Student’s Guide to Moving to Leicester
Starting university is one of the most exciting times of your life – and moving to Leicester for the first time is a big part of that adventure. Between the buzz of Freshers’ Week, making new friends, and exploring your new city, it’s easy to forget some of the practical stuff.
To help you feel prepared (and avoid the “oh no, I forgot my…!” moment), we’ve put together the ultimate Fresher’s guide to moving to the University of Leicester or De Montfort University – including a complete halls packing checklist.
Step 1: Get to Know Leicester
Leicester is a vibrant, multicultural city with over 70,000 students across its two universities. Located in the East Midlands region of England, Leicester boasts a central location with excellent connectivity to the rest of the UK. As one of the UK's most vibrant university cities, you’ll find a mix of history (think the King Richard III Visitor Centre), culture (Leicester’s famous Diwali celebrations), and a buzzing food scene – from award-winning curries on Belgrave Road to cool cafés in the Cultural Quarter. Leicester is also on the doorstep of scenic countryside, making it easy to enjoy outdoor activities and explore nearby attractions.
Top spots to check out in your first month:
- Victoria Park – perfect for picnics and outdoor study sessions
- Leicester Market – one of Europe’s largest covered markets
- Highcross Shopping Centre – for all chaotic stress shopping needs.
- The Lanes – quirky independent shops giving preppy-core vibes.
- National Space Centre – a must-visit for science lovers and families.
- Walk Museum – an accessible cultural attraction with fascinating exhibitions.
Leicester’s location means you’re just a short train ride from Birmingham, Nottingham, and London, making day trips and cultural experiences easy and convenient. Student life here is full of fun, with plenty of events, social activities, and opportunities to explore both the city and the beautiful countryside right on your doorstep Leicester.
Step 2: Plan Your Move Early
The first few weeks of September can be hectic, with thousands of students moving in at once. If you’re travelling from outside Leicester (or even overseas), it pays to plan ahead:
- Book transport early – whether that’s transport of mum and dad, or a removal van.
- Check your hall's move-in date and whether you have a set arrival slot.
- Consider short-term storage if you arrive before your accommodation is ready or need to keep items safe between terms.
Step 3: Your Complete Halls Packing Checklist
Here’s your no-stress, print-friendly list of what to bring.
Bedroom
- Bedding (duvet, pillows, sheets – check bed size first!)
- Mattress protector
- Coat hangers
- Small desk lamp
- Laundry bag or basket
- Earplugs (trust us, just go with it)
Bathroom
- Towels & flannels
- Toiletries & shower caddy
- Flip-flops for shared showers
- First aid kit & basic medicines
Kitchen
- Plates, bowls, mugs & glasses (one set per person is fine)
- Cutlery & cooking utensils
- Frying pan & saucepan
- Chopping board & knife
- Your favourite snacks (read = tipple) to make friends instantly
Study Supplies
- Laptop & charger
- Notebooks & pens
- Extension lead
- USB stick or external hard drive
Other Essentials
- ID & important documents (passport, driving licence, student finance letters)
- Reusable water bottle
- Laundry detergent
- Coat & umbrella (Leicester has great weather for ducks 🦆)
Step 4: Make Your Room Feel Like Home
Uni halls can be a bit plain when you first arrive. A few small touches can make a big difference:
- Photos of family & friends
- Mood lighting? (no silk scarves over light bulbs - fire safety for everyone’s sake)
- A plant or two for a fresh feel
- Soft blanket for cosy evenings.
As you settle in, remember to be present and approachable when meeting new flatmates and classmates—this will help you foster connections and feel more at home.
Step 5: Stay Organised with Storage Solutions
If you’ve overpacked (easy to do!) or need space during the holidays, self storage is your best friend. At Smartbox Self Storage Leicester, we offer:
- Student-friendly prices with flexible weekly or monthly contracts
- Small lockers or shared storage units to split with flatmates
- Free pick-up options for easy moving
- 24/7 CCTV and secure access for peace of mind
- Climate-controlled units to protect electronics and valuables
This way, you can keep your room clutter-free and still have all your stuff close by when you need it.
