8 things to do right now if you’re at Leeds University (and on a budget)

Iliana Gutch Marinovon 17 August 2018
8 things to do right now if you’re at Leeds University (and on a budget)

So you made it to Leeds University – congratulations! Luckily for you, the student experience there is enhanced by a wealth of amazing activities you can get up to in and around the city. Here are some fabulous ways to spend your weekend without breaking the bank.

 

1. LS6 Brunch

Situated in a prime location (i.e. next to Crispies, the chicken takeaway restaurant a.k.a. the jewel of Leeds’ crown), slouch over to LS6 café to replenish your hungover ass with some delicious brunch. From the breakfast burrito to the oreo milkshake, there’s a lot of incredible food on offer, and all at a very affordable price.

Top Tip: Also, don’t forget to check out the jazz nights here every Wednesday, the drinks prices are pretty reasonable as well!

Source: IndependentLeeds

2. Leeds Red Hot

Cuisines from all over the world? Check. All you can eat? Check. ALL FOR A TENNER? Check, baby. With over 100 dishes prepared freshly by the chefs, this buffet has you covered when it comes to both quality and quantity. Whether its pasta, sushi, carvery or curry, Leeds Red Hot has something for everyone to indulge in.

Top Tip: Keep your eye out for group discounts and other offers, there’s always some deals available on the website which make it impossible to say no (including 20% off for students Monday - Friday).

Source: FirstDirectArena

3. Water Lane Boathouse

As a student, most activities seem to circulate around the same areas, so if you fancy heading away from your usual haunts, why not venture further afield to Water Lane boathouse in Leeds Wharf? With its fairy lit outside seating overlooking the canal, this picturesque eatery has a young professional buzz about it which makes Hyde Park feel like worlds away. There are also some amazing food and drink deals, both at the restaurant and on the bar, and the G&Ts are to die for.

Top Tip: After your delicious meal, head down the river to either 212 bar, or Call Lane for drinks, both are about a 10-minute walk away. And don’t miss out on the two pizzas and a bottle of prosecco deal on weekdays!

Source: VisitLeeds

4. Call Lane

Whether its cocktails, heavy metal bars, or edgy techno clubs, Call Lane has it all. Located right in the centre of town, Call Lane becomes a hub of activity every Friday and Saturday night. Head on down to fun bars such as Neon Cactus, or for delicious cocktails in places like Mook. For those looking for a grungier vibe, finish the night off at Wire, an underground club where you can dance on into the small hours. Call Lane area also has a great LGBTQ+ scene, with places such as Fibre and The Viaduct Show Bar within the vicinity.

Top Tip: Look out for happy hour at cocktail bars if you want to save that dollar!

Source: WireClub

5. Hyde Park Book Club

Fed up of walking into a wall of sweaty freshers deep in the rave at Beaverworks? Or having beer spilt down you by a clumsy rugby lad at Warehouse? Tired of having your 4th Uber cancel on you while you wait, shivering, on the pavement outside Canal Mills? Fear not, Hyde Park Book Club is here to save you. With events ranging from film screenings, to gigs, to DJ nights, the intimate and casual setting offers a relaxed evening with guaranteed good vibes. Also, the super convenient location means you can saunter home whenever you feel like it.

Top Tip: If you go during the day, make sure to grab a vegan burger. They are outstanding! (and that’s coming from a zealous meat-eater). Also, check out the events where all proceedings go to charity, so you’ll be boogying for a good cause. What fun!

Source: HydeParkBookClub

6. Ilkley

Rolling hills and hoards of sheep just a half-hour train ride away from this grungy nightlife scene might seem hard to believe, but Leeds is in fact nestled in the foothills of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales, meaning that it is surrounded by scenic walks and panoramic views galore. If you feel like you need to get away from it all, head over to the quaint, cobblestone village of Ilkley to go walking in the surrounding moor. Don’t forget to reward yourself with a post-hike pint at the Cow and Calf pub or grab some afternoon tea in the village.

Top Tip: Other recommended places for nearby walks include Howarth where you can visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum and ride a steam train.

Source: LeedsUniversity

7. Charity shopping in Headingley

Fancy a bit of retail therapy without breaking the bank? Instead of the usual shopping trip to Trinity Centre, why not head down Otley Road towards Headingley and get thrifty in the charity shops - your purchases will go to a good cause as well! The best shops include British Heart Foundation, The Samaritans of Leeds Charity Shop, and Sue Ryder Vintage & Retro. You’ll be amazed by the wealth of cool and unique items you can find.

Top Tip: Try to go early in the morning to bag the best stuff while it’s still there.

Source: SueRyder

8. Ice Scoop Gelato

Last but most certainly not least is the amazing Ice Scoop Gelato. This is the mother of all dessert places, and, located just next to Hyde Park Sainsbury’s, it’s too convenient to say no. Highlights include gooey, melt-in-the-mouth cookie dough topped with fresh gelato, a treasure trove of more milkshake flavours than you can count, and warm, fresh waffles with a variety of toppings. Craving a little sugar in your life but too tired to move? Gelato Scoop’s got you covered, as you can order from Just Eat.

Top Tip: The Kinder Bueno milkshake is to die for.

Source: IceScoop

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Iliana Gutch Marinovon 17 August 2018