Discover Leeds

Page last updated:
20 Aug 2025
Aerial photo overlooking there Leeds Town Hall

Leeds is an amazing student city with something for everyone, explore your new home!

On this page we've pulled together our top tips for making the most of your time here and you'll hear what our students have to say about life in Leeds. There's so much to mention that we couldn't squeeze it all in here, make sure to visit our Life in Leeds guide and explore everything our city has to offer.

Leeds: Voted #1 student city in the UK

<p><a rel="noopener noreferrer" href="https://www.studentcrowd.com/page/best-uk-student-cities" target="_blank">StudentCrowd</a> ranks Leeds above all other student cities thanks to great scores across student life, cost of living, eating out, nightlife, shopping, and public transport. It&rsquo;s a city with something for everyone. Watch our video to see why.</p>

Explore Leeds. A city for everyone, loved by students.

Leeds. Loved by students and with something for everyone.

It's for those who like the finer things, and those who keep it simple.

For people who love a big night out or a big night in.

It's for people who wear their heart on their sleeve and those who like art on the street.

For those who follow the latest trends and those who make their own.

It's for mud-lovers, boxers, TikTokers, squatters, rockers and people watchers.

It's for new friends and old friends.

The local and the not so local and those who want a big city with a sense of community. 

A city that feels like home.

Leeds, loved by students and with something for everyone.

Georgie Coulston image of Corn Exchange shops

Shopping in Leeds

Leeds is one of the UK’s best shopping destinations with something to suit all tastes, from high-end department stores to market stalls, many of which are housed in stunning Victorian and Edwardian buildings.

Leeds is home to all the traditional high street stores and designer shops. A must visit is Trinity Leeds, housed under a glass roof in the heart of the city, it has more than 120 shops, bars and restaurants covering three floors. With various pop-up street food stalls changing every month, you’re sure to find something new each time you visit.

Leeds also has numerous independent stores, many of which are located within the stunning Arcades and the Corn Exchange.

Rugby player about to pass the ball

Sport in Leeds

Whether you like to watch sport, play it, or even just sit in the pub and watch it from a comfy chair, there’s plenty for you to enjoy here in Leeds.

Rugby league club Leeds Rhinos play at Headingley Stadium which is just a five minute walk from our Headingley Stadium and many of our students enjoy heading along to Elland Road to watch Leeds United’s matches to join in the Premiere League buzz.

FOOD AND DRINK

Food in Leeds

Leeds is a haven for foodies, we’re lucky enough to have restaurants serving delicious cuisine from almost every corner of the world, and at prices to suit every budget.

There are many international supermarkets in Leeds including Chinese, Asian and Middle Eastern. Kirkgate market also sells foods from around the world and many of the larger UK supermarkets also offer a selection.

Student view

All student blogs

Student Vlog | Things that surprised me in the UK Coming to another country means getting used to many things, Yi Mon takes you through a few things that surprised her when she came to study in the UK.

Student Vlog | A week in my life Take a look at our student vlog, by music student Hari, who gives us a glimpse of his favourite places to explore in the city.

Why Leeds?

With great music venues, culture, shopping and parks – we’ve got it all. Voted no.1 student city in the UK* and the Best Place to Live in the North and Northeast**.

*StudentCrowd, Best Student Cities UK, 2024
**The Sunday Times Best Place to Live guide, 2024.

The David Oluwale memorial sculpture in Leeds

Finding your way around

Access our maps and guides to find your way around campus and the city, or check out our virtual tour and explore your facilities and teaching spaces.

Aerial photo of the Leeds City Centre

get the support you need

Starting university in the UK is an exciting new adventure, and we're here to help you make the most of it. Our friendly Global Village team is ready to support you every step of the way—don’t hesitate to get in touch!

other links
Full view of Broadcasting Place tower with Dry Dock in the forefront, against a blue sky
Male student wearing headphones on campus grounds