Unique spots in Huddersfield
My name's Bethan, and I'm in my second year at the University of Huddersfield, studying Digital Marketing. I’m from a small village in Yorkshire, having moved about an hour to Huddersfield to come to university. Although I haven't moved too far, I'd never visited Huddersfield before I made the decision to apply for the university, so it was a completely new adventure.
One of the things I've enjoyed the most about moving away to a new place for university is the freedom. I've had the chance to explore a new place and discover the quirks and individual spots that are unique to Huddersfield.
Trying and supporting smaller local businesses as opposed to always eating and drinking at bigger chains is something I am in favour of. I think it's important to show support to the unique and quirky businesses we have exclusive to Huddersfield, to help keep them running. I love the experience you can get from a smaller business, their service is often friendlier and more personal.
With that being said, there are a few places I'd love to recommend to you! I've selected a couple of my favourite little spots in Huddersfield, including somewhere to relax with a coffee and places to go for a delicious meal or grab a drink with friends - there is something for everyone!
The Turntable - Coffee and Vinyl
With music and coffee being two of my biggest loves, when The Turntable Coffee and Vinyl opened in the centre of Huddersfield, I was so excited to go! The Turntable is a family run cafe and record store, they sell new and used vinyl records while serving delicious coffee. It's a beautifully quaint coffee shop located just a 6-minute walk from the university, located in the town centre.
As a student, I love finding a new relaxing place to study, as changing my environment is vital to my concentration and motivation. Finding new coffee shops to take my laptop to and get a bit of work done with the help of a warm coffee, is one of the best ways for me to clear my mind and focus on my work.
For me, coffee shops help get me up and even if I have a lot of work to complete, they save me from being sat at my desk all day. They just get me out of the house, help me to get some fresh air on the way and give me a reason to be up and out in the morning!
The Turntable carries a cosy, refreshing, minimal atmosphere, making it a great place to relax and clear your mind. With an affordable menu, it's perfect for students, meeting both music and coffee needs! It's the perfect place to stop after university classes, during a busy day shopping in town, or after a walk in one of Huddersfield's beautiful parks.
Rain Bar Huddersfield
Rain is an LGBTQ+ bar which offers an all-inclusive, safe space to be yourself and have fun, with a real uplifting and upbeat, community atmosphere. The bar, its staff and its customers are the most welcoming and accepting bunch of people, which is why Rain quickly became one of my favourite places to visit on an evening.
Rain offers some excellent entertainment, providing a range of theme nights such as; musicals night, superheroes and villains night, movie and tv series themed nights and much more! As well as hosting quizzes and drag queen performances, there is always something fun and exciting happening at Rain. Not to mention their student night on a Wednesday, which includes lots of offers!
Made in Yorkshire - Bar, Pie & Pizza ‘Ere
Yorkshire, God's own county, is where I was born and have lived all my life, and I love the Yorkshire accent! Despite my southern flatmates sometimes struggling to understand what I say or mean due to my accent or Yorkshire slang. And don’t get me started on the never-ending name of the sandwich bread battle (It’s called a teacake by the way! Or at least it is to me!).
Made in Yorkshire celebrates and supports Yorkshire, by stocking its bar and kitchen with products from a range of local suppliers from around Huddersfield and other areas in Yorkshire. This supports our local economy and businesses while providing some lovely quality food and drinks for those visiting.
I love Made in Yorkshire for its quirks dotted about the venue, from Yorkshire slang posters to classic Yorkshire drinks on the menu. My go-to drink when I visit is a classic can of dandelion & burdock, it really takes me back to being a kid. And the pizzas… oh my days! Picture this... A hand-stretched, stone-baked pizza topped with a range of toppings, including Yorkshire cheeses, veggies and meats from local charcuteries. Don't fancy that? Don’t worry! They also serve freshly baked pies from Huddersfield, and some other amazing mains and sides.
Made in Yorkshire is my go-to restaurant, and it's usually where I take my family and friends when they visit.
The Hive Community Hub and Cafe
Finally, I'd like to recommend somewhere that I'm still yet to try, but I'm very excited to do so. I'm not perfect, but I often make a conscious effort to eat less meat and follow a more plant-based diet. I love trying new things, especially trying vegan and vegetarian food, as it's often so tasty and full of flavour - I'm always here for a meat alternative meal.
I think it's great for Huddersfield to have another place that offers gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options, as it caters to so many people, and you don't have to be strictly vegetarian or vegan to go and give it a try.
This Cafe also prides itself on being a safe space for the LGBTQ+ community and a facility where adults with learning disabilities can volunteer and learn new skills.
I’m looking forward to continuing to find and try out new places in Huddersfield in my second year, and I wish you all to do the same during your time here. I hope you enjoyed my recommendations, happy exploring!
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