YOUR LOCAL AREA GUIDE
Living in Leicester
Leicester is a mid-sized city in the East Midlands with a large student population, a genuinely diverse food scene, and better transport links than most people expect. It is not London, and it does not pretend to be. But it has everything you need, and most of it is within walking distance of Leicester One, and it is significantly more affordable.
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If you have never been to Leicester before, this guide will give you an honest picture of what it is actually like to live here as a student.
Supermarkets & Essentials
Supermarkets
Just a few minutes' walk away from Leicester One, you'll find a Sainsbury's, Aldi, Tesco Express and an M&S Foodhall for high-quality essentials.
International Grocery Shops
The surrounding streets are home to independent grocers, offering everything from authentic East + South Asian produce to Afro-Caribbean shops.
Leicester Market
A must-visit historic market offering fresh, local produce at student-friendly prices, all within a ten-minute stroll from your door.
Nightlife
Monday
Mosh
Kick off the week at Mosh. With three floors ranging from indie and rock to chart-toppers and dance, it's the legendary go-to for Leicester's student population every Monday night.
Tuesday
Club Republic
Tuesdays belong to Club Republic for their weekly student takeover. Expect high-energy sets, themed parties, and some of the best drink deals available during the week.
Wednesday
O2 Academy
The official sports team and society night. Head to the Student Union bars or local favourites like O2 Academy to join the mid-week celebration of campus life.
Friday
The Fan Club
Start the weekend right at The Fan Club or Venn Street. Fridays offer a mix of mainstream hits and alternative grooves, perfect for unwinding after a long week of lectures.
Saturday
Cultural Quarter Venues
Saturdays are all about the big nights out. High-production values and top-tier guest DJs frequent the Main Stage at Club Republic and various venues around the Cultural Quarter.
Bars Worth Knowing
The Bottle Garden
For a more relaxed vibe, check out The Bottle Garden or 45 West. If you're looking for craft beers and a social atmosphere, BrewDog and The Soar Point are local staples just a short walk away.
Leicester's student nightlife is not only vibrant but also generally affordable compared to other major UK cities.
Most venues offer dedicated student pricing during the week. For safety, the city operates a 'Safe Zone' scheme, and we always recommend using the University-approved taxi services when returning home late at night.
St Martin's Coffee Roasters
A local favorite in the Lanes, offering specialty roasts and a spacious upstairs area perfect for laptop work.
Coffee Shops and Study Spots
Leicester’s artisanal coffee scene is one of the most vibrant in the Midlands, offering the perfect environment for both focused study sessions and relaxed social breaks.
Living at Leicester One means these prime spots are essentially an extension of your home. You skip the commute and head straight to your favorite table, ensuring you always have the best environment to spark your next big idea.
The Coffee Counter
Located just around the corner on Bowling Green Street, this spot is known for its incredible beans and quiet atmosphere.
Bru Coffee & Gelato
Open late on Granby Street, Bru is the ideal spot for evening study sessions or a sweet treat after lectures.
Restaurants and Takeaways
The Golden Mile
Authentic Indian Cuisine
Leicester’s legendary Belgrave Road is world-renowned for authentic curries and vibrant street food stalls serving fresh chaat and samosas.
Cheap Eats
Student-Friendly Fuel
Granby Street is a haven for affordable meals. Try Grounded Kitchen for Korean bowls or hit the Leicester Market for the city's best falafel.
Special Occasions
San Carlo &
More
For celebrations, San Carlo offers Italian sophistication, while Middletons Steakhouse or independent bistros in St Martin’s Square offer seasonal menus.
Late-Night Options
After-Hours Dining
Whether it's a post-library snack or a late-night feast, London Road offers everything from gourmet burgers to 24-hour convenience shops.
Transport
Train Station
4-minute walk to direct London services.
Bus Routes
Frequent city-wide and campus shuttles.
East Midlands Airport
Under an hour away for international travel.
Walkability
City essentials within a 10-20 minute stroll.
Leicester One offers unparalleled access to the city's transport network. This central hub makes weekend trips and visiting home effortless for both domestic and international students, with high-speed rail links and proximity to major bus terminals.
For local travel, the city’s comprehensive bus network operates frequently from stops immediately surrounding the residence. Secure bike storage at 103 Granby Street also supports Leicester’s bike-friendly lanes, ensuring your daily commute is simple and sustainable. There are also local car parks for visitors.
Parks, Gyms, and Things to Do
Nature
Victoria Park
Sixty-nine acres of open space perfect for morning runs, summer picnics, or a quiet spot to study away from your desk.
Active
Gyms and Fitness
From boutique studios to comprehensive student gyms with Olympic-sized pools and strength training equipment.
Culture
Theatre & Cinema
The award-winning Curve Theatre and Phoenix Cinema offer a mix of West End musicals and international cinema.
Sports Teams
Leicester City FC
Football
Leicester Tigers
Rugby
Leicester’s sporting energy is unmatched. Whether you are supporting Leicester City FC at the King Power Stadium, catching the Leicester Tigers at Welford Road, or cheering on the Leicester Riders at the Morningside Arena, the professional sporting spirit of the city is infectious and offers a wealth of match-day excitement for everyone.