Moving to Leeds for University? Explore Like a Local

Starting university in a new city is exciting. Between finding your lecture halls, settling into accommodation and meeting new people, there's a lot to take in during those first few weeks.

But while it's easy to stick to campus and the city centre hotspots, Leeds has so much more to offer. From independent coffee shops and hidden food spots to bustling markets and cultural gems, getting to know the city beyond your student accommodation can make Leeds feel like home much sooner.

If you're moving to Leeds for university this year, here's how to explore the city like a local.

Get beyond the student bubble

Leeds is home to one of the largest student populations in the UK, and it's easy to spend your first few months moving between campus, your accommodation and the same handful of bars.

But some of the city's best experiences are waiting just beyond the obvious spots.

Take some time to explore different neighbourhoods, independent businesses and local events. Areas like Leeds Dock, the Corn Exchange, Kirkgate Market and Chapel Allerton each offer something completely different and help you discover the character that makes Leeds unique.

Image taken from The Galley Delicatessen in Leeds Market

Support Leeds' independent food scene

One of the best ways to get to know any city is through its food.

Leeds has an incredible independent food and drink scene, with everything from family-run bakeries and street food vendors to award-winning restaurants and hidden gems tucked away down side streets.

Image taken from Underground Bakery

Exploring independent venues not only helps you discover fantastic food, but also gives you a real feel for the people, creativity and culture that make Leeds special.

You may even find your new go-to coffee shop, lunch spot or date-night restaurant along the way.

Image taken from Alfonso's Deli

Read our blogs below for food and drink inspo:

• Where to find the best Matcha in Leeds
• Things to do in Leeds City Centre
• Where to get a good spritz in Leeds
• The best pizza spots in Leeds
• Coffee shops in Leeds
  

Step away from the main shopping streets

While Briggate and Trinity Leeds are popular destinations, some of the city's most interesting businesses can be found elsewhere.

Image taken from the Corn Exchange.

The beautiful Corn Exchange is packed with independent retailers, while Kirkgate Market offers everything from international street food to local produce. The Victorian arcades are also worth exploring, with unique shops and some stunning architecture.

Explore with friends

One of the challenges of moving to university is meeting new people.

Exploring Leeds with your flatmates, course mates or new friends is a great way to build connections while discovering the city together. Whether you're trying a new restaurant, visiting a market or hunting down the best coffee in town, shared experiences often become your favourite university memories.

Image taken from Rivers Run Club

Some events to get involved with are: 

• Green Room Run Club (every Saturday morning)
• Rivers Run Club (once a month on a Sunday)
• Litter Free Leeds
• Various community events at Left Bank
• Leeds Girl Network and Girls Who Walk Leeds
• Various book clubs, Truman Books in Farsley, Chapterdwithabs in Kirkstall, Waterstones and The Bookish Type in town.

Discover Leeds one bite at a time

If you're not sure where to start, our Leeds Student Food Tour has been created specifically for students who want to explore the city beyond campus.

Available through the Indie Food Tours app, this self-guided experience takes you to independent food spots, local favourites and hidden gems that Leeds residents love.

It's a fun way to get your bearings, discover great places to eat and feel at home in your new city.

Whether you're arriving in Leeds for the first time or returning for another year, it's the perfect introduction to everything the city has to offer.

Find out more here.

Welcome to Leeds!

Leeds is a vibrant, friendly and creative city with far more to offer than LBU and Leeds Uni lecture theatres and student nights.

The sooner you start exploring, the sooner you'll discover the restaurants, cafés, bars and hidden corners that will make Leeds feel like your home away from home.

Ready to start your adventure? Download the Indie Food Tours app and discover Leeds, one bite at a time.