As students, we all need a caffeine fix every now and again - whether it’s to stay up to do assignments or for catching up with friends. If you’re tired of the same old chain coffee companies, why not try these independent coffee shops? I can confirm they're all delicious.

  1. Mrs Atha’s
    This is one of the most popular coffee shops in town and is almost always packed. You are likely to have to queue out of the door, but it is worth the wait. Their coffee is sourced from ethical farms around the world and then roasted here in Leeds. They have an array of roasts for espresso, filter and brewed coffee as well as yummy home baked cakes. Mrs Atha’s, Central Road, LS1 6DE
  2. Café 164
    Located near the bus station, this coffee shop offers an array of sandwiches, salads and cakes to accompany their coffee, which comes from local and national independent suppliers. What’s more, the coffee shop is located inside an art gallery, meaning you can spread your visit out over an entire morning. Munro House, Duke Street, LS9 8AG
  3. Laynes Espresso
    Laynes is one of the more well-known independent coffee shops in Leeds. Located near the train station, it boasts a varied choice of coffee from Americano, mocha to a rotating range of espressos. If you’re feeling peckish, they also serve a tasty range of meals, like their famous eggs or sweetcorn fritters. There's also baked goods from Porterhouse Cake Co to enjoy with your drink. Laynes Espresso, 16 New Station, LS1 5DL
  4. Opposite
    There are two 'Opposite' cafes in Leeds, one near Leeds University and the other in Chapel Allerton. They serve a wide choice of local brews including Square Mile, Grumpy Mule and North Star. They also have lots of healthy, affordable food on offer - perfect for a student budget. Opposite Cafe, 26 Back Blenheim Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS2 9HD. Cup and Saucer by Opposite, 4 Stainbeck Lane, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS7 3QY.
  5. Sociable Folk
    This is a firm favourite for coffee aficionados. If you like strong and smoky coffee then this place is worth a visit. Their flat whites and four-ounce cortados are strong contenders for the best coffee in Leeds, plus their location (in the business area off Wellington Street) is right next to the canal. Why not make them a visit, then have a leisurely walk along the canal? Sociable Folk Cafe, 10 Wellington Place, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 4JP.
  6. Episode One
    This coffee shop is decked out in a minimalist, Nordic style. Its coffee is inspired by the Australian-Kiwi coffee culture and their house brew, Ozone Coffee, is one of the most popular choices. They also have tasting notes to go with the coffee. Episode One, 83 Great George Street, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 3BR.
  7. Casa Colombiana
    If you’re looking for something completely different to your usual coffee shop, this place is your answer. They brew their own Casacol coffee which is roasted, ground and brewed in the Colombian styled shop. What’s more, they serve traditional South American dishes like arepas and enchiladas - yummy! Casa Colombiana Grand Arcade, 6 Vicar Lane, Leeds, West Yorkshire, LS1 6PG.

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