If you’re studying at London College of Communication (LCC), University of the Arts London, chances are you’re not just here for the lectures and deadline-induced caffeine shakes. You're here for the scene. The LCC campus in Elephant and Castle puts you smack dab in a buzzing pocket of South London where the creative chaos spills from studios into cafés, bars, and the kind of hangout spots that scream, “Yes, I’m artsy and I sip overpriced cold brew.”
Here’s your go-to list of the top cafés, bars, and hangout spots near LCC—handpicked for those who take their aesthetic just as seriously as their assignments.
Cafés Near LCC, UAL
Hej Coffee – Scandinavian vibes, strong espresso, and even stronger Wi-Fi. Located just a few minutes from LCC, it’s a fave for students looking to cram in peace while surrounded by exposed brick and good taste.
Urban Elephant – This quirky little café is big on charm, with brunch dishes that’ll distract you from your workload and pastries that have no business being that good. Pro tip: get the banana bread.
The Colombian Coffee Company – Ethical beans, top-tier flat whites, and a minimalist space that screams “yes, I read zines.” Great for pretending to study while people-watching.
The Roasting Shed at Mercato Metropolitano – Not your average study spot, but a whole food and drink haven where the coffee is elite, the lighting is perfect, and the vibe is pure LCC.
Kudu Coffee Shop – If you’re up for a short walk to Peckham, Kudu’s wild interiors and next-level coffee are 100% worth the detour. Bonus: their playlist slaps.
Sons + Daughters – Okay technically a sandwich bar, but hear us out—the coffee’s good, the seating is vibey, and the toasts? Life-changing.
Toulouse Lautrec Café – A vintage French café-piano bar hybrid just off the main road, perfect for when you want to pretend you’re in Paris instead of drowning in coursework.
Bars Near LCC, UAL
The Prince of Wales (POW) – Iconic Brixton rooftop. Iconic crowd. Iconic amount of regret the next morning. If you’re after DJs and dancefloors after dark, this place delivers.
The Tankard – Classic pub meets rooftop bar, just a short stroll from campus. Great for after-seminar drinks or low-key rants about group projects over pints.
The Libertine – Moody lighting, exposed brick, and cocktail menus with personality. Basically, your go-to for pretending you have your life together.
Simmons Bar Elephant & Castle – Known for chaotic happy hours and neon lights that make every selfie questionable. A favourite for pre-drinks or complete social spirals.
The Paperworks – A creative outdoor space (yes, complete with fairy lights and food stalls) that doubles as a bar and cultural hangout. Come for the drinks, stay for the vibe.
The Albert Arms – A chill pub with top-tier Sunday roasts and a semi-respectable wine list. Perfect if you want a quieter, more “mature” energy while still being broke.
Mercato Metropolitano Bar – The ultimate “why choose one drink when you can have ten from different stalls” location. It's outdoors, it's bougie on a budget, and it's packed with students.
Hangout Spots Near LCC, UAL
Mercato Metropolitano – More than just a food market. It’s a lifestyle. Street food, indie films, sustainability workshops, and general “I live in London and I’m thriving” energy.
Elephant Park – Surprisingly green for a London campus hangout. Great for lunch breaks, existential crises under the trees, or awkward first dates.
Southbank – A slightly longer walk or a quick tube ride away, but worth it for riverside views, buskers, skate culture, and that pretentious-but-adorable book market under Waterloo Bridge.
The Cinema Museum – A hidden gem and totally on-brand for LCC students. It’s weird, retro, and has events that range from film screenings to vintage fairs.
Borough Market – For when you want to “treat yourself” to artisanal cheese and truffle fries instead of instant ramen. Ideal for foodies and flexing on your Instagram story.
Tate Modern’s Turbine Hall – Close enough for a spontaneous creative recharge. Sit on the steps, soak in the art, and pretend you’re writing your dissertation in your head.
Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens – Don’t let the name fool you, it’s a legit chill park with space for picnics, dog-watching, and that sweet sweet serotonin from being outdoors.
That’s your LCC survival list of coffee, cocktails, and creative energy all within striking distance of campus. Whether you're cramming at a corner table or sipping cocktails like you're not in debt, House of Students knows the neighbourhood and the vibes that make it a student-friendly jungle out there.