If the library spaces and other communal areas around university are getting a bit too crowded or you’re just sick of the sight of your bedroom walls, grab your laptop and study notes and head to somewhere new.

From cafes to libraries, you can enjoy cake, tea and peace and quiet. Also, there isn’t a Starbucks or Costa in sight. Here’s a few quirky spaces in the area to consider visiting for your next study session:

Ziferblat

23 Edge Street, Manchester, M4 1HW

Packed with comfy mismatched furniture, books, boardgames and a selection of cakes and drinks, Ziferblat is an interesting concept. You can spend as long as you like studying, eating and drinking and all you pay for is the time spent there. At 6p per minute, it won’t break the bank either.

Nexus Art Cafe

2 Dale Street, Manchester, M1 1JW

Fairylights and colourful furniture makes this cafe quirky and bright. You can get a pot of tea for one, a cold drink or a big slice of cake and spend the afternoon working happily and undisturbed.

Creation Cafe

1 Saint Phillips Place, Salford, M3 6FA

This cosy cafe oozes a sense of community and friendliness. With regularly organised events and activities, you won’t look out of place sat in the corner with your books. The food is cheap and homemade too.

Chapter One Books

Chatsworth House, Lever Street, Manchester, M1 1BY

Chapter One is about friends, books and coffee. Set up by a family in a time of economic crisis for booksellers, the quirky trio have combined the magic of books with speciality coffees. It’s the ideal venue in which to work on an essay.

Love Conquers All

Broadway, MediaCityUK, Salford Quays, M50 2EQ

This independent coffee house is friendly, cosy and has sofas which are “as comfy as a hug” – what’s not to like? Grab a coffee or a cocktail and work away at this quirky setting right in the centre of MediaCityUK.

Grindsmith

231-233 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4EN

Described as a great spot for entrepreneurs and creative workers – students won’t be out of place either! The modern decor gives the place a professional feel, which will hopefully reflect in your work. Sandwiches and drinks are good brain food too.

Pokusevski’s

Bridge House, MediaCityUK, Salford Quays, M50 2BH

This small deli and bar is described as an informal setting with experienced staff. Treat yourself to some lovingly prepared cake or freshly made food while you crack on with work.

John Rylands Library

150 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3EH

Whether you book out a specific study room or set yourself up at a desk situated near the impressive range of books, you’ll undoubtedly be able to focus in this stunning neo-Gothic building. There’s no better place to spend hours studying than a beautiful setting like this.

Central Library

Saint Peter’s Square, Manchester, M2 5PD

The stunning main reading room features a variety of tables and desks, making it ideal for independent or small group study. Situated in the middle of the city and boasting a quiet and peaceful atmosphere, you’ll get your work completed here.

View this post on Instagram

House of books.

A post shared by Charlotte Dalgarno Bacci (@championcharlie77) on Jan 23, 2019 at 5:07pm PST

“The Great Outdoors”

Maybe wait until the summer for this one. When the weather is nice, one of Manchester or Salford’s many parks can double as a study space. Grab a blanket and some snacks and make the most of the fresh air – you don’t even have to spend a penny when studying here!

Main image Ziferblat