Leeds for Students: Coffee, Culture, and Nights Out

Welcome to Leeds, your new northern playground and one of the UK’s biggest student cities. With 70,000+ students across five universities, you’ll never be short of new mates if you know where to look. From late-night clubs to laid-back coffee catch-ups, we’ve picked out the spots you need to know about. Ready to get involved in Leeds’ affordable (ish) northern vibe? Let’s go.

Coffee & Study Spots

Laynes – New Station Street

Right by the train station, Laynes ranks among Leeds’ most beloved indie coffee spots. It’s the perfect place to meet friends or visiting family for some of the best coffee and brunch in Leeds. Just look out for Laynes’ bright yellow frontage to guarantee a seriously good specialty coffee and pastry fix.

Laynes is so popular, it now stays open later, serving wine, beer, and coffee cocktails until 7 pm Monday to Saturday, and 4 pm on Sundays. The kitchen closes earlier—at 3 pm Monday to Friday, and 4 pm on weekends. 

Archive – Kirkstall Road

Archive is your go-to coffee house, eatery, and event space all in one. Think quizzes and board game nights with buy-one-get-one-for-£1 pizza deals, plus an all-day brunch that’s perfect for soaking up the night before, no matter when you roll out of bed. It’s open 9-3 pm Monday to Friday and 10-3 pm Saturday and Sunday.

The coffee’s on point here, too, with roasts from Girls Who Grind Coffee and local roasters like Case, Echelon, and Hardlines, alongside smoothies, milkshakes, slushies, wine, spirits, and beer. Watch out for student discounts* like 20% off your bill on Student Mondays (with a valid UNiDAYS ID). 

Hyde Park Book Club – Headingley Lane

Once a disused petrol station and fancy-dress shop, Hyde Park Book Club (HPBC) has expanded into a multi-purpose music and arts venue. It’s the place to soak up Leeds student culture. And if literature, plants, good food and drink, side-aching comedy and excellent music are your things, you’re gonna like it.

HPBC serves North Star coffee (more on them below), alcoholic drinks, brunches, sandwiches, small plates, and tacos—a full veggie and vegan menu that’s chef’s kiss. Study if you must, but you might get distracted by the books, vinyl, board games, and local art.

HPBC is open Monday to Thursday 10 -12 am, Friday 10-1 am, Saturday 9-1 am and Sunday 9-12 am.

Coffee on the Crescent – The Crescent

Coffee on the Crescent (COTC), founded by former professional cricketer Tim Linley, is a bright and airy coffee shop serving specialty coffee from North Star, loose-leaf tea, hot chocolates and chai. But it’s not only about great brews (and a full brunch with vegetarian and vegan options), COTC is a community hub known for its strong commitment to community and social impact.

COTC has raised thousands of pounds for local off-bank and creative projects thanks to its reasonable pricing; coffee and a blondie cost from £6.50. 

Be aware: Laptops are not permitted, so it’s more of a pit stop than a study spot. COTC is open Monday to Thursday, 8-4:30 pm, Saturday, 8:30-4:30 pm, and Sunday, 9-4:30 pm.

North Star Coffee Shop & General Store – Leeds Dock

If you’ve got a taste for North Star from one of many Leeds independent venues, why not head to the source? Stroll through Leeds’ laidback Creative District for instant city-break vibes. Grab a book and perch in the window, or pull up a Scandi-style chair; its high ceilings, industrial interior, and massive windows give effortlessly chic.

The coffee? Exceptional. It’s a roastery. And the brunches are some of the best in town. Every day here feels like a lazy weekend, but arrive early on actual weekends if you want to get your chops around the oft-sold-out Calabrian Chilli Baked Beans on Sourdough Toast with Basil and Mascarpone. North Star is open 8 am–3 pm Monday to Friday and 9 am–4 pm on weekends.

Extra tip: Combine your visit with a browse in North Star’s general store, a stop at the nearby Holdfast floating bookshop, and a ride back to the station on Leeds’ yellow Dutch water taxis, Twee and Drie (£3 per person, one way). Taxis run daily, 10 am–6 pm.

