25 Best Things To Do In Sheffield, England

best things to do in sheffield uk
Trip101 Editorial
Trip101 Editorial 
Updated
| 4 min read

Sheffield is the biggest city in the county of South Yorkshire in the north of England. A major university town, Sheffield is home to 550,00 people and as such, there is always something going on! As a proud football city, Sheffield Wednesday FC plays in the EFL Championship and the city comes to life on match days! You’ll struggle to find a place at the bar to watch the game! Aside from football, Sheffield attracts major musical acts like Adele and Queen to Sheffield Arena, as well as leading comedians like John Bishop. Sheffield is easily accessible from London by train or bus and popular cities like Manchester and Newcastle are just a stone’s throw away, connected by rail and road. And if you’re traveling from London to Edinburgh or vice versa, Sheffield is a great place to stop overnight. Some of the best things to do in Sheffield include the Millennium Gallery, the Winter Garden, and the Kelham Island Museum. Whether you’re on a quick stop-over or on a little weekend getaway, don’t forget to check out this list of the best things to do in Sheffield, the UK.

1. Go on a food tour of Kelham Island (from USD 63.0)

A historic manufacturing site in England, Kelham Island strayed away from its industrial era and became a vibrant neighborhood. It features nightspots, cafes, and fantastic restaurants, which makes it an ideal food tip destination. If you wish to indulge in its delicious offerings, join this food tour by Viator. It is a two-hour-long gastronomic escapade that will take you to five to six different dining spots in the area. Included in the itinerary are Kelham Island Brewery, Kelham Island Museum, and more.

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Taste of Kelham Island Tour

Duration: 2 hours

2. Have a picnic at Graves Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Unfortunately no LIVE videos this week Please join Farmer Tom this Saturday at 9.30am Thank you

Posted by Graves Park Animal Farm on Monday, January 11, 2021

Graves Park is a scenic farmland nestled on the southern side of Sheffield. It is within a short driving distance from Woodseats, Meadowhed, and Norton districts. It finished its development in 1936 after four years of work. Grave’s main attraction is its picturesque urban farm, where domestic animals roam around freely. It is home to vast woodland and lakes that make it even more idyllic. Besides these, this destination has fantastic amenities for families, couples, friends, and solo wanderers. Graves Park features two playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. Plus, there’s a lovely cafe within the park that prepares delicious meals.

Graves Park

Address: Hemsworth Rd, Sheffield S8 8LJ, United Kingdom

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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3. Catch a show at Crucible Theatre

Sheffield Crucible theatre
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user St BC used under CC BY-SA 3.0

Opened in 1971, Crucible Theatre is an entertainment venue that is located in the charming area of South Yorkshire. It features different performing arts, such as musical shows, concerts, comedy skits, and a lot more. Also, this theater hosts the World Snooker Championship every year. Crucible Theatre houses three entertainment venues within its premises: the modern Crucible with a center stage; the historic Luceum with a quintessential charm; the intimate Studio with 100 to 400 seats.

Crucible Theatre

Address: 55 Norfolk St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 1DA, United Kingdom

Website: Crucible Theatre

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4. Shop till you drop at Meadowhall

Meadowhall Shopping Centre
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Gregory Deryckère used under CC BY 2.5

Once you’re done with all the museum and gallery visits, picnics in the park, and shows at Crucible Theatre, you might want to go on a shopping spree at Meadowhall. It is an upscale shopping center in Sheffield that opened its door to customers in 1990. It carries many businesses, including local and international boutiques and excellent restaurants. At Meadowhall, you will find global brands such as Marks & Spencer, Michael Kors, Zara, Krispy Kreme, Apple Store, Hollister, Disney Store, Starbucks, Subway, and many more. There’s also a cinema that screens up-to-date movies, an inflatable indoor park, and a children’s playground.

Meadowhall

Address: Meadowhall Centre The Management Suite 1 The Oasis, Sheffield S9 1EP, United Kingdom

Website: MeadowhallMeadowhall

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am -9pm; Sat: 9am - 8pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm

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5. Browse through the exhibits at Weston Park Museum

Weston Park Museum 2011
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chemical Engineer used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Nestled a mile away (1.6 kilometers) from downtown Sheffield, Weston Park Museum is one of the most-visited attractions in the city. It is also the biggest museum there is in Sheffield. Besides its immense size, you will be impressed by its stunning Victorian-inspired architectural design and its wide array of exhibits that center on natural history, archeology, and social history. Some of its fascinating exhibits include Sheffield Life and Times, Joe Scarborough, Sheffield Through the Ages, The Sykes Gallery: Metalwork Collection, Ancient Egypt, Ancient Egypt, and more. Weston Park Museum has permanent exhibits and rotating ones. You should always check its website for the schedule before visiting.

