Cheap Coffees, Sweet Treats & Student Discounts
Whether you're a fresher arriving in Leeds this September or a seasoned student looking for your next study spot, the city is packed with cafés worth knowing about. From cheap coffees and student discounts to indulgent bakes and laptop-friendly spaces, here are eight Leeds coffee shops to add to your list!
by Vee Wilson | 3rd September 2026
Best For Breakfast
The Union Coffee House
Located on Great George Street, The Union Coffee House is just a short walk from Leeds Beckett University and the Leeds Central Library, making it a perfect spot to stop by after classes or study sessions.
It has a short and simple menu offering up some delicious breakfast and brunch options for those looking for a bigger bite to eat. Alongside a scrumptious full breakfast, you can choose from granola, toasties, soup and more. Take your pick of hot drinks, iced drinks, and fresh juices; plus, a 10% student discount is available here, so don’t forget to bring your student ID card!
TIP: There are also some power outlets for laptops, but be aware that it’s only a small space, so laptop usage may be restricted during busy periods.
Best for Commuters
Raw Coffee
Right next to the train station, this little shop is a great place to grab a quick drink.
Its location is especially convenient for those commuting in from surrounding areas and looking for a pick-me-up on the way to class. The menu offers affordable classics, from espressos and flat whites to mochas and dirty chais. But if you’re looking for something a bit different to tingle your taste buds, then why not try one of their speciality flavours like grape soda, banana shake, or even bubblegum!
TIP: If a hot drink isn’t your thing, they also offer a wide range of iced options as well as smoothies and soft drinks.
Best for Lunch
92 Degrees
This coffee shop has multiple locations dotted across Leeds making it very accessible no matter where you’re studying.
There is a lovely selection of filter and espresso coffees, iced drinks, and teas, as well as pastries, cakes, bagels, and sandwiches making it a great option for lunchtime. A 10% student discount is available in all their shops, so make sure to bring your student ID along when making a purchase.
TIP: If you find that 92 Degrees hits the spot, they also have a rewards program through their app, so you can earn points and save money along the way!
Best for Cheap Coffee
Maya’s Café
Right in the middle of town, this new opening is in a bustling spot full of energy and only a short walk from Trinity Leeds.
On a sunny day, you’ll find some outdoor seating as well, great for soaking up the sun and some caffeine goodness too! Maya’s has got all of your coffee needs covered with espressos, lattes, matcha and more all available at affordable prices.
Best for Anime and Gaming Fans
Kapow Coffee
Kapow is a very small and cozy spot tucked away in Thornton’s Arcade.
If you enjoy anime, comics, and games, then you’ll love the vibes here. The friendly staff welcome you into this quirky cafe where you can find a cozy corner to sit in. You’ll find the chairs adorned with plushie friends, walls covered in cool art work, and a shelf full of books to read while you sip your tea or coffee. No laptops allowed here, making it a lovely place for a quick catch up with friends, or a chill spot to relax and get some reading done with no distractions.
TIP: They do also have a location on The Calls
Best for Deals
Hygge
Just by the Merrion shopping centre, Hygge is an awesome place to grab a drink and a bite to eat after doing some well deserved shopping.
Hygge often has various money-saving deals available, like their current breakfast sandwich and coffee bargain at just £4 – giving you the energy to get through those dreaded early morning classes while saving too!
TIP: They also offer a 10% student discount for you to use any time of the day
Best for Sweet Treats
The Savvy Baker
You’ll likely smell the whiff of freshly baked cookies before you see this vibrant spot on Albion Street.
The Savvy Baker offers various insanely indulgent sweet drinks from flavoured iced coffees with syrup, to magical matchas and milkshakes with whole cookies on top. They bake their goods in store, so make sure to wait around for a fresh, warm cookie with gooey chocolate insides, or pick up a brownie covered in toppings like jammy dodger, kinder bueno, biscoff and more. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, this one should definitely be on your list.
TIP: Pair a freshly baked cookie or loaded brownie with an iced coffee and you’ll have the perfect pick-me-up for a long study session. You deserve it!
Best for Studying
Trē Café
Living in Headingley? Trē Café is a particularly handy option for students based in the area.
This is a student-friendly place so bring your laptop and fuel your study sessions with their meal deals starting from just £4.99. Not interested in studying? Not to worry, there’s still a 5% student discount to grab something else to eat or drink too! And, if you’re feeling more sociable, this spot hosts plenty of events like art exhibitions, workshops, and community gatherings, making it a great place to experience Leeds culture with friends or maybe even make some new ones!
Location: 4 Brudenell Grove, Leeds LS6 1HP
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Deals and discounts included in this article are accurate at the time of writing and are subject to change.