• 
  Shops to help pimp up your Leeds pad
  Putting your unique stamp on your student digs is the best way to make it the home from home it should be. But, if your bank balance is decidedly more Kerry Katona than Kim Kardashian, then you may feel as though your options are somewhat limited. However, Leeds is packed with a variety of different stores that allow you to give your pad a pop of personality and colour. Here’s our pick of the best places in Leeds to pimp your pad that won’t leave you out of pocket.

  Retro Boutique

  If you’re something of an old soul with a preference for things from days gone by, then you might want to seek out Retro Boutique on Hyde Park Corner. This nifty little vintage store is packed with one-off items you simply won’t find anywhere else. Stunning copper floor lamps, 1970’s dinner table sets, vintage typewriters and beautiful old-school vases are just some of the gems you can expect to find in this Aladdin’s cave, allowing you to give your room a retro twist that will get your guests talking.

  Address: 8-10 Headingley Ln, Leeds LS6 2AS, UK

  Phone: +44 113 278 2653

  On the Wall

  Posters provide an inexpensive way to splash a bit of character into your home and On the Wall have got the most varied selection you’ll find in Leeds. As well as posters for the latest films and bands, they stock a huge selection of prints for classics such as Alice in Wonderland, Jaws and Akira, often using alternative artwork to great effect. The store also carries a wide selection of prints by Australian artist Loui Jover, whose vintage-styled prints have adorned the walls of numerous galleries around the globe. On the Wall offer a vinyl framing service too, so you can easily turn your favourite long-player into a work of art.

  Address: 12 Boar Ln, Leeds LS1 6EN, UK

  Phone: +44 113 246 9202

  Colours May Vary

  If your studying art, design, or anything creative for that matter, then you must seek out Colours May Vary. The online store provides a delivery service to the really rather good Laynes Espresso on New Station Street, and they stock a small but carefully selected range of beautiful items. From eye-catching prints to artsy magazines, and handy travel guides, everything they sell has been chosen for its artistic merit and is sourced from a mixture of established and up-and-coming artists and producers. Take a peek through their online store here.

  Address: Munro House, Duke St, Leeds LS9 8AG, UK

  Phone: +44 113 244 2704

  Fabrication Crafts

  Fabrication opened up as a social enterprise in order to showcase local talent in the world of arts and crafts, and the store itself has some stunning items that can brighten up any home. With items on sale from over 70 different artists, there really is something for everyone, with incredible homeware, art prints and even clothing available. Check out their blog for the latest stock and seller round-up, or drop into their store in The Light. Address: Unit A20, The Light, The Headrow, Leeds LS1 8TL, UK Phone: +44 113 243 9140

  B&M Fabrics

  A family run business for close to 50 years, B&M Fabrics is popular with students looking to purchase fabric to make their own bespoke items, whether that be a set of cushions or a fancy dress costume. And, if you’re not too handy with a pair of scissors and a sewing kit yourself, they will put together your desired item at a very reasonable price and have produced everything from wedding dresses to rag dolls for their numerous clients over the years. Address: Leeds Kirkgate Market, 36-39 Kirkgate, Leeds LS2 7JG, UK Phone: +44 113 244 1624
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  Our Fees are Frozen this Winter

  SALES FEES JUST 0.99% & RENTAL MANAGEMENT FEES AS LOW AS 8%

  We’ve only gone and done it, we’ve put the big freeze on our fees! Not only have we frozen solid our Sales fees at just above zero at 0.99%, our Rental Management fees are frozen as low as 8%. One of the ways we’re giving you more bang for your buck this winter - brrrr-illiant!  

  Please fill out the below form and a member of our dedicated property team will be in touch. Alternatively, you can call 0113 237 0000

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• 
  Fitness Tips For Students On A Budget
  With rising gym membership prices and summer edging ever closer, students are left searching for alternative ways to keep fit without spending too much cash. Here are just a few ways to get your health fix and have money to spare, without being tied into an expensive gym contract…

  Outdoor Activities

  The weather may not always be pleasant, but the outdoors offers a bundle of opportunity for students to exercise for free whilst taking a break from studies. Whether you prefer jogging or playing sports, there are plenty of inner-city destinations available at any time of the day for free. University facilities like tennis and basketball courts can often be accessed for a small charge, if not none being a student. Some local parks also offer free fitness classes and boot camp sessions, so try searching online for your closest scheme!

  University Societies & Sports Team

  Most universities have a society for relatively every sport you can think of, so there is no excuse for not getting involved. You can even start your own society with the help of the Students Union. Looking for something a little more competitive? University sports teams are a great way to stay fit and socialise for low costs. These allow you to either train and compete weekly using university facilities, or attend social sessions to play your favourite sports.

  Fitness Videos

  If you are fed up of awkward encounters with gym buffs, why not work out from the comfort of your own home with fitness DVD's or videos? A range of fitness DVD's can be found online for as little as a fiver. They might be cheap and cheerful, but they're a great way to stay in shape without breaking the bank. If you want to go even cheaper, online websites offering fitness tips and workout tutorials are easily accessible on YouTube and other video sites such as Fitness Blender.

  Gym Membership Deals

  In the lead up to summer, many gyms and fitness centres will offer reduced-price memberships to target finishing students. University gyms are a good place to start, as they are usually situated near the campus. Other promotions include ‘refer a friend’ schemes, allowing you to work out together and enjoy benefits like free fitness classes. Many fitness centres also offer swimming pool deals at a student discount. A great way to work your cardiovascular system, a short swim can do a lot for your physical and mental health.

  Workout Apps

  The App Store is filled with a host of free applications, from 30-day squat challenges to virtual personal training software.  These apps allow you to work out from home, but also offer the flexibility of fitting around your schedule. With many proposing short workout routines to cater for beginner to advanced levels, there is no shying away from using the apps to keep fit. To get even more value from these applications, try incorporating their productivity measures into your jogging routine or outdoor sports. Click here to view a selection of the top fitness apps you can download.
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  Everything you need to know about Halloween in Leeds
  There’s no shortage of Halloween events in Leeds this year. If you’re still undecided about which one(s) to get involved in, here’s our guide to anything and everything you need to know before heading out this weekend:

  Where is the best fancy dress shop in Leeds?

  Given that Headingley is Student Central in Leeds, fancy dress retailers tend to be drawn to that area. You’ll find Dress Up and Party on North Lane and Dr Jekyll’s Fancy Dress in a converted garage on Headingley Lane. To the east of the city, you’ve got plenty of choice at Sandroy Fancy Dress on Crossgates Road.

  What big events are on this Halloween?

  Armley Mills is hosting a rather spook-tacular-looking Ghost Hunt on Friday 28^th October. You can experience everything from the paranormal to the downright abnormal in the human pendulum they’ll have on show at the oldest mill in the country. Mission, one of the best clubs in Leeds, knows how to do Halloween in style. This Saturday, it’s hosting Inzombifest, which is a fancy dress house music festival involving a total of 10 DJs. Also on Saturday night, there will be a similar DJ-infested event on at the home of Leeds United: A Nightmare on Elland Road.

  What kinds of gigs are on at Halloween?

  Aside from the DJ sets, there is plenty of live music on in Leeds this weekend. The world-renowned Australian Pink Floyd will rock it out at the First Direct Arena, while Corinne Bailey Rae will be at the Town Hall on Friday night. On Saturday night, the endlessly entertaining Lancashire Hotpots will be warming the cockles of revellers at the Brudenell Social Club as the BBC Philharmonic Orchestra will be giving everyone chills at the Town Hall. On Sunday, Tony Christie of ‘Is this the way to Amarillo?’ fame will be lighting up the night at City Varieties.

  Are there any zombie runs in Leeds this weekend?

  One of the greatest nightmare-inducing things going on in Leeds this weekend is Infection: Zombie Survival at Thackray Medical Museum. Hosted in an old hospital, it challenges participants to escape an outbreak by finding its cure before getting caught and infected by the zombies roaming the corridors… Needless to say, you have to be over 18 to participate in this scare-fest.

  What shows are on this Halloween?

  In perfect timing for the scariest weekend of the year, you’ll be able to catch one of the darkest plays in the land in The Woman in Black at West Yorkshire Playhouse on Saturday night. To continue the Halloween theme into the next week, since the day itself falls on a Monday this year, you can get musical at the first show of the season of The Rocky Horror Show at the Grand Theatre on Monday night.

  What’s on at the cinema this Halloween?

  If you’re looking for the perfect scary treat for the kids this weekend, take them to see Hotel Transylvania at Hyde Park Picture House on Saturday lunchtime. What better place to spend Halloween than a century-old gas-lit cinema?!
• 
  5 Leeds pubs to visit this Bonfire Night weekend
  Bonfire Night isn’t just about bonfires and fireworks. It’s as much about getting toasty in a good, cosy pub after the festivities as it is marvelling at them in the early evening cold. If you’re looking to make a night of it, given that the night itself falls smack-bang on a weekend this year, here’s your guide to the pubs around which you can make your plans:

  The Mustard Pot

  Whilst most council fireworks displays will be held on Friday 4^th November this year, The Mustard Pot is making a bigger night of it by starting its celebrations at 4pm on the Saturday. There will be bonfire-themed homemade dishes like chilli on the menu and a great selection of drinks, as is to be expected from Chapel Allerton’s biggest and best bar.

  The Chemic Tavern

  Voted the best pub in Leeds two years ago, The Chemic Tavern is the stuff of Leeds legend – and its yearly Bonfire Night celebrations are part of the reason for that. It’s in Woodhouse, which means it’s near the big fireworks display at Woodhouse Moor and, therefore, perfectly placed for an after-display drink. Be sure to bring your wellingtons if it’s wet…Woodhouse Moor gets rather muddy, but the cold will quickly vanish from your bones once you’re enjoying a drink in one of the most authentic pubs in Leeds.

  The Roundhay Fox

  The biggest Bonfire Night event in Leeds every year (without fail) is the council-run event at Roundhay Park. There’s no denying that the super-huge bonfire and the choreographed fireworks display are together the most impressive thing you’ll see all weekend. A visit to the nearby Roundhay Fox will be the most comforting thing you’ll do all weekend, too. Its big fire, cosy chairs and delicious drinks will warm your cockles in no time at all – and the food is superb, too.

  Brudenell Social Club

  If you’re planning to watch the fireworks at Woodhouse Moor, but you want to combine it with a night out that weekend, an evening in the Brude isn’t a bad shout. There are gigs on both Friday and Saturday night. The 4^th sees an indie acoustic night with Lucy Dacus and guest support, while the 5^th welcomes Canadian post-punk outfit Preoccupations, along with a total of four support acts, so you’re spoilt for choice.

  The Garden Gate

  The displays aren’t just restricted to the city this Bonfire Night. There’s a great event planned on the Saturday night at The Hunslet Club in Hunslet, which means that a trip to The Garden Gate is on the cards for all you beer lovers out there. It’s widely regarded as one of the most beautiful boozers in Leeds, so Bonfire Night is a perfect excuse to pay it a visit.
• 
  How To Save On Winter Energy Bills As A Student
  With the increasing cost of essential student accommodation bills such as gas, water and electric, it is easy to rack up large account sums during the winter due to careless uses of energy. Constantly turning the central heating levels up or forgetting to switch appliances off are the most common causes of expensive bills, but there are many strategies students can take to be smart and use energy efficiently during the cold season. Here are a few tips to help save on those all-important pennies, but stay comfortable and live a healthy lifestyle during the winter months at university…

  Research

  Many students believe that they are unable to switch from the energy provider that their landlord supplies them, or are fooled into thinking that the cheapest deal has been set up for their accommodation. By simply conducting research via comparison sites, or even speaking directly to your own tariff provider to bargain a better energy deal, students can cut their bill costs by large sums. Pre-payment meters are also an effective strategy in money-saving, if they are set up on a cheap deal with a supplier. Although they do not enable direct debit payments, they can save cash in the long term.

  Switching Off

  Perhaps the most simple cause of high energy bills, leaving appliances on standby or plugged in still remains to be a common bad-habit with students – losing them money on utilities and light bulbs! Electric heaters, blankets and fan radiators can also become a problem in keeping your costs down, as they ironically burn through household energy at an extortionate rate without pumping out huge amounts of heat. Try turning your thermostat down a few notches, we doubt you’ll feel the difference! And if you’re cold-blooded and need sweltering central heating, then try adjusting the radiator settings around your flat to your preference.

  Smart Usage

  Does that one shirt need to be washed separately? Or could you wait until your washing basket is full to put on a load? Smart appliance usage is an effective method in saving on energy bills as a student, without having to do a great deal. Washing clothes on a maximum load is just one of many ways you can do this…

  1.       Sticking with clothing, if you’re not desperate to iron items then why not leave them on hangers to get rid of those creases…
  2.      In the kitchen, cooking as a team with a few of your flatmates saves on the usage of electric appliances like your oven and microwave…
  3.      Switch to your mobile data! If you have limited Wi-Fi access, make the most of your mobile devices’ usage to get value for money from both your mobile and energy tariffs…

  Layering up

  This doesn’t mean turning the heating off and wrapping yourself in a thick blanket, but simply wearing jumpers around the house rather than a t-shirt or shorts. You can also set heating timers around your study schedule, meaning if nobody is lounging in the accommodation during the daytime, heating can be utilised in the morning and evening to keep you comfortable. Touching on a previous point, further research to ensure a cheaper tariff can also save money to help heat your accommodation more regularly.
• 
  Staying safe in the dark after a student night out
  With the clocks having moved back on October 27^th you might have been thankful for your extra hour in bed. However, now that the weekend is over, and you’re heading in to university this week, you’ll soon be cursing the dark afternoons as you walk back from lectures through the streets to your student home. With dark nights drawing in, and the coldness settling in for the winter, we give you our best tips on staying safe through the gloomy weathered months of the year.

  Safety in numbers

  No one wants to trek home alone in the dark. If you’re walking back home from university or heading to a friend’s house for an evening, try to avoid long walks alone. If you’re leaving a lecture, make sure you get into a group of course-mates that are heading in the same direction as you. If you’re going to see a friend, and they know one of your house-mates, bring them with you – safety in numbers is key when it comes to walking in the dark.

