Prepare for life in Leeds

Here at LUU we work to make sure every student loves their time at Leeds. We know it can be overwhelming moving to a new place, so we’ve got some information to help make the transition that little bit easier.

Whether you’re a brand new fresher, an international student or a PhD researcher, you’re a valued member of LUU. Your enjoyment of your time at Leeds is really important to us, and we want to make sure you’re making the most of our spaces and services.

Below, you can find all the need-to-know information about life in Leeds, including student areas, healthcare and local transport. If there’s anything else you need to know, why not contact LUU Help & Support?

Hyde Park

Well-known for bustling with student life, Hyde Park is a great choice for those looking to house share with their friends, coursemates or even someone new. It’s between a 5-15 minute walk to campus and is very popular with our second, third and fourth year students, along with postgraduate students. It’s also not too far from town, and close to neighbouring Headingley, with great pubs, shops and coffee stops. Close to Hyde Park, Burley is another great option if this is what you’re looking for – but just that little bit quieter.

Woodhouse 

Woodhouse is closest to the city and directly opposite campus. It’s a similar atmosphere to Hyde Park, with the bonus of being 5 minutes from campus and the town centre.

Headingley

Headingley is a bit further out from uni and similarly student friendly, with more of a relaxed villagey vibe. It’s home to Headingley Stadium, some great nightlife, pubs, cute coffee spots and depending on where you live, is between a 20-30 minute walk onto campus. That said, most students living in Headingley and neighbouring area Burley tend to opt for public transport to get around.

Meanwood 

Meanwood is further from campus and popular with students returning to Leeds for postgraduate studies and young professionals. It’s a more relaxed residential area with some great pubs, supermarkets, and local independent shops and cafes – as well as a pretty park. Similar to Headingley, you’ll need some form of transport to get to campus – cycling or the 51 and 52 bus routes are your best bet.

If you’re looking to make some friends before you make the move to Leeds, a good place to start is Facebook. There are lots of groups set up, including ones for individual courses, accommodation, societies, and schools of study.

Head to our Postgraduate Hub, where you can find links to resources such as our Facebook page as a starting point. You can also find a Leeds Student Community Group on Facebook here.

We have lots of events on our Engage website – many of which are free to attend and provide great opportunities to meet new people, discover them here.

If you’re not sure where to start, read our top tips for making new friends at University here.

If you’re bringing your family to Leeds with you, there’s lots of support available to help make the move as smooth as possible. LUU Help & Support are also here to answer any questions you may have.

You can meet other parents online or in person, through Microsoft Teams channels and our nursery, Bright Beginnings. Find out more here.

When you make the move to Leeds, make sure to remember to sign up to new healthcare providers, such as doctors, dentists and opticians. It’s really easy to register at a new doctor, and moving opticians can be as simple as letting them know of your new address so you can find a closer branch. Leeds Student Medical Practice is a popular choice with many of our students.