come between 8 am and 6 pm during weekdays.
You have Wi-Fi there, but not many power outlets at all.
However the atmosphere is great, so if you need some study motivation, this is definitely a cute coffee shop to try.
Dulce Coffee, Whitechapel Road
Dulce Coffee not only offers amazing drinks, brownies, cupcakes, and breakfast bites, but also power outlets here and there, and a very comfortable setting.
That’s really the spot I would recommend if you didn’t find space anywhere else.
It has two floors, and I would recommend sitting down in the basement if you don’t want to feel like you’re disturbing anyone.
You have free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and their smoothies and halal Full English breakfast are two things to try absolutely there.
Other Work Cafes and Study Spots in East London
Grounded, Bow
Grounded in Bow is the second branch to the halal cafe in Aldgate East I’ve loved for years; this one is much bigger, with power outlets, free WiFi, and a rustic slash vintage decor.
Grounded offers organic products, delicious drinks from tea to hot chocolate and specialty coffee: their halal brunch is gorgeous too, and you have to try it at least once in your life, unless you want vegetarian or vegan pastries, which they also have.
Allpress, Dalston Lane
Allpress is very famous when it comes to the coffee roasting scene, and the Dalston branch is quite big, with free WiFi and a few power outlets around the coffee shop.
This is a very beautiful cafe, with a minimalist, rustic vibe, and a great place to work for a bit before visiting the nearby Stoke Newington area.
Mare Street Market, Mare Street
Mare Street Market at the end of Cambridge Heath Road, is a huge warehouse-type market that offers free WiFi, and a huge kitchen with long tables that are perfect for coworking alone or with friends.
However, they do not offer power outlets, so make sure you charge your laptop before visiting, and then you can also visit the Hackney area when you’re done.
Lantana, Oliver’s Yard
Lantana Shoreditch is located on City Road, a completely laptop-friendly place, and I’d recommend coming, again, as early as you can, from 7.30 am during the week.
The decor is stunning, with a few books adorning the cafe restaurant, which I feel motivating when I’m looking to focus on my work.
Best Cafes to Work in West London
Best Cafes to Work in Notting Hill and Bayswater
Coffee Plant, Portobello Road
Coffee Plant is not the biggest cafe in Notting Hill, but they have free WiFi, Fairtrade coffee, and it’s going to prove useful if you only have some light tasks to do.
Located in the heart of Portobello Road, Coffee Plant is also very close to some of the most colorful houses in Notting Hill and really unique shops and antiques spots.
Daylesford Organic, Westbourne Grove
One of the most underrated – and prettiest cafes in London, Daylesford Organic relies on delicious raw ingredients to make their plates, pastries, and coffee.
There are lots of tables inside, and I’d definitely recommend passing by after the breakfast rush with your devices charged.
Ole & Steen, Notting Hill Gate
Located on Notting Hill Gate, Ole & Steen is huge, with power outlets, a really good amount of seating space, and a bustling yet relaxing atmosphere.
We’re literally 3 minutes away from the top of Portobello Road, if you wish to discover Notting Hill a bit more when you’re done working.
Le Pain Quotidien, Notting Hill Gate
There’s very good WiFi at Le Pain Quotidien which, combined with plenty of seating space, makes for one of the best places to write in London, read, or do a bit of laptop work.
There are almost no power outlets though, so make sure either to charge your laptop before coming, or work on your notebooks when visiting Le Pain Quotidien.
Arro Coffee, Bishop’s Bridge Road, Bayswater
Arro Coffee, dubbed the Temple of Coffee, is an independent Italian-style cafe with strong coffee, filled cornetti, and some seats at street level.
However, if you really want to get some work done, then Arro Coffee also has an upper floor which will allow you to study and work on your laptop for a while longer.
Best Cafes to Work in Kensington and South Kensington
Ole & Steen, Kensington High Street
Another Ole and Steen, this time, on Kensington High Street – the prices are roughly the same as the other branches I’ve mentioned, and you’ve got power outlets and free WiFi here as well.
This branch tends to be a bit quieter than the ones in Leicester Square and Tottenham Court Road, and still offers the same Scandinavian bakery atmosphere and delicious social pastries.
Popin, Comeragh Road, West Kensington
A bit smaller than Chapter Coffee Roasters, and located in West Kensington as well, you have Popin.
That’s not the study cafe I’d recommend staying at for hours, simply because it’s really not that big.
