Cafe. Bedroom. Cafe. Library. Cafe. Bedroom. Library. Cafe. UGH.

The life of a freelance worker can be a never-ending rotation between the same places. You can only work at a cafe for a couple of days before you get recognised as being one of the staff. You can only work at home for a couple of days before you feel like an unsociable cat man or lady.

So where are some cool places that a freelancer can be productive yet still have a life? We asked you for your suggestions, and here's the pick of the litter.

Duke Studio – Leeds

We got many recommendations for Duke Studio Leeds, a new creative space in the heart of the city. Their aim is to provide freelancers and workers a lovely space to work in (funky flooring, work spaces made out of cardboard, benches indoors) but also the opportunity to meet like-minded people doing the same thing as you. 

The place also features facilities such as a photographic studio, vinyl and laser cutting, as well as a workshop and meeting room.

The Custard Factory – Birmingham

The Custard Factory, once an actual factory that actually did make custard, now is a massive arts and media quarter providing subsidised studio offices from just £40 a week. 

You’ll find yourself surrounded by more than 500 artists, sculptors, small offices and designers, holistic therapy rooms, art galleries and dance studios, which I guess is a bit more exciting than being surrounded by boring office types and students at Starbucks.

Hub Islington – London

Hub Islington, a converted warehouse, is pretty much a home from home for entrepreneurs, artists, inventors and freelancers, because along with all of the basics (wireless internet, meeting rooms and printers) there’s also shelving, books everywhere, lots of lovely plants and a homely kitchen.

As for cost, there are different tariffs according to how long you are using it for. Prices start at £10 for 5 hours a month, or 30 hours for £60 a month.

There’s also Hub Kings Cross – a working space aimed for at those whose work specifically benefits the local community, has a social mission or is non-profit.

Jelly Thursdays – all over the UK

Started in 2006 by two New York freelancers who were bored working alone, Jelly allows freelancers and home workers to come together, work, chat, seek advice and collaborate on different projects every few weeks.

Best of all, the events are free, so long as you pay towards the kitty for any food or drink you have. To find your nearest venue, click here.

Also check out...

If none of these fit the bill or you’re trying to find one that is closer to you, check out Loosecubes.com. Here you’ll be able to find a whole lot of places across the UK that offer working spaces to suit your budget.

There’s also Desk Wanted, which provides a handy little directory of work spaces across the UK.

Have any more suggestions? Let us know in the comments below.

Related: Home, office, cafe – where to work.

Image: Workplace by wovox, available under a CC BY-NC-ND 2.0 license. 

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