Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
Leeds: your ultimate destination for art, culture and fun
Hey! I’m Anca and I’m a third year mature student studying Media, Communication, Cultures. I will graduate this year, in my late 20s, and my cultural background is beautifully intricated – I was born in Romania, I moved to Italy around 10 and then I moved to Leeds 4 years ago.
When I first visited Leeds, something about the city struck a chord with me. There was an unmistakable vibe that resonated with me, and with each visit, I found myself falling deeper in love with the idea of making it my home. As a curious, adventurous, and sociable person, I was looking for opportunities that aligned with my interests in art, dance, sports, and of course, food! So I’m here to share my top finds with you!
DANCE, SOCIAL SPORTS AND ART EVENTS TO DO IN LEEDS
MyHub (an online platform designed to connect students with various aspects of university life, including events, clubs, societies, and important information) became my trusty sidekick, helping me keep tabs on all the cool stuff happening around town. And of course, I turned to social media, especially Instagram, to find Leeds-related accounts that would clue me in on the city's happenings.
The Dance
Dance is more than just a hobby for me—it's a fundamental part of who I am! Always eager to learn and expand my skills, I constantly push myself out of my comfort zone to explore new dance styles. While hip-hop and freestyle have been my passions for as long as I can remember, I rediscovered my love for salsa and bachata when I moved to Leeds.
It all started with a friend's suggestion to try out the salsa and bachata social classes. The social classes are held at Revolucion de Cuba in Leeds, every Tuesday, for FREE (yes, you read that right!). After two hours of instruction, the floor is opened for social dancing. These sessions were invaluable in helping me break down the barriers of dancing with a partner (remember, I'm used to freestyling?). I found myself eagerly awaiting Tuesdays, ready to dance, have a fun, and make new connections. It's a safe and inclusive space where even beginners feel right at home. The beauty of it all is that there's a rhythm for everyone—whether you're counting 1, 2, 3... or 5, 6, 7!
Dance Studio Leeds has had a huge impact on how I approach dancing. Classes and workshops are for all types of personality, and everyone is welcome – I can also say that it gave me that kind of empowerment through dance and movement that I was searching for. From fierce dance heels to hip-hop workshops, tap sessions for adults to jazz and funk, and let's not forget about the magical world of musicals—there's something for everyone. It's a place where creativity flourishes, exploration is encouraged, and confidence grows with every step.
The ARTS & CRAFTS
Leeds Language Exchange:
Every Thursday evening, in the city centre, there's an amazing social international exchange event. I've been a few times with friends, drawn by the opportunity to practice my Spanish, English, and French, while sharing my knowledge of Italian and Romanian with others. These gatherings usually take place in a cozy bar, and they keep everyone updated through a group chat, sharing the location and all the important details. It's such a welcoming atmosphere—a fantastic chance to not only brush up on your language skills but also to dive into another culture that might just capture your imagination. For me, languages are a huge part of my identity, and events like these offer a unique opportunity to learn from and connect with people from diverse backgrounds while sharing your own culture in return.
Left Bank Leeds:
One day, while wandering aimlessly (or possibly lost), I stumbled upon this amazing spot— an old church transformed into a hub of creativity and community. Words fail to capture its magic.
This former church, now known as Left Bank Leeds, hosts an abundance of events, ranging from Silent Discos amidst illuminated church interiors to bustling craft markets bursting with color. I even snagged my first caricature painting for a mere £4 while grooving to music through my headphones and exploring the other stalls with friends.
From sculpture workshops to poetry sessions, candle making to portrait painting, and even yoga classes, Left Bank Leeds offers so many experiences. It's become one of my favourite spots in Leeds, thanks to its vibrant creative community. I urge you to discover it for yourself and create your own unforgettable memories.
THE SOCIAL SPORT
Spin Class at Ryde Studios:
So, imagine this: indoor cycling. At first, I wasn't sold on the idea—it seemed like a far cry from my usual outdoor cycling adventures. But curiosity got the best of me, and I decided to give it a shot. So, there I was, showing up solo, feeling a bit nervous because I didn't have any friends with me. But as soon as I walked in, I realised I wasn't alone in feeling that way. In fact, most of the people there were flying solo, and everyone was super friendly and, honestly, a bit apprehensive. However, as the class progressed, with motivational words ringing out and energising beats filling the air, those initial nerves melted away. I walked out feeling exhilarated, riding that adrenaline high. What struck me most was the diversity of the people who showed up. We were literally from every background, every age group. Although these classes are abit more on the pricey side, it was heartwarming to see how much you can gain just by mustering up the courage to show up.
I hope that this blog has sparked something within you, and if you're as much of a wanderer as I am, remember to cherish the details of the little things—because sometimes, they're not so little after all. They might just lead you somewhere even bigger!