Step 6: University and Academic Life
University life in Leicester is all about finding your place in a lively, supportive community. Whether you’re based at the University of Leicester or De Montfort University, you’ll discover a buzzing campus atmosphere and a city centre packed with great shops, cafés, and hangouts just a short walk away. The Students Union is always on hand to help you settle in, offering everything from advice to a packed calendar of events and socials.
Freshers week is your chance to dive in—expect welcome fairs, club nights, and taster sessions for different societies and clubs. It’s the perfect time to meet other students, make friends, and get involved in something new. Throughout the academic year, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to join societies, attend workshops, and take part in events that make student life in Leicester so memorable. Whether you’re into sports, arts, volunteering, or just want to try something different, there’s a club or society waiting for you.
Step 7: Career and Part Time Opportunities
Leicester offers loads of ways for students to boost their CVs and earn some extra money while studying. Many students spend part of their week working part-time jobs, either on campus or in the city centre’s shops, cafés, and bars. The city is a great place to find flexible work that fits around your lectures and coursework, and it’s also a fantastic way to meet new people and get to know Leicester better.
The university’s career service is always on hand to help you find the right opportunity, whether you’re looking for a part-time job, an internship, or planning your future career. Leicester’s strong connections with local businesses and industries mean there are plenty of options, from retail and hospitality to roles in tech, healthcare, and the creative sector. Many students find that Leicester offers a great place to start their career, with lots of graduates choosing to stay and work in the city after finishing their studies.
Step 8: Budgeting and Finance
Managing your money is a big part of student life, and Leicester makes it easier than many other UK cities thanks to its budget-friendly cost of living. While it’s tempting to splash out during the first few weeks, keeping an eye on your spending will help you make the most of your time here. There are loads of free events and activities to get involved in, from exploring local museums to joining in on campus socials and park meetups.
Cooking at home and shopping for fresh produce at Leicester Market is a cost-effective way to eat well and save money. The university offers plenty of support too, with budgeting workshops, financial advice, and help finding part-time work if you need it. By planning ahead and making the most of what Leicester has to offer, you can enjoy student life without breaking the bank.
Step 9: Staying Safe and Healthy
Your wellbeing is a top priority in Leicester, and there’s a strong network of support to help you stay safe and healthy throughout your university experience. Both Universities provide a range of services, from mental health support to fitness classes and wellbeing workshops, so there’s always someone on hand if you need advice or a friendly chat.
Leicester’s city centre is known for being welcoming and student-friendly, with plenty of green spaces like Victoria Park and Abbey Park where you can relax, exercise, or catch up with friends. Leicester Public transport makes it easy to get around the city and explore everything on your doorstep. Take some time to get to know your surroundings, look out for other students, and make use of the support services available. With its vibrant community and great quality of life, Leicester is a fantastic place to live, study, and make new experiences.
Always choose licensed taxi’s and cabs when you are travelling in Leicester. Look out for A&B Cabs or Fosse Taxis - these are two of Leicester’s favourite private hire and licensed companies.
Step 10: Enjoy Freshers’ Week (and Beyond)
Welcome week is a fantastic opportunity for new students to settle in, meet peers, and get to know the campus and support services. Freshers' Week is packed with events, and student nights at local clubs and university venues are especially popular, offering themed evenings and a great way to socialise.
Here are some top tips for making the most of Freshers' Week:
- Attend as many welcome week events as you can to meet new people.
- Join societies and clubs to explore your interests.
- Look out for student nights for fun and affordable entertainment.
- Take advantage of orientation sessions to learn about the universities resources.
Practical tips for new students include staying safe when out at night, budgeting for daily costs, and reaching out to support services if you need help. In recent years, costs in Leicester have increased slightly due to inflation, but most students still find living expenses manageable compared to other UK cities.
If you are an international student, be sure to check the university's guidance on part-time work and visa requirements, as there is dedicated support available. When applying to UK universities, you’ll use UCAS to submit your application, often choosing from a range of colleges as part of the process.
Finally, remember – the first term isn’t just about lectures. Get involved in societies, try new activities, and explore everything Leicester has to offer.
And if you need extra space while you settle in, Smartbox Self Storage Leicester is here to make your move-in as smooth as possible.