  Don’t stray from the beaten path

  If you absolutely need to take a walk out alone on an evening, try not to stray too far from the beaten path. Leeds is a bustling city centre, and if you stick to main pedestrian areas, there is nothing wrong with a stroll alone. If you’re heading further afield and into Headingley or surrounding areas, try and stay on main road routes, where the traffic will be frequent.

  Listen out

  We all love listening to music to minimise the boredom of a walk, but if you have to go on a long walk alone, you need to at least be aware of your surroundings. Try to keep yourself alert at all times and keep your music for when you’re safely on populated transport.

  Don’t flash your wealth

  If you feel like you’ve stumbled into an area that you feel vulnerable in, make sure you keep all your belongings and personal items hidden from view. You might think it’s urgent to text your friend back while you walk, but not only does that distract your attention, it also draws attention to you. Flashy mobiles, expensive headphones and other costly items are all great luxuries to have, but they’re also drawing attention to you. If you want to keep them for the foreseeable future, make sure they’re hidden from view whilst you’re out on your own.

  Keep in touch with someone

  We aren’t saying to stay in touch with someone constantly whilst walking, as that contradicts the point above. Instead, all we recommend is to let someone know when you’re setting off, and then get back in touch again when you’ve arrived. By having someone else aware of your route and timings for setting off, they should know something is wrong if you fail to contact them as they would expect. It’s always a good idea to have someone else know of your plans, just to be safe. There are many different ways to stay safe through the winter, with the dark nights, so for further information, local police authorities are always on hand to provide extra information on staying safe.
• 
  The best Halloween costume ideas
  Halloween is the perfect time to sort out your fancy dress and get your favourite costume on. Whether you love the old favourites like witches and fairytale characters or you’re trying to be creative with a more adult Halloween costume – here are some cheap and easy ideas to inspire you for Halloween festivities this year. Girl favourites A quirky favourite for many girls is the Amazing Party Company’s seven deadly sins collection – whether you fancy yourself as Greed, Gluttony, Lust or Pride – pair it with a pale face, a big wig and you’ll look horrific (in a good, Halloween way). If you prefer something more traditional, how about transforming yourself into a rag doll? Costumecraze.com offers a range of costumes, accessories and wigs for all colour themes. You just need some eerily perfect make-up and you’re all set. Lads Film and TV For the boys, classic film and TV characters often turn out to be strong favourites. Batman’s The Joker always manages to make people run a mile, or if you’re after something more current, and want to look good rather than scary, grab your best boots, plaid shirt and cowboy hat and head to into Django Unchained territory. Cult films always make for a great costume, and the latest offering from Tarantino provides a range of characters that make for great costume ideas. If you’re not really into the blood and gore of a costume, and prefer a more topical approach, why not put together a simple Walter White costume. Cult TV show Breaking Bad’s popularity has sky rocketed over the last two years of its run, so if you opt to go as your favourite character, expect to see plenty more Jesse’s and Heisenberg’s out with you. There are plenty of alternatives out there, and with online shopping, you don’t even need to traipse around shops to get your perfect costume sorted. New favourites A few new ideas we’ve seen this year are; possessed child (looking like you’ve just dropped straight out of the exorcist,)Bad Hatter (I’m sure you can guess the fairytale equivalent) and Roadkill (at least you’d be warm – it is October) but there’s nothing wrong with the old favourites. If you’re aiming for old-school horror, megafancydress.co.uk has a great range of devils, skeletons, zombies and vampire outfits to suit everyone. If you’d rather shop in Leeds than shop online, Amazing Party Company Ltd is located on Albion Street and has a great range of both costumes and accessories. Its finishing touches range offers fangs, makeup and scars makes your costume that bit more authentic. With fancy dress, you literally have hundreds of options at your fingertips, from complete costume sets, to DIY self assembly of regular clothes. Let us know your favourite characters and how you put together your outfit.  
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  Five apps students shouldn’t be without
  With the ever growing popularity of tablets, and the steady decline in PC sales, the final quarter of 2013 is expected to see tablet sales exceed desktop and laptops combined. With this in mind, and considering how the modern student is never separated from their tablet or smartphone, we have compiled what we believe to be a list of must have apps for students. Here is our top five free apps. Dropbox While it may not be as exciting as Angry Birds, this app could prove to be just as vital to the student regime. Dropbox is a cloud based, file syncing tool which enables you access to your documents regardless of what computer or device you’re working from. With limited individual storage space provided by universities, Dropbox offers the perfect solution allowing all work to be saved in a central location and retrieved from any device. It also allows for editing on the go (providing you have internet access), which can prove very handy if you find you have some spare time whilst waiting for a train or sat in a coffee shop. The Cloud FastConnect Wi-Fi is up there with food and water when it comes to student necessities, but when you’re out and about it’s not always the easiest thing to come across. Many establishments such as coffee shops, pubs and train stations offer free Wi-Fi to the public via The Cloud. There are thousands of hotspots all over the country and The Cloud FastConnect app helps you find them telling you exactly who’s supplying them and how far away they are. Also, once you’ve signed up, the app will automatically connect your smart device to the Wi-Fi once you’re in range. You’ll never have to be without Facebook and Twitter again. Mobile Banking (NatWest/Lloyds/Barclays/Santander) Despite the lack of it, students often find that money is hard to keep track of. Fortunately, pretty much every bank has its own app which enables you keep on top of your accounts. You can pay bills, transfer money between accounts or even just experience the joy seeing your student loan come in. Using your card as a student often means you struggle to keep track of your spends, but with mobile banking now on your smartphone, you’ll know exactly what you’ve got left to spend. Evernote Most students will tell you that saving a note as a text message draft is more than sufficient for the needs of today’s young academic. However this free app is much better for note taking and its strength lies in its versatility. Not only can you just save notes, but you can also save webpages and pictures to it and then organise them into folders. You can also sync them to all your devices so no matter what piece of tech you’re sporting that day, you’ll never be without those important musings. Wikipedia Wikipedia is a student’s best friend. Throughout school Wikipedia proved that no homework was completely undoable and this is no different now you’re at university. The Wikipedia app displays the incredibly popular online encyclopaedia in a neat and mobile friendly way which makes it very user friendly. The app also allows you to save articles for offline viewing and is very useful to have. Whether your needs are social, leisure or work related, there are a range of apps out there designed to make life easier for students. These are just some examples of the apps out there that we’d recommend, in order to save you the time of trawling through the app store.Have we missed out your favourite app? If we have, let us know what it is and why you couldn't be without it.  
• 
  Which Student Stereotype Are You?
  The students of Leeds are getting settled back into their university lives. For those who are freshers, a new and exciting chapter is starting and a new city is on their door step awaiting exploration. With Leeds being voted Britain’s best place for quality of life, there’s no wonder the city has become such a popular choice of study for UK and international students. Even more so after the The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2017 offered Leeds University ‘The University of the Year’ award. We all know that like minded students come together to form groups of friends. Whether they share the same subjects, hobbies or are society buddies, you can usually pick out a group of people and place them into a certain stereotype. We set out to ask students at Leeds Freshers Week about their views on student stereotypes. From our research, we found a big number of new students saw Leeds University to be very music, arts and sports student orientated. Although we know there are many other types of students, these stereotypes kept on creeping up in their answers. Here at Parklane Properties we have put together a fun, old-school flow chart to find out what type of student you are. By clicking and expanding the image you can follow the flow; answering questions about the reasons why you came to university, what studying techniques you have and what you enjoy doing in your spare time. All these questions ultimately leading to your ‘Student Stereotype’. FLOW CHART Were we right or are you surprised by your answer? Take a look at our student profiles to see if you hold any of the traits of your stereotype. PROFILES Share your result on Twitter and Facebook and let all your friends discover their own stereotypes.
• 
  10 ways to make sure you get your deposit back when leaving your student house
  So you’re moving on and moving out – time to make sure you get your deposit back and part on the best possible terms with your housemates and your landlord. First up, check your contract. Most specify that the house is returned in the same condition in which it was let, usually with an allowance for ‘fair wear and tear’. Some may have a more detailed checklist of things you are expected to do before you leave – so make sure you do them! Remember they are not out to trick you, they just want to be able to pass the house on to the next lot of students with the minimum of fuss. From your point of view, you want to protect yourself against time consuming disputes, so follow these 10 tips for a hassle free handover.

  • Is the house clean? Dig out the hoover and give it a good going over, most houses look considerably better once they’ve had a wash and brush up. Better still, keep up with the odd bit of cleaning during the year.
  • Is there any damage? Its best to come clean about something big – if damage can be sorted out offer to do so as this is often cheaper than paying for it out of your deposit - otherwise, own up and let your landlord make a decision about whether it comes under fair wear and tear.
  • Patch up paint scuffs and bits where you’ve stuck things on the wall – it will save on repainting costs.
  • Get organised! Take photos of your lovely clean house and/or any damage that could be disputed. In fact if there is anything dodgy when you first moved in it is a good idea to get photos then as well.
  • Check everything against the inventory you and your landlord signed when you moved in.
  • Pay off all the bills you owe – sort it out with housemates in good time before they disappear for ever and you are landed with their share of the bill!
  • Invite the landlord round a month or so beforehand so that you can get an idea of whether there are going to be any issues and where disputed areas might lie. This gives you a chance to sort things out before moving day. Have an independent 3rd party present too if you like.
  • Hand in keys when asked to so that the next people get a fair crack at moving their stuff in before the start of term.
  • Don’t even think about withholding rent – its illegal and not worth the hassle.
  • Dispute your deposit with the landlord only in the last resort – nobody wants it. But know your rights. If your deposit is listed in the tenancy agreement you signed when you moved in it may be protected under one of these schemes; The Deposit Protection Service, My Deposits and The Dispute Service known as The Tenancy Deposit Scheme. The process is free and you can find details online.

   
• 
  10 things you absolutely have to do in Leeds
  It’s one of the most diverse cities in England and it’s the city we love so dear. We want to share that love by shouting about some of favourite things to do in this magnificent home of ours. If you live in Leeds, you’ll understand. If you don’t live in Leeds, you’ll be considering your options about a few minutes from now.

  Have a drink in a three-century-old pub

  Alright, alright. Beer might be one of Leeds’ favourite things, but, trust us, it’s for good reason. Whitelock’s Ale House, located just off Briggate in the city centre, is one of the oldest (and best) pubs in Leeds, having been established all the way back in 1715. That’s a lot of time to learn how to pull a pint and pull a pint they can, indeed. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.566241844709!2d-1.5433780626588447!3d53.797207272886546!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c195e77ef53%3A0xec15c54bda31a4ee!2sWhitelock's+Ale+House!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472045458447" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  or have a drink on a boat

  This list won’t be entirely about beer, honest, but this one is worth putting on your Leeds to-do list. There’s a boat on a roundabout and it’s a pub. That’s all we need to say, right? Oh yeah, its name. It’s called Dry Dock and it’s located on Woodhouse Lane near Leeds Beckett University. All aboard. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.1562204988304!2d-1.5499471839525956!3d53.80450384799507!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795eaa03221bb7%3A0xc808dfb7b77c7ac6!2sDry+Dock!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472045562051" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Take in a show at the Grand Theatre

  Like many cities of similar size, Leeds has a number of top city centre theatres. While the modern delights of the West Yorkshire Playhouse are not to be dismissed, the Grand Theatre is arguably the best to visit for those who want top-class entertainment with opulent surroundings to match. The Grand Theatre, built in 1878, hosts operas, plays and even stand-up comedy from some of the biggest names in the world, as well as a few local artists. A night at the opera is best enjoyed here because the setting and the performance are truly a marriage made in heaven; a meal out at one of the bars or restaurants along nearby North Street can make the night really special. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.403741317312!2d-1.5432796839527072!3d53.800099148326765!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1a57a9a379%3A0x6c8b91050eaa35fe!2sThe+Grand+Theatre+%26+Opera+House+Leeds!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472045752293" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Shop

  Aside from beer, Leeds is famous for a few other things, too. Its shopping scene is deemed one of the best around and it’s easy to see why. The Trinity Shopping Centre that opened in 2012 is on another level (or a few other levels) and even boasts its own indoor street food canteen with a monthly rotation of stands from all over the country. The city centre is compact, so it’s easy to get between top shops like the Apple Store and House of Fraser and it will soon be home to another brand new shopping centre in Victoria Gate (open late-2016), which will have a huge John Lewis department store. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.604644007509!2d-1.5461040839528473!3d53.79652384859614!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1ebada21b9%3A0x7e291386a3a95862!2sTrinity+Leeds!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472046018916" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Watch a film in a century-old cinema

  Cottage Road Cinema, north of the city centre in Headingley, is over 100 years old. It’s been continuously screening films since 1912 and prides itself on retaining its heritage as a cinema that doesn’t submit to modern expectations, plainly because it doesn’t need to. This is evident in the screenings of old classics like Psycho and Brief Encounter, as well as new blockbusters, which you can experience in the way cinema used to be for just a few quid. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2354.8969063861377!2d-1.5839307839520418!3d53.82690984630682!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795938586ea791%3A0x130c335090abb450!2sCottage+Road+Cinema!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472046244068" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Visit Harewood House

  Travel a few minutes north of Leeds and you can experience one of the finest country houses in England. Harewood House was built in the 18^th century and boasts some terrific examples of contemporary art and wonderful gardens. It was the location of the ceremonial start of the Tour de France when it came to Yorkshire in 2014 and it’s easy to see why the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge looked so comfortable there. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2350.961167779448!2d-1.529502683950116!3d53.89689414103061!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795a748aae4861%3A0x8cbc7f2b0baec843!2sHarewood+House!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472046390646" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Jogging in Roundhay Park

  The people of Leeds are spoilt for choice when it comes to green spaces. Golden Acre Park, Kirkstall Abbey Park and Middleton Park all spring to mind, but the most famous of all is Roundhay Park. In the north-east of the city, this 700 acre-plus park is a must-visit for anyone who wants to go running or jogging. Roundhay Park is often used as a starting or finishing point for marathons, and it’s easy to see why. The path that goes around the lake is perfect for a run, providing great views and plenty of corners and hills to navigate. It’s also a good spot for picnicking and hosts the most popular fireworks display in the Leeds on 5th November. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2354.246858014177!2d-1.50751168395171!3d53.83847314543534!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795ba1a8a4283f%3A0x42ec9a1763fe716!2sRoundhay+Park!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472046536507" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  See tropical life at Tropical World

