It can be very easy to get stuck around campus when you have some focused work to complete, or you are getting down to some focused writing. To take a break away from stuffy office spaces and the crowded libraries, here are a few recommendations of my favourite places to visit as alternatives.
Chapter One Books
This lovely place feels like a combination between a coworking space and a living room. With lots of bookshelves and an array of seating –including armchairs and sofas – to accompany your cuppa, Chapter 1 is a really cosy spot to study and write. Just on the edge of the Northern Quarter, this is a popular place to work. As well as a café and working spot, it is also an independent book spot to pick up something new to get stuck into reading too, as the name indicates. What I really like about here is the opening hours are a little later than most cafés, meaning any night owls can get some focus later on too.
Foundation coffee house
As you go into the large open space, you will hear and feel the buzzing energy from creatives in this space. Plenty of people meet socially and a real hot spot for studious people whatever time of the week. Foundation is one of my favourite places to visit because of plenty of space and lovely long windows to sit at too so you don’t feel too crowded. The drinks choices are delicious and something unique. I have found bringing some headphones or earplugs can be helpful at busier times to help with distraction and overwhelm from noise given its popularity. Being right in the centre of the Northern Quarter is fantastic to be able to take a trip around the area as well as being very close to Ancoats for a nice wander away from the noise of the city.
Christie’s Bistro
While I suggest it is great to have a break from campus and try some other places, Christie’s Bistro, part of the University’s Old Quadrangle, is an excellent spot to work amongst other academic folk. With plenty of comfy sofas to choose from, the stunning ornate building and high ceilings is a nice place to escape to if you need to stick around campus. This is always a beautifully decked out space during the festive period too.
Central library
While the other suggestions are based around coffee and tea, Central Library on St Peter’s Square in the city centre is a great option for plenty of study space but a change of scenery from our campus libraries. Central has good open spaces with different areas for studying in and feels nice and airy with plenty of space. There’s a café for the coffee shop environment as well too. It might also be a nice break to pick up a non-academic book from here if you sign up for a public library card.
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Trying different places to work in I have found really helps to stimulate my brain and helps me to have fresh perspectives and ideas with my work. One thing to check when you visit some places now is that some of them have tables reserved for drinking and eating only, so of course it is important to be respectful of this. Enjoy your time in some different places!