Still, it does feel amazing to work from Popin for a bit, especially since they offer free WiFi and are open from 7.30 am till 5 pm on weekdays.
Cafe Jumo, Kensington Church Street
Cafe Jumo is not very big, but its minimalist decor blends well with a productive day, and the coffee shop offers super comfortable seats, power outlets and good quality coffee.
In addition to breakfast and coffee, Cafe Jumo also cooks up amazing Mediterranean food, and is open from 8 am to 4 pm on weekdays.
Guillam Coffee House, Gloucester Road
Guillam Coffee House has a few branches around London including Notting Hill and Bayswater, and while it’s not the biggest study space in London, it is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5 pm on weekdays.
At Guillam Coffee House, you will find great decor and an amazingly quiet space with plush sofas and really comfortable seats.
Just a bright and airy space, perfect if you’re looking for laptop friendly cafes near South Kensington.
Best Cafes to Work in Chelsea
Blend Juice+Coffee Bar, Kensington Church Street
Located on Kensington Church Street, between Chelsea and South Kensington, Blend Coffee +Juice Bar offers a warm atmosphere and healthy breakfast options, in addition to fast and free WiFi.
It’s not the biggest study spot, so I’d advise coming for some light work rather than a full day, but you’ll still get some amazingly colorful lattes and a stunning backdrop!
Granger & Co, Pavillion Road
Granger & Co is more of an upscale cafe restaurant, but if you’re looking for nice cafes to study with free WiFi, then that’s the one.
Whoever wants to study at Granger & Co will have to order throughout the day, since this is more of a cafe restaurant where people just come to have breakfast, brunch, or lunch.
Beaufort House, King’s Road
One of the most laidback Modern European restaurants in London, Beaufort House also doubles as one of the best cafes to study in Chelsea.
There are power outlets and really good WiFi in this Chelsea spot, and since it is open from 8 am to 6 pm every day except at weekends, it makes for a perfect place to study in London.
The Locals Chelsea, Gatliff Road
The Locals Chelsea is one of the hotspots in town for healthy bites, from breakfast to brunch, lunch, and afternoon snacks.
We’ve got a pretty large coffee shop restaurant that not only caters to all types of diets – including keto and paleo but also offers plenty of seating space and free WiFi perfect to study all throughout the day.
Other Work Cafes and Study Spots in West London
No 6 Coffee, Boston Parade, Ealing
Of course, as soon as you start looking for laptop friendly cafes outside Central London, you’re rewarded with much more seating space – of which you’ll have plenty at No 6 Coffee, and free WiFi.
You can either choose to sit inside when the weather is less freeing, or you can choose to sit on the terrace since No 6 Coffee has a few seats.
It’s open from 7.30 am to 4 p.m. most days of the week, which means if you want to pay a visit to the Boston Parade coffee shop, you will have to come early.
Artisan Coffee School, New Broadway, Ealing
Artisan Coffee School in Ealing is probably one of the most spacious and laptop friendly cafes in West London.
The atmosphere is very worker-oriented, although Artisan Coffee School is actually not only a coffee shop but also a spot that offers workshops and events as well.
It’s open from 7:30 to 5 p.m. on weekdays, in from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekends; you’ve really got a lot of space there, as well as free WiFi and power outlets to charge your laptop and your phone.
Curious Roo Coffee Roasters, The Broadway, Ealing
Curious Roo Coffee Roasters is another one of the cafes in Ealing to study, work, or even just come to chill and enjoy the amazing roasted coffee.
Located on Ealing Broadway, Curious Roo Coffee Roasters is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays and offers a bit shorter opening times at weekends.
There are already lots of seats at street level, but when you go upstairs, you will find that Curious Roo Coffee Roasters offers an entire upper floor with free WiFi and power outlets.
Cafe Zee, New Broadway, West Ealing
If you’re looking for a cafe open a little bit later than the three I’ve mentioned above, you have Cafe Zee, located on New Broadway, in West Ealing, open from 7.30 am to 6.30 pm on weekdays.
Cafe Zee has another branch in Islington, so if you’re ever looking for cafes to work in North London, that’s another good option close to Angel and King’s Cross station.
Cafe Zee Ealing offers seats upstairs and at street level, perfect for whoever is after the best cafes to work in West London, or just a really comfortable study spot.
Chief Coffee Chiswick, Terrace Mews
We’re getting ‘closer’ to Central London with some good study cafes in Chiswick.
