Why I love living in Leeds

I can assure you that if you’re looking to be part of a big student city, then Leeds is the place for you. I have lived near Leeds my whole life and I have still not explored every area of it. There is so much to do and there are new places popping up all the time. One of the main reasons why I chose to study here was because it was so close to my hometown. It was also because I enjoy the busy, diverse, city lifestyle combined with the fact that everything is in close range and walkable.

Friendly, diverse community

Leeds is a very diverse city, filled with friendly people who are willing to help and guide you if needed. The city is home to multiple universities which means that it is very student oriented and offers a lot of student accommodation around the city centre and further out, depending on what you are looking for. Since the city has a huge student community, I’ve found that you are surrounded by similar minded people and there are lots of opportunities to make friends. Whether you’re from the area like me or you’re moving from far away, having students around will make the transition to uni easier and will make you become more independent. Being part of the Leeds community has really opened windows of opportunity for me and I’m sure it will for others as well. For instance, a few students and staff from my degree live in Leeds and so this really helped me to gain access to and learn about volunteering opportunities and jobs related to my degree and for my placement.

Vibrant social life

Leeds has a variety of social activities to fit your mood throughout the day and night. The city is well known for its vibrant and inclusive nightlife. For those of you who enjoy partying, Leeds is full of pubs and bars and many even offer student discounts, which you can’t go wrong with. If you’re not keen on partying, there are plenty of other options and activities for you to enjoy. Leeds centre has two cinemas, mini indoor golf, bowling and games rooms which all also come with student discounts. It’s safe to say that Leeds accommodates students financially and understands our student budgets. I personally enjoy going to the different escape rooms and trying new food places in the city with my friends. Leeds has around six different venues which all do different types of locked in rooms with different themes and styles, so whatever you fancy, they’ll be able to accommodate to you.  

Endless options for shopping, eating and drinking

If you are a shopaholic like me, then you will never want to leave Leeds. The city has a variety of shops from top brands, classy chic to thrift shops and high street fashion, it caters to everyone’s style and needs. The Trinity shopping centre in the middle of town has over 120 shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. It is an amazing place to shop and relax with friends. It also has lots of benefits for students with many stores offering student discounts and sometimes they are looking for people to work part-time. Another thing I love about the Trinity centre is that they hold a lock in once a year for the full day where loads of offers and freebies are given to students. So definitely go to that if you can! 

Millennium square is also a great place to grab a bite to eat or a drink. It's a short walk from Beckett university city campus and it usually holds different festivals and events throughout the year, which is perfect to go with friends or family. The food in Leeds is amazing and there are so many places to suit everyone’s dietary requirements and needs. Your every craving can be satisfied here as it is bursting with different cuisines at every corner. My personal favourite food spot has to be Nando’s. Who doesn’t love a cheeky Nando’s!? Also, as I only eat halal food, I do have to be careful of where I eat but that’s another positive aspect to Leeds, it has a lot of places suitable for Muslims. There are a couple of places in the Trinity Kitchen that are halal and the atmosphere in that place is amazing, so I recommend trying it out. 

Employment options

Lastly, if you need help getting a part time job, the city has lots of great opportunities. The university is excellent at providing lists of places that are hiring. I have had a look at the student services system and seen that there are a lot of jobs available. I am currently a student ambassador which means that I am employed by the university and I found out about this role through the university system. My ambassador role is a casual, paid job and it is very worthwhile so I would highly recommend students to apply for it, if it’s available as I really enjoy representing my course.

From this blog I hope it’s clear to see why I love the city of Leeds and why I think you would too. Everything you may need is so close by. Especially if you are situated in the city campus like me, then everything is right on your doorstep. I highly recommend that you to come to Leeds and study at LBU, not only because it is a great university that cares about its students but also if you’re looking to move and want to be part of a welcoming community.