Forget the noisy Starbucks—London is full of inspiring places to work, far beyond the usual café setup. This selection, curated by yours truly, highlights the best laptop-friendly cafés, co-working spots, and alternative workspaces, all offering free Wi-Fi (a given in most places these days), plenty of power sockets, welcoming staff, and an ambiance that actually helps you focus.
And because working from cafés—even the quieter ones—has become trickier over the years (is it just me, or does the level of tolerance start running low after 40?), I’ve also included quieter spots such as libraries, bookshops, and versatile venues.
Whether you’re a freelancer, remote worker, or creative professional, these spaces offer the perfect balance of comfort and productivity in the heart of the city.
Find these and more cool spots in my London Alternative Travel Map
Best work-friendly cafés London
Co-working cafes in London > Gecko | Shoreditch
Nestled in the heart of Shoreditch, Gecko Coffeehouse is a vibrant independent café celebrated for its vegan menu and specialty coffees. This laptop-friendly café features a spacious, dedicated workspace on the lower ground floor, providing a quiet retreat for freelancers. Upstairs, you can enjoy a lively atmosphere with a variety of plant-based pastries and light bites. The café also offers the option to add CBD drops to your drinks—perfect for unwinding after a long day of focused work. The staff are known for their friendliness, and the ambiance is both cozy and conducive to productivity.
Work-friendly cafes in London > Fuckoffee | Bethnal Green
Located just steps from the top of Brick Lane down Bethnal Green Road, Fuckoffee is a trendy and pleasant coffee shop that offers a unique and edgy atmosphere. The establishment is known for its great coffee and quick service, making it a popular spot among locals and visitors alike. The interior is adorned with humorous and provocative decor, adding to its distinctive charm. It’s an excellent space to relax, work, and enjoy a quality cup of coffee.
Laptop-friendly cafés in London > Clifton Nurseries Cafe | Little Venice
Set within a lush greenhouse in Little Venice, Clifton Nurseries Café offers a serene and light-filled environment surrounded by an abundance of plants. The natural light and greenery create a refreshing ambiance, making it an ideal spot for creative work. The café serves a selection of delicious meals, with a menu that caters to various dietary preferences. The combination of good food and a tranquil setting makes it a favorite among creative writers seeking inspiration.
Co-working cafes in London > The Broca | Brockley
For those who prefer a laid-back workspace with a plant-based menu, the vegan café The Broca in Brockley is an excellent choice. The vibe is relaxed, with an easygoing crowd that makes it feel like a second home. Their selection of vegan cakes and cookies is a highlight, perfect for fueling a long work session with a sweet treat. The café’s cozy environment ensures a stress-free experience, making it a great spot to settle in with your laptop.
Work-friendly cafes in London > Nasty Gallery & Café | Hackney Wick
A hidden gem in Hackney Wick, Nasty Gallery & Café seamlessly blends an art space with a café, offering a creative and inspiring setting for freelancers. The gallery showcases emerging artists, adding a cultural touch to your workday. Outside, a charming garden provides an alternative setting to work al fresco. Whether inside or outside, the combination of art and a relaxed atmosphere makes it an enjoyable and motivating space.
Best places to work remotely in London > Two More Years | Fish Island
This spacious venue on Fish Island is a go-to spot for creative professionals. With an art gallery, a beautiful terrace overlooking the water, and an abundance of natural light, Two More Years is an aesthetically pleasing place to work. The venue fosters a sense of community, and the ample seating ensures that freelancers can find a comfortable spot to work for hours.
Co-working cafes in London > The Elgin Pub | Maida Vale
Not all pubs are suited for working, but The Elgin in Maida Vale is an exception. This elegant yet cozy pub offers a quiet atmosphere throughout the day, making it a suitable space to work with a coffee before transitioning to a casual drink in the evening. The bright interior and soft background music contribute to a productive environment, making it a top choice for those who enjoy a relaxed work setting.
Work-friendly cafes in London > L’eau a la Bouche | Hackney
A Hackney favorite, L’eau à la Bouche is a must-visit café in the heart of Broadway Market. Known for its fantastic food and well-crafted coffee, this spot attracts both locals looking for a warm, inviting workspace. However, laptops are not allowed on weekends, so it’s best suited for weekday work sessions.