The first one is called Chief Coffee, and is open from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on weekdays, with shorter opening hours at weekends.
Not the biggest cafe to work in West London, that’s for sure, but there are a few power outlets in there as well as free WiFi.
The Post Room Cafe Chiswick, Bedford Corner
Then, if you’re looking for another really quaint cafe in London to study for a while, you’ve also got The Post Room Cafe in Chiswick, a few minutes from Turnham Green Station, with its cute decor and blazing fast WiFi.
It’s open from 8 a.m. to 4:15 p.m. almost every day of the week, so we are really on the shorter side when it comes to the opening times of The Post Room Cafe.
Chapter Coffee Roasters, North End Road
As we get closer to Central London, the size of the coffee shops is usually much smaller, but Chapter Coffee Roasters is actually very decently-sized.
Not only that: their coffee is incredible, there’s enough seating space and really good WiFi.
Again, pretty short opening times since Chapter Coffee Roasters opens from 7 to 5.30 on weekdays, and from 9 to 5 on weekends (avoid weekends, though).
Coffee Station, King Street, Hammersmith
In Hammersmith, there’s also Coffee Station, perfect if you’re looking for cafes to work in West London with free WiFi and cozy study space.
It’s open from 8 to 6 every single day, but I would advise against visiting at weekends, since Coffee Station becomes a breakfast favorite for locals.
The WiFi is however really stable and strong, so if you like working surrounded by greenery, it’s one of the best study coffee shops in London.
Electric Coffee Shop, Shepherd’s Bush
The Electric Coffee Shop in Shepherd’s Bush is not the biggest study spot, but it has power outlets and free WiFi.
The atmosphere is minimalist, inspiring, and really makes you want to complete that article, finish revising that lesson, or just chill.
It’s open from 7.30 am to 5.30 pm on weekdays, and from 9 am to 5.30 at weekends, but like most of the study cafes in West London, it turns into more of a breakfast/brunch place come weekend.
Best Cafes to Work in North London
Best Cafes to Work in Wembley, North West London
Out of Office, Hive Building
Out of Office in the Hive Building is located very close to the London Designer Outlet, and about 10 minutes from Wembley Park Station.
Premium coffee beans, a super spacious, comfortable coffee shop and good opening hours (8 am to 5 pm on weekdays) make Out of Office one of the best cafes to work in Wembley.
Out of Office, Canada Gardens
There is another Out of Office coffee shop in Wembley, and located closer to Canada Gardens, a really beautiful and quite lowkey area.
It’s open from 8 am to 5 pm almost every day of the week, and also provides all you need to study and work productively away from home.
Best Cafes to Work in King’s Cross
Wellcome Collection Cafe, Euston Road
The Wellcome Collection cafe is huge, and there’s really a lot of space to just sit down and start working while enjoying the free WiFi.
And if you ever want to switch it up, remember when I told you about the best bookshop cafes in London?
You have the Quaker Bookshop & Seed Cafe located just a few minutes away on foot as well – and that’s one of the best cafes to study near King’s Cross should you wish to (with lots of vegan cakes).
Redemption Roasters, Stable Street
In Coals Drop Yard, you have one of the coolest branches of Redemption Roasters, which offers delicious specialty coffee as well as really fast WiFi.
The one in Coals Drop Yard might not be the biggest cafe to work in London, but there are a few seats outside perfect when the weather gets warmer, and a few inside as well where you can enjoy vegan cakes and creamy hot coffee.
Frequency, King’s Cross Road
Frequency is an amazing cafe to study on King’s Cross Road, simply because there’s free WiFi, the possibility to work, and a lively background with people chatting happily at all times of the day.
It’s also open from 7 am till 9 pm except at weekends when Frequency closes at 4 pm, so you’re really able to use the coffee shop as a study spot if you want to.
There’s another Frequency right off Islington High Street, after Pentonville Road which is also amazing, and I would definitely recommend trying to work there to see if you like it; there are a few power outlets there.
British Library Cafe, Euston Road
There are loooots of students, freelancers, and people coming to The British Library because it’s simply one of the best places to study near King’s Cross Station – and in the whole of London.
That also means that some days, if you don’t come early enough, you’re not going to find a good spot: that’s why if I’m late, I will go to the street-level coffee shop.
In any case, The British Library has a few coffee shops on almost every floor, and while some are more of the restaurant type, others are definitely perfect for anyone looking for spots to work.