Weston Park Museum

Address: Western Bank, Sheffield S10 2TP, United Kingdom

Website: Weston Park Museum

Price: Free

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6. Hike through the forests of Ecclesall Woods

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The city of Sheffield is not only home to luxurious attractions, but it is also a paradise of natural wonders. If you like reconnecting with nature and going on outdoor adventures, be sure to add Ecclesall Woods to your Sheffield holiday itinerary. Located on the southwestern side of the city, it is a 350-acre (142 hectares) woodland area with breathtaking sceneries and fantastic hiking routes. More so, it is home to Abbeydale Miniature Railway. Ryecroft Mill and Ecclesall Woods Sawmill can also be found in Ecclesall Woods.

Ecclesall Woods / Hiking

Address: Southwest Sheffield, UK

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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7. Fall in love with the beauty of Peace Gardens

Peace Gardens
Source: Pixabay

Peace Gardens is one of the most bustling squares in Sheffield. It is a city park surrounded by stunning architectural wonders, including the Gothic town hall. You will see a little fountain that serves as its centerpiece, The Goodwin Fountain. Besides the fountain, there are other iconic structures found at Peace Gardens, namely, The Holberry Cascades, Standard Measures, The Bochum Bell, and The Spanish War Memorial. Peace Gardens also features fantastic walks and benches where guests can unwind and relax.

Peace Gardens

Address: 50 Pinstone St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2HH, United Kingdom

Website: Peace Gardens

Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)

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8. Conquer Peak District with Will4Adventure

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Will4Adventure on Saturday, January 2, 2021

Thinking of conquering the highest mountains at Peak District or going on a hike to Stanage Edge? If you are not familiar with these terrains, it would be beneficial to seek assistance from Will4Adventure. This fantastic tour agency is popular among adventure seekers with little hiking or limited knowledge of the best trekking destinations in the UK. Will4Adventure organizes adventures at Peak District, including guided hikes, mountaineering, and rock climbing. More so, they also offer activities at Lake District. For a more in-depth guide, you can enroll in its hill and mountain skill courses.

Will4Adventure

Address: 13 Spring Hill, Sheffield S10 1ET, United Kingdom

Website: Will4Adventure

Opening hours: 9am -5pm (daily)

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9. Meet cute alpacas at Mayfield Alpacas Animal Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Princess our llama and Zena one of our alpacas showing the differences between the species. Llama are descendants of...

Posted by Mayfield Alpacas Animal Park on Monday, January 18, 2021

Nothing compares to the feeling of being one with nature and admiring its lovely creatures. If you agree with this idea, then you will have the best time at Mayfield Alpacas Animal Park. It is a fantastic animal park set in the gorgeous Quicksaw Farm. Although its business name has the word Alpaca in it, rest assured that you will see other animals here. There are goats, sheep, llamas, rheas, reindeer, and so many more. The best part? Some of these cute animals are for adoption. Plus, there is a charming coffee shop on site that serves delicious food and hot and cold beverages.

Mayfield Alpacas Animal Park

Address: Quicksaw Farm, Fulwood Ln, Sheffield S10 4LH, United Kingdom

Website: Mayfield Alpacas Animal Park

Opening hours: 10am - 4pm (daily)

Price: From 2 USD

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10. Attend a mass at Sheffield Cathedral

Sheffield Cathedral
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chemical Engineer used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Sheffield Cathedral, officially known as The Cathedral Church of St Peter and St Paul, is a stunning catholic church in Sheffield. It showcases a majestic combination of Gothic and contemporary architecture with a 15th-century tower and a high wooden ceiling. What was once a mere parish church had become a cathedral in 1914. Sheffield Cathedral has been on the ground for more than a thousand years now, and it continues to host scheduled masses, church services, seasonal events, and more. Plus, it has an on-site cafe and a gift store.

Sheffield Cathedral

Address: Church St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 1HA, United Kingdom

Website: Sheffield Cathedral

Opening hours: Mon: 8am - 5pm; Tue - Fri: 8am - 6:30pm; Sat: 10am - 4pm; Sun: 8am- 7pm

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11. Join a gin-tasting experience at Locksley Distilling

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account


Do you like social events and alcoholic beverages? Make sure to add Locksley Distilling to your Sheffield itinerary. It is a superb destination for tourists that plan to bag some unique drinks and, at the same time, experience an unforgettable tasting adventure. Locksley Distilling sells cocktails and artisan gin infused with botanical extracts. Its main attraction is the shop, but guests who want to make the most of their visit can join the exciting tasting tours that Locksley Distilling offers.

Locksley Distilling

Address: Portland Works, 20c, Randall St, Sheffield S2 4SJ, United Kingdom

Website: Locksley Distilling

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm (closed on Sat & Sun)

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12. Unleash your inner ice prince or princess at iceSheffield

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Customer Notice Due to Sheffield's International Synchronised Skating Competition running this Saturday 7th, Sunday...

