The Ultimate Guide to Leicester’s Student Clubs and Communities
Starting university in a new city is exciting, but it can also feel a bit daunting. Luckily, Leicester is packed with fun student clubs, communities, and activities waiting for you to explore. Whether you’re into sports, arts, culture, or just looking to meet new people, there’s something here for everyone.
We’ve created this guide to help you find your feet and make the most of everything Leicester has to offer. So, let’s jump in and explore how you can get involved, make friends, and start making some amazing memories!
Student Unions and Societies
First things first—let’s talk about student unions and societies. The Students’ Union (UOLSU) is your go-to place if you’re studying at the University of Leicester. It’s a bustling hub where you’ll find many opportunities to get involved and make the most of your student experience.
If you’re heading to De Montfort University, the DSU is the place to be. Known for its lively atmosphere and a wide range of activities, it offers something for everyone. Both universities provide numerous societies to choose from, whether you’re seeking a group related to your course, a cultural society or one that aligns with your interests such as crafts, true crime, Bollywood, cinema, gaming, and more.
Cultural and Community Groups
Leicester is such a vibrant and diverse city, and its community groups really showcase that. Take the African Caribbean Centre, for example – it’s a lively hub that celebrates African and Caribbean cultures. They host amazing festivals with music, dance, and delicious food from these rich traditions. Plus, if you’ve ever wanted to learn some new dance moves, their dance classes are a fantastic way to have fun and immerse yourself in the culture.
Leicester’s Ukrainian Centre is a warm and welcoming place that brings together the Ukrainian community and anyone interested in learning more about their culture. It hosts regular events throughout the year, from fun social gatherings to religious and cultural festivities celebrating Ukrainian heritage. Whether you’re into traditional food, folk music, or learning more about Ukraine’s rich history, the centre provides a friendly space for both Ukrainians and non-Ukrainians to come together, share stories, and build connections.
Similar groups exist for other communities, from the Irish to the Bangladeshi. There’s a place for everyone in Leicester. Lastly, don’t miss the city’s international and cultural events. The Leicester Mela celebrates South Asian culture with music, dance, and food, while the Chinese New Year Festival brings vibrant parades and performances to the city. These events are fun and a great way to experience and appreciate the diverse cultures that make Leicester unique.
Sports and Fitness Clubs for Students
When it comes to staying active, Leicester has plenty to offer. For rugby fans, the Leicester Tigers Rugby Club is a must-visit. Known for its passionate fan base and exciting matches, it’s a fantastic way to get into the local sports scene and cheer on your team. If football is more your thing, Leicester City Football Club offers an exhilarating experience. As a Premier League team with a dedicated fan base, there are plenty of matches, fan clubs, and community events to enjoy.
There are also many other sports clubs where you can get involved and try something new. If martial arts interests you, the Leicester Karate Club is a great place to start. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already have some experience, the club offers sessions for all skill levels. It’s a great way to build confidence, improve your fitness, and learn self-defence techniques, all while becoming part of a tight-knit community of karate enthusiasts.
For those who prefer something a little more rhythmic, Leicester Dance School offers various classes. Whether you’re into street dance, contemporary, ballet, or even salsa, this is the place to let loose and explore your creative side. It’s a fun way to stay active and a brilliant outlet to de-stress from university life. Plus, dance classes are fantastic for meeting new people with similar interests. There’s something special about bonding over choreography; the energy in these classes is always high, making it a great environment to push yourself and learn something new.
If you’re a fan of water sports, you’ll be happy to know that Leicester has a strong rowing community, too. The Leicester Rowing Club is located along the scenic River Soar, and it’s the perfect setting if you’re looking to try something a little different. Rowing is an excellent full-body workout and a unique way to experience Leicester’s outdoor spaces. The club welcomes all abilities, whether you’re entirely new to the sport or have previous rowing experience. It’s also a great team-building activity, so you’ll find that the camaraderie among rowers is second to none.
Arts and Entertainment
Leicester’s arts and entertainment scene is thriving, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. The Curve Theatre is a central hub for theatrical performances, offering everything from high-energy musicals to thought-provoking dramas. It’s a modern, world-class venue, and with student discounts and special nights, it’s an affordable way to enjoy top-notch performances. Whether you’re watching a primary production or a smaller, experimental show, the Curve is an essential stop for anyone who loves theatre or wants to experience Leicester’s creative energy.
