Explore 3 of the most iconic study spots available to SOAS students

Located in London's Bloomsbury district, SOAS students have access to some of the most iconic study spots in the UK. In her latest blog, Nidhi takes us on a tour of the three most popular places as voted for by SOAS students.      

Writing papers, working on assignments or just completing readings as a uni student is a uniquely personal experience for everyone, but what I've found is that your productivity depends a lot on the workspace you choose.

It dictates the speed and quality of work and affects people with neurodivergent or educational needs immensely. A change in environment can often be highly energising. Here’s a short list of places you could explore around the SOAS campus to study when you want a break from your usual spots.

Senate House Library

If you exit the SOAS campus from the back, you will find yourself looking at another entrance to the Senate House building, of which the Paul Webley wing is a part. The fourth floor of this building houses a serene, comfortable workplace in the form of the Senate House Library.

Working there has often felt like being transported back in time, with its high windows, tall bookshelves and plush working spaces.

It has several study rooms, both for silent study and group work, and a massive collection of books to consult from and borrow in case you cannot find them at the SOAS library. Working there has often felt like being transported back in time, with its high windows, tall bookshelves and plush working spaces. Study rooms can be booked in advance for scheduled work with peers as well.

A simple registration on the library’s website gives you access to this wonderful space and a deep pool of knowledge. The timings of the library are similar to the ones at SOAS.

British Library

One of the most iconic spots in central London, the British Library is also a brilliant place to work and study. It is equal parts quiet and lively, making it ideal for people who find either comfortable. Registering for a library membership is straightforward, making it easy and hassle-free.

The building is also accessible to persons with special needs and has workspaces that are comfortable for any and all kinds of people. It must be remembered, however, that taking food items, drinks or even water is prohibited in certain study areas of the library. There are safe storage spaces for personal belongings that can be procured for free for the time one is using such spaces.

The cafe within the library and the ones around also provide sufficient caffeine and snacks to take you through a hectic day of writing papers. The library closes by 6:00pm, so it would be advisable to plan your day to have enough time to make the most of the space.

Wellcome Collection

Hidden in plain sight opposite Euston station is the gorgeous Wellcome Collection Library. It's home to some of the cosiest study spaces around and is less than a 10-minute walk from SOAS, making it extremely accessible and a growing favourite.

[The Wellcome Collection] is home to some of the cosiest study spaces around SOAS 

All the study spaces inside the library are silent spaces, making the place perfect for those who work best in the quiet. Wellcome Collection has similar rules around food and beverages inside, along with a requirement to carry all your belongings in clear bags or in a visible way. They even provide clear bags to carry your belongings if they’re too many to carry in your arms.

They also host a plethora of intriguing, diverse and informative exhibits promoting health and well-being through various art forms. A day at Wellcome Collection proves productive and calming, making the experience very fulfilling.

Explore further afield around Bloomsbury

Along with these prominent spots, you also have access to some of the loveliest cafes, local and council libraries and even parks where you can get a great deal of work done. There are plenty of little hole-in-the-wall cafes around Bloomsbury that offer great coffee and a friendly, quiet environment to work and a fantastic chance to people-watch too.

On sunny days, Russell Square Park, Bloomsbury Square Park and plenty of other open spaces are a true joy to work in, especially in groups. These spots make work even more fulfilling, inspiring creative ideas and increasing productivity. Exploring these spaces has been a true joy, so I hope you’ll enjoy working at them too.