Armley - About the Location
Less than a mile from the city centre and bordered by the Leeds & Liverpool Canal, Armley is in the heart of Leeds' industrial heritage. Many of its buildings date from the 18th century but its roots go back much earlier: you can find a mention of the suburb in the Domesday Book. Armley Mills, once the largest woollen mill in the world, now houses the Leeds Industrial Museum, and other mills have been converted into flats.
Transport in Armley
Train - Armley doesn't have its own train station any more, but the suburb is just two miles from the main Leeds Station. It's an easy walk or cycle to get there, and you'll be able to grab a train to most major cities.
Local Travel - For local travel, there are many bus services which go through Armley, taking you out across the city.
Walk/Cycle - The Leeds and Liverpool Canal provides a great cycle or walking route, going towards Burley and Kirkstall in one direction and Knowsthorpe and Stourton in the other. It also forms part of Sustrans Route 66 cycleway, which runs from Kingston upon Hull to Manchester.
Amenities
Armley Leisure Centre has a 25 metre pool, a large gym, and access to other indoor sports. Though the city centre is close enough for easy retail therapy, there are plenty of grocery shops - both high street and independent - in the area for day-to-day needs, as well as loads of charity shops.
Entertainment
One of the most well-known visitor attractions in Armley is the Leeds Industrial Museum, located in the old Armley Mills. The Grade II-listed building, once the largest woollen mill in the world, now tells the story of historic and contemporary textile manufacturing in Leeds. The canal towpath is a peaceful place to walk, and theres also Armley Park, with 14 hectares of grassy space, trees and walks. The space also includes tennis courts, football pitches and bowling greens, along with a playground and skate park. If you feel like a challenge, you can take on the Armley 'Killer' Steps - a Victorian flight of 161 steps leading down to the canal, much loved as a challenge, and for runners to build up their hill-climbing muscles. The Interplay Theatre, housed in an old chapel, is the National Sensory Theatre, and runs a programme of exciting and innovative performances which 'place the audience at the centre'.
Nightlife
Armley has a range of traditional pubs and bars if you're looking for a low-key night out. The move towards micro-breweries and craft beer has seen a growth around the area, with the Wilde Child brewery and the Anthology Brew Co. offering a different style of drinking out. For meals out, you can choose from Indian, Persian, Italian or Greek. If you're after a satisfying breakfast, Florence Cafe is worth checking out. For gourmet burgers and ice cream treats, head to Divine Gelato (or order online).
Housing
True to its industrial roots, much of the housing in Armley is back-to-back terraces, many of which have been converted to through-terrace houses. Whilst this is not the smartest area, there's renovation everywhere, and it offers a wide range of choices for student accommodation. You can also find new flats in converted mills, combining the best of the past and present.
Armley FAQs
Armley is a buzzing and diverse community that prides itself on its strong local involvement. As a student, you'll have the opportunity to get involved in various community projects, all aimed at preserving the environment and supporting local development. There are several active groups in the area, such as Friends of Armley and Gotts Park Group, who work tirelessly to improve green spaces and promote community spirit. This vibrant community life in Armley makes it an ideal place for students to live and make a positive contribution.
Armley provides an abundance of transportation options for students, ensuring easy access to Leeds city centre and surrounding areas. The suburb is well-serviced by several bus lines, including routes 15, 16, 72, 87, and X6. The M621 motorway offers quick and efficient road travel for students with cars. Moreover, nearby rail services and the proximity of Leeds Bradford Airport make national and international travel convenient for students, whether for daily commuting or occasional trips.
Armley offers top-notch sports and fitness facilities for students. The Armley Leisure Centre is undoubtedly the star attraction, boasting modern gym equipment, swimming pools, and sports halls that host a wide range of classes and activities. For those who prefer the outdoors, Armley Park and Moorfield Recreation Ground offer a range of sports amenities, including football pitches, cricket grounds, and tennis courts. This diverse range of options caters to a variety of interests and encourages an active and healthy lifestyle among students.
Armley is an excellent location for students due to its proximity to several higher education institutions. If you're looking for courses that cater to your academic interests, Leeds City College's Armley Community Hub is a great option. Additionally, Arden University's Leeds Study Centre offers flexible higher education options. Other notable institutions, such as Leeds Conservatoire and Northern School of Contemporary Dance, are also easily accessible. The University of Leeds is particularly renowned for its diverse academic programs and international reputation.
Armley is an incredible place to be for students, offering a range of leisure and entertainment options that cater to their interests. If you're an outdoor enthusiast, Armley Park is a perfect spot with its sports facilities and scenic areas for relaxation. If you're one to explore the local culture, Leeds Industrial Museum is nearby and well worth a visit. Indoor activities are also aplenty, with The Climbing Lab being an excellent option. If you're looking for entertainment, Cardigan Fields is just a short drive away, where you can find a cinema, bowling alley, laser zone, and a range of dining options. It's the perfect spot to unwind, socialize, and take a break from your studies.