For a more relaxed outing, Phoenix Cinema is a perfect choice. This independent cinema offers a mix of mainstream, indie, and international films, often with student discounts that make it budget-friendly. It’s the ideal spot for a movie night, whether you’re catching the latest blockbuster or an artsy foreign film. Phoenix Cinema also hosts regular discussions, film festivals, and workshops, so if you’re a cinephile, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to deepen your appreciation of film and connect with others who share your passion.
Feeling like a good laugh? You absolutely have to check out the Leicester Comedy Festival! It’s one of the biggest comedy festivals in Europe, featuring a diverse lineup of comedians – from well-known names to up-and-coming talent. The festival has a super friendly vibe, making it easy to mingle with fellow students and locals. With comedy shows happening all over the city, it’s a fantastic and affordable way to enjoy some stand-up comedy and share a few laughs with friends.
But Leicester’s vibrant arts scene isn’t just about what you can watch or attend—there are plenty of ways to get creative and social. If you love a good book or enjoy engaging in thoughtful discussions, Leicester has a variety of book clubs that are perfect for you. If you’re more of a hands-on, creative type, Leicester has a thriving scene for craft clubs and knitting circles. Crafting is an excellent way to unwind after a long day of studying, and it’s also a fun way to meet others who share your love for creating things.
Volunteering and Charitable Work
Volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to spend your time as a student in Leicester, and it offers so many benefits beyond just adding something impressive to your CV. It’s a fantastic way to give back to the local community, meet new people, and develop valuable skills that will serve you well in your studies and future career. The great thing about Leicester is that numerous volunteering opportunities are available, whether you’re passionate about social causes, helping the environment, or simply looking to get involved in something meaningful during your university years.
The University of Leicester Students’ Union (UOLSU) and De Montfort University Students’ Union (DSU) have strong partnerships with local charities and organisations, offering plenty of chances for students to get involved. From becoming a volunteer tutor to disadvantaged students to volunteering for Leicester’s memory walk for the Alzheimer’s Society, there are many opportunities to choose from where you can make a difference in the community.
Tips for New Students
To make the most of your time in Leicester, here are a few tips:
Get Involved Early
One of the best ways to feel at home in Leicester is by getting involved in student clubs, societies, and community groups as soon as you arrive. University life is more than just lectures and assignments—it’s about making connections, discovering new interests, and expanding your horizons. Whether you’re drawn to sports, arts, culture, or volunteering, Leicester has a vibrant community waiting to welcome you. By joining a club or society early, you give yourself the best chance to build a solid network of friends and make your university experience much more prosperous. Don’t wait until the end of your first term to sign up—jump in immediately, and you’ll quickly feel like you belong.
If you’re nervous about taking that first step, remember that everyone is in the same boat when they arrive. Most student clubs and societies are designed with newcomers in mind, so you’ll find friendly faces and a welcoming environment. The first few weeks are filled with ice-breakers, taster sessions, and newbie-friendly events, so don’t worry if you’re not familiar with everything at first—you’re not expected to be an expert from day one!
Attend Freshers’ Events
Freshers’ Week is one of the most exciting times at university, and Leicester knows how to throw a grand welcome party for new students. From Freshers’ Fairs, where you can explore all the different clubs and societies, to social events like pub quizzes, themed parties, and city tours, Freshers’ Week is designed to help you find your footing and meet fellow students. It’s the perfect opportunity to dip your toes into everything, even if you’re unsure what you’re into.
Make the most of these events by going in with an open mind. Try out a variety of different activities—even the ones you might not have considered before. You might discover a hidden passion for salsa dancing, coding, or even quidditch (yes, it’s a thing at many universities!). Freshers’ Week is also a fantastic time to meet people outside of your course or accommodation, broaden your social circle, and ensure that you start university with a network of friends from all walks of life.
So there you have it—your ultimate guide to Leicester’s student clubs and communities! Dive in, have fun, and embrace every moment of your adventure. Welcome to Leicester, and here’s to an incredible journey ahead.
Find your home away from home at our Leicester Student Accommodation
One of the most important parts of settling into student life is finding a place that feels like home—and St. George’s Tower Student Studios in Leicester offers just that.
Each St. George’s Tower studio is designed with student life in mind. With a fully furnished room that includes everything from a comfy bed to a study space and a private kitchenette, you’ll have the perfect blend of privacy and comfort to focus on your studies while being part of a lively student community. The sleek, modern, and functional studios offer all the essentials to help you settle in quickly and feel at home. Whether returning after a long day of lectures or enjoying a chilled evening, you’ll love having space to relax and unwind.
Ready to make St. George’s Tower your home? Join the community today and find your place in Leicester’s vibrant student scene. Call our friendly team to find out more about securing your spot for the next academic year.
