Student life, sports & shifts: Why the Headingley Taps is the ultimate student hub

At Mitchells & Butlers, we know hospitality isn’t just about pouring pints or plating up burgers, it’s about making people feel right at home. And when it comes to students in Leeds, The Headingley Taps is doing just that (and a bit more).

It’s not just a pub, it’s where Wednesdays get wild, drag nights dazzle, and friendships are forged over cheesy chips and karaoke.

The Headingley Taps: more than just a pub for Leeds students

If you’re a student in Leeds, there’s a good chance you’ve either started, ended, or somehow survived the Otley Run with a stop at The Headingley Taps. But there’s more to this place than fancy dress and pints, it’s where community vibes meet good times. 

With its sponsorship of Leeds University sports teams, The Headingley Taps has become a real MVP of student life. 

From funding kits and merch to serving up food and drink deals for post-match socials, it’s no wonder the women’s lacrosse team calls it their go-to.

Student sports + The Headingley Taps = a winning combo

Thanks to Taps, student teams can compete in style and comfort. The women’s lacrosse team shared how funding from The Headingley Taps helps cover essentials like kits and equipment, but that’s just the start. 

They also get queue jumps (yes please), discounted food and drinks, and a safe space to celebrate their wins (or shake off the losses).

More women are getting involved in uni sports because of the support they’re getting, and that’s a big deal. 

Why students love hanging out at The Headingley Taps

The secret sauce? It’s the people. Students keep coming back to The Headingley Taps because it feels like theirs. Brendan, the pub’s general manager, puts it best:

"We’re not only the best place for a night out but the general hangout spot for all the local students!"

From daytime study sessions with a flat white to Monday night drag shows and Saturday karaoke marathons, there’s something for everyone. And yeah, it’s as fun as it sounds.

Behind the bar: life as a student working at The Headingley Taps

Here’s the twist: a lot of the friendly faces serving you behind the bar? Also students. That’s why the vibe at The Headingley Taps feels like one big hangout. Emilia from Leeds Beckett Uni says:

"Having friends who work at Taps makes it feel like home. It’s great to see familiar faces behind the bar and know that we’re all part of the same community."

Working at Taps isn’t just about making money, it’s about feeling part of something.

Flexibility, friendships, and future careers

Shifts that fit around lectures? Teammates who help you out during dissertation season?
Studying at the pub before work? Believe it.

Brendan, the General Manager, knows the student-to-manager journey well because he’s lived it.

“I used to be a student having a pint at Taps… now I run the place!”

Whether you’re pouring drinks or running the show, there’s room to grow.

Want to join the team at The Headingley Taps (or anywhere else at M&B)?

If you're looking for a fun, flexible student job or want to kickstart your career in hospitality, Mitchells & Butlers has a role for you. 

• After a part-time gig? We’ve got roles across 14+ brands, from bar and kitchen to front-of-house and management.
• Thinking beyond graduation? Explore grad schemes in everything from marketing and HR to property and IT.

Stay in the loop with The Headingley Taps

Wanna see what life at Taps is really like? Head to their socials for all the behind-the-scenes action.

• Instagram: @headingley_taps | @lifeatmab
  
  
• TikTok: @headingleytaps | @lifeatmab
  
  

LinkedIn: Mitchells & Butlers PLC