Hyde – Headingley Lane

Hyde is one of Hyde Park’s newest spots. Open 8 am–5 pm daily, it covers all your coffee (top-notch and ethically sourced from Jolly Bean Roastery), cake, pastry, and brunch cravings, though no alcohol… yet. Follow Hyde on Insta for updates.

Extra tip: Met someone you’d like to impress? Hyde sells first-come, first-served flowers every weekend. How cute is that? Brunch and blooms, what’s not to like?

Eats on a Budget

Bundobust – Mill Hill

Where do we start? Bundobust is a Leeds must-try, combining modern Indian sharing spreads with award-winning craft beers from Bundobust Brewery. Just a five-minute walk from the train station, tucked on Mill Hill near Leeds’ main high street, Briggate, it’s perfect for grabbing lunch, dinner, or post-lecture snacks with friends. 

Stretch your budget by opting for Bundo’s Lunch Express, featuring two dishes for £11.95 between Monday and Friday, noon until 4 pm, or a Too Much Spicy combo for 2-8 people. Not going out? Get Bundo to Go-Go on Deliveroo and Click and Collect.

Bundobust is open Monday to Thursday, noon – 10:30 pm, Friday and Saturday, noon – 11 pm and Sunday, noon – 9 pm. The kitchen closes an hour before the bar.

Extra tip: Sign up for free okra fries before you visit 

Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana – New Station Street

Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana, opposite Laynes on New Station Street, is a solid choice for authentic Neapolitan pizza. With pizzas starting from just £9, it’s the perfect spot to grab a bite before heading into town.

Rudy’s uses traditional methods: dough that’s double fermented for 24 hours, topped with mouthwatering flavours. And as it’s all about the taste, it offers both click and collect and bake-at-home delivery options. Rudy’s is open from 11:45 am every day of the week until 10 pm Monday to Saturday and 9 pm on Sundays.

Extra tip: September is Negroni month. Watch out for specials and offers.

Falafel Guys – Briggate

In the mood for bold flavours? Find Falafel Guys’ bright red van on Briggate, open daily 11 am–6 pm. Falafel Guys’ Middle Eastern wraps and salad bowls are packed with fresh ingredients like falafel, chicken shawarma, and halloumi, delivering big flavours that’ll keep you full all day. Prices start from just £6, and if you’re not heading out, you can grab it on Just Eat, Deliveroo, or Uber Eats.

Trinity Kitchen – Albion Street

Not sure what you fancy? Head to Trinity Kitchen, Leeds street-food hall, to choose from a rotating mix of vibrant world-cuisine vendors like Masri, Doles Dirty Bags, and I love Brioche, as well as permanent eateries, such as Archie’s, Clapping Seoul, Pho and Rola Wala. Perfect when everyone wants something different, it’s right in the heart of Leeds’ shopping district and just minutes from entertainment venues like Everyman and Roxy Lanes. Trinity Kitchen is open daily, 11-9 pm.

Extra tips: Parents visiting and okay to blow the budget? Try Whitecloth Hall for a similar, but pricier concept. Exhausted Trinity Kitchen’s options? Head down to Leeds Kirkgate Market’s food hall for alternative street food vendors.

Pints & Nightlife

Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen – Cross Belgrave Street

Belgrave Music Hall and Canteen in Leeds’ Northern Quarter is a multi-level venue offering a mix of live music, street food, craft beers, and a rooftop terrace that catches even the slightest glimpse of sun—open noon to late, seven days a week, and 11 to late on Saturdays and Sundays. Admission is free, but you may need to pay for ticketed events. Don’t miss the Belgrave Freshers Fair on Tuesday, 23 September!

Food-wise, there’s a deal every day. Choose from Dough Boys and Patty’s Burgers, with half-price slices from 12-7 pm, Sunday to Thursday, and 12-5 pm, Friday to Saturday. Follow Belgrave on Insta for updates on Belgrave Book Group, gigs by Superfriendz, events and more.

Headrow House – The Headrow

If you love Belgrave’s ‘secret garden’ style terrace, Headrow House is its must-visit sister venue. Tucked away in one of Leeds’ yards and spread over four floors, it’s packed with group-friendly seating in a dimly lit, ambient beer hall, featuring four copper tanks of unpasteurised Pilsner—and not one, but two rooftop terraces. You can usually find a student deal at Headrow House, but if you’re feeling fancy, Ox Club, the on-site award-winning solid-fuel grill, serves the best of Yorkshire’s seasonal produce.

