Your guide to living in Leeds
When it comes to Leeds, there’s a lot to say. For starters, it’s the city that gave us Marks & Sparks, Pudsey Bear and Scary Spice. And, as a country, where would we be without all these things? It’s also home to four huge universities, it has a shopping space bigger than Heathrow and the weather is considerably better than in fellow Northern city, Manchester.
With all this in mind, it seems like Leeds is a pretty great city to be in. So we thought we’d share our detailed guide on all the wonderful things that the ever-popular city of Leeds can offer...
Where is it?
Located north of England in West Yorkshire, Leeds is the third largest city in the UK after Birmingham and London! Despite its location up in the north - on a good day, Leeds is a three and a half hour car drive from London, or a two and a half hour train journey from London Kings Cross. The city is also well connected to cities including Newcastle, Manchester and Bristol – all of which have quick and direct train services!
What’s the transport like?
The bus routes are pretty handy, which not only go in and out of Leeds city centre but all around the surrounding areas too, making it easy peasy to get around. The city is also a great place for cycling- many of the main roads in and out of Leeds city centre with cycle lanes or paths to help make cycling safer. Leeds Railway Station, the city's main rail station is also the third busiest in the UK outside of London!
Where do the locals go?
Parks: With around 4,000 hectares of green space across the city, Leeds is one of the greenest places to live in Europe! Roundhay Park is one of the most popular parks in Europe, covering over 700 acres of rolling parkland with woodlands, lakes, and playground. Find Woodhouse Moor (or more commonly known as Hyde Park) jam-packed especially during the summer months, a popular spot with the younger crowds. It also has six tennis courts that can be used for free throughout the year!
Events & Activities: The nightlife in Leeds is definitely one of the best. If you love a good night out then you haven’t lived until you’ve experienced Leeds! Special mentions go to Beavorworks, Mint Warehouse and Hi-Fi - three huge venues in and around the city hosting events all year round, perfect to dance the night away until the early hours. For all you sports fans, watch the latest varsity cricket and rugby matches at Headingley Stadium.
The best restaurants: One thing Leeds does well in particular is a hearty breakfast. With three locations dotted around the city, you’ll find each of the IF… Up North cafe’s filled with the Leeds locals every day. But the only thing better than brunch… is bottomless brunch. So if you enjoy an 11am tipple on a Saturday, Shears Yard is where you want to be. For £25 you’re free to guzzle as much prosecco (or Bloody Mary’s) as you can within an hour and a half, along with a brunch dish to soak up all that alcohol. Specialising in focaccia and ciabatta sandwiches, Bakery 164 is the ultimate spot for students in Leeds. You’ll have to queue though… we did warn you it’s popular!
The best pubs: Ok, we know this isn’t a specific pub recommendation, but it’s a pub crawl recommendation. The Otley Run stretching across the Otley Road, and is usually done in fancy dress. It’s a Saturday tradition with hundreds of people attempting to visit all 15 pubs (although some may say its 18...) For something a little more civilised, head on over to Headrow House for some cocktails on one of their two rooftop bars. The East Village in Hyde Park is a cool bar serving up strong cocktails with a laid-back vibe.
The best coffee shops: Located in the heart of Leeds city centre, Miles & Co is one of the best coffee shops in the city. Grab yourself an oat milk latte, finished with stunning coffee art alongside a delicious cinnamon bun and you will not be let down. Grön Kafe, located in Oakwood, serves up healthy and clean eats alongside coffee and juices. Special shoutout to their French toast…
Shops: Who said the high street was dead?! Leeds is famous for being a prime destination for shoppers in the UK, featuring over 3.5 million square feet of retail space, more than 5 miles of dedicated shopping streets, and the longest pedestrianised shopping area in the country! Leeds is known for traditional shopping arcades, with stunning gothic arches and stunning architecture. Leeds Corn Exchange is packed full of independent stores, and hosts a Christmas market with street food and DJ sets! Victoria Leeds is your one stop shop for designer brands, indie stores and they even host events, all in a Victorian style arcade.
What’s it famous for?
Well we’ve already mentioned M&S, Pudsey Bear and Scary Spice; three national treasures, but what else? The city is also known for its very own Leeds Festival, one of the most popular festivals in the UK which is paired alongside Reading Festival. Taking place annually over the bank holiday weekend in August, it attracts around 105,000 visitors every year! Oh and finally, and did you know that fizzy drinks were invented in Leeds?!
Want to know the average room rent for Leeds, and other UK towns and cities? Check out our latest guide here!
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