Graduating this summer? Before you pack up your student house, say goodbye to Leeds and start your next chapter, there’s still time to squeeze in a few more memories.
If your sticking around Leeds over the summer, this list is also the perfect guide to making the most of the city while the sun is (hopefully) shining.
From iconic student traditions to some of Leeds best hidden gems, here’s our ultimate Leeds graduation bucket list!
Complete the infamous Otley Run
If you’ve managed to get through your degree without completing an Otley Run, we’re impressed!
Gather your friends, pick a fancy dress theme and take on Leeds most iconic pub crawl. Whether you make it to the final stop or not, it’s a rite of passage for thousands of students every year.
Bonus points if you actually finish it...
Watch a Film at Hyde Park Picture House
One of the UK’s oldest cinemas, Hyde Park Picture House is one of Leeds most iconic venues.
Grab your favourite snacks and head down for a cosy evening at our favourite independent cinema and catch everything from cult classics to brand-new releases. It’s the perfect way to spend an evening and a must-visit spot before you leave the city.
Explore Leeds’ Incredible Museums
Leeds is packed with some great museums and galleries, many of which are completely free!
Some of our favourites include:
- Leeds City Museum
- Royal Armouries Museum
- Exhibitions and events at The Tetley
Whether you’re interest in history, science, art or culture, there’s something for everyone. Take advantage of having these incredible places right on your doorstop while you can.
Spend a Day at Leeds Dock
When the sun comes out, Leeds Dock is one of the best places in the city.
Take a stroll along the waterfront, hop on the water taxi, grab food and drinks with friends or simply enjoy the atmosphere. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxed summer afternoon and a great reminder that Leeds has much more to offer then lecture theatres and libraries.
Visit Hyde Park Book Club
More than just a café, Hyde Park Book Club has become one of the most loved venues in the city.
Grab some delicious food, discover up and coming bands, catch a comedy night, or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. It’s quirky, welcoming and a staple of Leeds student life.
Have a Picnic at Kirkstall Abbey
Just a short journey from Headingley, Kirkstall Abbey is one of the most picturesque spots in Leeds.
Pack a picnic, gather your friends and spend an afternoon surrounded by stunning 12th century ruins. It’s the perfect setting for one final catch up before everyone heads off in different directions.
Watch the Sunset from Woodhouse Moor
It’s simple but essential!
Whether you’ve done it before or not, watching the sunset over Woodhouse Moor is one of those classic Leeds student moments that deserves a place on your bucket list.
Bonus points for taking your favourite snacks and reminiscing with your friends on all your favourite moments over the past few years!
Take a graduation Photo in your Favourite Spot
Before you leave, revisit your favourite spots that defined your time in Leeds.
Whether it’s in the SU, your school building or your favourite coffee shop, take your family and friends to visit and take a graduation photo too. Years from now, you can look back and remember your best Leeds memories.
Whether you’re graduating this summer or sticking around for a bit longer, now’s the perfect time to make the most of everything Leeds has to offer!