Most of the time it’s walk-in only, but don’t miss the weekly quiz every Tuesday at 6:30 pm, where you can win everything from Super Friendz gig tickets to shots, cinema trips, cash prizes, and more. Open 2-11 pm Monday to Thursday, 12-2 am Friday and Saturday and 12-9 pm Sunday.

Oporto – Call Lane

If you’re into indie, rock, or electro, Oporto is a must. Found on Call Lane, it’s a stylish but unpretentious bar with a reputation for late nights and live music. Expect student-friendly gigs, the occasional drink deal, or discounted entry (check ahead), plus Knaves Kitchen, a 100% vegan junk food pop-up serving on gig nights. Open Tues–Thurs 12 pm–2 am, Thurs 12 pm–3 am, and Fri–Sat 12 pm–4 am. Don’t forget your student ID!

Call Lane

Call Lane deserves its own shout-out. One of Leeds’ most famous party streets, it’s packed with bars, many offering student deals. Start at Brooklyn Bar (£5 student party cups on the first Wednesday of the month) and work your way through Revolution, Rolands, Cuckoo, Call Lane Social, Tiki Hideaway, Neon Cactus, Power, Corruption & Lies, and end at Jake’s Bar & Still Room. 

With most spots open until 4 am and all crammed into just over 100 metres, it’s a party lover’s paradise—and the shortest walk of shame in town. Daytime? Head to If Brunch for North Star coffee, cakes, and a solid breakfast menu from 8 am.

Gigs & Music

Brudenell Social Club – Queen’s Road

Another Leeds right-of-passage venue is Brudenell Social Club (The Brudenell). An old working men’s club, styled with 1950s decor, Search The Brudenell’s listings for up-and-coming, and surprisingly huge, bands. The fun-loving venue has been the centrepiece of the Leeds music scene for many years – but it’s not just about music. You’ll find a lounge, a games room with a snooker table, five pool tables, darts, table football, and Sky and BT Sports to keep you entertained. 

Extra tip: Follow The Brudenell to learn when local groups, including Photography and Film groups, meet.

Leeds Beckett Students’ Union – Portland Way

Leeds Beckett SU doubles as one of the city’s best live music venues, hosting gigs from up-and-coming bands to big touring acts. With regular club nights, student-friendly ticket prices, and a space that’s seen some huge names over the years, it’s a go-to for live music without leaving campus. 

This September (2025), ease your way into Student life with The K’s, Red Rum Club and All Them Witches before settling in to a special acoustic performance of Biffy Clyro’s new album in October. There’s something every week. Check out full listings here.

The Wardrobe – St Peter’s Square

Right in Leeds’ cultural quarter, The Wardrobe is your spot for live music and comedy nights out with mates. Since 1999, it’s been pulling in everyone from rising stars to big names across jazz, soul, funk, indie, and reggae.

Head down from midday Tues–Sat (with gigs sometimes on Sundays and Mondays too). With over 250 shows a year, plus club nights and comedy, there’s always something on. The Wardrobe serves a good mix of beers, cocktails, and wines, and the new menu’s ideal for lining your stomach before a night out. Sign up online to stay in the loop with upcoming gigs and events.

O2 Academy Leeds – Cookridge Street

The O2 Academy is a must-visit while you’re here in Leeds. Just a 10-minute walk from the train station, it hosts everything from chart-topping acts to underground gigs. With student nights, discounted entry, and drink deals, it’s a top spot to catch big names, discover new bands, and enjoy the city’s nightlife in one of the city’s most historic venues.

Over the years, the Academy has hosted Biffy Clyro, The Killers, Kasabian, Courteeners, Hot Chip, and Slash, while club nights have brought international DJs like Fatboy Slim and Deadmau5 to Leeds. Weekly residencies such as Projekt make it a hub for nightlife, so whether you’re after live music, DJs, or just a legendary night out, the O2 Academy is the place to go.

Theatre & Culture

Leeds Playhouse – Playhouse Square

Just a short walk from the city centre (through Leeds Kirkgate Market or Victoria Gate), Leeds Playhouse is the modern theatre venue for gripping dramas, classic musicals and innovative new works. As a student, you can get discounted tickets through their Under 30s scheme, which offers £5 tickets for select productions. Plus, if you’re part of the Leeds Card scheme, you can get £3 off tickets for certain shows.