  In one of the biggest city parks in Europe, Roundhay Park, lies a tropical home for plants and animals alike. Tropical World, which houses everything from butterflies to terrapins, is an unbeatable day out for families with kids. Combine it with a picnic in the park and everybody is happy! <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2354.1327117365736!2d-1.506954383951675!3d53.84050344528237!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795b0afa2bf001%3A0xfd0b06d5f59cff6e!2sTropical+World!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472046642074" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Visit the first direct Arena

  One of the newest additions to the Leeds skyline, the first direct Arena is a massive indoor venue that the city craved for years. Holding more than 13,000 fans for live gigs, its acoustics are first-rate and it has great views from just about every angle. Aside from live music, the arena also hosts comedy, boxing, darts, wrestling and miscellaneous events such as job fairs. It has a highly-rated restaurant too, just to the left of the main entrance. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.212326513101!2d-1.5441013839526758!3d53.80350544807032!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c04ce7cf843%3A0x775dffec000de761!2sFirst+Direct+Arena!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472046783001" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Visit the home of champions

  Leeds is home to three famous sporting teams: three-time English champions Leeds United, reigning Super League champions Leeds Rhinos and Yorkshire County Cricket Club, who hold the County Championship crown. Leeds United may play in the second tier of English football these days, but a day at Elland Road is well worth a try, especially in a local derby against Huddersfield Town or Sheffield Wednesday. The Rhinos and Yorkshire play in adjacent stadiums in Headingley; the latter boast world-class cricketers including Joe Root, who can also be seen in test matches in the same venue for England! <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2357.6555347067597!2d-1.5743332839533708!3d53.77781935000499!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795e8c674ead93%3A0x7841afdaffd02a2a!2sElland+Road!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1472046878473" width="700" height="350" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
• 
  Where to go after work in Leeds
  Long day in the office? Head out into Leeds for dinner and drinks after work. Meet up with friends, socialise, grab a bite or have a few beers; the city has a load of great spots to head to once you’ve clocked off. Here’s our top guide on where to go out after work in Leeds. Alchemist One of the newest but most popular after work hot spots in Leeds is The Alchemist. As part of the Leeds Trinity shopping centre, expect to see a wide ranging mix of revellers, from casual shoppers giving their legs a rest, to business-types winding down after a hectic day in the office. With tasty snacks and light bites available, you’ll find a great range of food on offer too, along with a relaxing and stylish ambience to relax and unwind. Browns Providing a post-work drink with a ‘grown-up’ vibe, Browns is conveniently located on the Headrow. With a wide range of cocktails, wines and lagers on tap, Browns has all office tastes covered. Be prepared to be met with by a packed bar at peak times, with weekends being a particularly busy time. However, drop in on a week night and you should be able to enjoy a more relaxing ambiance, quality English-style food and even a live pianist from time to time. Revolution With locations at both the Electric Press near Millennium Square and on Call Lane, Revolution offers daily food and drink discounts between 5pm and 9pm. Head down on ‘Mega Mondays’ and you can enjoy 50% off food all day. With great offers to be snapped up, Revolution is the ideal place to head when you need to let your hair down with colleagues. While not seen as one of Leeds’ most trendy locations, it’s often hard to turn a good deal down. Botanist Another of Leeds Trinity’s latest offerings, The Botanist provides a peculiar environment to enjoy your drinks. Located underground, the decor within the Botanist gives an earthy feel to the bar with potted plants lining the walls. With a diverse (and strange) selection of beverages including herbal ingredients such as Rosemary and Dill, the Botanist provides a modern and quirky twist on flavour. Prices for cocktails are reasonable for a city centre venue, ranging from £5 to £7 in most cases. Food options stay more traditional, with burgers and fish and chips being the pick of the menu. 1871 Located on Boar Lane and attached to the Marriot Hotel, 1871 bar and lounge is a spacious and sophisticated spot to unwind after a long day in the office. Offering exposed brick surroundings decorated with stylish film artwork, you’ll soon find yourself relaxing and enjoying your early evening food and drinks in one of Leeds’ more discerning bars. Easily accessible and in the very centre of Leeds, 1871 is within walking distance of Leeds Trinity and the train station. Have we missed anywhere? Do you disagree with our choices? Let us know your thoughts. Photo Credit: pauline praline via Compfight cc
• 
  A Fresher's Guide to Leeds
  As I’m sure you’ve worked out by now, Leeds is a fantastic city to live and study in but you’re still finding your way around and there are lots of people trying to tell you where to go. Never fear. Here’s the ultimate boiled down Freshers Guide to Leeds. Not lots of guff, choices and alternatives. Just 1 definitive place in each category to simplify your life.

  The Pub

  The Faversham- 1-5 Springfield Mount,LS2 9NG The Fav is a Leeds student institution in the heart of university land - you need to go there at least once and know where it is. Go for beer, cocktails, music and burgers.

  The Club

  Control - Cardigan Fields, just off Kirkstall Road. LS4 2DG Leeds has some of the best clubs in the country so if clubbing is your thing you’ve come to the right place. At some point someone will suggest going to Control for the full Ibiza experience. It’s big. It’s brash. It has 2 arenas over 25,000 square feet, 7 bars and a capacity for 3000 people - Nuff said.

  The Cheap Restaurant

  La Cafetiere – Hyde Park Corner, LS6 2NW In the heart of studentsville this is a great place for everything from hungover breakfasts to veggie meals and romantic Mediterranean dinners. Voted best Middle Eastern food in Leeds. You can’t miss it – it’s purple.

  The Cinema

  Hyde Park Picture House - 73 Brudenell Road, LS6 1JD Forget the multiplex, there is only one cool place to see a film in Leeds. Hyde Park Picture house - an old fashioned “flea pit” with velvet seats and discounted prices on current films.

  The Fun Bar in Town

  The Bierkeller - 1 South Parade, LS1 5QL Underground German beer house in the city centre where you can dance on long benches (should you wish) while chugging cheap steins and singing karaoke.

  The Cheap Night Out

  MFA Bowl – The Merrion Centre LS2 8BT, Tenpin bowling Monday to Thursday is £1 a game – that is really cheap and a good alternative night out!

  The Top Clothes Tip

  Watch out for the student shopping lock in. It is usually around October time –keep an ear out for details. Sign up for free online and then go along to the Leeds Trinity Shopping Centre from 9-midnight on the designated night and shop in High Street Stores like Top Shop - all for student prices.

  The Tip Your Mum Would Approve of…

  Kirkgate Market - 28-34 George St, LS2 7HY Eat Your Veg! You can get loads of cheap vegetables from Kirkgate Market, especially last thing on a Saturday afternoon. Just remember a sturdy bag to bring it all back in.

  The Tip Every Student Agrees With…

  Don’t lose your ID – if you don’t want your life to turn into a nightmare. Get all the information you need for Leeds Freshers Week from the Official Website http://www.allaboutfreshers.com Parties, tours, money off stuff and that all important society joining bit.
• 
  6 of the best bars and pubs in Leeds
  Leeds is great for a lot of reasons, but there’s one that puts it above all other cities in England: the quality of its bars and pubs. Even if you don’t know the city, you won’t have to stroll very far to find a great place to enjoy a drink. And that’s without consulting Google Maps or Yelp! Allow us to take you on a tour of the city’s finest establishments for refreshments.

  Tapped

  With its own micro-brewery, this pub could pass as a permanent beer festival. It’s a real favourite amongst ale fans. It’s only been open for a few years, but it has enough beer on offer to help it last forever. Boasting over 120 beers at any one time, Tapped is the closest you’re going to get to beer heaven in Leeds. They do cracking pizza, too.

  Whitelock’s Ale House

  Established in 1715, Whitelock’s is over 300 years old and consequently one of Leeds’ oldest pubs. It started life as The Turk’s Head, but was purchased in the late 19^th century by the Whitelocks and remains open to this day. It’s located in the heart of the city centre, as if the whole city was built around it, but it’s tucked away up a ginnel so you’d never guess that you’re surrounded by thousands of shoppers. It’s great.

  Alfred

  Located in the northern suburb of Meanwood, this North Bar-owned spot is one of the homeliest, friendliest pubs in Leeds. It’s perfectly placed up the road from Meanwood Park, so many a day’s walk with the dog and/or the family ends up with a pint of the locally brewed ale here. It’s tiny, so don’t expect any wide-open spaces, but that’s exactly what makes it so cosy.

  ShuffleDog

  ShuffleDog is one of the newest bars in the city, but don’t let that fool you. It’s the second instalment of BrewDog in Leeds with an added twist: it has three 22ft shuffleboards downstairs. There’s nowhere else like it in Leeds and, as you would expect from BrewDog, the craft beer is top notch, too. You’re guaranteed to have a blast.

  The Victoria Hotel

  If it’s charmingly British you’re after, the Vic is the one and only choice. On Great George Street lies a pub that still has bar lamps to light up the night and stained glass partitions between booths. The choice of drinks is endless and the pub grub will fill you up for hours. It’s fit for a Queen, if you ask us.

  The Roundhay Fox

  This gastro pub is another favourite from the suburbs of the great city of Leeds. The establishment in Roundhay has got a brilliant reputation and there’s good reason for it. It’s home to one of the best roast dinners in the city, a great selection of drinks and even a log fire to keep you warm in the winter. Cheers to that!
• 
  Meal deals in the City of Leeds
  We all know the hardship of living on a student budget; but when you’re sick of the sight of pot noodles, boring sandwiches and last night’s leftovers it can be nice to take yourself and your equally half-starved mates out for a meal. Check out our top list of student meal deals in Leeds.

  The Hidden Gem: A Nation of Shopkeepers (Cookridge Street, serves food until 10pm)

  The majority of people don’t even notice it’s there, but those who do are able to experience American style food; home-cooked by their very own Ruby Jean’s Diner (everyone loves an American Diner, right?) Their extensive range of beers, wine and spirits could never fail to suit everyone, and there’s live music most nights. So why not postpone doing coursework for a little while longer, and treat yourself for one night this week? Recommended deal: 2-4-1 burgers on Tuesdays. Visit their website, or follow @RubyJeansDiner for full menus, offers and updates.

  The Big Eat: Red’s (Cloth Hall Street, serves food up until 11pm on weekdays)

  Red’s True Barbeque is relatively new to Leeds, but people haven’t stopped raving about it since it arrived. Red’s claim to end the plague of “the bad British Barbeque” – and from ribs to steaks to burgers, they manage to do exactly that! Serving generous portions of hearty American favourites, head to Red’s for a plate full of pulled pork sandwich, sweet potato fries and an assortment of delicious American dressings. Recommended deal: Feasting plates – Share between 4 or 8 people and everything’s included, starting at £16.95 for 4. Their website has all the details you’ll need.

  The Laddish One: The HOP Leeds (Granary Wharf, serves food until 7pm)

  The HOP bar is famous for its real ale, live music and weekly pub quiz (you win beer, a gallon load!) Set on under the dark arches in Granary Wharf, it has a traditional pub feel and is the perfect place to hide away from all those deadlines. Their pies win actual awards. A favourite location for after work drinks, so pick your day and time wisely to avoid the crowds. Recommended deal: Pie, mash, peas and gravy – with a pint – for a fiver! There’s even a pie-eating contest. If you fancy yourself as a food challenge champion, download an application form at their website.

  The Best of British: Adelphi (Hunslet Road, serves food until 10pm)

  Boasting a quaint courtyard in summer and producing mulled wine in winter, the Adelphi caters for everyone, no matter what weather we are blessed with through our unpredictable seasons. It offers the best of Britain’s cask ales, traditional pub meals and it’s definitely in the running for the best Sunday roast in Leeds! Recommended deal: Fixed price menu (two courses for £8.50) Tweet them @AdelphiLeeds to book a table or do it easily here.

  The Old Faithful: J.D. Weatherspoon (Everywhere, serves food always… until 11pm)

  There is an endless amount of J.D. Weatherspoon locations in and around Leeds City Centre. If you’re looking close to campus we’d suggest The Hedley Verity and The Cuthbert Brodrick, or if you’re breaking off from shopping there’s always Beckett’s Bank on Park Row. Recommended deal: There’s a different club every day of the week, all day. From chicken Wednesday’s to curry Thursday’s to Fish Friday’s – and the list goes on…  
• 
  The best open mic nights in Leeds
  There are two things that Leeds knows best: (1) music and (2) pubs. Combine the two and you’ve guaranteed yourself a cracking night out. There are plenty of open mic nights around the city that will keep you occupied most nights of the week, so allow us to list five of the best for you to take your pick:

  The Hop

  Where?

  The Dark Arches, Granary Wharf, Dark Neville St, Leeds LS1 4BR <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.7610701202434!2d-1.551249883952945!3d53.79373994880591!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1fbb7e1f35%3A0x8cc359f6beb99240!2sThe+Hop!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471962610450" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  When?

  Wednesday 8pm

  What?

  They provide the guitar and a free beer, you just turn up and provide the music. The Hop is at Granary Wharf, which is mere minutes away from the train station and just yards from the canal, so you can sit outside in the beer garden in the remaining sunlight before you pick up the guitar inside and set the stage alight.

  The New Conservatory

  Where?

  Albion Pl, Leeds LS1 6JL <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.5344164874064!2d-1.5469434840133551!3d53.79777364850213!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1c00a20f5f%3A0xd976834d599fe8f9!2sThe+New+Conservatory!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471962772998" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  When?

  Thursday 8.30pm

  What?

  Toby Thorne takes to the stage every Thursday night to entertain the music-loving punters at the New Conservatory on Albion Place. Join him with your acoustic talents and you might just make a name for yourself.

  The Ship Inn

  Where?

  71 Briggate, Leeds LS1 6LL <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.5092932160237!2d-1.5445021840133533!3d53.79822074846845!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1bdb517433%3A0xee0b7a792e19019e!2sThe+Ship+Inn!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471962920097" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  When?

  Tuesday 8.30pm

  What?

  A man by the name of Ben gets his music on every Tuesday night at one of Leeds’ most characterful pubs. The historic Ship Inn on Briggate welcomes acoustic acts from far and wide, so escape from the busy city streets and get involved in the musical magic in this courtyard pub. You won’t look back.

  The Grove Inn

  Where?

  Back Row, Leeds LS11 5PL <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.9204067506435!2d-1.55001278401355!3d53.790904149019596!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795e5a8e4cb921%3A0xdb89210b62833a8d!2sThe+Grove+Inn!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471963030808" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  When?

  Wednesday

  What?

  The home of the longest running folk night in the UK also plays host to an excellent open mic night. The Grove Inn, hidden in the shadows of the towering Bridgewater Place, is a place for musical minds to mingle whether it’s Wednesday’s open mic night or not.

  The Chemic Tavern

  Where?

  9 Johnston St, Leeds LS6 2NG <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2355.5945364942736!2d-1.555013484012895!3d53.81449824724211!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x487959555a2707dd%3A0x9a00c8c600680955!2sThe+Chemic+Tavern!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471963123867" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  When?

  Thursday

  What?

  You’re never short of things to do at the Chemic Tavern, with everything from Irish folk nights on Wednesdays to Pub Dub nights on the first Friday of every month. Sandwiched between them is a brilliant open mic night that will open your mind up to the local talent that lies in the backstreets of Leeds’ unbeatable music scene.
• 
  Choosing the right housemates
  Deciding who you want to live with for the next year of your term-time life is a big decision, so we can't stress enough that you choose wisely. Living with housemates who you don’t see eye to eye with or who leave a trail of destruction behind them throughout the house can prove to be a nightmare. You might be able to stay friendly with people in a couple of seminars, but living with someone permanently is a whole different prospect. Here are some useful pointers to direct you towards a making the right housemate choice. Don’t choose too soon As tempting as it can be to jump right in and start your house hunt as soon as possible, try not to move too quickly. Getting along with someone on the sports field, or on a social evening doesn't necessarily mean they're an ideal living partner. In order to be sure, try and spend quality time together and see if you bond. The better you get to know a person, the more likely you are to know if your personalities are suited to living together over a long period of time. Where to find a flatmate It might be the easiest option, however sticking with people you were bunged together with in halls of residence isn’t always the best way of selecting housemates. You may find that you don't really have a whole lot in common with any of them, which could leave you feeling alienated in a house together. Whatever your living preference, you may need to venture out of your halls to find more well matched roommates. Taking up a hobby and joining a society is a great way to widen your circle of friends and get acquainted with new people. Course mates are also great to move in with, as you have matching timetables and interests, not to mention you can collaborate on work when the course begins to get tough. How many housemates? Piling all your best mates into one house may seem a great idea and you might envision it being non-stop fun, but it might not always work out like that. Whilst there's nothing wrong with living in a large group, it doesn't mean everything will work without problems. Although many large houses take into account the large body of inhabitants, it can be the case that more housemates equates to more washing up, less fridge and freezer space and more chance of disputes. Living in a big group can have both advantages and disadvantages, so just make sure you factor that in when coming to a decision. Privacy All students value privacy, and even in a shared house there needs to be clear boundaries between friends. In many households, arguments stem from the sharing or using of other peoples things. It may be a good idea to look for accommodation which provides locks on bedroom doors to avoid these kind of issues arising, as everyone will want a private and personal space of their own. In most cases, it's simply common sense as to where boundaries are established, but privacy and belongings are a root cause of many arguments when it comes to student living.  
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  A Guide to Headingley Café Culture
  Picture the scene: you're trying to get your work done but noisy housemates are proving too much of a distraction. Finding a café for a coffee where you can concentrate, or a quiet place to eat in Leeds sounds like a good idea, but where to go? Luckily for you, Headingley has plenty of small independent cafes within walking distance of your home. Here are our top five picks: Sebby’s Café Deli Sebby’s is a quaint little café situated on Otley Road and is well-known for its award-winning coffee and homemade cakes. The owners, Helen and Robert, have a passion for food, music and travelling and tried to incorporate these three elements into their menu and décor. They are truly dedicated to their business; welcoming new food ideas and providing efficient and friendly service to customers. The menu consists of freshly made sandwiches (try the Jerk chicken), a deli selection, tasty piegatas (pitta bread style pockets) and of course their delicious cakes; all very reasonably priced. LS6 Café The LS6 Café, also known as the Clock Café, is an eccentric place based on Hyde Park Corner, filled with retro furniture and tasty food. The décor is possibly the café’s most unique quality; consisting of numerous mirrors, clocks and unusual ornaments. The place is well-known for its extensive breakfast menu (served until 4pm), their large portion sizes and wide range of drinks – from smoothies and milkshakes to beers and fine wines. As runners up in the Observer Food Monthly Awards, the Clock maintains a good reputation within Leeds and provide cheap food offers such as a coffee and croissant for £2.00. Café Lento Café Lento is located in the centre of Headingley and prides itself on its high quality coffee and freshly made food that is made with seasonal and Fairtrade ingredients. The name, ‘Lento’, which means slow in Italian, refers to the atmosphere within the café. The owners invite customers to sit back and relax; to enjoy their time at Lento. The café caters to everyone’s needs, offering non-gluten, vegetarian and vegan produce, with the friendly staff always willing to help. The menu consists of sandwiches, breakfast options and lighter dishes such as omelettes and salads. If this doesn’t excite you, Lento also have local bands performing weekly and are always promoting new events that take place within the café. Dare Café Dare Café, based in the heart of Headingley, has been around for years and is well-loved by young and old. The most appealing characteristic is its versatility; serving as a café, restaurant and bar. Typically, food is served with a Mexican and Italian focus, however, options such as jacket potatoes and sandwiches are also available. There’s also plenty of meal deal and happy hour offers each day. Love Rouge Love Rouge isn’t your typical café - specialising in a wide range of cupcakes, it is the perfect place for a sweet tooth.  The café is situated on the Otley Road and was established in 2011, when owners Lydia and Becky quit their day jobs to focus on their passion for baking. Their selection varies from cupcakes, brownies and traditional cakes and they even offer outside catering for special events. The café itself has vintage décor and is the perfect place to unwind with a hot drink and a sweet treat.  
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  Research shows Students Regretting The A-levels They Took
  At the tender age of 16, choosing what A-level subjects to study can be very daunting. Some students really struggle to decide what to study, and others make decisions without doing any research. Knowing how each subject can affect your future choice is crucial before deciding on what subjects to study. New research conducted by Which? University shows that young people don’t feel informed about just how much A-levels can impact their choice of university. The research consisted of a survey of just over 1,000 UK students under the age of 19 who had applied to university. It shows that perhaps students aren’t being given enough information to help them make this big decision. Parents also need to be adequately informed too, so that they can help advise their children. Half of the people that took part in this research don’t feel suitably informed about how A-levels can shape their university future. Unfortunately, universities don’t look at all A-level subjects in a positive light, and a lot of courses will only accept specific subjects. Students are then left disappointed and wishing they had chosen different subjects. The research also showed that 30% of university applicants wished they had chosen different A-level subjects, and over 40% wished they had thought more about what subjects might help them get into university. The general consensus is that young people know how important their choice of degree is, but don’t necessarily understand just how crucial their A-level subjects will be.

  Helpful resources for choosing A-levels

  The best thing to do when it comes to choosing your A-levels is to look at what sort of degree you may like to study, and which subjects they require. It can also help to select a core subject which can be useful for a variety of different degrees. There are plenty of tools and handy websites out there that can help students with making this decision. Which has a helpful website that gives you tips on which subjects to choose, click here for more information. This handy A-level selector tool tells you what options specific A-level subjects can give you. It’s really insightful and shows you what degrees certain subjects can offer, and also what sort of careers they open up and how well they pay. The Russell Group has also produced an Informed Choices guide which explains how important it is for students to be fully informed about how what they study at sixth form can impact their choice of degree. Apparently, choosing facilitating subjects such as biology, chemistry, English literature, geography, history, physics and maths can be a big help. It’s tough because students obviously want to choose subjects that they will enjoy, but they also need to consider how these subjects could shape their future. Thinking about all this when you are just about to choose your A-level subjects can be a little terrifying, but if you take the time to digest everything, you will be able to make smarter choices.
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  Where to watch local bands in Leeds
  Leeds might well and truly (and finally) be on the big stage when it comes to the world’s best live acts, but the city has for years boasted local talent that is just as worthy of being on the stage at the First Direct Arena. The good thing is that you don’t have to venture down to the arena to see some great live bands. Leeds is so packed with venues that you’ll never run out of places to go or bands to see. Check out our list of the top spots and make a habit of checking the Leeds Gig Guide to see what’s on any given night of the week.

  Brudenell Social Club

  What to expect: A bit of everything The Brude is one of the best venues for live music in the city, whether the bands are local or not. From folksters to funksters, you’re guaranteed to see some proper local talent here. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2355.8547002353494!2d-1.5729376839524725!3d53.80986914759079!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795eb3bca34c93%3A0xcab53c6289a2ceea!2sBrudenell+Social+Club!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471958978700" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Belgrave Music Hall

  What to expect: Alternative Located in a restored 1930s building in Leeds’ Northern Quarter, Belgrave is one of the city’s newest and liveliest venues. You’ll catch some of strongest alternative acts in the city in its 200-capacity venue (and you can fill your boots on some of the best pizza and burgers in the city whilst you’re at it). <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.364186799136!2d-1.543202183952744!3d53.80080304827383!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1afa816419%3A0xdc19993c1bbd0788!2sBelgrave+Music+Hall+%26+Canteen!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471959007833" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  The Packhorse

  What to expect: A bit of everything Whether you’re a toe-tapper or a head-banger, the eclectic range of music at The Packhorse has forged it into one of the best venues in the city over the years. Just be sure to go to the right one; this Packhorse is on Woodhouse Lane. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2355.824430737677!2d-1.557961083952474!3d53.81040774755024!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795eabb2b5a15f%3A0x7a8b20b4fc91dedb!2sThe+Pack+Horse!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471959067855" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Sela Bar

  What to expect: Reggae and jazz Based in the city centre on New Briggate, Sela Bar is the joint of choice for jazz fans. It’s only been around since 2004, but it’s played host to some incredible local and international talent and established itself as one of the best nights out in the city in that short time. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.4380527053254!2d-1.5438495839527813!3d53.79948854837284!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1a4d30c77d%3A0x5239cf78b57525bc!2sSela+Bar!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471959086136" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  The Wardrobe

  What to expect: Funk and soul If you’ve got funk in your bones, shuffle on down to the Wardrobe and you’ll be dancing until next Tuesday. It doubles up as a comedy venue and a restaurant, so this hotspot is everything you need for a funkin’ Friday night out in Leeds. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.569642769627!2d-1.5356851839527919!3d53.79714674854934!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c16c8c1352d%3A0xd5727db52de3c639!2sThe+Wardrobe!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471959256224" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Bad Apples

  What to expect: Metal Get some metal in your lugholes and mosh the night away at Leeds’ top dive bar. Located on Call Lane, Bad Apples is the only spot to get your fill of proper meaty riffs from some proper local metal-heads. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.614067153998!2d-1.5420676839528764!3d53.7963561486088!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c19eb25961f%3A0x8b84ceb161e992ca!2sBad+Apples+Rock+Bar!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471959290758" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  The Grove Inn

  What to expect: Folk Home to the longest running folk night in the world, the Grove Inn has been hooking locals in from the first chord since 1962. There’s live music on most nights of the week, including open mic slots to give you an authentic taste of local Leeds talent. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.9204067506507!2d-1.5500127839530178!3d53.79090414901947!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795e5a8e4cb921%3A0xdb89210b62833a8d!2sThe+Grove+Inn!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471959330890" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Santiago Bar

  What to expect: Rock The Gothic décor and creaky floorboards in Santiago Bar are the first marker of what kind of bands you can expect to see here. It’s located in the Grand Arcade, so its riffs rattle the windows of the Victorian glass tunnel, night in, night out.  <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.3949751811465!2d-1.5425886839527718!3d53.80025514831514!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1a5f6f5b21%3A0x429de8d0bd6e977!2sSantiago+Bar!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1471959360274" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>
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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.
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  The Benefits Of Sharing A Large House
  Whilst university can be a strenuous time full of work stresses and exam revision panic, it can also be one of the most sociable and enjoyable periods of your life. If you're looking into potential properties for the next year, but are unsure as to how many people you want in your house, then we're here to provide some insight. If you have a large group of friends, and just can't work out how to split yourselves up for your living arrangements don't fret, as living with a large group is a great option.

  7 bed houses

  Throughout your time at university, you make friends in all sorts of different situations, from being in the same lectures to having been put together in a first year flat; there are a whole host of ways in which you get to know new people. If you're looking to share your university memories in a house of seven for the forthcoming year, this Parklane Student house is available at just £69.99 pppw.. Providing ample living space for you all to relax on a night and enjoy your favourite films together on the wall-mounted TV, the house is located just 10 minutes' walk from the popular Otley Road. If you've got a little more budget to play with as a group, then an extra £7 pppw investment can land you this rental. With the amount of time the typical student spends in bed, the upgrade to double beds can make a real difference to your comfort for the year. Even though seven of you might at first glance, seem a bit unmanageable, the two bathrooms complete with showers make this an ideal living situation.

  8 bed houses

  Living in a house of eight people may have you envisioning constant hassle, however the greater manpower means that chores such as tidying up are shared around in a way which reduces the workload per person. The necessity for a large living space means that although you're with a lot of other people, you'll always have plenty of empty space to relax in when you're not in the mood for company. The large group of fellow housemates keeps this property reasonable at just £69.99, and it comes complete with spacious bedrooms with double beds, a pair of fridges and laminate flooring in communal areas to ease your cleaning worries.

  9 bed houses

  Living in a student home along with eight of your closest friends is ideal if you want to enjoy every minute of your student experience in Leeds. With so many friends under one roof, you'll never be bored. Everyday tasks can easily be portioned out, and having so many housemates means that you can create a cooking rota to share out the job. At £86.99 pppw, this 9 bedroom home includes two kitchens, a huge recently refurbished lounge complete with three sofas and front and rear gardens for when spring and summer roll around. If you're looking to scale up with a property from the Autograph range, then this large 9 bedroom property has great views across Hyde Park and is only a couple of minutes' walking distance from both Leeds University and the centre of Headingley. All bedrooms are large doubles so there's no need to draw straws, as all nine housemates will live in luxury with large rooms and beds. Even though there are nine of you, you aren't limited to houses. This modern flat located on St John's Terrace gives you a modern feel, with furnishing to an excellent standard and a range of very large, spacious and bright rooms. The lounge area has masses of space for the lads to get together and play FIFA on the PS4, or the girls to relax with a classic chick-flick.
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  A Freshers’ guide to Leeds & How to prepare for uni
  First thing’s first, you chose well. Leeds is a great city with LOTS to do for students, so you’ll be very happy here. But you need to know a city to experience a city. That’s why we’re here.

  Study the campus map

  You’ll likely get a map in your university starter pack after having your place confirmed. Use it. Get used to the orientation of the campus and the buildings in which you’ll be taking class. Getting a grasp of the layout of the place, even if you’ve been before, will help you settle in much quicker.

  Find your accommodation

  If you’ve not yet found your student digs, choose wisely. Research where the best bars are and look out for the good coffee shops. While Leeds is generally quite an accessible city anyway, it’s important to make it easy for yourself to get to the places you need or want to be. Consider travel options and what the bus routes are like in the area. If you’ve found where you’re going to live already, get used to its location in relation to the city centre and your buildings for study. Again, find your local bars, find your local shops and you’ll find your feet.

  Stock the essentials

  We’re not just talking about DVDs for the down days and hangover cures for the rough days. We’re talking about downloading maps to your phone with Here Maps in case your data runs out. We’re talking about getting pots and pans in case you find a place that’s unfurnished. We’re talking about board games and drinking games to make it easy to make friends when you arrive.

  Earmark your go-to bars

  Once you know where you’re going to be staying and where you’re going to be studying, you’ll be able to work out the places that might become your favourite watering holes. A simple ‘Explore this area’ on Google Maps will show you the types of bars and pubs you might like and the ones you might hate, so make a shortlist before you get there. Your opinions will almost certainly change when you do arrive, but it’s at least a starting point to know where you definitely don’t want to be seen!

  Earmark your go-to takeaways

  The same applies for local takeaways. Check out the hygiene ratings of your nearby nosh shops to make sure you can avoid the ones that might have rats (they do exist!). There are tonnes of great takeaways in Leeds, so it pays to do your research, especially if you’re on a tight student budget.

  Find the popular music spots

  A major part of your student life in Leeds will revolve around music, such is the quality of the local scene here. Venues like the Brudenell Social Club will offer affordable and laudable live music throughout the academic year (as well as cheap drinks), so be sure to make a note of the best places to go and what their calendars look like before you arrive!
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  Trinity Kitchen’s latest street food line up!
  Prepare yourselves because from 8th August 2016 until 18 September Trinity Kitchen will be serving their newest street food round up. For the next month or so you can enjoy flavours from New York, Greece, India and the Mediterranean. #TrinityKitchen

  Eat New York

  One of their newest finds is Eat New York, started up by three friends who on a whim decided to buy a food truck. They specialize in salt beef bagels, burgers, fries, cocktails, ice tea, loaded shakes and sodas. @eatnysd

  Mr Pita

  Next in line is Mr Pita, which started up after the owners tasted Pita Gyros and Pita Souvlaki in a small Greek town called Perissa on the island of Santorini. They fell in love right there and then and now they’re in Trinity Kitchen serving homemade Greek pita bread rolled up with a choice of filling from chicken souvlaki to grilled halloumi and topped with ziki sauce. @mrpittauk

  Shoot The Bull

  American gastro-restaurant style food which includes steak sandwiches and mac ‘n’ cheese topped with bacon cream. The chef has experience working in award winning and Michelin starred restaurants across the country including The Fat Duck, after almost ten years as a chef and having worked up to being Head Chef level he felt it was time to go it alone. With his culinary talents and exciting flavour combinations Shoot The Bull offers a quirky and unrestricted dining experience. @shoothebulluk

  Chaat Cart

  The next pop up is Chaat Cart which was born out of necessity when the owner found that dishes such as chaat and kati rolls, found at Indian festivals and funfairs were not to be found in the numerous curry houses around the UK. @ChaatCart

  Ambiente Tapas

  The final addition to Trinity Kitchen is Ambiente Tapas, it’s described as “Gourmet Mediterranean Tapas with a Yorkshire twist”. Inspired by traditional Spanish ‘tabancos’ their menu offers a wide range of tapas with a twist. @AmbienteTapas
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  Winter activities in Leeds
  In January we know it can sometimes feel like fun is hard to come by, with work stresses and financial restraints taking the driving seat. However, we’re here to tell you it doesn’t have to be this way, with several affordable and enjoyable activities for you to do in Leeds this winter. Warm up your winter with comedy If you haven't yet heard of South African stand-up Trevor Noah, then you soon will have, as his reputation continues to grow within the world of comedy. Building on a successful 2013 which saw him star on TV panel shows 8 out of 10 Cats and QI, Noah looks set to build on this, with his nationwide tour before heading back to his native South Africa. With his Leeds date having already sold out, you'll be lucky to find tickets, so you may have to travel to Sheffield to catch this up and coming comic later this month. - 20 Jan: City Varieties Have yourself a ‘perfect day’ with Lou Reed Something a little different to your standard cinema trip, playing at the charming Hyde Park Picture House, Julian Schnabel’s Berlin is a must see this winter. The concert film is about a five day stay in St. Ann’s warehouse in Brooklyn while touring his 1973 album, Berlin. This film captures the story of the album, a tale of a deteriorating and doomed relationship, while offering an insight into Lou Reed himself and his unsteady, drug-saturated lifestyle. - Hyde Park Picture House, February 1st TV stars head to Leeds You've watched their progress for the past few months, and although the show has now finished, you can still get your Strictly Come Dancing fix this January. Catch this season's stars throwing shapes in Leeds as the tour heads to the First Direct Arena for an up-close experience of the celebrity dancers. Including the likes of England rugby star Ben Cohen to TV funny man Mark Benton, a host of famous faces will be trotting their tango and waltzing in Leeds this month. - 24 Jan – 26 Jan: First Direct Arena Some Girl I Used to Know The story of a young, happily married woman uprooting her life for temptations from the past, this modernised romantic comedy is both relatable and touching. Staring the acclaimed actress Denise Van Outen and featuring artists from the 1980s and 90s, such as Culture Club and Soft Cell, this play will not disappoint. - West Yorkshire Playhouse, January 30th-February 8th Mint Warehouse birthday bash Fancy a night out on the town, but feel city nightlife hasn’t been up to its normal standard in recent weeks? Mint Warehouse’s 2nd anniversary promises to be an exceptional night with first-rate artists, such as; Hot Since 82, Ben Pearce and Route 94. - Mint Warehouse, January 24th Photo Credit: polkadotandplaid via Compfight cc
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  9 reasons why Leeds is the best city in the UK
  If you don’t love Leeds as much as we do, you will by the end of this article. We think it’s the UK’s best city and we’d like to prove why. Whether you agree or disagree, contact us on Facebook or Twitter with your thoughts!

  You can live on the fringes of the great Yorkshire Dales

  It’s especially true that if you live in north Leeds you can be minutes from one of hippest cities in England one way and minutes from one of the highest-rated national parks in the world the other. The Yorkshire Dales are renowned for their striking beauty and it’s a blessing that a great city like Leeds is mere miles away from them.

  You can shop and shop and shop until you drop

  Leeds has a reputation as one of the best places to shop in the UK. People come from all across the land to spend their hard-earned pennies here due to attractions like the new Trinity Shopping Centre (complete with its own indoor street food centre, Trinity Kitchen) and the Headrow and Briggate, which are the main high streets. Leeds will also boast a brand new John Lewis department store when the modern Victoria Gate shopping centre, opens its doors to the public in late 2016.

  You can quaff some of the finest beers in the land

  Home to some of England’s best breweries in Northern Monk, Ridgeside and the appropriately named Leeds Brewery Company, put simply, Leeds knows beer. CAMRA-approved pubs like Whitelock’s and Mr Foley’s will get your taste buds tingling as much as the pubs in the suburbs. The Roundhay Fox in Roundhay sports a log fire that makes it the best place to be during a cold winter, while Alfred in Meanwood, which is no bigger than your living room, is perfectly situated to let the sun pour in all afternoon during the summer time. What more could you want from a city this size?

  You won’t get better farm produce anywhere else

  Being a Yorkshire city, Leeds is surrounded by some very good farms indeed. Many of them have monthly offers that let you get hampers of fresh farm meats and delicious organic vegetables delivered right to your door, so you don’t have to bother with them in the supermarkets. Even when you’re not doing your food shopping, you can enjoy some of the best produce in the land at Leeds’ world famous food and drink festivals. The Yorkshire Food and Drink Festival takes place in June, but, be warned, the tastes will be lingering until the following June…

  You’ll encounter the friendliest people in the country

  Yorkshire folk are renowned for their friendliness and we can guarantee that it’s not a myth. People say thank you to bus drivers and – ‘ow about this – hello to each other in the street. Where else do you get that these days? You might have trouble understanding some folks, though…

  You’ll hear some hilariously random local lingo

  While it might be true that some out-of-towners find Loiners (people from Leeds) difficult to understand, there is no denying the brilliance of the local dialect. Phrases like “am fair t’middlin’” and “wottatodoo” will leave you bemused but amused all day long.

  You can see many towns and villages rolled into one great city

  The suburbs of Leeds are brilliant. Each one has its own distinctive characteristics. Chapel Allerton is the up-and-coming place to be for young professionals, whilst Meanwood has enjoyed a great revival in recent years to make it one of the most attractive (and still affordable) places to live in the city. And let’s not forget Otley, which is a mere 30-minute bus ride from Headingley. It’s home to some of the best pubs in the district and the scenery is more than worthy of a “cheers”.

  You can experience some of the best theatre outside of the West End

  The West Yorkshire Playhouse is one of the north’s premium theatres and has seen the likes of To Kill a Mockingbird and Of Mice and Men performed on its stages. It’s part of the best city in the UK because it’s so much more affordable to see great theatre than it is in London!

  You can be very close to major UK tourist hotspots

  Another thing that makes Leeds perfectly situated is its close proximity to some of the best (but not as good) towns and cities in the UK. You can be in Manchester for world-class football in an hour, in Sheffield for world-class snooker in 45 minutes and Harrogate for world-class spa therapy in 40 minutes. Combine all that with using the UK’s greatest city as your base and you’re winning at life.
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  0.99% August Sales Fee

  THIS AUGUST SELL YOUR PROPERTY FOR ONLY 0.99% FEE

  Did you know properties sell quicker in the summer months? Your house looks its best on a bright sunny summers day and also achieves higher prices than other times of the year, making right now the ideal time to consider putting your property on the market. Our number one aim is to get you from for sale to sold in the shortest possible time whilst achieving the best price. We are offering an EXCLUSIVE 0.99% SALES FEE during August only. So make sure you get in touch to take advantage of this limited offer. One of our property experts will value your house and talk you through the selling process. We cover all areas in and around Leeds including the city centre and North Leeds. Not only are we one of the most well-known estate agents in Leeds (our website has over 11,000 visits a month) we also advertise on Zoopla and Rightmove, with a list of buyers ready and waiting for properties to come on the market. Property in Leeds is in hot demand this summer, make sure you take advantage of our exclusive 0.99% sales fee this August.
• 
  10 reasons we all #LoveLeeds
  There are many reasons to love Leeds. We could go on forever about how much we love it, but we’ll give voice to the locals and visitors alike to share an appreciation of the great northern powerhouse via the medium of Twitter. We’ve selected 10 of our favourite tweets about our mutual love affair with Leeds, Leeds, Leeds. ‘ere:

  The pubs are proper good

  The pubs in Leeds aren’t just your regular pubs. They’re proper pubs. With proper pub grub. And proper good beer. Just like our Becky experienced in the Adelphi.  

  At the Adelphi for tea. Anyone staying over in Leeds needs to try this place out. Old style pub, real ale and lush food #LoveLeeds

  — Becky Leggett (@DigiB3x) June 1, 2016

  It looks great even on a cloudy day

  Leeds isn’t the Caribbean, we know that, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t a sight for sore eyes even when the weather is bad. Tommy took a shining to the town hall here and we can see why.  

  @VisitLeeds Leeds looking great today! @BBCLeeds @LeedsCC_News #LoveLeeds pic.twitter.com/dFLkVeoyrw — Thomas (Mr Thomas) (@TommyYorkshire) May 17, 2016

  You can play shuffleboard in the basement of a pub

  One of our favourite new bars in Leeds has the delightful allure of three 22ft shuffleboards downstairs. It aptly goes by the name of Shuffledog, owned by BrewDog, and it looks like Jade loves it just as much as we do.  

  Well shuffleboard is my new found love! #loveleeds @JessWright4 #comebackwrighty

• 
  Preparing For Life As A Leeds Uni Student
  Before you head off to uni, it’s best to get some stuff sorted, and to digest everything you might need to know in advance of starting your course. Moving to a new city, and leaving your family home can be a daunting prospect. However, there are some things you can do to prepare yourself in advance, get ready for uni life, and make the move feel less intimidating. Here’s some tips for preparing for life as a Leeds uni student.

  Visit the city

  One of the best things you can do to prepare yourself for life in Leeds is to visit the city. It’s a big city, but most things are within walking distance. You can probably see most of the city in one trip. Make a list of student friendly places you might want to check out, and the main city attractions you want to see, and start to uncover your new home. If you are able to get a feel for the city in advance of going to uni then you will feel more confident when you arrive at the start of the semester.

