Leeds Beckett University - City Campus,
Woodhouse Lane,
LS1 3HE
The Student's Guide to Hyde Park
Whether you're new to Leeds or just looking to explore beyond campus, Hyde Park and Burley are packed with places worth shouting about.
From legendary gig venues and quirky cafés to green spaces and mouthwatering eats, this guide rounds up some of the best student-friendly spots in the area. So grab your mates, your appetite, and maybe a tote bag or two - you're about to discover your new favourite hangouts.
Brudenell Social Club
Brudenell Social Club is probably the most well-known pub and music venue not just in Hyde Park, but in the whole of Leeds. A whole roster of superstars have called the stage home over the years, including Franz Ferdinand, Kaiser Chiefs, Tom Jones, and loads of up-and-coming acts too. The pub area boasts pool tables, an excellent beer and crisp selection, and piping hot Pieminister pies - what more could you ask for?
The Med Greek
If it's tasty Greek food you're after, it's tasty Greek food you'll get at The Med Greek. This family-run restaurant occupies a prime spot on Hyde Park Corner, with floor-to-ceiling windows creating a light and airy feel. The menu covers gyros, souvlaki, and of course, the mixed grill box - with fries, pork and chicken gyro, crispy pitta and salad. Throw in a side of tzatziki and you're winning.
Left Bank
Left Bank really has it all. The sensitively restored former church retains many of its original features, from stunning stained-glass windows to rows of pews. A packed events calendar takes you from junkyard sales and kids’ breakdancing classes to art exhibitions and life drawing, with a lovely little café bar to keep you fuelled. Whether you're looking to pick up a new hobby, catch up on some work or have a natter with your mates, you won’t get much better than Left Bank.
Left Bank Leeds, Cardigan Road, Burley, Leeds, LS6 1LJ
Woodhouse Moor
Some call it Woodhouse Moor, others call it Hyde Park, but we just know it as one of our favourite green spaces in Leeds. Wander down tree-lined paths that'll lead you to tennis courts, bowling greens, allotments and so much more. It's a popular spot among Leeds students all year round, but summer is when it really comes to life with sunbathers and picnickers.
Hyde Park Picture House
You'll find Hyde Park Picture House sitting pretty on Brudenell Road, where it's been since 1914 - and it's still the UK's only gas-lit cinema. A few years ago, it underwent a multimillion-pound transformation, and the result is nothing short of stunning, with two screens, a café bar area and a tasteful restoration of original features. Showings range from indies and blockbusters to children's favourites and documentaries - this really is cinema like you've never experienced it before.
Coffee on the Crescent
On the hunt for some of the best coffee in Hyde Park? Get yourself down to Coffee on the Crescent. Cosy, small and perfectly kitted out, it's not just a coffee shop but an integral part of the community, with art and gifts from local makers and contributions to food banks. If you're not too busy drooling over the stacked counter of pastries and loaves of bread, order a coffee roasted with local Yorkshire beans and get settled in.
Coffee on the Crescent, 2 The Crescent, Woodhouse, Leeds, LS6 2NW
Lupe's Cantina
Slap bang between Hyde Park and Burley, Lupe's Cantina is a must-visit for any student with a hankering for authentic Mexican food. The interior is reminiscent of a Cancun cantina - unassuming yet packed with colour. Of course, classics take the form of tacos al pastor and enchiladas, but you can also try grilled cactus, mussels in creamy sauce and grilled lamb rump.
Lupe's Cantina, 204 Cardigan Road, Burley, Leeds, LS6 1LF
Hyde Park Book Club
What was once a petrol station in 2015 became a cornerstone of student nightlife in Hyde Park. Hyde Park Book Club takes many forms - a cocktail bar, a pub, a café, a comedy venue and a gig space, to name a few. The menu is entirely vegetarian, with treats like homemade fiery beans on sourdough, caprese sandwiches and salt and pepper tofu bao buns to choose from.
Hyde Park Book Club, 27 Headingley Lane, Hyde Park, Leeds, LS6 1BL
East Village
Bringing a slice of New York life to Hyde Park, East Village is a hip, happening and surprisingly affordable cocktail bar right in the heart of the suburb. Inside it's all neon lighting and leather booths, with a banging soundtrack to match. The best part, though, has to be their Candy Hour - 2-4-1 cocktails all night, every night. Yes please.
North South Vintage
Calling all vintage lovers! North South Vintage is a treasure trove of second-hand goodies from the past few decades, with a special emphasis on the 90s and 2000s. Levi jeans? Check. Ski jackets? Check. Designer clobber and sportswear? Check and double check. They also have tables dedicated to accessories, so get ready to dive in and walk away a couple of shopping bags heavier.
