It is official. The air is slowly warming up, the sun is making the occasional appearance, and we can already feel our serotonin levels rising. With spring just around the corner, living at St George’s Tower is the perfect place to be when it comes to the new season. With Leicester city centre on your doorstep, and some beautiful nature further afield, there are so many things you can do to get you in the spring mood.

Being a student can be tough, with deadlines approaching, the stress can feel high, and the time to rest and have fun is very little. Therefore, the idea of spring approaching may not yet fill you with that warm feeling. However, we are here as your reminder to speak about the importance of rest. During this time, you may be feeling the pressure of productivity and making sure you hit the library every day, but not allowing yourself time to step back may actually make you feel worse, with the risk of burnout quickly approaching.

We have compiled a list of different locations, from the best coffee to nature walks. Allowing you to simply read and go instead of adding another thing to your never-ending list.

1. Join Fresh Local Events & Campus Vibes

Spring term can feel like a strange in-between season at university. Deadlines are creeping in, exam prep is starting, but the sun is finally making an appearance. It is the perfect time to rediscover campus life beyond the library. One of the best and most budget-friendly ways to make the most of spring in Leicester as a student is by getting involved in university events. Whether you are looking to meet new people, take a study break, or simply enjoy the warmer weather, campus activities offer an easy, low-pressure way to stay social without straying far from lectures.

Head over to your University’s student union page and take a look at the long list of activities. DMU students, why not check out this Mat Pilates & Matcha session, perfect for your well-deserved study break. Or why not grab your friends on the 18th March and head down to the Farmers Market, for local produce and traders. The perfect excuse to go for a walk and see what you can find on the way.

UOL students, why not head down to the Glitzy vintage Jewellery sale and look for a new treat? Or maybe you are a keen reader looking to make some new friends. Why not join the UOL online book club for no set reading and instead discuss what you are enjoying at the moment?

DMU students, head over to your student union page here.

UOL students, head over to your student union page here.

 

2. Explore Iconic Leicester Attractions

Leicester is packed with history, culture, and unique attractions that are easy to explore on a student budget. Whether you fancy learning something new, taking aesthetic photos for your Instagram, or simply wandering somewhere different with friends, the city centre has plenty to offer within walking distance of campus. A spontaneous afternoon exploring local landmarks can feel like a mini day trip without ever leaving Leicester, and it is a great reminder that student life is about more than lectures and deadlines.

National Space Centre – A quirky, educational visit with rockets, planetarium shows, and space exhibits that are fun whether you’re into science or just curious.

King Richard III Visitor Centre – Dive into Leicester’s royal past and see where King Richard III’s story unfolded.

Leicester Museum and Art Gallery – Offers art, history, and curated exhibitions, ideal for a cultural day out.

The Clock Tower – A central meeting point surrounded by shops, cafes, and street performers as spring hits.

 

3. Enjoy the Great Outdoors

After months of grey skies and early sunsets, spring in Leicester feels like a reset. The brighter evenings and milder weather make it much easier to step away from your desk and spend time outside. Whether you are looking for a peaceful solo walk to clear your head, a picnic spot with friends, or somewhere scenic for a study break in the sun, Leicester has plenty of green spaces to explore. Taking advantage of these outdoor spots is one of the simplest ways to boost your mood and balance university life during the busy spring term.

• Abbey Park & Victoria Park – Classic green spaces with lakes, paths and grassy spots for chilled hangouts or frisbee with friends.

• Castle Gardens & Castle Park – Historic parklands near the city centre, great for gentle strolls.

• Aylestone Meadows Local Nature Reserve – A quieter nature escape for wildlife lovers.

• Watermead Country Park – Lakeside walks, cycling routes and wildflower blooms in spring.

• Brocks Hill Country Park – Woodland trails and picnic spots slightly outside central Leicester.

 

4. The Caffeine Fix

Being a student often means reaching for that caffeine fix. Luckily for you, students, Leicester city is full of amazing local coffee spots, perfect for a chill with friends, or a new study spot that really helps you find the balance between productivity and rest.

• Bru coffee and more – A local favourite on Granby Street with a lively atmosphere, extended opening hours, and plenty of space to hang out or get some work done.

• Leicester Coffee House Company – A beloved Granby Street spot known for its excellent speciality coffee and relaxed vibe

• Saints of Mokha Coffee Roasters – Highly-rated artisan coffee roasters on Belvoir Street, ideal for students who appreciate quality beans and a focused coffee experience.

• Bread & Honey – A smaller spot with a relaxed atmosphere and quality coffee. Also has outdoor seating for those sunny spring days.

5. Eat, Drink & Socialise

As the evenings get lighter and the weather starts to feel warmer, spring is the perfect time to make the most of Leicester’s social scene. After a long day of lectures or revision, heading into the city for food or a casual night out is a great way to reset and reconnect with friends. Leicester has a strong student presence, which means there is always something happening, from laid-back dinner spots to lively music nights.

Areas like Belvoir Street are well known among students for affordable restaurants, cocktail bars, and regular themed nights. Whether you are in the mood for street food, sharing plates, or a last-minute dinner before a society social, you will find plenty of options within walking distance of campus. It is ideal for spontaneous plans that do not require weeks of organising.

The Cultural Quarter offers a slightly different vibe, with independent bars, creative spaces, and live music venues that host gigs, open mic nights, and arts events throughout the term. In spring especially, the atmosphere feels more relaxed, with people spilling out onto outdoor seating and groups moving between venues.

The best part is that many places cater specifically to students, with midweek deals, happy hours, and discounted entry to events. Whether you prefer a quiet drink and conversation or a busier night with music and dancing, Leicester makes it easy to balance studying with a social life. Spring is all about saying yes to those last-minute plans before exam season fully takes over.