My favourite thing about being a student in Leeds is that the city feels like the perfect size. It’s big enough that there’s always something going on, but small enough that you learn your way around really quickly, so it never feels overwhelming. It’s also such a student-focused place, with lots of activities to get involved with.
At the University of Leeds there are societies for pretty much everything, and people from other unis in the city can often join too. I’ve done aerial sports and surfing for the last three years which has been one of my favourite parts of uni, I met loads of friends, went to socials and trips, and genuinely felt part of a community. There’s even a Quidditch society (which I haven’t personally tried, but I love that it exists.)
Where is the best place to live in Leeds as a student?
In first year, most students stay in university accommodation. All are decent but it depends on what you want. Henry Price is great if you want to be right on campus and live somewhere social with big flats. James Baillie has more of a party atmosphere but it is a bit of a walk from uni and the city centre. Central Village and CitySide are in really convenient locations between campus and town. I lived in White Rose View, which was right in the city centre and lovely and modern. However, it’s very pricey.
From second year onwards, most people move into house shares. Hyde Park is the main student area for those at the University of Leeds, and it’s always lively and close to campus. If you’re at Leeds Beckett, Headingley is usually the most convenient and has a slightly calmer feel but is still very student-friendly.
Average student rent in the area
From my experience living in Hyde Park, rent is usually around £120–£140 a week - including bills, depending on how modern the house is and how close you are to uni.
What is the student nightlife like?
The student nightlife in Leeds is honestly great because there’s something happening pretty much every night. If I just want something chill, I usually walk to my local in Hyde Park: Royal Park Pub (RPP) or Brudenell Social Club. They’re both proper student staples, and I love going with my mates to have a pint and play cards. On Tuesday evening, RPP does cheap drinks from £2.50 and has a DJ, though you do need to be ready for queues.
If I want something a bit livelier but not a full club night, Headingley has loads of bars. Box is one of my favourites, especially on Thursdays when they do karaoke, great if you’re with a group. When it comes to proper club nights, Leeds has loads of variety. Dry Dock is a club on a boat and it’s also great for karaoke on Tuesdays. Dvotion at Warehouse is also on Tuesdays and is perfect if you like house, tech or drum and bass. Wednesdays are usually Mischief, again at Warehouse, because most societies have their socials on Wednesdays and end up there afterwards. On Thursdays, Headrow House is always a solid option with multiple rooms and a rooftop that’s especially fun in summer. I’ve spent many Fridays at Fruity in the Students’ Union. It’s perfect if you love cheesy throwbacks and Taylor Swift.
Weekdays tend to be cheaper as they’re student-focused, while Call Lane is a good option on weekends but comes with slightly higher prices and more of a mixed crowd. If you’re more into rave nights or DJ events, Testbed is a newer venue that hosts some big-name DJs. Meanwhile, Beaver Works is well known for its big, themed nights, especially at Halloween and summer day festivals. For something a bit fancier, like a birthday drink or a special occasion, Sky Lounge has good cocktails and amazing views across the city.
And of course, no night out ends without food. Pitza Cano in Hyde Park is the classic spot for late-night scran, and Krispy’s is essential during the Otley Run. If you’re in town at 3am, you’ll probably end up in the McDonald’s queue with half of Leeds
What is Leeds famous for?
One of the most iconic student traditions in Leeds is the Otley Run, which is a fancy dress bar crawl through Headingley all the way into the city centre. Everyone dresses up in themed costumes and tries to make it through as many pubs as possible. It’s chaotic, hilarious and something that pretty much every student tries at least once.
What are the best places to visit in Leeds? If you want a culture fix that won’t wreck your budget, Leeds City Museum is free and right in the centre great for a rainy afternoon and home to local history, Ancient Worlds and natural science galleries. The Corn Exchange is another favourite. It’s a stunning building full of independent shops, makers, and little creative businesses. It feels completely different to mainstream high street shopping.
Best places to eat in Leeds?
Shabbas in Hyde Park is great for affordable Jamaican food and an easy dinner with friends. For a treat, Blue Sakura in town is a gorgeous all-you-can-eat Japanese restaurant where you order from an iPad, but it’s definitely more of a special occasion place. Residence Café Bar in Headingley is my go-to for brunch. And if you need a proper hangover cure, Toby Carvery is close enough to drive to and often does roasts for under £8 on student days.
Hidden gems in Leeds
One of the nicest but lesser-appreciated things about Leeds is the canal. It’s a lovely walk or run into town and feels surprisingly peaceful compared to the rest of the city. Leeds is also close to the Yorkshire Dales, so if you have access to a car, there are loads of great walks and hikes nearby. When family visits, I love taking them to Roundhay Park; it has lakes, waterfalls and The Garden Room café, which is a lovely place for brunch or coffee.
Top attractions
Mint Festival in May is a great weekend if you’re into house, tech or garage DJs. Hyde Park is always buzzing in summer, with people studying outside, having barbecues or just enjoying the sun. If you want a shopping trip, the Trinity Centre has everything from Urban Outfitters to Primark.
