Experience in Leicester, United Kingdom by Sharon

What is it like to live in Leicester? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Leicester is a multi-cultural city with many nationalities living there. There are two universities in Leicester, the De Montfort University and Leicester University therefore there is a large student population. Two large shopping centres and a large market (largest in UK). There are two theatres and two cinemas with all the latest films.

What is the student lifestyle like in Leicester?

As there are two large universities in Leicester there are many student bars and places to meet.

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How much does it cost to live in Leicester?

Leicester is in the Midlands and therefore it is cheaper to live here than in other parts of the UK.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Leicester? Is there any advice you can give?

It is not difficult to get student accommodation but as in any other big city in the world there are places to avoid. When looking for accommodation, especially where it is not possible to view the room, ask to see photographs of the room being rented and ask questions. If the house has other students in ask to email them so you have an opinion from another student. Look for landlords who have websites and are willing to answer questions. Check where the accommodation is on Google map.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

In Leicester you can find many different restaurants such as Chinese, Italian, Greek, Indian etc. Traditionally UK have pubs and many serve British food, and usually if near to universities these are priced reasonably. Typical British food is Fish and Chips, Bangers (sausage) and mash (potatoes), Cottage Pie (mincemeat with potatoes topping), stew and dumplings and many more. Lots of take-away places, Chinese, Indian and Pizza. Spoilt for choice.

What places would you recommend visiting in Leicester?

In Leicester you have museums, two good theatres, cinemas. On the outskirts of Leicester you can visit Bradgate Park which has a lot history.

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Is it good to eat out in Leicester? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

There are many places to eat out in Leicester, it depends on what food you like and your financial budget.

Is the nightlife good in Leicester? Where is good to go?

I understand there is a lot of night life in Leicester with clubs etc however many students tend to go to student bars where they also have entertainment and mike nights (where anyone can go along and sing and play an instrument). Also each university has there own bar and entertainment.

What advice would you give future students heading to Leicester?

Make sure your accommodation is suitable and talk to other students who have visited the UK. When travelling from airports you can get to Leicester either by coach (usually cheaper) or by train. Get as much information from your Universities. Ensure your accommodation is in walking distance to your University and make sure you have your landlords number in case of delay or you cannot find the accommodation.