The box office is open Tuesday to Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm, and on performance days, it stays open until 15 minutes after the last show starts.

The Grand Theatre – New Briggate

Leeds Grand Theatre has a rich history dating back to 1878, making it one of the city’s most iconic venues – get a sneak peek in this virtual tour! Leeds Grand is also part of the Under 30s scheme, offering £20 tickets for eligible productions and £3 off certain shows with the Leeds Card scheme. The box office is open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 6 pm, and on Saturdays from 10 am to 8 pm.

Hyde Park Picture House – Brudenell Road 

Visit Hyde Park Picture House (HPPH), a Grade II listed, nationally connected, and locally community cinema for independent films, documentaries, and classic cinema. It’s a special place, and the UK’s last remaining gas-lit cinema. 

As a student, you can enjoy discounted tickets through their 15-25 membership, which offers £6 tickets for select screenings. Even without the membership, student concession tickets are available for £7.50. The cinema’s box office and Café Bar are open daily, with varying hours throughout the week.

Tiled Hall Café & Leeds Art Gallery – The Headrow

Nestled within the stunning Victorian Tiled Hall (originally the main library reading room), the café offers a stunning lunchtime reading spot. Enjoy a range of delicious hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, daily specials, toasties, paninis, and cakes in what has to be one of the most beautiful rooms in Leeds.

As a student, you get free entry into the gallery itself, making it an ideal place to relax between classes or catch up with friends. The café is open Tuesday to Saturday from 12:30 pm to 4:30 pm, and Sunday from 11:00 am to 2:30 pm, with last orders 30 minutes before closing.

In the gallery, you’ll find 19th and 20th century works by artists like Francis Bacon, Barbara Hepworth, and Henry Moore, plus a dynamic programme of exhibitions and events.

Henry Moore Institute – The Headrow

Just a few steps from Leeds Art Gallery, the Henry Moore Institute is the Leeds destination for contemporary sculpture from around the world. It also runs a dynamic programme of exhibitions, talks, and events, perfect if you want to dive deeper into the subject. Inside, the extensive library focuses on sculpture internationally, with a strong emphasis on British artists, ideal for complementing your studio work.

The Institute is open Tuesday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm, with extended hours until 8 pm on Wednesdays and Thursdays, and entry is free for students.

Thackray Museum of Medicine – Beckett Street

The Thackray Museum of Medicine is the UK’s largest independent medical museum – right here in Leeds. It offers a fascinating journey through the history of medicine, featuring immersive galleries that explore topics like Victorian healthcare, surgical advancements, and the evolution of medical technology. If you’re a medical student, it’s an absolute must.

Flexible admission pricing ranges from £9 to £16, allowing you to choose the price that best fits your budget. The museum is open daily from 10 am to 4 pm, with last admission at 3:15 pm. It’s closed on Tuesdays during term time but operates seven days a week during Leeds school holidays.

Green Spaces & Chill

Hyde Park & Woodhouse Moor – Hyde Park

Hyde Park, between Headingley and the campus area, is a vibrant, student-filled neighbourhood perfect for socialising and meeting new friends. You’ll find quirky cafés, bars, pubs, and restaurants, so there’s never a shortage of places to eat, drink, or hang out.

The area also offers plenty of green space, with Woodhouse Moor a favourite for relaxing, studying outdoors, or enjoying the tennis courts and skate park.

Throughout the year, Hyde Park hosts student-friendly events like the Woodhouse and Hyde Park Green Fayre in June, where local makers and growers set up stalls—perfect for a browse and a declutter before the student changeover.

Aire Park – South Bank

Aire Park, in Leeds’ South Bank, just south of the city centre, is a brand new city park that combines green space with cultural and commercial spots. Explore open lawns, event areas, and sensory gardens featuring the likes of Hibiscus Rising, a sculpture by Yinka Shonibare CBE RA, and check out the redeveloped Tetley and Salem Chapel zone.

