Our guide to Leeds

Leeds city centre is full of a fantastic range of shops to be explored and enjoyed. Our faves include your everyday essentials, and high street stores like Briggate or Trinity. Visit the historic Victoria Quarter for high-end shopping.

If you’re on the hunt for a more independent shopping experience head to Kirkgate market. It is one of the largest covered markets in Europe, and offers a wide range of products, including fresh produce, clothes, and accessories.

If you’re looking for those one-off pieces, then head to the Corn Exchange. This is a unique shopping centre housed in a beautiful Victorian building. It offers a range of independent shops and boutiques, selling everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewellery.

Leeds has a great selection of second-hand shops and markets for those who love to hunt for unique and one-of-a-kind vintage finds. We’ve picked a few of our favourite spots.

Head to Call Lane where you will find Blue Rinse Vintage. The shop is a treasure trove of vintage clothing, accessories, and homeware. Another shop worth checking out on Call Lane is Cow Vintage, take the time out to discover one off pieces from their range of vintage, retro clothing, shoes, and accessories.

For branded vintage items, head to Best. It’s the spot for students on the hunt for high-quality vintage pieces from brands like Adidas, Nike, and Levi’s. If you’re into streetwear, this is your paradise.

Retro fashion lovers, this one’s for you. Pop Boutique specializes in 50s-90s fashion and is a treasure trove of bold prints, retro cuts, and funky accessories. It’s a great spot to find a statement piece for your next night out.

As well as high street stores Leeds Kirkgate Market is home to several second-hand and vintage clothing stalls, as well as a range of antique and vintage furniture stalls.

We also recommend heading to the Vintage Emporium in the Corn Exchange for vintage clothing, accessories and homeware.

Checkout this great blog post with more vintage store finds. 

Looking for that place with a bit of je ne sais quoi? Look no further

Green Room For rooftop vibes, delicious food, and cocktails, Green Room is the place to be. Whether you're there for the laid-back atmosphere or the sunset views from the rooftop, it’s the perfect spot to kick back after a long day.

Sweet Saeeda (Leeds Market) Hidden in Leeds Market, Sweet Saeeda offers authentic Tunisian food that’s packed with flavor. It’s a small, unassuming spot with dishes that will leave a big impression—perfect for when you want to try something a bit different.

The Plant Collection A hybrid plant and coffee shop, The Plant Collection is where plant-lovers and coffee enthusiasts unite. Whether you're picking up a new plant baby or enjoying a latte in a greenhouse setting, this place is a true Leeds gem.

La Piola This Italian delicatessen serves fresh pasta and seasonal dishes from Wednesday to Saturday. The vibe is authentic, the food is yum and it’s a great spot to grab some authentic Italian cuisine without breaking the bank.

Nova Bakehouse Pastry lovers, rejoice! Nova Bakehouse offers freshly baked goodies that are to die for. From croissants to cruffins, everything is handmade with love and perfect for a sweet treat after class.

Leeds has some great parks and green spaces.

Hyde Park is close to Scape Leeds and the place to be as soon as the sun comes out. You’ll find lots of students hanging out here in the summer for drinks and sunbathing. There’s also a skatepark and basketball courts. This is super close to both Uni and Scape.

Roundhay is one of the largest city parks in Europe. You can spend a full day exploring the lakes, woodlands, gardens, and spots facilities. ​

Chevin Forest Park is just outside the city, perfect for a longer day out. You'll get amazing views of the surrounding countryside. The park is ideal for hiking and exploring nature, with a mix of rugged terrain, woodland, and open grassland.

Leeds is renowned for its buzzing nightlife, with many bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from. We’d recommend checking out the Call Lane area, with a variety of bars and clubs that cater to different music tastes. 

The Domino Club is a hidden gem, you’ll find the entrance below a barber, when you enter, you’ll be transported to a speakeasy-style jazz club.

Do you love craft beers? Then North Bar is worth as visit.

Mint Warehouse is one of Leeds’ best venues for electronic music. It hosts top-tier DJs and offers a raw, industrial vibe with excellent sound systems.

The Warehouse is famous for its legendary sound system and incredible light shows. With three rooms of music, it caters to diverse tastes from techno, house, hip hop to R&B and regularly hosts some of the biggest names in dance music.

Wire is a favourite among the underground music scene, Wire is an intimate basement club known for its cutting-edge sound system and curated line-ups of underground house, techno, and bass music. It’s a haven for music purists.

