Exeter's hidden study spots

While the Streatham campus is undoubtedly beautiful, sometimes the best way to shake up your academic routine is to venture further than just the streets between campus and your accommodation. We’ve all had those weeks where the Forum feels a little bit too crowded, and if you’re already feeling a little bit exhausted in general, a change of scenery is often the best way to find your focus. Exploring Exeter is a great way to discover new parts of the city you don’t normally visit, and there are plenty of spots outside of the library that are perfect for getting through your to-do list.

1. Sunset Society If you’re looking for somewhere with a great atmosphere and even better coffee, this is a brilliant spot to settle into for a few hours. It is located near the Exeter football stadium, making it the perfect place to head to if you want to get away from the immediate bustle of the city centre. It is especially good for those mid-morning sessions when you just need to get through a few chapters of a book or some admin tasks.

2. The Devon and Exeter Institute Tucked away in Cathedral Yard, this is one of the most unique places to work in the city. It offers a much more traditional, silent environment, which is ideal if you find the main university buildings a bit too distracting during peak deadline season. It is a fantastic alternative if you want to stay in the city centre but still need a focused space to get some work done.

3. 12 Bar For those days when you’re being intentional with your spending, 12 Bar is a great option because they offer a student discount! It has a very relaxed, informal vibe during the day, and even becomes a bar at night – and so it’s the perfect spot to transition into some post-study activities with friends.

4. St Luke’s Library If you usually spend all your time on Streatham, hopping over to the St Luke’s campus can be a really effective way to reset. The library there is often much quieter and less crowded than the Forum, which makes it much easier to find a seat with a plug socket. This works vice versa too; if you are based at St Luke's, heading up to Streatham to use the Queen’s Building or the Loft can provide a much-needed change in rhythm.

5. Studying from Home Sometimes, the best decision you can make is to stay in and utilise your own space. Enjoying your room is just as essential as being productive on campus, so it’s worth trying to ensure your uni space is a comfortable environment where you can actually thrive. My top tips for making your room more conducive to study include keeping your desk clear of clutter and separating your workspace from where you relax. I find it really helps to have a rule about not scrolling on social media while at your desk and trying to make sure I’m always sitting at my desk studying, instead of working from bed. This means I can properly switch off when the day is done.

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