With winter break around the corner, you might be on the lookout for a new study space to mix up your usual routine ahead of the upcoming exams and assessments period. Whether you’re looking for a hidden gem, feel like heading to a different campus, or would like to line up your study sessions with your festive plans, below is an overview of some of the study spaces available on our campuses.

Please note: For the most up-to-date opening times for all Library buildings, Sir James Matthews, and Building 100, make sure you visit the Library website – this includes opening times for the upcoming winter break and bank holidays.
Avenue Campus
Great for: Quick access to BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 Common, quiet and weekend?study
If you are looking for a quiet study space alternative, Avenue Campus has a variety of individual and group study spots, including spacious individual desks overlooking the courtyard and height-adjustable desks. Situated across the road from the Common, Avenue is the place to be if you enjoy going for a wellbeing-boosting walk during your break.
You can also find meal deals, comforting breakfasts and hot drinks at Avenue Café. Laptop loans are also available.
You can access Avenue Campus every day between 08:00 and 23:00, including at the weekends. The building will be closed from Monday 25 December to Thursday 1 January for the University closure period. Please note, you will need your student ID to access this building.
City Centre Campus – Sir James Matthews building
Great for: Quick access to University services and the city centre, quiet and group study
Whether you live near the city centre or have plans in the area, the study spaces on the lower level of the Sir James Matthews building (SJM) are a great alternative for a productive study session. From individual study pods to bookable spaces and dedicated group areas, the SJM study zone is of the newest and most varied around the University.
During term time (hours will vary during the winter break and assessment period), you can find useful University facilities on site at SJM, including The Student Hub, Tech Hub, and library laptop loans, as well as quick access to Artisan Café, where you can get a great selection of cooked breakfast and lunches.
University Hospital BOB体育登录网址_欧宝体育官网平台-APP|下载 – Health Services Library
Great for: Quick access to the Hospital, quiet and weekend study
Whether you have lectures or placements at the hospital, or would just like a break from your usual study areas, the Health Services Library has a variety of individual and group study spaces, as well as quick access to laptop loans. If you would like to study at the weekend, the Health Services Library is a trustworthy alternative to Hartley Library, usually open at the weekend both in and out of term time (but not on bank holidays).
Easily accessible by bus, the hospital also has plenty of food outlets and cafés to fuel your study session.
Winchester Campus – WSA Library
Great for: Proximity to the historic city of Winchester, quiet study
If you live in Winchester or fancy a trip to a beautiful Hampshire location area, the WSA Library might be the place for your next study session – not only is it situated in a quiet area next to the River Itchen and the Winnall Moors nature reserve, but it is also near the historic Winchester city centre, which hosts the famous Winchester Christmas Market at this time of year.
The WSA Library hosts a wide variety of collections and study spots, and is near the WSA Café, where you can find light refreshments and meals from a variety of cuisines to suit all tastes.
Highfield Campus – Alternative picks
While you may be familiar with the Hartley Library, home to our widest library collections and facilities, as well as 24/7 opening times during the exams and assessments period if you are a night owl, Highfield Campus has plenty of other options for quiet and group study, all close to our wide range of cafés, services and facilities.
Building 100 (the Centenary Building)
Building 100 has a variety of individual desks, group areas and study pods scattered across its seven levels, including spots with great views over the city on the higher levels. It will also have extended opening times in January to help you prepare for your upcoming assessments – check the Library website for full opening times.
Building 46 (Physics)
Another alternative to Hartley Library may be the study desks in Building 46 (Physics), overlooking the usual campus bustle, perfect for those who enjoy a balance between quiet and lively for optimal productivity.
Building 46 can be accessed Monday-Friday, 08:00-18:00 during term time. Winter break opening times will be updated in due course.
Useful links
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Make sure you check the student exams site for guidance on what to expect and how to prepare for the upcoming assessments period – including the latest news, useful videos, top tips, and more.
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Discover all the resources and support available via the Academic Skills Service – including focus techniques, academic writing guides, exam-specific guidance, and much more.