As a student at Sheffield Hallam University, I’ve learned that where you choose to study can really make or break your productivity. Whether I’m cramming for exams, working on group projects, or catching up on assignments, I’ve found that a change of scenery can be a real game changer in terms of my focus and motivation.

Hi, I’m Chloe, I’ve been in Sheffield for nearly 3 years now and I want to share some of my favourite study spots around Hallam’s campuses and the city of Sheffield. These are the places that help me stay on top of my work—and they might just work for you too!

City Campus

The HUBS

This one is completely overlooked as a space for students to use. It’s a versatile space where both independent and collaborative study can happen. Over the holidays, the space has been updated to make it even more student-friendly, with features like:

• New coffee machine: affordable caffeine boost
• Lockers for commuter students: somewhere to store your belongings throughout the day
• FREE Wi-Fi: fast, reliable internet access
• Pool, Ping-Pong tables, and video games: when you need to take a break from your studies, there’s loads of ways to clear your mind and unwind
• Comfy sofas, blankets, and warmth: meet your friends, advisers, or groups somewhere that feels comfy and relaxed

It’s worth checking out whether you’re on campus for a full day or just passing through.

Charles Street

This is my personal favourite due to the number of floors and hidden spaces there are to choose from. There’s so much natural light that pours in too, so you don’t feel cooped up in one place. You’ll find study areas like:

• Individual self-study booths: perfect for those occasions you feel like you need to wear blinkers to stop you getting distracted
• Open-plan study areas: super helpful in the early days of group work for brainstorming sessions
• Plenty of sunlight: bright areas mean you don’t lose track of time or feel like you’ve been cut off from the world!
• Deli: great cafe to meet with your academic adviser or when you need a break

Adsetts Library

The iconic Adsetts Learning Centre is one of the most popular study spaces on campus. Spread over multiple floors, it offers:

• Silent Study Zones: for when you need total concentration
• Group Study Rooms: bookable rooms ideal for group work and project collaboration
• 24/7 Access: many long nights have been spent here, but with vending machines, microwaves, and coffee machines - you’ve got enough to keep you going
• Printing and scanning facilities: get your assignments ready to submit

Collegiate Campus

Heart of the Campus

The Heart of the Campus is the central point for those at Collegiate and the atrium is a great place to study. It has a ‘brings-the-outdoors-in’ aesthetic and features:

• Granary Cafe: tuck into a street food lunch box for only £3.50 (quite literally my favourite place to eat on campus!)
• Study spaces galore: whether you want open plan, individual booths, large tables, comfy sofas, HOTC has it all (not to mention loads of plug sockets to keep your devices charged)

Collegiate Library

Depending on where you live, this might be your closest library so take advantage of its facilities to crack on with your studies. Much like Adsetts, it offers:

• Collaborative, quiet, and silent study zones: be sure to book in advance if you want to use a collaborative room or PC
• 24/7 access: also providing hot water, microwaves, and vending machines
• Relaxed seating areas: ideal for when you need some time away from your computer

Off-Campus study spaces

Gaard Coffee - 15% off everything!!

Fancy somewhere with a gentle pace whilst you work? This is definitely the place for you! With locations at Kelham Island and West One Plaza, you’ll find:

• Vegan and coffee enthusiast heaven: delicious plant-based treats and speciality coffee (not to mention the 15% student discount), you’ll be able to keep your batteries fully charged
• Cosy study vibes: comfy sofas, pretty fairy lights, and an Instagram post to fit your feed, it’s more like studying in the comfort of your own home!

Copa Caffe - 20% off refills!!

If you’ve not been already, what are you waiting for - seriously! Whether you’re fuelling up for a productive session or simply unwinding, Copa Caffe delivers on all fronts.

• Indoor and outdoor seating: make the most of the nice weather and study outside or cosy up inside during the winter. It’s a versatile spot for all your study needs
• Speciality drinks and locally sourced bites: with coffees by Forge Coffee Roasters, teas, smoothies, and a menu full of cakes, pastries, sandwiches, and brunch options you’ve got no excuse to stay all day!

Hygge - 50% off on Sundays!!

You’ll find Hygge on Fitzalan Square and Eyre Street (with a third location due to open on Carver Street soon)! I don’t know anybody that’s been to Hygge and not loved it, here’s some reasons why you should choose it as your next study space:

• Serious about sustainability: when you take reusable cups or containers, they’ll treat you to some lovely discounts
• Community space: everyone is made to feel at home and there’s no rush for you to leave
• Shoes off, feet up: quality food and drinks all feature front and centre in the welcoming environment that Hygge provides. Kick back, order your coffee, and settle in for as little or long as you need. Comfy studying is the best kind.

Final thoughts

With so many places to study across Sheffield, you’re bound to find the place that suits you in no time. A lively cafe or a quiet zone in the library, this city has it all - make sure you check out the HUBS too, especially with its recent upgrades!