Students in Meanwood

Location

Transport

Amenities

Entertainment

Nightlife

FAQs

Meanwood - About the Location

Meanwood, situated in the northern part of Leeds and sandwiched between Headingley and Chapel Allerton, is an outlying city suburb. Originating as a village, it gained prominence during the English Civil War. Since the 16th century, industries such as mills, dyeworks, and tanneries have grown. A notable feature of Meanwood is the Meanwood Valley Trail, which traces along Meanwood Beck and marks one of its boundaries. Additionally, Tunnel How Hill, located in the top right corner of Meanwood, is recognised as one of Leeds' highest elevation points.

Transport in Meanwood

By Car - Meanwood is ideally positioned for car travel, just around a 14-minute drive from Leeds city centre, depending on traffic conditions. The suburb is well-connected to major roadways, including the A61, making reaching the city and surrounding regions easy.

By Bus - Meanwood is served by several reliable bus lines, providing easy access to the city centre of Leeds, adjacent suburbs, and various local facilities crucial for residents, students, and commuters. Key bus routes in Meanwood include:

Routes 27, 38, 39: These bus services link different parts of the city with Meanwood, running frequently throughout the day.
Routes 781, and M12: These are additional bus services in the area, with stops near important spots in Meanwood.
First Leeds 38 Bus Route: This daily service covers 33 stops, taking about 33 minutes per trip. The first bus departs at 06:01, and the last bus on Saturday ends at 22:18. The frequency of this route varies to maintain consistent accessibility.

By Train - While Meanwood does not have its own train station, the closest one is in Headingley. The Northern Train Line also has stops near Meanwood, offering additional rail travel options.

By Cycle - Biking is a feasible mode of transport to reach the Leeds city centre, typically taking around 20 minutes. Meanwood features various cyclist-friendly routes, making the cycling experience more enjoyable.

For the most current travel and transportation information, it's advisable to consult West Yorkshire Metro for live updates.

Amenities

Waitrose, positioned on Green Road, is a well-stocked supermarket with business hours from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm on weekdays, until 8:00 pm on Saturdays, and from 10:30 am to 4:30 pm on Sundays. The store offers various services, including online shopping, delivery, and Click & Collect.

Aldi, situated in the Northside Retail Park on Stonegate Road, has a wide assortment of products and is open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm from Monday to Saturday, and 10:00 am to 4:00 pm on Sundays, accessible by car and numerous bus routes.

Additionally, Meanwood features an array of small independent stores, enriching the shopping experience and fulfilling diverse requirements, along with a Post Office on the main shopping street for postal needs. Wildcraft Bakery, known for its gluten-free bread and cakes, serves those with coeliac disease and includes a charming café.

Furthermore, Meanwood Park, a verdant 29-hectare area on Green Road, provides a space for relaxation and various recreational activities, including a children's playground, tennis courts, a bowling green, picnic spots, and a basketball court, complemented by accessible paths and parking facilities.

For banking services, while not available in Meanwood, neighbouring areas such as Headingley and Chapel Allerton offer these facilities.

Entertainment

The Meanwood Valley Trail offers a scenic seven-mile journey from Woodhouse Moor to Golden Acre Park and can be accessed from Meanwood. For those fascinated by history, the former site of King Arthur's Castle is located on Tunnel How Hill. Though Meanwood is predominantly residential and lacks museums or theatres, it is surrounded by interesting sites such as the Abbey House Museum in Kirkstall and the Leeds Industrial Museum in Armley.

Meanwood Park, sprawling over 29 hectares, provides a beautiful setting for various outdoor activities and is equipped with a café for refreshments. This park is a perfect retreat for relaxation and leisure, featuring amenities like a children's playground, tennis courts, a bowling green, and a basketball court.

For students, Meanwood offers engaging and enriching experiences. Tandem Gallery and Shop, founded by Hannah and Hetty, is an excellent spot for art and design enthusiasts, displaying locally sourced artwork and unique homewares. The shop also includes a refill station for eco-conscious students and a cosy in-house coffee shop.

Humbl Coffee, celebrated as the UK's first battery-powered mobile coffee shop, is a testament to sustainable living. The upcoming permanent shop in Meanwood is expected to be a popular student hangout.

Finally, the Meanwood Valley Urban Farm is an educational attraction for children and adults, including students interested in sustainability and animal welfare. This local farm provides insights into where food comes from and practices sustainable farming, offering a unique experience away from urban life.

Nightlife

Meanwood is home to various nightlife spots that cater to students' diverse preferences. One such spot is the Terminus Tap Room & Bottle Shop located at 8a Stonegate Road, perfect for craft beer lovers. The Meanwood Brewery has made its home here, and the shop offers an extensive range of craft beers, wines, and cocktails. The decked beer garden and spacious indoor seating make it an excellent choice for students seeking a lively atmosphere. The shop is open from Noon to Midnight (Mon-Sat) and till 11 pm on Sundays. If you're looking for a cosy, traditional pub experience, The Myrtle Tavern on Parkside Road is the place to be. This classic community pub is known for its inviting ambience and homemade roasts. The Bavarian lodge and garden marquee create a festive environment, perfect for students who want to unwind and relax. The pub is open till late, ensuring you can enjoy your time without worrying about the time.

Bay Horse, located on Parkside Road, is another excellent choice for students who appreciate a classic pub vibe. The pub is renowned for its real ale selection and offers a historic and relaxed setting. Students can enjoy the traditional British pub atmosphere while sipping their favourite drinks. Another popular spot in Meanwood includes Boot and Rally. This venue offers diverse experiences, from lively bars with unique atmospheres to cosy pubs and craft beer rooms. In Meanwood, there is a spot for every student's preference.

Housing

Meanwood is a lovely residential area that provides a serene and peaceful environment, suitable for families or those who prefer a quieter lifestyle away from the hustle and bustle of student life. Compared to other parts of Leeds, it has fewer students, making it a great location if you want to escape the lively student culture. Despite this, you can still enjoy the proximity to Headingley and Hyde Park for socialising and nights out. Additionally, Meanwood is an affordable area with shared accommodations available. The housing in Meanwood is diverse, ranging from converted mill apartments along Meanwood Road to modern flats in the district's centre and Victorian terraces. You can also find semi-detached and detached houses with gardens, providing a mixture of options.

Meanwood FAQs

Meanwood is home to a diverse community that tends to be more family-oriented and less bustling than other student areas in Leeds. While it may not have a lively student scene, it is perfect for those who prefer a quieter lifestyle and a peaceful environment.

Meanwood might not offer as many job opportunities as the city centre, but students can still find part-time work in nearby areas such as Headingley, Chapel Allerton, or Leeds city centre. Local businesses in these areas often hire students for part-time positions, making it a good option to look into while studying.

Meanwood is generally considered a safe residential area. Like any place, students need to take standard safety precautions, such as locking doors and being aware of their surroundings when walking at night. The suburb does have a relatively low crime rate.

Yes, students can easily access the city centre from Meanwood. The suburb is well-connected by bus routes, and the journey to the city centre typically takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. It's a convenient commute for students attending universities in the city centre.

Although Meanwood doesn't have as many student-specific establishments as the city centre, several local shops and cafes may still offer discounts for students. It's worth inquiring at different locations to find out if they have any special deals available specifically for students.

Meanwood has various healthcare facilities, including local clinics and pharmacies, that cater to the medical needs of its residents. As a student living in the area, it is important to register with a local doctor and be aware of the healthcare options available to you.

While Meanwood may not have dedicated co-working spaces, students can study at local libraries or cafes with Wi-Fi. Nearby areas like Headingley may offer additional options for quiet study spaces.