Secret spots for students
Hi I’m Keira, a second-year Politics and International Relations student here at York St John! I’m here to share my favourite spots and hidden gems around campus!
Campus discoveries
I absolutely love to wander around campus, particularly on sunny spring day and explore all YSJ has to offer! From coffee shops (like The Lounge in the Student Union) to cosy study spaces (like the sofas in the library) there’s so much to explore and utilise! Make sure to fully explore campus while you’re here – you never know what hidden gems you may find! I love visiting the spots I’ve found! From Garden Pods to Café 41, De Grey they are truly the most peaceful areas on campus – particularly on a summer morning and even in the rain!
Hidden gems at YSJ
Cafe 41, De Grey
Café 41in De Grey is a relaxing coffee shop to study and relax! With great coffee, pastries and treats at a discounted student-friendly price – it’s a go-to study space for me!
Best time to visit: early morning!
Picnic and Garden Pod
Just outside YSJ Active (gym) and opposite Holgate, this picnic area and garden pod is a peaceful and relaxing area to unwind after lectures! An amazing view of York Minster and City Walls on offer here too!
Best time to visit: mid-late afternoon (particularly in the summer)!
Creative Centre seating
The Creative Centre is my favourite building on campus! Offering gorgeous seating and views, it really is a relaxing and calming environment! I love to sit on the step-style seating while studying! If you happen to be studying here, look out for the perfect golden-hour lighting! It truly is beautiful!
Best time to visit: Anytime!
Garden pods
Located behind Temple Wing, this quiet study and social area is equipped with many garden pods! If you fancy a sit outside no matter the weather, wander over here!
Best time to visit: Morning-afternoon!
My experience
For me, I find taking a rest from studying and truly appreciating and enjoying your surrounding is crucial to a good balance between uni work and any part-time roles! These spots had so much personality to YSJ with each offering a different architecture and a new study or socialising environment! I find these spots are great in all weather, but particularly glorious in the summer!
Tips and tricks
Why not take the long route between lectures one day? Sit somewhere new? Fully explore all YSJ has to offer – you never know what you’ll find! I’d recommend bringing a book, coffee and headphones, to enjoy these areas and unwind!
Enjoy exploring campus!
Keira
Find out more about our campus by heading here: https://www.yorksj.ac.uk/campus-and-facilities/
