From library to latte: Study breaks that actually work

There’s a very specific kind of guilt that comes with closing your laptop mid-revision. You tell yourself you’ll just take five minutes, and suddenly you’re deep into scrolling, feeling more drained than before.

What I’ve realised over time is simple. Breaks aren’t the problem. It’s the way we take them.

And in a city like London, especially in spring, staying glued to your screen feels like missing out. The weather softens, parks start blooming, and the whole city feels lighter. Doomscrolling can’t compete with that.

Movement breaks that clear your head

One of my go-to resets is walking. Around Strand, I usually head towards South Bank or cross Waterloo Bridge. It’s a simple route, but the river, street performers, and open space make it worth your time.

Near Bloomsbury, Russell Square is easily one of my favourites. In spring, the greenery and quieter paths make it ideal for a calm reset. You can also explore nearby gardens like Bloomsbury Square Garden, which has a really peaceful spring vibe.

London has some great beginner-friendly cycling routes. A good starting point is the Transport for London cycling guide. Even a short ride between campuses can double as both a commute and a mental reset.

For something more structured, King’s offers BeActive sessions and access to King's Move, where you can track activity and earn rewards like free King’s Food vouchers. There’s also Les Mills+ for quick guided workouts when you want something easy to do from your room. If you’re in King’s residences, you can join things like Pilates and yoga sessions happening right in your halls through the Resi Sport and Wellness programme, so you don’t even need to go far to stay active.

Exploration breaks that refresh your focus

Changing environments has helped me more than I expected. On days when everything starts to feel repetitive, I leave my usual desk and go somewhere new.

Somerset House has lowkey become my study break reset spot. You can pop in, wander around, or just chill in the courtyard and instantly feel like you’ve turned off revision mode. Watch out for some cool stuff coming up in the Somerset House, like the free Upgrade Yourself Monthly: DIY Publishing and Zine Making workshop and the Sony World Photography Awards exhibition. The best part? As a King’s student, you get a discounted ticket.

For study spots, I like rotating between campus libraries and quieter corners I stumble across. Some days I’ll stay at King’s, other days I switch it up completely. King’s students can also access Senate House Library and the British Library with a Reader’s Pass. A new environment, even for an hour, can reset your attention in a way that staying put rarely does.

Treat breaks that feel earned

Some breaks are about movement. Others are about comfort.

A quick coffee run has become part of my routine. I tend to stop by Black Sheep Coffee or Blank Street Coffee near the Strand when I want something quick and reliable.

On slower days, I like picking somewhere that feels a bit more like a reward. Java Whiskers Cat Café is one of those places that instantly lifts your mood. And for pastries, Cruffins is on my list for when I want to properly treat myself.

Breaks can be turned into memories when shared. A quick coffee or snack with friends does more for your mood than sitting alone at your desk.

Why this actually works

The difference between scrolling and a real break is intention. One drains you, the other resets you. Stepping outside, moving your body, or even just changing your environment gives your brain a proper pause. That’s what make you come back sharper.

If you feel guilty taking breaks, read Lily's article exploring the art of not feeling guilty when you are stuck between chasing sunshine and deadlines.

And for my next revision break, I already know what I’m doing. A walk across Waterloo Bridge, a coffee in hand, and no phone in sight.