  Find the right accommodation

  Looking for accommodation well in advance is very important, especially if you want to snap up the best student accommodation in Leeds. Start look for potential places to live early, and have a think about whether you would prefer to live in student halls, a student house or on your own in flat. Students who sort out their accommodation last minute tend to miss out.

  Go on a campus tour

  Everyone gets to go and visit universities when they are considering where they want to study, but have you been back since? You might want to visit the university and have a little stroll around. It will help you get your bearings and also get you excited to start uni in a few month’s time. You can talk to current students and ask questions, and visit all the key campus hotspots.

  Research your course

  For some university courses you have to do a bit of studying before you arrive at uni. You may only have to do a bit of reading in advance, or nothing at all. If you do have work to do before you arrive, don’t leave it until the last minute or you will feel stressed and under pressure. Take a bit of time to research your course and find out what will be expected of you in your first few weeks of university.

  Find out about the student union

  Leeds University has a large student union with a huge range of facilities. It has restaurants, shops, cafes and bars. You might want to visit to check it out, or you can find out information about it online here.

  Start buying university supplies

  During the summer before you begin uni, you might want to start stocking up on everything you might need as a student. Make a list of things you will need for your course and student accommodation.
• 
  Leeds' best craft beer bars
  Over recent years, the popularity of craft beers from independent micro brewers has rapidly increase. Now, when heading out for a drink with friends or family, many look to sample something a little different from the mass produced lagers on offer in common commercial areas. In an effort to bring true taste back to beer drinking, many have turned to smaller named specialised craft drinks which blend more sophisticated tastes with a more delicate brewing process. If you're wanting to meet up with friends in Leeds, or just head out to sample some of the best craft beers available in Leeds, make sure you check out these spots. North Bar Describing itself as one of the original pioneers of the Leeds bar boom, North Bar is located in the burgeoning Northern Quarter of the city, which is fast becoming the must visit destination, with some of Leeds' trendiest craft serving bars. With around 130 different beers on offer, you'll have plenty of choice to broaden your drink horizons. The choices do vary seasonally and the rotation attempts to provide as much choice as possible.  The bar's popular draught selection includes one of America's trendiest new imports on tap. Brooklyn Brewery has seen a huge rise in popularity since the bottled lager was first introduced to bars in the UK, and many different variations of the brewery's offerings can now be found all over the city. At North Bar, their lager can be found on tap, and many other of their brews can be bought in bottle form. Joining the American import on tap is one of Germany's best drink offerings, Erdinger, along with many other micro brews. Brewdog Scottish craft beer producer Brewdog began life with just two brewers in their original Aberdeen set-up, however after just seven years, their bars can now be found as far afield as Sao Paulo and Stockholm.  With locations all throughout the UK, Brewdog explains that its Leeds bar is honoured to join a growing swell of independent craft beer meccas poised to unshackle the city from the drudgery of the mainstream. Offering everything from a tasty but relatively safe Punk IPA, all the way to a daring Clown King at 12% ABV and Dog B at 15.1% ABV. Their mission of providing craft beers that distinguish themselves from the mainstream, whilst also resurrecting a punk music revival sees their city centre locations buzzing with activity on most weekends. The Pit The Pit has gained a reputation as one of Leeds' favourite American barbecues, and with good reason. The popularity of the restaurant, along with competitors like Reds True Barbecue shows that Leeds' love of slow cooked meat is growing. If you're just wanting a drink, The Pit is still a great place to go. An enticing selection of American craft beers await you on draught, such as popular favourites from the Shipyard Brewing Company, and another offering from Brooklyn - their Pennant Ale '55. The bottled selection is equally as impressive, with an assortment of options from around the globe, such as Schneider Weisse Wheat from Germany, Anchor Steam from San Francisco and British options from Thornbridge.  
• 
  Strike a pose! Five housemates win £500 in our selfie sign up competition
  The excitement of signing for a new house is something that all students look forward to. It marks the start of an exciting year of living with friends and making memories as they enjoy student life. Our Parklane Selfie Sign Up competition added to the excitement of signing with us as students got the opportunity to win £500, by simply doing what students do best and taking a quick selfie in our office! This year we congratulate a group of friends from Leeds Becket University, crowning them as the winners of our 2016 Selfie Sign Up competition! The prize will be enjoyed by a group of five students: 20-year-old, physical activity and health student, Jordan; 20-year-old Primary Education student, Jen; Sport Science student, Aaron; Graphic Design student, Paul; and 22-year-old Maths student, Pete. These lucky housemates gave there all by striking a pose for the camera as they signed for a year’s tenancy with us here in our Headingly office. Our Selfie Sign Up competition really did challenge each group of housemates to ‘get their thinking caps on’ (or more like their swimming cozzies on in our winning houses case) to create the winning selfie! It seems that the trick was to do something different, as groups of housemates were in competition to rack up the most Facebook likes and shares for their Parklane selfie. The group of Leeds Beckett students didn’t fail to show their fun and vibrant personalities as they got creative with props to get the most likes and shares, to eventually have it go viral on their social media channels. Their set of fun poses obviously worked, with both the shares and likes reaching triple figures – an impressive 110 shares and 100 likes were received for their top efforts! Our winners have decided to split the £500 so that each person can decide what to spend their £100 on. With there being a lot of sporty interest in the household, particularly with Jordan, Aaron and Pete regularly training and competing for the Leeds Beckett Triathlon team, it’s likely that this extra cash would help them with this. With the summer well under way for students, it’s a perfect time to win some extra dosh. Other thoughts in the house are to either save the money for travelling in the future or to put the money towards this year’s summer adventures. All five in the house are jetting off somewhere nice this summer. Aaron’s travelling around Europe and Jordan is using the money a little closer to home, as he plans to make more trips to the Lake District to see his girlfriend before the next university year starts…Awwwwwwh! The winners tell us that they love their ‘lush pad’ with Parklane as it’s a brand new property with fresh and modern furnishing. Plus, it’s great location in Headingly puts them right in the centre of Leed’s student hub! Congratulations Jordan, Jen, Paul, Aaron and Pete – enjoy your prize and have a great summer! We hope that you’re winning selfie now sits proudly on your mantel piece!
• 
  The most common Leedsisms in Leeds, Leeds, Leeds
  Some things are just reyt Leeds, they are. From taking your ferret for a walk to your bus driver stopping mid-route for a bag of chips, there’s nowhere else like it. We love one thing more than most about Leeds: the dialect. It could easily be its own language and we wouldn’t have it any other way. So, to pay homage to our local lingo, we’ve compiled some of our favourite Leedsisms, whether they’re compliments, put-downs or just plain old sayings that you’d hear in every Loiner’s household. Because, well, you know, Yorkshire.

  Ey up, cock!

  Meaning: Hello, good friend!

  Did you really think we’d swear on here? This is a Loiner’s favourite greeting for the people closest to them.

  Be reyt

  Meaning: Every little thing is going to be OK.

  In times of extreme hardship, like when the chippy doesn’t open for another half an hour, we don’t worry too much. It’ll be reyt.

  That’s sound, is that, pal

  Meaning: What you just said is very good, my friend.

  When one Loiner agrees with another Loiner, or anyone else for that matter, it is sometimes so sound that we have to confirm it twice in the same sentence, we do. Like little Yorkshire Yodas, we are.

  Ooooooosh!

  Meaning: That is most excellent. I fully appreciate what you just said.

  Made famous by one of Leeds’ biggest celebrity characters, Keith Lemon, this is the exclamation we make when we heartily approve of something.

  Bonnie lass

  Meaning: Pretty woman

  Yorkshire people express their appreciation for a good-looking lady with a phrase that’s as much a Leedsism as it is Scottish slang.

  Wottatodoo

  Meaning: What a lot of fuss

  When things get out of hand, a ‘to do’ is caused and a Leedsism that looks like a language from another planet is uttered.

  That’s champion!

  Meaning: That is very good

  You know something is proper good when a Loiner uses a noun as an adjective to describe it.

  Gaffer

  Meaning: The boss

  One of our favourite compliments in Leeds. If you’re the gaffer, you’re a reyt boss, in’t ye?

  Guff

  Meaning: Fart

  “Who’s guffed?”

  Got monk on

  Meaning: In a mood

  “Has tha got a monk on, lad?” is a very Leeds way of asking somebody if they’re in a mood.

  Sprog

  Meaning: Child

  It sounds utterly disagreeable, but nothing bad is meant by this alternative name for a baby or child in Leeds.

  Reyt vexed

  Meaning: Very annoyed

  “I’m reyt vexed, me” might be commonly heard on the terraces at Elland Road or the Carnegie Stadium in response to a refereeing performance of the bad sort.

  Tarra

  Meaning: Goodbye

  Tarra, ducks! We’re off t’ boozer!
• 
  Leeds best happy hour and food deals
  Eating and drinking well in the city needn’t cost you and arm and a leg. Some of the best bars and restaurants do some fantastic offers to drum up business during quieter times of the week. From bargain burgers to cut price pizza and cocktails, here’s our list of the best deals that allow you to eat like a King on a shoestring.

  Marvin’s Pizza Parlour

  Offering all you can eat pizza for just £7 at lunchtime and £12 in the evening, Marvin’s Pizza Parlour is set to be your new favourite hangover cure. Situated near the first direct Arena, this pop-up restaurant serves imaginative creations such as the Super Freak (steak strips, parma ham and salami) and the Psychedelic Shack (peri peri chicken and pineapple) as well as range of refreshing cocktails. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d9425.079424988438!2d-1.5440436!3d53.8024817!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x30f7d590c343b416!2sMarvin's+Pizza+Parlour!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467803149733" width="690" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Bird and Beast

  Forget Nando’s and their shrivelled corn on the cob and shrinking portions, just round the corner you’ll find Bird and Beast who do poultry justice. Perfectly marinated and cooked over cherry wood chips, you’ll struggle to find better chicken. Follow them on Facebook for their latest offers – currently you can get any hot sandwich, kebab or large premium salad and a soft drink for just £7.50. Finger licking good indeed. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.627842141086!2d-1.5414592999999999!3d53.796110999999996!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c199ef8995b%3A0xce60217aa956a3a4!2sThe+Bird+and+Beast!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467803230589" width="690" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Slate NQ

  Boasting several huge American pool tables, a custom built pizza oven and not one but three outdoor seating areas (including an awesome rooftop terrace) , Slate NQ is one of Leeds most underrated bars. Drop in on Monday to play free pool, Tuesday enjoy any main course and a happy hour drink for just £12, Wednesday all cask ales are £2.50 a pint and Thursday is happy hour all night long. Check them out here. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.37628814244!2d-1.5416913536953707!3d53.800587697190686!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1b01d4ae19%3A0x6c85c4d8cc100605!2sSlate+NQ!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467803304296" width="690" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Cabana

  Serving up tasty Brazilian fast food, you might not know it but Cabana are also incredibly good at making cocktails. Their 2-4-1 happy hour is incredibly generous as it runs seven days a week, 12-7pm and then 10pm until closing time. Their tasty selection of Caipirinha are all mixed with Brazilian sugar cane and come in flavours such as blueberry and acai and chilli passion. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.574812339076!2d-1.5482192839528088!3d53.79705474855613!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c1ea46fb73b%3A0x4e4fb5cbfcd96245!2sCabana+Brasilian+Barbecue!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467803333948" width="690" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Fibre

  After 16 years in business and more facelifts than the Stallone family, Bar Fibre has always managed to remain fresh and relevant. Their courtyard parties are legendary in Leeds, and so are their drink offers. Rock in between 5-8pm each day to enjoy 2-4-1 on all drinks. Bargain. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.686647743448!2d-1.5444775839529425!3d53.79506444870607!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c191d21cb47%3A0x21bd0ad491d4649a!2sBar+Fibre!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467803403846" width="690" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Cattlegrid

  Walk around the back of the Corn Exchange and you can’t miss Cattlegrid – there’s a huge brass cow above its door. It’s one of the best steak joints in town, however on Monday it’s all about pig and chicken – for £21.95, you can enjoy non-stop chicken wings and ribs. Go hungry, fill your boots and get your money’s worth! <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.638942590402!2d-1.5417368839528611!3d53.79591344864223!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c19c403955b%3A0xcf1b5f2b5500eca8!2sCattle+Grid+Steaks+%26+Ribs!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467803525771" width="690" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
• 
  How to beat the Sunday blues in Leeds
  Sunday, it might as well not be the weekend with that thing called Monday hanging over it. But it could be your favourite day of the week. If you live in Leeds, in fact, it can quite easily be your favourite day of the week. Forget about what lies ahead and soak Sunday in with our pick of the best in this great northern city.

