Student Life
Alhambra Theatre Bradford

This is your city

Bradford epitomizes warmth, inclusivity, and diversity, proudly holding the title of UK City of Culture 2025.

With an array of activities and attractions, everything is conveniently situated near the University campus. Immerse yourself in the richness of museums, galleries, and parks. Experience captivating performances at renowned entertainment venues, or savor the eclectic culinary offerings at independent eateries and popular high street establishments.

Art, music and culture

Bradford holds the prestigious title of being the world's first UNESCO City of Film, reflecting its rich cinematic legacy and popularity as a filming location for acclaimed TV series such as Peaky Blinders, Happy Valley, and The Crown.

In addition to its film culture, Bradford boasts numerous live performance venues. St George’s Hall offers a platform for concerts and comedy shows, while the Alhambra Theatre, a Bradford institution, showcases a variety of theatrical productions, including musicals, ballet performances, and the annual winter pantomime. Adjacent to the Alhambra is Bradford Live, a newly renovated music venue set to open its doors by the end of 2023.

Bradford's cultural landscape extends beyond film and theater to encompass galleries and museums such as the National Science and Media Museum, The Impressions Gallery, the Police Museum, and Fuse Art Space.

Throughout the year, Bradford hosts a vibrant array of events, including the renowned Bradford Literature Festival and the engaging Yorkshire Games Festival.

Shop

Bradford boasts a diverse array of shops catering to various needs and preferences.

For essential student supplies like groceries, numerous supermarkets and international grocery stores are conveniently located near the campus.

Broadway and the Kirkgate Shopping Centre serve as comprehensive retail hubs, offering a wide range of products including clothing, footwear, cosmetics, haircare, gaming, and stationery.

The Wool Exchange, a Grade I listed building, houses the charming Waterstones bookshop and café, adding a touch of elegance to the shopping experience.

For accommodation and study essentials, Forster Square Shopping Park, just a 20-minute walk from campus, features stores such as Asda Living, TK Maxx, and Currys, ensuring students have easy access to all their needs.

Leisure and social

The city center of Bradford offers a plethora of attractions and activities to explore.

The Bradford Leisure Exchange is a vibrant destination housing Hollywood Bowl, an arcade, Cineworld Cinema, and an indoor inflatable theme park, promising entertainment for all ages.

Cinema enthusiasts can indulge in independent films at Pictureville cinema or head to The Light cinema near the Broadway shopping center for a diverse cinematic experience.

For those seeking adventure, the city boasts an archery range, mini-golf courses, and urban axe throwing facilities at the top of the city. Closer to campus, LaserZone provides an exhilarating laser tag experience.

On Friday and Saturday evenings, Bradford Ice Arena hosts lively ice-skating discos for a fun-filled night out.

Nature lovers will delight in Bradford's 36 parks, perfect for leisurely walks, cycling, studying, and unwinding. Among them, Peel Park and Lister Park offer serene green spaces closer to campus, while City Park, situated in the heart of Bradford, stands out for its acclaimed water features, making it a must-visit destination.

Food

Bradford offers a vibrant culinary scene, showcasing the diversity of its population through an array of dining options.

Renowned for its exceptional curry houses, Bradford boasts some of the finest in the UK, all conveniently located within walking distance of our city campus.

For a taste of familiar comforts, the food court at Broadway shopping centre features a variety of chain restaurants and popular food outlets commonly found on the high street.

Exploring the city reveals a burgeoning trend of independent cafes, particularly on North Parade and throughout the urban landscape. Additionally, food enthusiasts can anticipate the opening of the Darley Street indoor and outdoor food market in 2024, adding to the city's culinary charm.

For a cozy night in, residents of our on-campus accommodation can easily order takeaway delivery, ensuring a satisfying dining experience without leaving the comfort of home.

Nightlife

Bradford's nightlife scene is as diverse as it is vibrant, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

At the top of Bradford lies North Parade, a bustling street lined with independent bars renowned for their craft beer and real ale selections, offering a unique drinking experience.

On Ivegate and its surroundings, a mix of pubs, clubs, and sports bars ensures that sports enthusiasts can catch every thrilling moment of the big game in a lively atmosphere.

Tucked away behind Bradford’s City Park lies Sunbridgewells, a hidden gem consisting of Victorian-era underground tunnels housing a variety of dining, drinking, and dancing establishments.

Throughout the city center and near the campus, an abundance of restaurants, coffee shops, and dessert parlors keep their doors open late, providing ample opportunities for indulgence.

Beyond the city center, Bradford offers even more nightlife destinations, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Sport

Bradford boasts a rich sporting heritage deeply rooted in its community.

Bradford City AFC, affectionately known as The Bantams, have graced the football scene for nearly 120 years. The historic Valley Parade stadium, erected in 1886, stands as one of the nation's oldest sporting arenas. We take immense pride in our recent partnership with the club, culminating in the official renaming of the ground to the University of Bradford Stadium.

Rugby League enthusiasts flock to Odsal Stadium to witness the prowess of Bradford Bulls, a team steeped in a legacy of triumphs. Despite facing adversities, the Bulls are resurgent and poised for a return to glory.

Our university's Rugby Team engages in an annual varsity showdown against archrivals Huddersfield at Odsal Stadium, clinching several memorable victories throughout the years, adding to the university's sporting legacy.