Six places film buffs need to visit in Leeds

With diss season in full swing, it can be easy to get caught up in the chaos of uni life. When you’re unsure about how to de-stress, it’s worth being reminded that there’s always a film out there to take your mind off things, even if it’s only for a couple of hours. So, why not embrace what Leeds’ film scene has to offer?

As Leeds students, it can be easy to see Hyde Park as the centre of our universe. And whilst we do have the luxury of a cinema in the middle of our stomping ground, there are also so many exciting opportunities throughout the city.

With that being said, here are five places to visit in Leeds for film lovers.

Hyde Park Picture House

We all know it, but have you actually made use of our local cinema? If you’ve been a Hyde Park resident for a while, then you’ll know that the Picture House recently underwent a huge makeover.

Now, this beloved local gem has everything you’d need from a cinema. It’s accessible to all and even makes a point of preserving its traditional heritage feel. Whether you want to watch the latest Hollywood movie, an old classic, or check out some independent filmmakers and their films, Hyde Park Picture House has it all.

What’s more, you can use your student status to save – tickets are only £8.50!

Peaky Blinders filming locations

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With the Peaky Blinders movie now on the cards, it’s only appropriate to take a look at previous set locations that were used in the city during the series production. Right in the heart of Leeds city centre, filming took place in Leeds City Varieties Music Hall. If you’re an avid Peaky Blinders fan, you might recognise the hall from multiple scenes involving some dodgy dealings, in particular when Arthur Shelby (Paul Anderson) gets interrupted by the police and, in true Peaky Blinders style, a fight breaks out.

If that’s not enough, the iconic Leeds City Hall has also hosted Tommy Shelby during his political pursuits in later seasons. This also means that Cillian Murphy has walked along the same streets we have!

Cottage Road Cinema, Headingley

Another film gem in Leeds is Cottage Road Cinema, located just off the Otley Run route on Cottage Road. Like Hyde Park Picture House, it has preserved its old-school cinema feel and is the only place in Leeds that still offers independently owned screens.

With 112 years of history, this cinema offers a true classic experience, and every six weeks they even put on “Classics at the Cottage”, screening films like Hitchcock’s Psycho and Coppola’s The Godfather.

To top it off, students can take a trip into this time vault for just £6.50.

Downton Abbey filming location

Fans of Downton Abbey might recognise Harewood House from the movie. Whilst it isn’t the main location of the filming, Harewood House was used as one of the 2019 film set locations for the royal family’s visit. Only a 25 minute drive from the city, this 18th century estate offers a cultural break from the chaos of Hyde Park. If you purchase tickets online you can even get a discount, which is great for watching the student bank account!

National Science and Media Museum

If you fancy going further afield, Bradford is home to the National Science and Media Museum. The recently renovated museum allows you to dive deep into the science and culture of light and sound technologies and how they shape our lives. If you want to learn more about the history of film and photography, the Kodak gallery explores the timeline of cameras, taking you from the first inventions right through to modern day lenses. 

The museum even boasts its own ‘Pictureville Cinema’, using IMAX technology to immerse you in a top-tier experience.

Leeds International Film Festival (LIFF) 

LIFF is an annual event. This year marks the 39th edition, taking place from the 6th to the 23rd November. Outside of London, Leeds International Film Festival is the largest film festival in the country, and the vast programme has something for everyone. Whether you’re into anime, shorts or feature films, the festival has you covered. What’s more, it offers screenings across the city and in Bradford.

LIFF is a big deal, bringing together established filmmakers and newly emerging creators. With this is mind, it’s a great opportunity to support local producers. Being a student also comes in handy once again, with tickets selling for just £8.50.