  Sunday in the Smokestack

  One of the funkiest spots in town just got funkier with the Bullfrog Blues. Head down to 159A Lower Briggate at 8pm on a Sunday night and you won’t stop movin’ until Tuesday. Guaranteed. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.657597670639!2d-1.5444990839528876!3d53.79558144866713!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c190f8c6861%3A0x464346db4c12b459!2sSmokestack+Bar+And+Club!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467800226750" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Sunday snacks in Trinity Kitchen

  Leeds was already famous for shopping, but Trinity took it to the next level (both literally and metaphorically) in 2013. The Kitchen upstairs is one of the best things about the city; it boasts some of the best international street food you’ll find in Britain, so it’s the perfect place to transport yourself to another world. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d9426.249744740997!2d-1.545481!3d53.797275!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x9c41156194868af2!2sTrinity+Kitchen!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467800286405" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Sunday Joint in HiFi

  Sunday night in HiFi is legendary in Leeds – and for good reason. It’s played host to some of the world’s best musicians in the funk, reggae, Latin and salsa scenes, so why would you want to do anything else on a Sunday? <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.625659226007!2d-1.5434244839528268!3d53.79614984862443!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795c19994874df%3A0x83db49e8244c3ee6!2sHifi+Club!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467800314760" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Sunday afternoon in Alfred

  Head out of the city and into the suburb of Meanwood and you’ll find perhaps the greatest Sunday afternoon bar in the world. Alfred, which is part of the local North Bar group, is small enough in floor space to be your living room, yet big enough in character to be your favourite watering hole for life. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2354.8230820710364!2d-1.56869968395199!3d53.82822314620786!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795944cb63076d%3A0x25cd5b311325df51!2sAlfred!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467800341553" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  A Sunday stroll down the River Aire

  Running right through the city, the River Aire is a top place to be on a sunny Sunday. Take a walk down the waterfront to take your mind off the week of work ahead and just enjoy being alive. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d1179.7010811984935!2d-1.3938416916276621!3d53.746721731156605!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x4879428a6c4772ff%3A0x6b9538697230cec4!2sRiver+Aire!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467800382069" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Sunday roast at The Midnight Bell

  Roast dinners, or good roast dinners, are a little difficult to find in Leeds, but the one at The Midnight Bell is magnificent. A proper good pub with proper good grub. What more can you ask for? <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m18!1m12!1m3!1d2356.8758674678134!2d-1.5539662839529946!3d53.791696848959816!2m3!1f0!2f0!3f0!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x48795e9ffe836591%3A0x72e7b6a6560f61bc!2sThe+Midnight+Bell!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467800415905" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>

  Sunday (bottomless) brunch at Shears Yard

  For a brunch with a difference, Shears Yard is the place to be. They have just launched a bottomless brunch, which includes bottomless booze, on Sundays. All you have to do is hand over £25 and you can fill your boots. <iframe src="https://www.google.com/maps/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d9426.725092561544!2d-1.5381167!3d53.7951601!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x0%3A0x3b00c9268cc83549!2sShears+Yard!5e0!3m2!1sen!2suk!4v1467800445253" width="600" height="450" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe>
• 
  Best student restaurants in Headingley
  After a stressful day at university, you sometimes need to get out in fresh air and grab a bite. There are times when choosing where to get your grub can be a tough decision, however Headingley provides plenty of options for dining. On a student budget, when you're just wanting a quick bite, not all of the offerings on Otley Road are suitable, but if you check out these popular student joints, we doubt you'll leave disappointed. Greasy Pig Perfect for a lazy Sunday morning, the Greasy Pig provides a wide range of breakfast and lunch options at a reasonable price. The restaurant is a popular one with the student population, and it promises to serve you ‘100% Honest Homemade Food’ which can even be dropped off to your door (should you live within 5 miles). Their signature choice of breakfast muffins, topped with bacon, sausage and all the trimmings are hugely popular, and they're one of the factors behind the Greasy Pig's recent rise to popularity amongst students. Setting itself apart from simple cafe's through their innovative menu choices, the likes of Loaf of Breakfast involves a hollowed out loaf of bread stuffed with all that you’d expect in a Full English. If that isn't enough to feed your hunger, you may want to try and tackle ‘The Paralyser’. For under £7, this gigantic breakfast is enough to test the biggest of eaters. Situated at the end of Victoria Road, and close to the Co-Op, this is a must visit venue for all students who like to start the day off with a hearty breakfast. The Box A well known venue to most who know the area, The Box is a genuine hot spot in Headingley. It can’t be missed as you pass through the centre and is the sort of place you can visit morning, afternoon and night. It's a very student orientated bar and restaurant, and has many food and drinks offers that run throughout the week. It has an exceptional reputation for its variety of burgers, pizzas, Mexican dishes and sandwiches and if you can find the time, head down on a Monday or Wednesday where you can take advantage of a huge 40% off your food bill. The atmosphere is that of a typical student haunt, with the latest music providing ambient noise and Sky Sports News often showing on the multiple wall mounted televisions. Going alongside the atmosphere is the relaxed decor, which offers comfy sofa seating and a large open bar area. Pool tables can be found upstairs, so make an afternoon of it and head for the cues after your meal. Sukhothai For the more sophisticated student that is searching for something outside of the typical burger or pizza,  Sukhothai brings a true taste of Thailand to student Headingley life. The restaurant was brought to Leeds in 2002 from Bangkok and its success is in no small part down to the owners’ insistence on attentive service and fresh Thai ingredients. On a weekend, the restaurant is open from midday to 3pm, but the main lure of the venue comes upon opening its doors in the evenings, when it caters for many loyal customers who recognise the high quality of food on offer. Located on St Annes Road, you’re never too far away from authentic Thai cuisine that has garnered plaudits from critics and customers alike.
• 
  A guide to student nightlife in Leeds
  Leeds has been a magnet to students from up and down the country for decades and the revitalization of several key areas recently has only made it more appealing. Swanky cocktail and champagne bars, cheap and charming pubs and cutting-edge nightclubs all come in abundance, meaning you’ll never be left high and dry of things to do in this jewel of a northern city.

  Headingley and Hyde Park

  The beating heart of the student scene, Headingley is teaming with student friendly bars and eateries. The Original Oak boasts a huge beer garden, complete with BBQ in summer and major sports events beamed onto huge screens, whilst The Box is another sports friendly bar, albeit slightly trendier with pool tables and terrace. The Ark runs various student nights, and features a heady mix of high-grade tipples and eclectic beats. Next door, brand new Khana Bombay Café serves up well-priced Indian tapas and some of the most creative cocktails you’ll find in the city. Whilst The Hyde Park pub won’t be winning any Michelin stars anytime soon, if it’s cheap and cheerful you’re after, then this busy joint provides a great starting point for a big night out. Just across the road from Leeds University, you’ll find The Eldon, which is another student friendly pub which won’t break the bank.

  Northern Quarter

  Arguably the hottest place to go in Leeds right now, the Northern Quarter is packed with promise. Slate NQ is a large pool bar, famed for its amazing pizza and cocktails and is housed over two floors in a stunning building complete with one of the city’s best rooftop terraces. Across the road, The Belgrave is hipster heaven, with live music, lots of beards and another cracking rooftop terrace. Elsewhere, North Bar has long been a pioneer on the Leeds bar scene, selling only the best spirits and ales, whilst Mojo is the place to go if you like your rock and indie music loud. Sela Bar is another cool joint where the focus is on quality ale and live music, whilst The Pit provides burgers and beer for the masses.

  Call Lane

  Whilst Call Lane has come up against stiff competition in recent years, it's still as popular as ever and boasts some of Leeds busiest and best bars. Oporto play a mixture of rock and roll oldies and dance classics, whilst the rustic Mexican charm of Neon Catcus next door makes for the perfect venue to knock back the tequilas. Relative newcomer Roland’s has a much more laidback vibe than its neighbours and prides itself on quality beers from Iceland, the U.S.A and beyond. If you like to fix up and look sharp, then all the cool kids go to Norman’s, whilst Call Lane Social boasts two floors and a sweet Hawaiian Tiki bar.

  Clubs

  Mint Warehouse on Water Lane is a sizeable club and plays host to a number of world class DJs, including Eric Prydz, Hannah Wants and local lad, Hot Since 82. Elsewhere, Mission pitches itself somewhere in between commercial dance and the underground, and its location in the middle of Leeds thieving LBGT scene means they throw some of the city's biggest gay nights. Canal Mills is the place to go for cutting edge dance, whilst afterhours club Wire is perfect for those that refuse to go home and want to keep the party going through Sunday.  
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  Top English Cities You Should Visit
  Whilst studying in English, you may as well get a feel for some other UK cities. Plus if you are spending most of your time in Leeds, it’s nice to get out of the city and explore other places. You might have to travel a fair amount if you want to see all of these cities, but it will be worth it. It’s difficult to choose a small selection of cities, because there are so many fantastic cities dotted around the UK. However, we have managed to whittle the list down and pick a few of the top cities in England you might want to visit. Check out the cities below and start planning a few trips.

  Bath

  Bath is an absolutely stunning city. The Georgian architect within the city is beautiful. It’s a great place for a weekend getaway, especially as it’s home to one of the most famous spas in the country. Bath has great shopping, a rich history (it’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site) and some lovely bars and restaurants.

  London

  The UK’s capital had to be included on the list. You can’t spend a significant amount of time in England without visiting London. As well as the endless selection of world famous attractions and landmarks, London boasts world class shopping, an enviable culinary scene and fantastic nightlife. You can easily catch the train from Leeds to London and see all the big tourist attractions such as Big Ben, the London Eye, the Houses of Parliament, the Natural History Museum and Buckingham Palace.

  Brighton 

  If you are after a quirky, unique city with a friendly atmosphere, head straight for Brighton. Brighton is on the seaside, and is a very laid back, alternative city with a unique personality. It has great shopping, plenty of interesting places to eat out and some funky bars and clubs. Make sure you visit the Brighton Pier, wander around the Lanes and visit the Brighton Marina.

  Oxford 

  Oxford is a very traditional and classic English city. It’s home to the prestigious Oxford University (the oldest University in the English speaking world), and has lots of historical landmarks to uncover. It’s a picturesque city with many different things to see and do. First there’s the shopping and selection of cafes and restaurants, then there’s the impressive historical landmarks such as the Bodleian Library, Oxford Museum of Natural History, the Pitts Rivers Museum and the Sheldonian Theatre, to name a few.

  Bristol

    Bristol is a very up and coming city, that’s risen in popularity in recent years. It used to be an industrial city, but it has managed to completely reinvent itself. Bristol is edgy, creative and cultural. It’s fast becoming one of the most popular cities to visit in the UK. Eat in local cafes, listen to live music, browse art galleries, uncover museums and test out the excellent culinary scene. Some of the best things to do in Bristol include climbing the Cabot Tower, going over the Clifton Suspension Bridge, chilling out in the Harbour, visiting the Bristol Zoo and discovering the At Bristol Museum.  
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  Best barbecue restaurants in Leeds
  Over recent years, we have seen a progression of American style barbecue restaurants starting up and growing in Leeds. With wide ranging meats and an abundance of mouth watering sauces, it's hardly surprising that the cuisine has seen a huge boom in popularity. Whether you're a fan of pulled pork, beef brisket or baby back ribs, many of these 'pig out joints' have vast, wide ranging menus. Having gained television exposurethrough programmes like Man v Food, American barbecue has fast become one of the most sought after cuisines in Leeds, so it's no surprise that such restaurants are also a favourite with students. If you want a plate full of low and slow cooked meats, here are the best options. Reds True BBQ Having now been open in Leeds city centre for a few years, Reds has enjoyed rocketing success. In order to grab a table at peak times, the wait can often be hours long, so it's hardly surprising to hear that the Leeds establishment serves, on average 18,000 diners per month, selling more than 16 tonnes of locally sourced meat. From a full rack of baby back ribs to mouth-watering brisket and pulled pork, the menu provides a true haven meat lovers. Priding themselves on providing fresh and home cooked recipes, your table greets you with an assortment of freshly concocted sauces to experiment with during your meal. Check out their menu here and plan plenty in advance if you fancy a trip to this popular dining location. The Pit The Pit was only established in 2013, however has proven so successful since its launch that there are now two dining locations in the Leeds area. Located in the Merrion Centre in the heart of the city, The Pit is easily accessible and with a wide ranging meat-centric menu, has crowds flocking in their droves for the best barbecue meals. A secondary location can be found with the same menu just outside the city centre in Chapel Allerton, and with offers on all through the week, head down to either location to sample the great value for the lunch menu, allowing you to grab food and drink for just £6.95. Perfect for the student budget and with a cool, stylish interior, The Pit has fast become the name on the lips of many Leeds residents. Offering a wide range of craft beers to accompany your food, The Pit is a great destination for any occasion. Rosie's Diner Rosie's Diner isn't a specialist barbecue joint, however the cool 50's American Diner decor and atmosphere mean the diner is well deserving of a spot on the list. An assortment of burgers and hot dogs are available on the main menu, and with barbecue  ribs and pulled pork both featuring, the diner isn't short of flame grilled options. With all all meats being 100% Yorkshire traceable, you know that your meal is sourced from the highest quality ingredients. It might be slightly outside the city centre with its Kirkstall location, however this true American experience is well worth the short journey. Photo Credit: thebittenword.com via Compfight cc
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  Alternative student nights in Leeds
  Leeds has always been a city that appeals to the masses, however for decades it has also had one of the UK’s best alternative scenes too. With the likes of The Warehouse and The Cockpit hosting punk, rock and electronica nights in the late 70’s and beyond, the city has a rich history of pioneering underground movements that you just don’t find in your average city. Whilst music and venues have come and gone, the principle is still the same today; here’s our guide to a nights out in Leeds for those that like to take a walk on the wild side.

  Propaganda at The Attic

  Fans of Indie and classic roc ‘n’ roll need look no further than the awesomeness that is Propaganda, which currently resides at The Attic on Great George Street. With simultaneous nights in places as diverse as Nashville, Sydney and Rio de Janeiro, this global phenomenon sees 25,000 punters attend its supercharged nights each and every week. Head to their night in Leeds and you can expect great music, a supercool venue and drinks starting from a mere pound – which is pretty unheard of in Leeds on a Saturday night.

  Rock of Ages

  If sipping fine cocktails in a bar filled with coiffed and manicured Geordie Shore rejects is your idea of hell, then you may well enjoy Rock of Ages at The Library. Playing only 100% rock and metal, punters can expect the soothing sounds of Skid Row, Motley Crue, Slayer and Megadeath. With a mixture of DJ’s and bands on rotation, it’s an essential night of raw entertainment for those that like it loud. Follow them on Facebook to find out about their next big party.

  Stone Roses Bar

  If you love your indie and rock but would rather just dip your toe into the alternative scene, this popular bar could be the perfect choice. Rather oddly placed right in the middle of the thriving LGBT quarter, this joint has a late licence and attracts a diverse crowd from every neck of the woods. Avoid the masses and head there on a Thursday, when you can take in The Cure and The Smiths between 10pm and 6am with drink offers all night long. If only you had a stitch to wear…

  Cyanide

  The Goth scene is still alive and kicking and it’s happening at Cyanide, which also resides at The Library on Thursday nights. With a playlist which spans post-punk, industrial, metal and many more, this is a joint that really puts heart and soul into what it does. Recent live acts have included Bad Pollyanna, Bigfoot and Pulverise, with a host of other hot acts lined up to tread its boards throughout the year.

