If you’re moving to Leeds this month for university then we’ve rounded up ten places which we think you should put to the top of your priority list.
We know it can feel daunting moving to a new city but if you’re moving to Leeds then first of all, lucky you and second of all, we’ve got you covered.
From affordable foodie hot spots to perfect places to break the ice with your new flat mates, here are ten places you should put to the top of your priority list (after studying, of course).
Belgrave Music Hall & Canteen
Cross Belgrave Street
Belgrave Music Hall is an absolute student staple, pop here for a few drinks after lectures and we can promise you’ll have a whale of a time. Live music, a stunning rooftop terrace, cocktails, beer and half price pizza slices during the week…it’s an absolute no brainer really.
Roxy Ballroom
Merrion Street, Boar Lane
Looking to break the ice with your new flat mates? Then head to Roxy Ballroom for a couple games of beer pong and a few cheeky cocktails. They’ve also got a great selection of food including pizzas which are perfect for sharing and loaded fries to snack on mid-game.
Things In Bread
Boar Lane
On Boar Lane in the city centre you will find Things In Bread who serve up the best sandwiches in Leeds (big statement, we know). So get yourself down there and fuel up before the first semester.
With weekly specials this is a spot you’ll be going back to time and time again, eager to sample the delicious concoctions they’re putting out. They’re affordable, filling and just all round fantastic sarnies.
Headingley Heights
Otley Road, Headingley
Closer to campus you’ll find The Box Bar’s rooftop terrace in Headingley. A great spot to watch some live sport in the sunshine and relax with a few bevvies. Who doesn’t love a good rooftop right?
The Tetley
Hunslet Road
It can’t all be nights out and partying (although we wish it could be), so seek a bit of culture at The Tetley. What was once home to one of Leeds’ largest brewing dynasties is now a contemporary art gallery with loads of great free exhibitions to explore.
They’ve also got a great cafe and bar for you to fuel up once you’re done being a culture vulture.
Bundobust
6 Mill Hill
Bundobust is a proper Leeds landmark – and if you know, you know. Indian street food served at an affordable price alongside a selection of their own beers and cocktails. They do a great deal called the ‘Combo for 2’ where you can get a selection of dishes for just £30.
And it’s all vegetarian with a huge selection of vegan dishes on offer as well, so everyone in your flat can enjoy some tasty grub. Get the Okra Fries, you won’t regret it.
Electric Shuffle
123 The Headrow
Fancy a quick game of shuffleboard? Get competitive with your new mates at Electric Shuffle, the only immersive shuffleboard experience outside of London! The perfect bonding experience between new mates after a day of lectures.
Leeds Kirkgate Market
Kirkgate
Leeds Kirkgate Market is one of our favourite places in the city. It is a market drenched in history and innovation, being home to the largest indoor market in Europe when it opened back in 1857.
The market is a must-visit when in town, showcasing lots of street food vendors who serve grub from around the world at an affordable price. It’s a no brainer really.
Water Lane Boathouse
Canal Wharf, Holbeck
By the canal you’ll find Water Lane Boathouse, a proper scenic spot for a drink or two whilst watching the world go by (with half price pizzas on Sunday).
Their cocktails are two for £12 all day, every day and the Aperol Spritz are absolutely spot on.
Leeds City Museum
Millenium Square
Leeds City Museum is the perfect spot to browse on a rainy afternoon, hosting a range of free exhibitions including one currently on everything Hip Hop. Running until March 2024, the museum has uncovered the history behind one of our favourite music genres.
The exhibition has recreated bedrooms, vinyl stores, barber shops and it even has a real New York Subway filled with graffiti – cool right?
That should keep you busy for the first couple of weeks, but keep an eye on our page as we’ll be giving you the low down on all things Leeds.
Featured images – The Hoot Leeds
