I thoroughly enjoyed my time studying at Exeter College in Oxford. A big part of that experience included checking out local coffee shops and cafés, to get a much required caffeine kick!

The following locations are the ones in which my most productive study sessions were held. Hopefully they are as inspiring to you, as they were to me! Be sure to let me know your favourites in the comments.

If you want more recommendations based in the U.K., check out these Cafés in London, or press one of the links below:

Coffeesmith

Tucked inside an alleyway between the high street and the covered market, Coffeesmith, is one of the coziest cafés in Oxford. In addition to great coffee and tea offerings, Coffeesmith also offers freshly baked cakes and bites. The selection changes day-to-day, so you know it’s going to be delicious.

Vegan, Gluten Free, and Vegetarian sweets make this a great café for a multitude of diners with a myriad of dietary restrictions.

With a patio, sun-soaked seating, and an intimate alcove, this is a perfect café for all your socializing or studying needs!

Location:
14-15 Golden Cross, Oxford

CafÉ Society

Café Society is the first coffee shop that I visited in Oxford, and goodness me, what a high standard it set! It set the bar so high, in fact, that I’ve been back many, many times.

Speciality coffee is brewed by expert baristas, who take pride in their beverage creation. They offer pour-overs and cold brew, which, while not a requirement of a good coffee shop, is a promising sign. There is also proper matcha available, which I admire.

The grey interior is a bit more minimalist than my own preference, but it’s undeniably cool, and slick. There is an upstairs, and a downstairs area, plus a sunny patio.

As for the food - there are loads of offerings for multiple dietary restrictions. Gluten Free, Vegetarian, and Vegan diners can rejoice! I want to note that I have had excellent service every time I’ve visited. One barista in particular has been spectacular at managing my gluten intolerance, and minimizing cross contact. I feel safe, and satisfied, every time I visit!

Give it a go!

Location:
12-16 St Michael's Street, Oxford

the missing bean - turl street

There is not much missing at The Missing Bean (except, perhaps, the Bramblejack which I order regularly).

This small café is right outside both Lincoln and Exeter College (ayo that’s where I’m at so representttt). It’s filled with tittering students, and titallating conversations.

There are a lot of viennoiseries and small bites available. They do change their offerings, but there have regularly been Gluten Free/ Vegan/ Vegetation options.

A very cute café, especially if you’re also a student!

Location:
14 Turl Street, Oxford

theo’s Café

Theo’s is a cute café that is a lot bigger on the inside than it appears on the outside. The interior is very social media friendly, with neon signs, clean lines, and floral decor.

The upstairs seating area is very pretty, especially for a chat or a snap, while the downstairs is perfect for studying, or writing.

If you want an adorable coffee shop, Theo’s is a fun pick!

Locations:
12 Broad Street, Oxford

The Paper Boat Cafe

Paper Boat is a creatively inspiring café, set upon the Thames. True to it’s name, this is an excellent café to allow your imagination to float away while you write.

The café offers speciality coffee, that are brewed to perfection. There are also teas, and light lunches available. There was a gluten free cookie the day I visited, but it was not dairy free, so I didn’t give it a try.

From wherever you sit in the café, you feel connected to the outdoors, and especially the Thames. The downstairs seating area, with a wide open door, is my particular favourite. I have access to outlets, and river views.

If you like your coffee with a view, head on over!

Location:
Folly Bridge - The Old Toll House