Caravan Coffee Roasters, Euston Road
Caravan at The Office Group on Euston Road is a plain coffee shop, not a restaurant like some Caravan spots – it’s located just a few minutes away from the Wellcome Collection.
Free WiFi and a few power outlets are to be found there, with proper Australian bites and coffee.
Best Cafes to Work in Camden Town and Kentish Town
Neighbourhood Organic, Kentish Town Road
I passed by Neighbourhood Organic in Kentish Town quite a few times before I actually took the time to sit down with my laptop there.
You’ll find lots of people working on their laptops there, enjoying the free WiFi and power outlets disseminated all around the pretty (huge) coffee shop.
It’s open from 8 am to 6 pm most days, except at weekends when Neighbourhood Organic closes at 6.30 – I’d definitely recommend coming here early to snatch a seat with a power outlet.
The Coffee Tree, Camden High Street
Not only is The Coffee Tree super accessible from both Camden Town and Mornington Crescent stations, but it also offers delicious coffee and fresh cakes.
There, you’ll have free WiFi and power outlets to charge your devices, just two steps away from Camden Town’s charity shops and markets.
Camden Bakery, Camden High Street
Camden Bakery on Camden High Street has power outlets and free WiFi, and the setting is huge: it ticks all my boxes when it comes to work cafes.
Their layer cakes are amazing, and they have lots of different sweet and savory options to enjoy while you’re working.
The Coffee Jar, Parkway
The Coffee Jar might be on the smaller size, but most people just come to get a fix of their huge cookies and freshly-made brownies, so you’re very likely to find a spot.
They’re an independent coffee shop, and I always try and stay just an hour or two in such spots; the rustic setting, though, makes it amazing to write or read.
Best Cafes to Work in West Hampstead and Kilburn
Wired Co, Broadhurst Gardens
Located in Broadhurst Gardens, really close to West Hampstead station, Wired Co is another one of the best cafes to work in West Hampstead – but it’s really small.
It really depends on people to choose a small or spacious coffee shop to work on their laptops and notebooks; I know I prefer to blend in the background when I’m planning to stay for a few hours.
The only thing I’d recommend is coming when you know you don’t have to stay all day and just want to be productive with work for a couple of hours – after that, you might start feeling out of place.
Hart & Lova, Belsize Road
I would not describe Hart & Lova Bakery as a laptop friendly coffee shop per se, but I used to live down the road from it, and it’s definitely one of the cutest cafes in West Hampstead to settle for a bit.
The decoration inside is vintage, really dated, almost like an old-school bakery slash coffee shop you’d find in some parts of Brooklyn or Paris.
There’s also a terrace on which you can sit down to read for a bit, and while the prices are literally following those of the area, Hart & Lova is one of my favorite cafes to have a delicious latte and journal or read for a while.
Swiss Cottage Library & Cafe, Avenue Road
One of the best places to study in West Hampstead is actually at the limit with Swiss Cottage, and you have Swiss Cottage Tube station just a couple of minutes away.
At the Swiss Cottage Library, you have a really nice cafe inside, but you know me – I love finding new free libraries in London.
I’ve worked at the Swiss Cottage Library a couple of times since I used to live about 20 minutes away on foot: if you’re after really inspiring places to work around West Hampstead, that’s one of my favorites.
Soho Coffee Company, Finchley Road
Soho Coffee Company in the O2 Centre on Finchley Road is located in the middle of the shopping center, and I’ve worked a good couple of times there.
There are power outlets and free WiFi that works wonders, and we’re only 10 minutes from West Hampstead station on foot.
Other Cafes to Work in North London
Redemption Roasters, Islington High Street
Redemption Roasters on Islington High Street is a great to study, and the Greek-inspired basement downstairs, with walls covered with white sculptures, make it a very secret coffee shop for those looking to take pictures as well.
Great coffee, delicious food, and even a hidden garden at the back mean it gets busy quickly; come as early as you can.
Read here my review of Redemption Roasters, Islington, to discover its secret basement, its atmosphere, and my thoughts about the coffee and cake.
Fine and Grosso, Seven Sisters Road
Fine and Grosso on Seven Sisters Road always has people working on their laptop, and they work with an optional daily/weekly/monthly pass as well.
The amount of your daily pass can be exchanged for food or beverages, so it’s actually the same as if you were going to a ‘classic’ study cafe.
