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Our guide to Leeds
Explore the best parts of Leeds. Known for its thriving music scene, cultural attractions, and excellent transport links.
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Home to Kirkgate market, one of the largest indoor markets in Europe, Leeds is a cornerstone of the independent food scene. With breathtaking architecture and mouth watering eats, the only problem you’ll have is picking a favourite.
Right in the heart of West Yorkshire, Scape Leeds is close to several leading universities. Staying on Merrion Street means you’ll be walking distance to campus. From buzzing nightlife spots like Call Lane to the relaxing green spaces of Roundhay Park, there’s loads to explore near Scape.
44 Merrion St, Leeds LS2 8FZ
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Contact usWhat is there to do in Leeds?
There’s no need to go out of your way for a great night out. Call Lane is just a 10-minute walk from Scape, with plenty of bars, clubs and brunch spots to keep you busy.
Belgrave Music Hall is another popular student spot on our doorstep, you’ll find with two bars, live music and a cool roof terrace serving up Doughboys pizza and Patty Smith’s burgers. Around the corner from Scape is also Pryzm nightclub, one of the most famous nights out in Leeds.
What arts and culture is in Leeds?
The cultural scene in Leeds like nowhere else. Kirkstall Abbey is a ruined monastery along the banks of the River Aire, ideal for a scenic stroll or to learn about its 850-year-old history. For live music and bands, the O2 Academy and Belgrave Music Hall are excellent venues to catch a show.
For contemporary art, Leeds Art Gallery is close by with regular exhibitions and events to get lost in. If you love 3D form, make a day of it and visit the Henry Moore Institute next door with over 1500 sculptures to explore. If you enjoy museums, The Royal Armouries Museum is a must-visit with an incredible collection of objects all the way from samurai swords and famous movie props to a suit of armour for an Indian war elephant!
Fancy seeing a show theatre? Leeds Playhouse or Grand Theatre regularly host musicals, plays, dance and comedy performances. Or if you want to see the latest movie release, Vue and Everyman are right on your doorstep.
What are the best places to eat and drink in Leeds?
Scape is only a short walk away from some of the best restaurants in Leeds. From quirky pop-ups and fine dining to gourmet pub grub, there’s something for every taste. Bakery 164 opposite the University of Leeds is a student favourite for gourmet sandwiches and Kapow Coffee is a must-try for speciality coffee in a super cool setting. If you’re feeling fancy dine at Crafthouse or Kendells Bistro, or feast on some local favourites. Boojum is a viral burrito bar on Merrion Street and Get Baked is home to the famous 24-layer chocolate cake inspired by Matilda.
Elsewhere, Poco the Sicilian Street food joint and Zaap Thai packs a punch. If it’s Japanese food you’re after, Senbon Sakura offers speciality sushi and bento boxes at a surprisingly modest price. Or, if you feel like a hot slice Homeboy pizza is great for NY style pizzas. There are also some great bars lining the River Aire, worth popping into when the suns out.
Where can I go shopping in Leeds?
Leeds is a shopping paradise. For your everyday essentials and high street stores head to Briggate street or Trinity Leeds, with hundreds of stores to tick off your shopping list. Don’t forget to carry your student ID for exclusive student deals. If it’s more high-end brands you’re after, the historic Victoria Quarter will have you covered with stores like Calvin Klein and Sweaty Betty.
Kirkgate market is also a must-visit as one of the biggest indoor markets in Europe offering everything from food to fashion, homewares and jewellery. Elsewhere, Corn Exchange is iconic with a collection of creative, independent shops selling all sorts of unique items from vintage clothing to handmade jewellery.
What are the best outdoor spaces in Leeds?
Warm weather up North is rare, but not unheard of. So you can make the most of it, Leeds has some beautiful parks and green spaces. Merrion Gardens is literally right across the road from Scape Leeds and is a lovely spot to roll out your picnic blanket and chill with friends.
Roundhay park is one of the biggest city parks in Europe, just a 20-minute cycle away with 700 acres of parkland to explore. Grab a coffee to go from the café and take a wander around the lakes. There’s also football, tennis, rugby and cricket pitches if you’re feeling active. With three of the biggest university campuses only a short walk away, Hyde Park (Woodhouse Moor) is another trendy hangout spot for students as soon as the sun comes out.
How far are universities from Scape Leeds?
There's no need to wake up extra early to get to your classes, Scape Leeds is just a 5-minute walk to Leeds Beckett and Leeds Art University, and only a 10-minute walk to the University of Leeds.
If you’re going to university somewhere else, there’s excellent transport links to take you to your campus. You can look at travel times here.
Is it easy to get around Leeds?
Located smack bang in Leeds city centre, it’s easy to get around. With enough to do at your doorstep, walking or biking is your best option. But if you want to venture further out, then public transport is super reliable. Just jump on a nearby bus or train to get you quickly and effortlessly around the city. There are bus stops right outside our building with regular services to Hyde Park and Headingly. Scape is also just a quick trip to local parks like Roundhay, or if you fancy a stroll along the River Aire it’s also close by.
Leeds station is one of the biggest in the UK (outside of London) and is just a 10-minute walk from Scape Leeds with direct trains to Manchester, Liverpool, London and Edinburgh. If you’re looking to take a trip over the term holidays, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is about 30-minutes away by car with direct flights across the UK and Europe.
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