Here are nine wholesome sober activities to try with your flatmates

It’s that time in the term where most of us have got the initial wave of drinking fever out our systems and while, yes, going out with your mates can still be fun, let’s not forget about the more wholesome activities that won’t leave you feeling ropey the next day.

Particularly when the assignments start to stack up, trust me, it’s worth taking a break to do something nice, especially when there are so many options on your doorstep, that won’t set your funds back too far. Why not plan to do a different activity weekly or fortnightly with your mates? Thank us later!

Left Bank Leeds

Left Bank hosts a range of events, Monday through to Sunday

Oh, Left Bank. A not so hidden gem, but people forget about all the amazing activities that go on here.

It’s a great study spot during the day if you’re after a bit of variation from the uni libraries (and not just because of the cute little cafe inside…).

Give their Instagram a follow and check the website, as they host everything from open mic poetry nights to vintage fairs to life drawing classes and gardening.

Pottery painting

Although this is a bit more of an expensive activity, doing this occasionally with your mates can be really fun and wholesome. Some pottery pieces are cheaper than others, so you could find something small to paint if you don’t want to break the bank.

Most of all, however, you can explore your creativity and end up with a piece of your own artwork to fondly treasure your uni memories.

Charity/vintage shopping

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This can be as expensive as you make it.

There are great charity shops all over Leeds, especially in Headingley and Meanwood, for those sustainable queens out there who love a bargain.

A guilty pleasure for many students is the North South Vintage shop on Hyde Park Corner. Be warned, it’s hard to leave empty handed once you step foot inside!

Explore Leeds

In Leeds, we’ve got loads of great places surrounding us. You could check out Chapel Allerton’s cafes, charity shops and restaurants or head further north to Knaresborough – a market and spa town that has lots to offer. You can even take a trip down the beautiful river and hire a boat, though maybe wait till spring for this.

For you arty people, there’s Yorkshire Sculpture Park, a unique venue that hosts both indoor and open-air exhibitions and is definitely worth a visit. To the east, there’s the obvious destination of York but for those who haven’t made the trip yet, this beautiful and historic city is less than 30 mins on the train from Leeds.

“Rounding” out the list is Roundhay Park, a beautiful green space which spans over 700 acres, with cafes, gardens and lakes. It’s a great place to go on a scenic walk and enjoy nature.

Check out the local food scene

There are so many delish brunch, lunch and dinner spots

As students, the majority of us cannot afford to constantly eat out – but occasionally going for food with mates and trying new places can be great fun (and save cooking that night).

Trying new restaurants or takeaways from time to time is a treat and there are many options that are budget friendly, including Kuala Lumpur, Bundobust and Little Bao Boy.

Escape rooms

If you enjoy problem solving, try out some of the Escape Rooms in Leeds – there are three in the city centre, on King Street, Headrow and Park Row – and work together with your mates to solve puzzles and find keys to unlock the various rooms. It’s a fun way to engage your brain (without opening your laptop!) and get out the house.

Live entertainment

Leeds has a thriving events scene and you’d be silly to not check it out during your time here. If you fancy a laugh, there are comedy shows all over Leeds, including the Comedy Cellar at Verve and HiFi’s weekly Saturday Comedy Club. If live music is more your thing, keep an eye on venues such as Belgrave Music Hall, Brudenell Social Club, Stylus, Leeds Irish Centre, O2 and Key Club.

Indoor climbing

It might seem a bit random, but indoor climbing can be a fun way to get active with your mates and build your strength. It’s also a good excuse to try something new and no experience is necessary. There’s a great climbing wall at Leeds Uni’s The Edge and at The Climbing Lab in Kirkstall.

Cinema

A trip to the cinema is always a nice outing where you can completely unwind – and it provides a great excuse to get some yummy snacks (sweet treat heaven).

There are cinemas situated all over Leeds and lots of great things coming out. Closest to home is the recently re-opened Hyde Park Picture House, a historic Grade II listed cinema right on the doorstep on Brudenell Road. Not only is this building beautiful but reasonably priced as well with a student ticket coming to £7.50.

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