Brighton is renowned throughout the UK as a student magnet. With two universities and a music academy, there is a large population of students, many of whom stay on after their degrees because living there is so appealing. It’s a party town and a haven for alternative lifestyles of all stripes. Where else can you live on the beach and at the forefront of culture and creativity just an hour’s train-ride from London?
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However, London-by-sea’s reputation for being the nation’s party venue can sometimes let students down when they’re at the pointy end of writing a thesis. It can be difficult to find a quiet corner to settle into for a big writing session. However, there are some fantastic locations somewhat off the beaten track that will welcome a PhD student and their laptop with open arms. All places listed include free Wi-Fi—you can thank Brighton’s freelancer culture for the many locations that welcome laptop workers.
Café Coho
With two outlets to choose from—one on Queen’s Rd and the other in the South Laine—getting a Café Coho loyalty card (10% off all purchases) makes a lot of sense to the cash-strapped PhD student. The Queen’s Rd location in particular has a lot of space and the added advantage of being right next to the train station. 83 Queens Rd, Brighton, BN1 3XE 53 Ship St, Brighton, BN1 1AF
The Wooden Belly
Atop the Hanover hill is a delightful surprise—the Wooden Belly, a spacious and quiet café opposite Queen’s Park whose huge range of teas, fantastic menu, big tables and floor-to-ceiling windows will have any PhD student returning again and again. 32 Egremont Place, BN2 0GA 
Brighton Libraries
With 13 locations across Brighton and Hove, stretching to Portslade, Hollingbury and Whitehawk, Brighton’s libraries are very accessible for students. Jubilee Library is a beautiful, modern library in the heart of town, a perfect place to put in a few hours in between meeting friends and going to work, with the added bonus of not having to buy a tea to make use of the facilities. Jubilee Library: Jubilee Street, Brighton BN1 1GE
Brighthelm Centre
You’ve probably walked past the unimpressive façade on the way from the station to the Laines without realising that there’s a thriving community centre inside. Park in the café for a cheap and wholesome breakfast, then go for broke. It’s not trendy, but it is cosy and affordable. North Road, Brighton BN1 1YD
Emporium
Only a few years ago, London Rd was devoid of much café culture, but with the opening of Emporium and other interesting shops and spaces, the area has been revitalised. A café, bar and performance space, Emporium feels like a big dress-up box has been opened up for you to play in. Find a comfy couch and tap away at your thesis for as long as you like—this café is open until 10.30pm most nights. 88 London Road, Brighton BN1 4JF
Marlborough Pub
Tucked away between Old Steine and the seafront, the Marlborough is a gem and features food, friendly staff and its own thriving theatre festival. Pop in during the day and benefit from the free Internet and friendly smiles, then stick around for a show in the evening. 4 Princes Street, Brighton BN2 1RD Image attribution: Nigel Cox, via Wikimedia Commons
Download a map of Brighton showing all these thesis-writing locations and more! using the social buttons below