Headingley Leeds Student Area
Back to All Area Guides

Headingley: The Beating Heart of Leeds Student Life

Headingley is Leeds' most famous student district, with over 60% of residents being university students. Known for its vibrant social scene, the legendary Otley Run, and excellent sporting facilities, Headingley offers the ultimate student experience in Leeds.

Quick Stats

Why Choose Headingley for Student Accommodation?

Legendary Student Atmosphere

With over 60% of the population being students, Headingley provides an unmatched student community experience. You'll be at the heart of Leeds student culture, surrounded by like-minded people creating unforgettable university memories.

The Otley Run

Home to the legendary Otley Run - a rite of passage for Leeds students featuring 16 pubs along Otley Road. This famous pub crawl has become iconic in UK student culture.

Sports Central

  • Headingley Stadium - International cricket and rugby venue
  • Leeds Beckett Headingley Campus - 100 acres of sports facilities
  • Multiple gyms, tennis courts, and running tracks
  • Active sports clubs and societies

Excellent Transport Links

Despite feeling like a village, Headingley offers superb connections: 10-15 minutes to Leeds city centre, multiple bus routes (1, 6, 28, 97, X84), Headingley Train Station (11 minutes to Leeds Station), and easy cycling distance to both universities.

Transport & Connectivity

Bus Services

Otley Road buses provide frequent services:

  • Routes: 1, 6, 28, 97, X84
  • Frequency: Every few minutes during peak times
  • Journey Time to City Centre: 10-15 minutes
  • Journey Time to University of Leeds: 10-15 minutes

Headingley Train Station

Located near Kirkstall Lane on the Wharfedale Line:

  • Leeds Station: 11 minutes
  • Regional connections across Yorkshire
  • Perfect for commuting or weekend trips

Cycling

  • Flat, cycle-friendly routes
  • Dedicated cycle lanes on main roads
  • 15-20 minute cycle to University of Leeds
  • Secure bike storage at most properties

Shopping & Amenities

Headingley Central (Arndale Centre)

The shopping hub of Headingley featuring 35 retail units:

  • Supermarkets (Sainsbury's, Co-op)
  • Independent retailers
  • Mainstream brands
  • Student-focused services

Supermarkets

  • Sainsbury's - Headingley high street
  • Co-op - Multiple locations
  • Lidl - Short bus ride
  • Various convenience stores along Otley Road

Otley Road High Street

A thriving mix of:

  • Mobile repair shops
  • Tattoo parlours and nail bars
  • Noodle bars and international cuisine
  • Charity shops and boutiques
  • Barbers and beauty salons
  • Banks and cash points
  • Post office services

Nightlife & Entertainment

The Legendary Otley Run

The UK's most famous student pub crawl featuring 16 pubs including Original Oak, Skyrack, Headingley Taps, Woodies, Three Horseshoes, and many more. A true Leeds student experience that attracts students from across the UK.

Popular Pubs & Bars

Traditional Pubs:

  • Original Oak - Otley Run starting point
  • Skyrack - Student favourite
  • Headingley Taps - Craft beer specialist

Sophisticated Bars:

  • Arc - Cocktails and DJ nights
  • Box - Music venue and bar
  • The Pit - Underground vibe
  • Trio - Relaxed atmosphere

Live Music & Events

  • Regular live music nights
  • DJ events and student nights
  • Sports viewing parties (especially cricket and rugby)
  • Weekly student socials

Food & Dining

International Cuisine

Headingley's diverse student population means excellent food options:

  • Noodle bars and Asian cuisine
  • Italian restaurants
  • Indian and Pakistani takeaways
  • Middle Eastern food
  • Vegan and vegetarian options

Student-Friendly Chains

  • Subway
  • Domino's Pizza
  • Local fish and chip shops
  • Kebab houses
  • Coffee shops (Costa, independent cafes)

Sports & Recreation

Leeds Beckett Headingley Campus

A massive 100-acre campus featuring:

  • Multiple sports pitches
  • Tennis courts
  • Running track and athletics facilities
  • Modern sports centre
  • Climbing wall
  • Swimming pool

Headingley Stadium

World-famous venue hosting:

  • International cricket (Yorkshire County Cricket Club)
  • Rugby League (Leeds Rhinos)
  • Student ticket offers available
  • Incredible atmosphere on match days

Parks & Green Spaces

  • Meanwood Valley Trail - Beautiful walking route
  • Soldiers Field - Local park
  • Beckett Park - Campus green spaces
  • Easy access to countryside walks

Cost of Living in Headingley

Rental Costs

Competitive rates for one of Leeds' best student areas:

  • Victorian terraced houses: £110-£150 per person per week
  • Modern en-suites: £130-£160 per person per week
  • Bills-inclusive options widely available

Why Headingley is Great Value:

  • ✅ Premium location without city centre prices
  • ✅ Bills-inclusive options common
  • ✅ Excellent transport saves money
  • ✅ Student discounts throughout the area
  • ✅ Competitive food and entertainment costs

Types of Student Housing in Headingley

Traditional Student Houses

The iconic Victorian terraced houses:

  • 4-8 bedroom properties
  • High ceilings and period features
  • Shared kitchens and living rooms
  • Gardens (front and/or back)
  • Close to Otley Road

Modern Student Accommodation

  • Purpose-built student blocks
  • En-suite rooms
  • Studios and apartments
  • On-site facilities (gym, laundry, communal spaces)

Shared Flats

  • 2-4 bedroom apartments
  • Modern conversions
  • Often bills-inclusive
  • Great for smaller groups

Find Your Headingley Student Home with Haus Properties

At Haus Properties, we have extensive experience letting student accommodation in Headingley. Our properties offer:

  • Prime Otley Road Locations - Walking distance to everything
  • Quality Furnished Homes - Ready to move in
  • Bills-Inclusive Packages - Simple, transparent pricing
  • Responsive Maintenance - Quick repairs and support
  • Multi-Language Support - Service in 8 languages

Contact Our Team:

Haus Student Hyde Park

78 Brudenell Road, Hyde Park

Leeds LS6 1EG

Phone: 0113 887 7259

Email: hydepark@haus-properties.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Otley Run?

The Otley Run is a legendary pub crawl featuring 16 pubs along Otley Road in Headingley. It's considered a rite of passage for Leeds students and attracts students from across the UK.

How far is Headingley from University of Leeds?

Headingley is 10-15 minutes from University of Leeds by bus or cycle. Buses run frequently along Otley Road.

Is Headingley only for sports students?

No! While Leeds Beckett's Headingley Campus focuses on sports, students from all courses and both universities live in Headingley. The diverse student population creates a vibrant, inclusive community.

How often do buses run from Headingley?

Very frequently! Buses 1, 6, 28, 97, and X84 run along Otley Road every few minutes during peak times.

What's the average rent in Headingley?

Expect to pay £110-£160 per person per week depending on property type and location. Bills-inclusive options are widely available.

When should I start looking for Headingley accommodation?

Start searching in November-February for the following academic year. Headingley properties are popular and get snapped up quickly.

Explore More Leeds Student Areas

Considering other areas? Check out our comprehensive guides: