Plan your 2022 Leeds bucket list!

As we head into new year and a new semester, the Residence Life team have pulled together some of our favourite places in Leeds to provide you with a 2022 Leeds bucket list!

Between us we’ve lived in Leeds for nearly 8 years and we have some great recommendations to share. 

Visit some of Leeds’ interesting museums 

Leeds has a wealth of museums to explore: the Royal Armouries, Leeds Art Gallery, The Stanley & Audrey Burton Gallery, Treasures of the Brotherton Gallery, Leeds City Museum and Leeds Industrial Museum, to name but a few. All of these are near the city centre and offer a fascinating insight into life in Leeds and beyond. 

Visit Kirkstall Abbey and the surrounding park 

This stunning park features the ruins of a 12th century Abbey and is a great spot to unwind and relax, especially as the weather gets warmer! 

Walk the Meanwood Valley Trail 

Do you like getting out into nature? The 7-mile Meanwood Valley Trail runs from Hyde Park right out to Golden Acre Park and offers a calming way to experience Leeds. 

Check out the range of independent eateries in Leeds 

Here in Residence Life we love food, and we’re lucky in Leeds to be surrounded by amazing independent cafes and restaurants! We’ve picked some local highlights for you to try: Coffee on the Crescent, Bakery 164, LS6 Dutch Fries, Ecco Pizzeria, Mrs Atha’s and OWT. Check out Leeds Independent Life for more great recommendations. Also, remember that all of the Great Food at Leeds cafes on campus like Hugo and the Edit Room are run by the University and prioritise sustainability and using local suppliers. 

See a gig at a Leeds institution 

Leeds has a long history of hosting amazing bands, so why not see a gig in a local venue? Check out Brudenell Social Club, Belgrave Hall, Headrow House, Wharf Chambers and The Wardrobe, and many more! Did you know that there even gigs at the Refectory right on campus? 

Go to a drag show at Viaduct Showbar 

Whether you’re new to drag or you’re a long-time fan, Viaduct is a great place to experience the best of Leeds’ drag. Shows run every weekend and they host special events across the year. 

We wish you a wonderful start to 2022 and we hope you get to experience the best of Leeds this year! 

Residence Life team