Coming to University can be more than a little bit overwhelming. With so many cool places in Leeds to explore, it’s difficult to know where to begin.

Leeds has so much to do that you’ll never be bored, and there’s places to be visited to suit everyone, whatever the weather. Below are just a few of my favourites.

Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen – City Centre

Belgrave describes itself as ‘music, art, film, food and good vibes spread across three floors, including Leeds’ most spectacular roof terrace’. It is a laid back, 1930’s style venue about ten minutes walk from Leeds Beckett’s City Campus. The menu boasts a wide range of drinks - from cocktails, to mock-tails to coffee! The in-house pizza kitchen serves the best pizza around, which is available to buy by the slice. All slices are HALF PRICE until 7pm, Sunday to Thursday, and until 5pm on Friday and Saturday! They have a tasty burger menu too, and Vegan and Veggie options are also available. Belgrave has film screenings and live music weekly, and live DJ’s daily! You can also get involved with free yoga classes every Thursday. It’s definitely a place worth checking out.

Georgie Coulston - Patty Smith's burgers at Belgrave Music Hall

The Bowery Visual Arts – Headingley

The Bowery is a small, relaxed café in the heart of Headingley, just off Otley Road. Super friendly staff help to serve some of the tastiest coffee, cakes and smoothies in the area. They also have an interesting menu filled with healthy but delicious plates and snacks. Upstairs to the café you will find an art space which boasts the work of various different independent artists from within the Leeds area. There’s also a classroom which is used as a creative space for different lessons that you can sign up for, including; photography, singing, crocheting, upholstery, life drawing and loads more! It’s a great place to explore your inner creativity.

Georgie Coulston - The Bowery cafe and art gallery

Meanwood Valley Urban Farm – Meanwood

Looking for a fun day out that won’t break the bank? Try Meanwood Valley Urban Farm located on Meanwood Beck.  Spreading across 24 acres, it can be found just a couple of miles outside of Leeds City Centre, which means you don’t have to venture far out into the countryside to enjoy a day exploring a real-life working farm. The farm also has beautiful woodland footpaths to explore, that can help you to escape the busy city life. Make sure to pack your wellies as there is a lot of rich wildlife to be explored! The varying countryside walks are home to three lovely ponds. If you are feeling like something a little more chilled out, you can relax in The Barn Coffee Shop; it’s open every day from 10am-4pm. The cafe is really relaxing and welcoming, with comfortable seating both indoors and outdoors.

Georgie Coulston - sheep at Meanwood farm

Trinity Shopping Centre – City Centre

For all of you that love to shop, do not worry! The Trinity Leeds shopping centre in the City Centre boasts over 120 brands, all under one roof - so they have got you covered, whatever the occasion. After you’re done shopping, why not get a bite to eat in Trinity Kitchen? ‘With a concept that is completely unique, Trinity Kitchen rotates six new street food vans every eight weeks and offers visitors the chance to experience various flavours and cuisines under one roof!’ It’s really does have something to suit every taste and every budget, so it’s always worth checking out.

The Corn Exchange – City Centre

The Corn Exchange is a beautiful building that’s well worth a visit. It’s packed full of boutique shops where you can find a perfect little gift for a friend, or something more quirky and unique for yourself. There’s yummy fresh food and coffee on offer too (for example 'Humpit', Leeds' world-famous hummus bar), so it’s a great place to go on that lazy weekend afternoon. Stunning Victorian Architecture means that you’ll find that perfect shot for your Instagram feed too!

Georgie Coulston image of Corn Exchange shops

Georgie

Hi, I'm Georgie and I'm a final year English and Media student from Manchester. I have a real passion for writing and all things literary! When I'm not at university you can find me watching documentaries and spending time with my friends.

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