The Shield Cafe: Re-Opening

Hello Charterhouse Square, it's good to be back! We're reopening the doors of The Shield Cafe in September and can't wait to say hello.


The Shield Café is back! We're re-opening in time for Arrivals Weekend on Saturday 12th September, and we're getting ready to welcome the Charterhouse Square community. 

Whether you're grabbing your first coffee of the day, catching up with friends over lunch, finding a quiet place to study, or hosting your next society or department event, The Shield is here for you right in the centre of campus below Dawson Halls.

But this is more than the reopening of a café. It's the return of a space where students, staff and researchers come together every day.

Where Charterhouse Comes Together

The Shield has always been more than somewhere to grab a coffee. It's where conversations begin, ideas are shared, friendships grow and communities are built. We'll be bringing back everything you know and love about the cafe space, with an even greater focus on creating a welcoming space at the heart of the Charterhouse Square campus. 

Whether you're popping in for five minutes or spending an afternoon studying with friends, we'd love to welcome you to the space. We've also got free wi-fi, lots of power sockets and comfortable seating.

Great Coffee. Fresh Food. Friendly Faces.

We've refreshed what we offer so you can enjoy:

  • Barista-made coffee and a range of hot and cold drinks
  • Fresh pastries and breakfast favourites
  • Delicious lunches, sandwiches, salads and snacks
  • Sweet treats for that well-earned break
  • Comfortable spaces to study or work
  • Free Wi-Fi and plenty of places to plug in and recharge

Whether you're looking for your morning coffee, a lunchtime catch-up or an afternoon pick-me-up, we've got you covered.

More Than a Café

The Shield is designed to be a space for the whole Charterhouse community.

Looking for somewhere to meet? Our flexible spaces are perfect for:

  • Clubs & Societies committee meetings
  • Student group socials
  • Departmental meetings
  • Workshops and networking events
  • Hospitality and catering
  • Celebrations and parties
  • Private bookings

If you're planning an event, we'd love to help bring it to life. Book your meeting, event or hospitality here.

Every Coffee Gives Something Back

The Shield is proudly run by Queen Mary Students' Union, so we're a not-for-profit and not a commercial coffee shop. That means every coffee you buy, every lunch you enjoy and every event you host helps support the activities, opportunities and services we provide for students across Queen Mary. 

From supporting student societies and sports clubs to funding representation, advice and student-led activities, every purchase helps make a difference.


Come and Say Hello

Whether you're a returning student, new to Charterhouse Square or a member of staff looking for your new favourite lunch spot, we'd love to welcome you through our doors. So next time you're on campus, pop in, grab a coffee and stay a while.

The Shield | Where Charterhouse Comes Together.


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