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Spring: a season of colour, beauty... and some deadly deadlines. Got a dissertation to deal with? Fearful about finals? You’re not alone, as your packed-out university library shows. But when all those plug points are taken, don’t procrastinate: caffeinate. Here are five cafés in central London’s scholarly districts that are best set up for laptop users. And yes, before you ask, they’ve all got free wi-fi.
Camera Museum
Selling vintage lenses in the front and fresh fruit juices in the rear, there are few – ahem – negatives to this Bloomsbury café. Zoom over now to see cabinetfuls of technological curiosities, as well as the convenient working space with over 20 power sockets. 44 Museum Street, WC1A 1LY.
Bloomsbury Coffee House
Bloomsbury Coffee House
Now, simple café etiquette dictates that laptoppers don’t hog tables without buying stuff, especially during breakfast and lunch in relatively petite places like the Bloomsbury Coffee House. But you'll really want to splash out here. The outrageous cakes lend themselves to quick, sugary brainstorms. 20 Tavistock Place, WC1H 9RE.
Riding House Café
Riding House Café
Laptops are encouraged in the mornings and afternoons in this spacious establishment in literary Fitzrovia. Tell yourself that thesis is the most profound tome since 'Mrs Dalloway' as you ‘Woolf’ down an all-day breakfast. There's also soft seating and 20 power points. 43-51 Great Titchfield Street, W1W 7PQ.
Ben's House
Ben’s House
There are no sockets up for grabs here, but they might just recharge your batteries if you ask nicely. Ben’s deserves a mention for the sociable atmosphere around its central table. And there are also some locally-sourced delicacies on sale, if you need a delectable diversion. 64 Grafton Way, W1T 5DP.
James FitzGerald
The Cafe at Waterstones Tottenham Court Road
Unfolding across different levels of a new Waterstones bookshop, this café is a real night owl, serving espressos till the last customer to help drag you through that all-nighter. There are sockets available around the first floor and basement; you’ll easily bag one at a quiet time. 19-20 Tottenham Court Road, W1T 1BJ.