Current Canadian student testimonials
Situated in the heart of Bloomsbury, there’s a near infinite amount of bars, restaurants, nightclubs and cafes for a UCL student to frequent. Unlike most universities where there are limited options for study spaces or a fun night out, UCL students encounter the opposite challenge. With charming coffee shops littering every street and a bustling pub on every block, the problem lies in indecision rather than scarcity. To help navigate the abundance of options, I will list below five hotspots around UCL’s campus that you must visit during your three years there. Then, I will highlight five underrated gems that you and your friends can make your own when you inevitably want a break from familiar faces around campus.
Hotspots
1. Pastation
Open till 3am for a reason, this restaurant is a crowd favourite amongst all UCL students. It is a build-your-own pasta place with approximately ten different pasta shapes and over thirty types of sauces. However, their quantity of options does not, in any way, diminish the quality of their food. Students and locals are constantly returning for their pasta, and in a city where Italian restaurants are plentiful, the line at their door speaks for itself.
2. The Court
This sportsbar may be the one place you can always count on to be busy, even on a random Tuesday night before exam week. Loved by all for its cheap drinks and proximity to campus, students flock to this bar every night to watch a game, enjoy a chill night with friends, or kick off a night out.
3. Dillons Coffee, Waterstones
Already touted as the “prettiest Waterstones in London,” their coffee shop, Dillons, only adds to its charm. It's the ideal place to enjoy a book, paired seamlessly with a coffee of your choosing, a “pint of tea,” or even a cocktail. In addition, there’s an adorable hidden outdoor area with tables surrounded by plants and twinkling fairy lights; a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of both university and the city of London itself.
4. Scala
Scala is perhaps where you’ll encounter the densest gathering of UCL students at a given moment. Its four stories are packed with classmates and friends, making it a Wednesday night tradition that’s consistently enjoyable. With two dance floors, it offers a choice of music and a change in scenery. Although it may get repetitive, Scala remains a big part of the student life at UCL, and the main reason for sparse attendance in a Thursday morning lecture.
5. Fortitude Bakehouse
Fortitude is not only in the running for the best bakery in Bloomsbury, but one can easily argue that it is the best bakery in all of London. Certainly, its popularity between locals and tourists alike is unmatched. A literal hole-in-the-wall tucked in an alleyway across Russell Square station, its obscure location is the opposite of a well-kept secret as people from all over London begin lining up for its baked goods well-before its opening hours. From their famous must-try beignets to their more underrated focaccia sandwiches, your years living in London would be incomplete without trying one of their specialties.
Hidden Gems
1. The Observatory Coffee Shop
Doubling as a photography gallery and a cafe, this coffee shop boasts a fresh, modern, and bright atmosphere. The top floor is bathed in natural light streaming in through large windows and has walls adorned with collections of photos. Wooden desks further contribute to the contemporary atmosphere and are complemented by soft background music, ideal for reading or catching up with friends. By contrast, the bottom floor provides a more studious space, with subdued lighting and a small lamp on every table. The tucked away staircase ensures ample study spaces, unlike the student centre and libraries of UCL.
2. Ippudo Goodge Street
A short walk away from campus lies this fantastic ramen spot, perfect for days when cooking feels like too much of a hassle. Featuring dishes starting from £8 and cocktails from £5, this place is affordable and delicious,making it a great choice for a relaxed dinner. Unlike many restaurants around London, it’s also well-suited for solo-dining, with tables for one and a bar table overlooking the bustling Goodge street—a perfect place for people watching or enjoying quality time with friends.
3. Copita Fitzrovia Tapas Bar
Only two minutes away from Ippudo is this Tapas bar which serves delicious Spanish dishes. With their addicting Alioli sauce, mouth-watering croquettes, and creative cocktails, this restaurant keeps people coming back for more. Perhaps not the most student friendly in terms of budget, this restaurant is better-suited for special occasions and lively nights.
4. Happy Bones Coffee
One of the most adorable coffee shops in London, it is surprising that this place is not packed on the daily basis. Situated on Tottenham Court Road, its cosy ambiance with warm lighting and flowery pink decor is a stark contrast against the rest of the main street. Despite this, there’s almost always a free table for a study session or a coffee with friends. Moreover, their coffee portions are generous compared to other cafes, and their pastries are consistently warm, tasting as if freshly made a few minutes before.
5. TCR Lounge Bar
If you’re looking to escape the noise of loud pubs and bars for a casual night with friends, this lounge is a great choice. The music is softer than most places, generating a more laid-back atmosphere, and although only a short walk from campus, there’s a lack of a busy student crowd here. The drinks are both delicious and reasonably priced, especially when sharing a pitcher with friends, which I tend to do. Overall, a great bar near UCL, perfect for good conversation.
If you would like to know more about study options at UCL and other UK universities, please get in contact with your SI-UK Consultant. You can also register here to book your free consultation today!