At the heart of the park, North Bar Aire Park on Sheaf Street brings many of Leeds’ great indies together in one place, including natural wine from Wayward, coffee from North Star, Neapolitan pizzas and sandwiches from Pizza Boys and pastries from Laynes. North Bar adjoins Neighbourhood and Attic, a co-working and event space where you can connect with Leeds creatives at regular industry events like Process, offering insight into the creative world.

Roundhay Park – Roundhay

Just a short trip from the city centre, Roundhay Park is one of Europe’s largest city parks and a favourite for escaping campus life. Stroll around the lakes, wander the formal gardens, or kick back on the expansive lawns and watch as the clouds go by. It’s also home to weekly parkruns, summer festivals, and open-air concerts, making it a perfect spot to relax, exercise, or soak up the outdoors with friends.

Kirkstall Abbey – Kirkstall

Just a short bus or bike ride from the city centre, Kirkstall Abbey is a stunning medieval ruin set in a scenic park by the River Aire. It’s perfect for exploring history, taking photos, or enjoying a picnic on the surrounding lawns. Throughout the year, the park hosts student-friendly events like the Kirkstall Festival of Beer and the Leeds Comedy Festival, making it a great spot to relax with friends and soak up Leeds’ heritage and lively outdoor entertainment scene.

Thrift & Vintage

Blue Rinse – Call Lane and The Merrion Centre

A Leeds institution since 1997, Blue Rinse offers a vast selection of vintage clothing spanning the ’60s to the ’90s, including reworked pieces. Blue Rinse frequently host kilo sales where you pay by weight, offering significant savings. The Call lane store is in a sweet spot opposite Rinse Natural Wines, Underground Bakery and 92 Degrees Coffee, allowing you to combine good threads with good times.

BEST – New Market Street

BEST is known for its curated collection of men’s and women’s fashion, blending grunge aesthetics with contemporary trends. Visit BEST to grab yourself streetwear from brands like Stussy, Supreme, Bape and Ralph Lauren. It’s in a pretty cool building, too.

Pop Boutique – Lands Lane

There’s something really satisfying about Pop Boutique’s categorisation of 60s to 90s vintage into item type. In a rush to find something for a night out? Head to the beaded, sparkly dress section. Need something for the colder nights? Check out the sheepskin coats rail. Everything’s really reasonably priced and great quality, too.

Ryan Vintage – Duncan Street

A haven for sportswear enthusiasts, featuring brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok, along with streetwear staples at affordable prices.

North South Vintage – Lands Lane

Like your vintage customised? North South offers a curated selection of vintage clothing from the ’60s to the ’90s, complemented by accessories and crystals. Get even more for your money; sign up for their mailing list to receive a 10% discount on your first in-store purchase.

Tråd Collective – Vicar Lane

Tråd Collective is Leeds’ go-to for sustainable vintage fashion. You’ll find a curated mix of preloved, upcycled, and vintage clothing alongside eco-friendly brands and jewellery, perfect for giving your wardrobe a unique, conscious twist.

The store also offers in-house alterations and repairs, with students getting 20% off on items purchased in-store. Open Tuesday to Friday (10:30 am–6 pm) and weekends (11 am–5 pm), it’s a great spot to hunt for one-of-a-kind pieces while shopping sustainably.

Glass Onion – Trinity Leeds

A sustainable fashion store processing up to 20,000kg of second-hand clothing weekly, offering affordable vintage finds. Let’s face it, you’ll always find fresh stock in here.

Leeds Corn Exchange

The Corn Exchange is a stunning Grade I listed Victorian building housing several independent vintage retailers (among many other brilliant independents). Try:

• Honey: For a curated selection of 90s and Y2K fashion, along with handmade items from local sellers

• Chinese Laundry: For vintage streetwear, including brands like Nike, Adidas, and Reebok

• Space Vintage: For a variety of vintage clothing, records, furniture, and musical instruments

• Seth Mater: For vintage items, including clothing and accessories

• Goods In: For vintage household accessories.

Kirkgate Market 

While Kirkgate Market is renowned for its diverse range of stalls, several vintage-focused vendors operate within, plus Leeds Vintage, Indie & Flea Market is held on select Saturdays, featuring a mix of vintage traders selling clothes, homeware, collectables, and more.

*Check all discounts with venues; they may have changed since this article was published.