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City centre vs Headingley: A student guide for where to live
When it comes to student living in Leeds, you tend to have two location options. If you're a fan of the city life, and want to be in the thick of the daily hustle and bustle then central Leeds is ideal, and this is often the route taken by first year students moving into the city. However in subsequent years, many decide to make the change and relocate to the suburbs of Headingley for a more relaxed house sharing lifestyle.

Entertainment          

When it comes to second and third year students, the majority chose to be based in Headingley. The abundance of student housing makes it a convenient location, and the assortment of pubs and bars running along the main strip makes it ideal for socialising. Places like The Box and Ark are student havens and deals can often be found on food and drink. Living in the city centre means that you're never far from the action, and Leeds is renowned for its great nightlife. If you're looking for entertainment, the vast range of shops, cinemas and events make city centre living a must for those who like to be in the hustle and bustle. Whilst aimed more at the professional market when the weekend hits, student nights are frequent during the week. From high end bars to cheaper student clubs, there is something to suit every taste. It’s almost guaranteed you'll never get tired of the bars in the area and prices are, for the most part, reasonable for a city centre location. If you're a fiend for shopping, city centre living means you'll have your favourite stores right on your doorstep, and with Trinity shopping centre and Victoria Quarter, you'll have much more choice when it comes to spending your cash than you would in Headingley.

Places to Eat

Finding a location for an evening meal is no problem in either location. In Headingley, you have an assortment of bars which offer cheap and cheerful meals perfect for a student, along with standard chain restaurants like Pizza Express and plenty of classy independent eateries.  Although you aren't struggling for choice in Headingley, the city centre offers even more choice, with wide ranging and diverse cuisines. If you're after a location for a truly special evening meal, the city has you covered, with high end restaurants such as Argentine Steakhouse Gaucho, and Trinity Leeds' Angelica becoming firm favourites.

Transport

Transport links are important for students at any university, not only for getting in to lectures on time, but also when it comes to heading back home and visiting friends in other cities. If you’re going to be taking the train into university or back home, Leeds station couldn't be better placed. One of the UK's largest transport hubs, the railway station provides access to most locations. City centre living provides easy access to Leeds University and Leeds Met buildings, with most being in easy walking range. Living in Headingley means you'll probably have to take a ride on public transport to get into the heart of Leeds, however buses and trains are only a short ride, and some students opt to cycle or walk.  If you're really out of transport options, or can't face your walk for the day, taxi fares are readily available in both locations.

Living style

Housing is, for the most part, cheaper in Headingley than the city centre, with the latter being more accommodating for mature students or people looking to live alone. Areas like The Triangle are great for central Leeds living at a good cost, especially if you're wanting to stay in the centre of Leeds past your first year of study. Headingley is very much aimed at the opposite. Housing is more suited to younger, larger groups of students who want to be near the main student areas so they don’t miss out on the action.
Published on: 26 Aug 2021