It is also worth checking out the HiFi club. Tuesday is MixTap Project, a student night playing nothing but floor fillers. See you there!

Leeds has a rich cultural heritage, there are some good museums and galleries to explore.

If you love 3D form, Henry Moore Institute and gallery is worth visiting with it collection of over 1,500 sculptures.

Close by is Leeds Art Gallery, which hosts regular temporary exhibitions and events.

For more modern day and contemporary art, visit The Tetley contemporary art gallery housed in a former brewery, or the Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery on the University of Leeds campus. Checkout the galleries websites for regular events, talks and exhibitions.

Fancy seeing a show? Leeds Playhouse or Grand Theatre regularly include musicals, plays and dance performances.

If you want to see the latest film release, Vue and Everyman are on your doorstep.

Leeds is a foodie's paradise. From traditional British pub food to international dishes, be sure to find something you love. We’ve hand-picked a few of our favourites:

Bundobust Is a vegetarian Indian street food which offers a range of delicious dishes, including bhajis, chaat, and curries.

Zaap Thai Street Food  Is in the Grand Arcade their menu includes a range of authentic Thai dishes, curries, noodle dishes, and street snacks.

Belgrave Music Hall Offers a range of street food stalls, as well as a rooftop bar and cinema. A great venue to spend the whole day at.

Trinity Kitchen A street food market with a rotating line-up of food stalls - check out here 

Falafel Guys A small food stall which offers a delicious falafel wrap for just a few pounds.

Bánh & Mee A Vietnamese street food stall where you can grab a banh mi sandwiches and noodle bowls at affordable prices.

The Greedy Pig The cafe offers hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and other comfort food classics.

Hungry for more? These are our top picks for a tasty lunch

Farm House (City Centre) Craving a hearty meal or the best breakfast in town? Farm House delivers, with a menu ranging from juicy burgers to fresh salads, seafood, and delicious vegan options. This is a fave spot perfect for  a brunch meet-up or a post-lecture feast.

Things in Bread Sandwiches, but elevated. This spot is perfect for a quick, filling bite that doesn’t compromise on flavour. If you’re a fan of stacked sandwiches loaded with fresh ingredients, you’ll want to make this your go-to lunch spot. Yes, you know the one. You've seen them on TikTok. 

Bundobust If you love street food and are down with veggie eats, Bundobust is where it’s at. Offering Indian-inspired vegetarian street food, the place serves everything from crispy bhajis to spicy curries. It’s affordable, packed with flavour, and just a short walk from uni and Scape. Pro tip: grab a combo and share with mates!

Neon Cactus Taco Tuesdays? Yes, please! Neon Cactus on Call Lane is your destination for all things tacos, tequila, and good vibes. The laid-back setting and bold flavours make it a must-visit, especially for a fun, casual lunch with friends.

Little Bao Boy Serving up mouthwatering bao buns stuffed with flavorsome fillings, Little Bao Boy is a favourite for fast, fresh bites. This street food stall is big on flavour, and the baos are perfect for a quick grab-and-go lunch between lectures.

When it comes to caffeine, If is the spot. Known for its specialty coffee and chill vibes, it’s ideal for a study session or a catch-up with friends. Pair your flat white with one of their freshly baked pastries, and you’re set.

Miles & Co Hidden away from the city’s hustle, Miles & Co is a cozy café with excellent coffee. It’s the perfect nook to unwind with a book or power through an assignment. Plus, the baristas know how to brew a killer cup.

Sonder Minimalist aesthetics meet rich, full-bodied coffee at Sonder. Whether you’re there for the brews or the aesthetic, it’s a top spot for a mid-day coffee break or an Instagrammable moment.

Stage Stage offers more than just great coffee; it’s a creative space to work, meet up, or relax. The coffee is excellent, and the vibe is low-key. This is the perfect spot to grind through some tough study sessions.

Get Baked: Their Bruce cake is viral for a reason. Head here for a slice (or three) of this famous dessert.

Boojum: The burrito spot that’s taken TikTok by storm. If you’re into burritos, you’ll want to hit Boojum ASAP.

The Otley Run: This legendary pub crawl is not for the faint-hearted. Grab your mates, throw on a costume, and get ready to hit some of the best pubs from Leeds to Headingley.

Homeboy Pizza: A new kid on the block, this pizza joint is already making waves. The perfect spot for a cheesy pick-me-up after a night out.

Knoops: When you’re craving something sweet, Knoops is the place to get a handcrafted chocolate drink that’s as luxurious as it sounds.