  The Garden Party at The Faversham

  If you like to get your rave on without the likes of Aviccii and Calvin Harris, then The Garden Party only spin tunes by the coolest kids in dance. The Faversham is the perfect venue for these spring and summer parties, as the outdoor terrace allows you to soak up the rare Leeds rays that just might appear if you’re lucky. Expect to see acts such as Skream, People Get Real and George Fitzgerald up on the ones and twos. Tickets tend to go fast, so seek them out here.
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  Overseas investment shows there’s still confidence in UK property market
  The shock decision to leave the EU hasn’t caused as much instability in the property market as once feared. The reluctance to buy and sell from UK residents as a result of economic uncertainty is being somewhat replenished by overseas investment. Leading up to the EU referendum and since Brexit on the 23^rd June, there has been fear that the UK property market will crash as a result of the ‘wait and see’ attitude adopted by domestic buyers. However, with interest from overseas buyers, the market is set to pick up and gain stability. The depreciation of the pound has rapidly drawn foreign buyers towards the UK property market as they see great investment potential and opportunity from a favourable exchange rate. Whilst European investors are included in those who are identifying the prosperous benefits of investing, it’s buyers from further afield, from the likes of the Middle East and USA who are making the most deals. The encouraging influx of foreign buyers highlights that there is still confidence in the UK property market as they look to take full advantage of the current uncertainty the weak pound has caused in the market. The anticipation of economic instability has put uncertainty amongst domestic buyers and as the number of domestic buyers has decreased, the opportunity for overseas buyers to snap up a property for great value has arisen. If hesitance to sell continues, this could also benefit those that do, as a shortfall in the number of properties on the market can only increase the value of your property, meaning now is just as good a time to look to sell as any. If you’re interested in buying or selling at this time, and want to know more, then please do not hesitate to get in touch with our team for further information on: +44 (0)113 237 0000 or LS1@parklaneproperties.com
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  5 awesome evening activities for students in Leeds
  Whilst we’re not suggesting there’s anything wrong with a good old fashioned bar crawl, you knew Leeds was good for that already didn’t you? The city is full of slightly more cultural evening activities that will make a night out one to remember for all the right reasons. From side-splitting stand-up comedy to some fancy footwork at the ballet, there’s entertainment to suit every occasion in this fine city.

  The Hop pub quiz

  Granary Wharf has come a long way over the last few years, so much so that it is now home to some of Leeds most in demand bars, restaurants and of course, the £17m south entrance to Leeds station. The Hop has been crucial in the success of the area, attracting punters from near and far to try its fine ales and award winning pies. Head down on a Tuesday evening from 8pm and you not only get a complementary supper (we’re talking proper chip butties, jacket spuds and chilli) and free entry to their legendary quiz, but the chance to win a gallon of Ossett Ale – just make sure you take enough friends to enjoy your winnings.

  Gig at The Brudenell

  Having celebrated 100 years back in 2013, Brudenell Social Club is going stronger than ever before, playing host to a melting pot of fresh and upcoming talent. You can catch acts like The Dunwells and Lucius for about a tenner, with smaller acts playing for nothing. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a surprise gig from the likes of The Kaiser Chiefs and Franz Ferdinand, who have all tread its hallowed boards previously; check out their calendar of events right here.

  Cinema Club at Crowd of Favours

  Tuesday can be something of a nothing day for your average Joe, but not when you’re a student. Get down to Crowd of Favours on one the lamest nights of the week and you can catch a classic film in their downstairs movie den. Not only do they wheel out the projection screen, but they often provide complementary popcorn so you can enjoy the likes of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off with a glass of wine or three. Follow them on Twitter to get the skinny on their latest offerings.

  World class dance at Northern Ballet

  <iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/HLthkAt3hiw" width="690" height="315" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen"></iframe> If you happen to be something of a culture vulture who dabbles in high-brow activities, then you may be surprised to hear some of the world’s best ballet is right on your doorstep. The award-winning Norther Ballet prides itself on creating new interpretations of classical ballets, with stunning sets and costume design to complement their jaw-dropping dance steps. Forthcoming productions include Wuthering Heights, Beauty and the Beast, 1984 and Jane Eyre World class dance at Northern Ballet – booking is essential.

  Cutting edge comedy with Sh!ts ‘N’ Giggles

  Leeds lad Ben Brown is a bona-fide modern day pioneer of hot talent as far as comedy is concerned, hosting his annual Lauughterfest Festival in October. You can catch him compering a diverse selection of the country’s best stand-up comedians regularly at his Sh!ts and Giggles nights, which are held on Wednesday’s or Thursday’s at venues including The Brunswick and Hirst’s Yard. Recent acts have included Mawaan Rizwan, Cassetteboy and Paul Foot; follow Ben on Facebook to find out about his next big shindig.
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  10 reasons to get excited about the future of Leeds
  There’s no denying that Leeds is already an exciting place to live. But you know what? Things can only get better – and they are getting better by the day. There are a number of developments and initiatives going on at the moment that paint a very good picture of the future of this great northern city. Let’s take a look at some of the reasons why we’re not planning to live anywhere else but Leeds any time soon:

  It could be European Capital of Culture in 2023

  It seems like a long time away now, but cities are required to put their names in the hat in 2016, so preparation starts now. If we win the coveted title in 2023, it’ll mean that we’ve developed the whole city into a continent-wide tourist destination of choice. That’s worth sticking around for, in our book.

  It will attract bigger names to a world-famous arena

  The First Direct Arena opened its doors in 2013 with an electrifying performance by Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band. Since then, it’s attracted the likes of The Who, Pearl Jam and Michael Bublé on the music front and Michael McIntyre, Lee Evans and Russell Howard on the comedy front, so it’s continuing to go from strength to strength.

  It will host one of the best city centre music festivals in the country

  Live at Leeds has just celebrated its 10^th anniversary with the likes of Jess Glynne, Circa Waves and Corinne Bailey Rae on the bill. It also teamed up with the Leeds Digital Festival this year and was a big success, so great things are in the pipeline for one of the hottest, cross-city festivals in the country.

  It will have one of the biggest and best international beer festivals in the country

  At half the age of Live at Leeds, the Leeds International Beer Festival has got just as much character and looooaaads more beer for the people of Leeds. It’s held in the majestic Town Hall in early September (8^th-11^th in 2016) and sells separate afternoon and evening tickets to keep things, you know, at least a little bit civilised. This festival is one of the best things about Leeds and it’s growing fast.

  It will be one of the best places to shop in the country

  With a reputation to rival London in terms of shopping, Leeds is already attracting bargain hunters and afternoon tea-lovers in the masses every weekend, but the development of Victoria Gate on the Headrow, due to open later this year, is about to take things to another level. It’s already confirmed that it’ll have the city’s first John Lewis store and promises to bring some of the biggest fashion brands in the world to Leeds, too. We can’t wait for it.

  It will be a key part of the High-Speed Rail (HS2) improvements to the UK

  The ongoing development of the high-speed rail network that will connect the UK to the continent will stretch up to Leeds in its second phase. The first phase is a cross-channel operation, but the second phase will come up from London Euston and will fork off in two directions after Birmingham: one to Manchester and one to Leeds. This means a tonne of new business opportunities for the city, not to mention the developments in infrastructure and tourist attractions. Leeds will be going from strength to strength over the next few years and beyond, so we’ll certainly be sticking around to revel in the glory of this great, great city.
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  Vintage shopping fair arrives in Leeds
  If you're a fan of the finer things, from artistic prints and pastel coloured clothing to delicate tea dresses, and fancy introducing some of your favourite vintage styles into your spring wardrobe, then head to Leeds' Corn Exchange this coming Saturday 22nd March and take in a healthy dose of nostalgia at Judy’s Affordable Vintage Fair. With over 40 participating traders, there's definitely something to suit every taste. From clothing, accessories, homeware, crafts and even live music, the fair is a great way to stock up fashionably, whilst sticking to a student budget. Get a unique style piece If you’ve ever felt amazing in your brand new jumper and then walked into the lecture hall on Monday morning to find someone else in the same high street apparel, Judy’s Vintage Fair may be the perfect answer to your problem. The magic of shopping at the fair means you get to hop on board the vintage trend while maintaining your own unique style. Avoid awkward clothes-clash situations, which result in you leaving your jacket on throughout the day, and flaunt your one-of-a-kind piece with pride. It might seem like the perfect event for a girls weekend, but take note, Men, it's not just for the ladies, as there are plenty of vintage pieces for the male audience as well. Bargain hunting Judy’s always promises a wide variety of vintage items at a good price. Expect your cash to go a long way with 75% off, 2-for-1 offers and bargain buckets. Judy’s has been committed to providing shoppers with genuine vintage items that are easy on the wallet, and has been doing it successfully since 2005. In its ninth year of running, it promises great clothes at low cost; perfect for a small indulgence on a student budget. Pick something up for Mum With Mother’s Day just around the corner, Judy’s might just provide you with the perfect gift to spoil Mum with. Pick up a pair of vintage earrings, a unique necklace, or an old broach in a style that transcends time and age. Grab something stylish, and you’ll be sure to put a smile on her face with a small, thoughtful gift. A great free day out If the fifties is not quite your style, the Vintage Fair still makes for a wonderful day out. Take some time out and lose yourself in a different era for a few hours. With plenty going on, make sure you enjoy the live music throughout the day and pick up some food from one of the areas great local food establishments. Furthermore, Judy’s is free to enter, so if you’re around the Leeds Corn Exchange pop in anytime between 10:30am and 6pm for a walk down memory lane.  
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  Top 15 Essentials To Take To University
  Packing up and heading to university can fill you with a mix of emotions; excitement, apprehension and you might even get a little nervous. However you feel, the last thing you want is the feeling you’ve forgotten to pack something. So, here’s your Top 15 essential things to take to uni!

  Laptop

  This bad boy is about to become your new best friend. You’ll use it for everything at uni, from doing your coursework, organising the next night out,Skyping your parents or friends from back home, ordering a Dominos to binge-watching a series in bed.

  Bedding

  Nothing feels as homely as a comfy bed. Whether you opt for some new bed sheets or take your favourite ones from home, you’ll want to make your new bed in halls a great place to be. Get some extra pillows for film nights, an extra blanket for cold winter nights.

  Alarm Clock

  This may seem old fashioned, but your phone just doesn’t cut it as an alarm clock. You will need to get up for those lectures, so you’ll need something you can rely on.

  Kitchen bits and bobs

  You’ll need lots of kitchen items such as cutlery, pans, mugs, shot glasses…. but essentially you need to know how to cook. A decent cookbook goes a long way at uni as it will give you some great ideas, quick guides to timings or at the very least you’ll get to impress your new housemates with a nice slap up meal!

  Doorstop

  A weird one maybe, but an open door is a much more welcoming one to help you make new friends in halls.

  Photos

  No matter how much fun you’re having at uni, there will be days where you’ll feel a little homesick. Photos are a great reminder of people who you care about as well as a cheap way to decorate your room.

  Pack of cards

  A pre-drink essential! Armed with these you’ll be sure to break the ice and have a good laugh before you hit the bars.

  Important documents

  These are a serious essential. Your uni will ask you to bring various documents and forms of ID – make sure to double-check if you’re not sure.

  Extension Leads

  Your student room will have a couple of plugs but there certainly won’t be enough to plug in everything you have.

  Fancy Dress Outfits

  Having a go to bag of fancy dress knick-knacks can be a lifesaver. There’s guaranteed to be parties and Student Nights with different themes so bring whatever you have!

  Small Suitcase

  This will come in handy when you want to visit your other friends at different unis or go home from time to time.

  Speakers

  Great for parties or listening to music whilst you’re revising, cooking or chilling in your student digs.

  USB stick

  You’ll need to back up files and print off loads of essays at uni so hold on tight to your memory stick.

  Student Discount Cards

  Save money where you can. You can get student cards for travel, clothes and drink deals

  Diary

  Keep up with your lecture timetables, deadlines, nights out and those all important holidays!
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  5 Things to Avoid when House Hunting for University
  The importance of house hunting and finding the right house whilst at university is hugely underestimated. It can be gruelling looking for house, especially at university, as there so many different things to consider; how do you decide on housemates or whether to have any at all? How do you know how much you can afford to spend? What about the location, is it better to be closer to campus or the town centre? There really is so much to consider with so little time to consider it, especially around lectures, seminars, extracurricular activities and a buzzing social life! Here are the top 5 things to avoid when searching for your new home:

  Starting your search too late

  Believe it or not, this is the most common mistake people make when student house hunting. Amongst all your studying, looking for a house is understandably the last thing you want to be doing. It’s advisable to start looking mid-November to December, as hopefully by then you’ll have made friends and know who you want to be living with – it will also be huge relief if you get it all sorted for when you go home over Christmas break so you can relax. However, do not panic and rush into it, start early and take your time.

  Not putting enough thought into who you live with

  This is one of the most important things to consider. Second year housing can come in all different forms, from a luxury private apartment to a house you can share with ten people. So, first of all you need to consider whether you want to live alone, this could be a great option if you’re not good with sharing and you like your own personal space. This can also be a great option to avoid the risk of falling out with your best friends because of living with each other. However, if not then just make sure you pick the right people. If you do decide to live with your friends make sure you agree on everything beforehand so you know what to expect.

  Not keeping in mind your budget

  Many people get carried away with house hunting and upon seeing a bigger, nicer place which is way above their budget feel persuaded to go for it. Only problem with this is that it means you’re broke for the rest of the year. So think carefully, look around and be sensible. You will find something which you like and is in your budget. Also, don’t forget that you also have to pay the deposit and then bills for Wi-Fi, electricity and gas every month!

  Living too far away from campus

  Living too far away from campus is a rooky mistake, especially if you’re low on funds because it means a lot of bus rides and taxis, which is never ideal if – like most students – you don’t have the money for it. So even if the price overall is cheaper you’ll make up for it in fares.

  Agreeing on a house too quickly

  It’s really important to take your time choosing the right house. A situation will arise when you’ve found a nice house maybe the second or third you’ve seen and the estate agents are telling you ‘you won’t find anything better’ and ‘other people are interested, so if you want it, take it now’. Don’t panic buy! That’s for when there’s only one pair of shoes left in stock – not one house! If it’s something you’re unsure on and you’ve only seen a couple of houses, just keep looking until you find what you want.

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