The best places to study in Edinburgh
The 10 libraries and study cafés in Edinburgh best suited to a long session with a laptop or a textbook, led by Black Medicine Coffee Co, Levels Cafe & Lounge and Red Kite Café.
Ranked by work score: Wi‑Fi, power, seating, hours, what reviews say about laptops and noise, and who recommends working there. One branch per chain.

Black Medicine is a top place, room downstairs, staff are amazing and good coffee
r/EdinburghAugust 2021 They even have three work desks complete with desk lamps and extra sockets! The wifi is free, fast and has so far worked flawlessly.
sandstonecastles blogSeptember 2026 Red Kite Café is a spacious, bright café in the Abbeyhill neighborhood, well-loved by remote workers for its relaxed atmosphere, reliable WiFi, and great coffee. This is a consistent Triber favorite.
WiFi TribeMay 2026 It’s not very big but at off-peak times it’s not a problem to get a seat. They have free wifi, extra sockets
sandstonecastles blogSeptember 2026 The Central Library on George IV Bridge is a beautiful, free, and publicly accessible building right in the heart of the Old Town.
WiFi TribeMay 2026 the Scottish Poetry Library, another quiet oasis for reading and working, further down the Royal Mile.
Wild Writing (Rebecca Low)June 2025 One of the main benefits of this library is that it is located right in the centre of the George Square campus and open 24/7. ... Its size also makes it a safe bet for studying because you are always sure to find a spot (although beware of exam season…).
Students at SPS (University of Edinburgh blog)June 2023 Hours, amenities and photos for University of Edinburgh Main Library
There’s free WiFi, a welcoming atmosphere, and both locations (Stockbridge and Home Street) are open until 10pm.
WiFi TribeMay 2026 The cafe offers WiFi, tea, coffee and an array of snacks — plus yummy homemade soups.
The Wallet Moth (guest post by Kelly Dunning)August 2019 One of the largest theological libraries in the UK
New College is the home of the School of Divinity. It’s also home to a newly-refurbished library and Rainy Hall – a large dining hall with a cheap cafe
Students at SPS (University of Edinburgh blog)April 2024





