Wondering where you can prepare for the semester one exams and assessments period?
There’s no shortage of great study spaces at the University. You’re probably familiar with Hartley Library on our Highfield Campus, which also houses the Academic Skills Hub, and might have spent some time at Building 100, AKA The Centenary Building, too.
If you’re yet to find your favourite spot—or want to refresh your routine—keep reading to discover more study spaces at the University. Plus, find out where to grab a bite in-between study sessions.
Sir James Matthews Building (SJM) – Guildhall Square, Southampton City Centre
Located in Guildhall Square on our City Centre campus, a few minutes away from central bus stops and Southampton Central train station, the Sir James Matthews Building can accommodate many kinds of study sessions.
Its lower-level 200-capacity study space and individual study pods can be booked via the library website, and the comfy areas for relaxed revision are a great place to catch up with your reading.
Plus, if spontaneous study motivation strikes when you’re in town, it’s easy to drop-in. The Tech Hub is on hand to loan you a laptop, should you need one, and any unreserved spaces are open for use.
The Student Hub at SJM also has ample space to study in a quiet and comfy setting.
Kick things off with a freshly cooked breakfast or lunch at The Artisan café—which you’ll find on the ground floor—and you’re good to go!
National Oceanographic Centre Southampton (NOCS) Library – Waterfront Campus
Stuck for inspiration? Get a change of scenery with a trip to the NOCS Library. The café at NOCS offers spectacular views of the Solent (be sure to take a few minutes to watch ships come in and out of Southampton waters). You can pick up a meal deal while you’re there, too. It includes a sandwich, a packet of crisps or piece of fruit, a bottle of water, and a hot drink for £3.95.
When you’re feeling refreshed and ready to get back to work, NOCS offers laptop loans and study spaces both within the library and around the campus, including quieter areas for solo study.
You can easily reach NOCS from Highfield interchange by bus, which virtually drops you at the door. Visit the website for more information, including opening times.
Winchester School of Art (WSA) Library – Winchester Campus
The Winchester School of Art Library is part of the University Southampton Library Service, and its collections include books, e-books, print and electronic journals, graphic novels, zines, artists’ films and archives.
The U7 Unilink bus makes it a great spot for students based on both our WSA and Highfield campuses, with buses running from Highfield interchange to Winchester. You can see the schedule on the Unilink website.
Visiting the library is a good opportunity to stop by the WSA café. The menu, featuring international cuisine, has been designed to suit a wide variety of tastes. For lighter refreshments, you can opt for something from its range of teas, coffee, confectionary and cakes.
The Health Services Library – Southampton General Hospital
Whether you’re studying at the hospital, live nearby, or just want to change things up a bit, why not check out the Health Services Library at University Hospital Southampton?
With plenty of individual study spots, as well as group study rooms that you can book for up to two hours (complete with whiteboards and ample space for groups), it’s a great place to get to work on your to-do list. Plus, you can borrow laptops here for up to a week.
Remember to check out the food outlets while you’re there! The hospital is home to multiple vendors, cafés and shops.
The Hangout Space, The Student Hub, Building 37 – Highfield Campus
Have you been to The Hangout space? It’s an open-plan study spot in The Student Hub, and its large tables make it a great place for group sessions. Plus, it’s right next to The Student Hub — open in-person every day from 08:00-20:00.
Don’t forget, you can access The Student Hub 24/7 via the online chat, email, or phone 02380 599 599. From questions regarding wellbeing, disability support and help with accommodation, to feelings of stress and worry, our team is here to help.
When you’re ready for a study break, Building 38, which is open to both students and staff, is only a couple of minutes away. Fuel-up with a £1-per-item breakfast at The Piazza (and a £3.50 fry up on Fridays), or head to The Arlott for locally brewed Seadog coffee (bring your re-usable cup for 20p off drinks!) and Hoxton Bakehouse snacks.
Further Information
For further information, including the current opening times of the study spaces listed above, visit the university website. Please note that while most study spaces will remain open during the Christmas Closure period, opening hours may be subject to change. An update regarding these changes will be shared in the coming weeks.