It’s also pretty cheap, with £9 for a day, £16 for two days, and £22 for three days.
Vagabond N7, Holloway Road
Vagabond N7 on Holloway Road has it all: power outlets, free WiFi, and a vintage cafe vibe turned London-style.
Delicious fresh cakes and lots of tables on top of that? That’s going to become one of your favorite study cafes.
Bread & Bean, Archway
Bread & Bean in Archway is far from being the biggest cafe in town, but it’s great to write and read for a bit while nibbling on avocado toast, benedict eggs or just a brownie and a cuppa.
Free WiFi and power outlets are available, too, along with that proper local coffee shop vibe – perfect to focus.
Best Cafes to Work in South London
Caya Brixton, Coldharbour Lane
You can hardly find a more laptop friendly cafe than Caya Brixton; the only downside of Caya Brixton is the fact that it closes so early, really.
The opening times are roughly from 8 am to 3 or 4 pm, and you’re really going to want to get there as early as possible if you want to do a full workday there.
The main thing to remember about Caya is that while it is a coffee shop, it’s also a coworking space where you can really have that motivating vibe around you.
Stir Coffee, Brixton Hill
One of the most famous cafes to work in South London is Stir Coffee, also located in Brixton, which also offers free WiFi.
It opens from 8 am to 3 pm most days of the week, and while it is also open at weekends, I would advise against visiting on Saturdays and Sundays as it gets really busy at breakfast time.
Hej Roastery & Coffee House, Mansfield Point, Elephant & Castle
Going a little bit more toward Central London, you’ve got Hej Roastery & Coffee House in Elephant & Castle.
While I don’t really mind the Elephant & Castle area, there is the Mercato Metropolitano there, a super cool market which hosts a lot of great food stands and is an amazing place to visit at the end of a workday.
Hej Coffee & Roastery is opens from 8 am to 5 pm every day, except at weekends when it opens at 9 am, and you have homemade pastries, great coffee, power outlets, and free WiFi there.
Nata’s Coffee Bar, Balham High Road
Then, if you’re ever looking for cafes to study in Balham, you’ve got Nata’s Coffee Bar, which offers a really beautiful, rustic background.
Nata’s Coffee Bar is open from 7 am to 5 pm every day, except at weekends when it opens until 6 pm.
There, you have fresh pastries and clearly some of the best coffee and food in Balham, as well as free WiFi but very few power outlets.
Sevengrams, Clapham Road
Sevengrams is one of the coolest Italian cafes, and you’ve got a huge branch available if you’re ever looking for cafes to work in Clapham.
This one is definitely one of the most laptop friendly cafes in South London, as you’ve got free WiFi, power outlets, and a super cool atmosphere to work for a few hours.
Sevengrams is located in The Printworks, and it opens from 8 am to 4.30 pm on weekdays, and from 9 am to 4.30 pm on weekends.
Social Pantry Cafe, Lavender Hill
The Social Pantry Cafe is actually not a proper study cafe per se, but since you’ve got lots of seats and a super nice atmosphere, why not try to work there someday?
It opens from 8 am to 4 pm every day of the week, and if you’re looking for laptop friendly cafes in South London, Social Pantry Cafe has power outlets and free WiFi – the dream.
The closest Tube station is Clapham Junction, so if you’re ever in that area, you’ve really got a nice setting to work for a few hours.
Volcano Coffee Works, Martell Road
Volcano Coffee Works in Norwood is another amazing cafe to work in South London.
Granted, it’s much further from Central London than places in Battersea and Clapham, but it’s huge and opens from 8 am to 3.30 pm on weekdays.
Free WiFi and power outlets, a huge background, and noises of coffee machines blend in with laptop sounds.
Hive Cafe, Streatham
Located in Streatham on Coburg Crescent, the Hive Cafe is spacious, offers free WiFi but very few power outlets, alongside really good coffee.
When the sun hits, you feel like you’re working on a terrace – actually, Hive Cafe also has an outdoor space if you’d also just like to read a good book or relax.
105+ Best Cafes to Work in London and Study Sorted By Area
There you have them, all the best cafes to work in London, study, or even just chill if you feel like it.
Those are lots of cafes I usually visit whenever I choose to leave the comfort of my couch to keep writing articles for clients and The Working Line.
Hopefully, if you’re looking for great cafes to study in London, you’ll find quite a handful you’ll like here!