Are you new to Leeds or to the UK?
Settling into a new environment can be difficult, but we’re here to help you.
Read on for our tips, tricks and advice!
Get to know your new home
Starting university can feel overwhelming – but it’s okay to take things slow whilst you’re settling in to a new city, home and community.
Leeds is home to many great community spaces, from Hyde Park Picture House, the UK’s last remaining gas-lit cinema, to Hyde Park, one of Leeds’ best green spaces, there’s plenty to discover right on your doorstep.
Whether you’re taking on the famous Otley Run, finding your new favourite coffee spot or exploring somewhere entirely new, getting to know Leeds can help make it start feeling like your home.
Don’t forget Leeds University Union!
LUU is the heart of campus life, offering more than 350 Clubs & Societies, student-led activities, social and wellbeing events, study spots, and pubs, bars and legendary nightclub nights.
Lucy Hart’s Top 5 in Leeds
Our Union Affairs & Community Officer thinks you need to see these spots:
- East Village, Hyde Park
- Boogaloo at Belgrave
- Community Sauna
- Sonder Cafe
- Community Grocery, Kirkstall
Finding your community
Welcome Week may be over, but don’t worry, there is still plenty to do!
The best way to meet new people at University and break out of your shell is joining a club or society.
Voted Number 1 in the UK for Clubs and Societies (In the StudentCrowd Awards), Leeds University Union is home to over 350 societies and clubs all waiting to welcome you.
Why not try a club or society ‘Give It A Go’ event?
Try something new without the commitment! From sports and culture, to faith, general interest and more – there’s something for everyone!
Leeds Wellbeing Festival
6 October | 10am – 4pm
Spend the day on campus exploring over 40 activities to support your mind, body, sleep, nutrition and finances, including:
- Creative workshops
- The opportunity to register to a GP (Provided by Leeds Student Medical Practice),
- Free Wellbeing Advice (Provided by LUU Advice and Wellbeing)
- LGBTQ+ Support (Provided by Angels of Freedom)
- Animal therapy
- Disability services
- Practical opportunities to connect with yourself, your University community, and the city.
Visit your campus to see what’s on!
The beginning of University can feel very tricky, but you’re not alone. If you ever feel overwhelmed, your Union is here to support you alongside both your studies and your life at Leeds.
Craving a chat?
Missing your pub quiz from home? Well, Old Bar offers a weekly pub quiz on Sunday 7pm – 11pm, so don’t get the Sunday scaries alone! For just 50p per person, come meet some new faces and test your knowledge.
Worried about losing your passport?
If you’re a student interested in visiting many of LUU and the city’s local bars, pubs and restaurants – you will need a valid ID to prove your age.
Apply for a UK photo card!
If you sign up for the Government approved ‘Citizen Card’ through our link below, you can get £3 off!
See what the city has to offer!
Whilst you’re in Leeds, check out the local history! Why not take a trip to The Royal Armouries or Leeds City Museum, which often have exciting, must-see exhibitions on.
Don’t miss out on other iconic locations such as Kirkstall Abbey or Millenium Square too!
Visit Headingley! Home to local businesses, charity shops, pubs, restaurants, bars and other community spaces such as fitness studios – Headingley is a Leeds student staple!
Not a drinker?
Choose to not drink? No problem. Leeds University Union offers plenty of sober social events, from tote bag decorating to speed friending!
For those who still enjoy socialising in alcohol-serving spaces, our venues offer great alcohol free options!
Remember that you’re not alone.
It’s normal to feel unsettled whilst adjusting to life at Leeds – and other students feel the same way!
Whether you want to get involved with events, someone to talk to or just need pointing in the right direction, we’re here for you.
Blog by Farhana