Best places to work remotely in London > Mare Street Market | Hackney
More than just a café, Mare Street Market is a concept store that combines work-friendly spaces with stylish decor. The variety of seating—ranging from couches and communal tables to more intimate nooks—makes it an excellent choice for remote workers looking for a change of scenery. The atmosphere is lively yet not overwhelming, allowing you to stay focused while soaking in the creative energy of the space. And when it’s time to close your laptop, you’ll find plenty to explore: a vinyl shop, a restaurant, a flower shop, a deli, an art gallery, and a packed event calendar featuring everything from DJ sets to music nights.
Laptop-friendly cafés in London > Grow | Hackney Wick
For freelancers who appreciate an eco-conscious and community-oriented environment, Grow in Hackney Wick is a fantastic option. This social enterprise offers an alternative workspace with ethical coffee, sustainable practices, and a riverside terrace that provides a refreshing outdoor setting. More than just a café, it’s a cultural hub that has resisted the wave of gentrification, standing as one of the last true social bars in Hackney Wick—rooted in creativity, activism, and an independent spirit.
Work-friendly cafes in London > Clover’s Brixton | Brixton
A beautifully designed café in Brixton, Clover’s is a quiet, well-lit space with great coffee. The interior is carefully curated, featuring comfortable seating and large windows that allow plenty of natural light. The peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal setting for deep focus and long work sessions.
Best places to work remotely in London > Eastern Curve Garden | Dalston
For those who prefer to work in a green space, Eastern Curve Garden in Dalston is a unique alternative. This secluded garden offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for writing, brainstorming, or reading while surrounded by nature. Though it may not be suitable for long laptop sessions due to limited power outlets, it’s a great spot for an inspiring work session.
Co-working cafes in London > Café OTO | Dalston
A staple of East London’s creative scene, Café OTO is known for its specialty coffee and hipster charm. By day, it’s a relaxed space where freelancers can work in a quiet yet social environment. By night, it transforms into a venue for experimental music performances, making it an inspiring place for creative minds.
Best places to work remotely in London > Tea Darling | Acton
For those who enjoy working in a cozy setting with a good cup of tea, Tearoom in Acton is an excellent choice. I’d call it the best afternoon tea experience in London—uncomplicated, unpretentious, and all about great tea in a relaxed, welcoming setting. It’s the perfect spot for those seeking a comfortable and distraction-free workspace.
Work-friendly cafes in London > Petitou Café | Peckham
Tucked away on a quiet corner in Peckham, Petitou Café is a charming, light-filled spot with a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for a productive work session. Its high ceilings, large windows, and leafy surroundings create a refreshing space to focus. The coffee is excellent, and the menu offers simple yet delicious options, making it a great place to settle in for a few hours of work. The vibe is unpretentious and welcoming, making it a favorite among writers looking for a calm escape from the busier cafés in the city center.
Libraries for work in London
Best places to work remotely in London > V&A Library | Chelsea
For a more traditional work environment, the Victoria & Albert Museum Library in Chelsea offers a stunning and quiet setting. While membership is required, it’s an invaluable resource for those who need access to academic materials, historic archives, or simply a distraction-free workspace within one of London’s most inspiring museums.
Remote work spots in London > Peckham Library | Peckham
An architecturally striking library, Peckham Library provides an excellent workspace with an inspiring view over London’s skyline. The modern design, natural lighting, and quiet ambiance make it a fantastic choice for freelancers who need a professional and peaceful environment to concentrate.
Bookshops with seating in London
Laptop-friendly cafés in London > Foyles | Soho
One of London’s most beloved bookstores, Foyles in Soho is a haven for book lovers and freelancers alike. The top floor features a beautiful café where visitors can work while enjoying a well-stocked selection of books and a fantastic view over the city. The atmosphere is relaxed, making it a great place to combine reading, writing, and remote work.
Bonus perk: You can find my book, As Seen on the Streets of Paris, on the shelves here!
Places to work remotely in London
Remote work spots in London > Barbican | Central London
For those who prefer a more unconventional workspace, the Barbican Centre offers a unique environment filled with plants, quiet corners, and ample seating. Its tranquil setting makes it one of the best non-café locations for remote work. Whether you’re looking for a spot to focus or take creative inspiration from your surroundings, the Barbican is an excellent choice.
London offers a diverse range of work-friendly spaces for freelancers and digital nomads, from stylish cafés to peaceful libraries and unconventional cultural venues. Whether you thrive in a bustling coffeehouse, a quiet library, or a garden retreat, there’s a perfect spot for every work style.
Find these and more cool spots in my London Alternative Travel Map
