Choosing where to live in Leeds can be a tough decision. Each of the established student areas have their own things going for them, but how do you know which one is right for you?

In this blog, we’re going to argue the case for Headingley. Close to both the city centre and university campuses, this area also has amazing food, top sporting facilities and a thriving arts and culture scene.

Here we look at the top reasons why Headingley is a great choice if you’re looking for student accommodation.

 

You can complete the Otley Run

A student rite of passage, every Saturday you’ll see groups of superheroes, Vikings or workmen, in varying degrees of intoxication, tackling the 1.5-mile pub crawl through Headingley.

With up to 16 pubs to tick off, if you don’t feel up for all or indeed any of it, it makes for a great day people watching. Stake a claim at an outside table at one of the classic Run pubs, such as New Inn or The Original Oak, and watch the spectacle go past.

 

It’s food heaven

Headingley has established itself as a go-to destination for many Leeds foodies. And local residents can feel smug for having the good sense to live here. Plus, after you’ve had your fill, you can walk home!

Dig into cuisines from all over the world, with long-established restaurants such as Salvo’s Italian and Jino’s Thai Café mixing with celebrated newcomers like Kuala Lumpur Café and De Baga, a Goan restaurant.

 

You can watch the sporting greats

Anyone living in student homes in Headingley is close to all the sporting action. The Emerald Headingley Stadium is home to two of the county’s great sports teams – Leeds Rhinos and Yorkshire County Cricket Club. Alongside the men’s and women’s rugby fixtures, the stadium hosted The Hundred this year and will host The Ashes in 2023, so sports fans will have plenty to keep them entertained.

If taking part is more your thing, Leeds Beckett University has excellent sporting facilities including a state-of-the-art gym, 3G football pitch and an outdoor fitness trail.

 

You can get your culture on

If arts and culture are more your thing, Headingley has plenty to keep you amused. The Bowery is a gallery and arts space that holds exhibitions, workshops and courses. So, whether you want to while away an hour admiring the work of local artists, learn how to sew, or paint stained glass, this is the place. Not to mention there’s a delicious café selling coffee, homemade cakes and nutritious salads.

On Otley Road you’ll find another Headingley institution – Cottage Road Cinema. It’s one of the oldest in the UK, operating for over 100 years. Showing a mix of the latest releases alongside independent and classic films, it’s a cosy haven in busy Headingley.

 

You can watch your favourite bands

A Leeds institution and famous throughout the UK music scene; the Brudenell plays host to a dizzying number of gigs throughout the year. Every musical genre is represented, with shows from established artists, new talent, and those your mum and dad will probably remember. Artists including Grimes, Franz Ferdinand, and even Tom Jones have played here, with upcoming gigs including Fontaines D.C. and Melt Yourself Down.

There are also pool tables, darts and live sports on TV to keep you entertained. Plus, an excellent selection of craft ales and award-winning pies from Pieminister. Yum.

 

With a wide range of student homes in Headingley and beyond, why not get in touch with our friendly Beyond Lettings team. We have in-depth knowledge of the local areas and can help you decide the right location for you.