Posted by IceSheffield on Friday, March 6, 2020

iceSheffield is a paradise for people who are into ice skating. Located in Lower Don Valley, this arena is a fantastic destination for ice skating, and it welcomes everyone—locals and tourists alike. It features 2 world-class rinks that can accommodate 1500 guests. Public skating sessions and hockey tournaments are held here too. If you get hungry, there’s a snack bar that sells snacks and drinks.

iceSheffield

Address: 23 Coleridge Rd, Sheffield S9 5DA, United Kingdom

Website: iceSheffield

Opening hours: 5:45am - 9pm (daily)

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13. Treat your kids to a fun day at Medieval Mayhem

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Medieval Mayhem on Monday, January 27, 2020

For tourists who are visiting Sheffield with their families, Medieval Mayhem is an attraction that should be on your itinerary. It is a children’s amusement park with medieval-themed structures. It features four delightful slides and a snack area where the parents can dine while watching their kids slide and climb ropes. On top of these, it has an on-site shop that sells plush toys and cute artworks.

Medieval Mayhem

Address: Toledo Works, Neepsend Ln, Neepsend, Sheffield S3 8AW, United Kingdom

Website: Medieval Mayhem

Opening hours: Sun - Mon: 10:30am - 6pm; Tue: 10am - 2pm, 4am - 6pm; Wed - Thu: 10am - 2pm; Fri: 10am - 2pm, 4am - 6pm; Sat: 9:30am - 5:30pm

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14. Enjoy the food and music at Peddler Night Market

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Posted by Peddler on Thursday, January 7, 2021

Are you a foodie who likes memorable gastronomic adventures? Experience a satisfying food trip at Peddler Night Market. Operational on the first Friday and Saturday nights of the month, it is an indoor industrial warehouse market that extends to the courtyard area. The place gets filled with vendors and customers. Live music plays in the background while market-goers hop from one food stall to another. Delicious street food and desserts as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, are available at Peddler Night Market. Not only that, but there are vendors at the market that sell charming artisan products, such as accessories, home decors, clothing, and more.

Peddler Night Market

Address: 92 Burton Rd, Neepsend, Sheffield S3 8BX, United Kingdom

Website: Peddler Night Market

Opening hours: First Friday and Saturday of each month (except January): Fri - Sat: 5pm - 9pm (closed from Sun - Thu)

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15. Score affordable vintage items at Sheffield Antiques Centre

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

A memorable holiday will not be complete without bringing home some adorable souvenir items. If you are into vintage things, check out the products at Sheffield Antique Center. Tucked in a 19th-century building, which adds charm to the experience, Sheffield Antiques Centre is a two-story antique store in the city. It carries almost all kinds of products, including furniture, toys, accessories, clothes, and a lot more. The best part? Everything is within a reasonable pricing bracket.

Sheffield Antiques Centre

Address: 178 Broadfield Rd, Sheffield S8 0XL, United Kingdom

Website: Sheffield Antiques Centre

Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am- 4:30pm; Sat: 10am - 5pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm

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16. Check out different exhibits at Millennium Gallery

Millennium Gallery, Sheffield
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Rept0n1x used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Millennium Gallery is Sheffield’s leading host of craft, art, ​and design. If you’re a lover of anything contemporary, the Millennium Gallery is a must-visit. The gallery hosts many different traveling exhibitions throughout the year, so make sure you find out what’s on before you visit.

Millennium Gallery

Address: Millennium Gallery, Arundel Gate, Sheffield, S1 2PP

Website: Millennium Gallery

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17. Join an educational tour of Hillsborough Stadium

Hillsborough Stadium, Sheffield
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Graham Hogg used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Home to the Sheffield Wednesday Football Club, Hillsborough Stadium was established in 1899 and has stood the test of time. One of Sheffield’s most beloved structures, the stadium offers tours that take guests through the history and culture surrounding Sheffield Wednesday FC.

Hillsborough Stadium

Address: Sheffield S6 1SW, UK

Website: Hillsborough Stadium

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18. Learn more about the city's steel-making history at Kelham Island Museum

Kelham Island Museum
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mick Knapton used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Kelham Island Museum stands tall on a 900-year old man-made island on the river and focuses on the industrious history of Sheffield, specifically its steelmaking heritage. The museum features exhibits and interactive galleries about the men and women who kept the factory wheels turning. A highlight of any trip to the Kelham Island Museum is seeing the mighty River Don Steam Engine in action - a great activity if you’re traveling with children.

Open year round, the museum is a fun and educational day out for anyone with a love of engineering, history or stories of old.

Kelham Island Museum

Address: Alma St, Sheffield S3 8RY, UK

Website: Kelham Island Museum

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19. Reconnect with nature at Botanical Gardens

Botanical Gardens Pavilions Sheffield
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Paul Store used under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Sheffield Botanical Gardens span over 19 acres (7.6 hectares) and are home to over 5000 different species of plants. If you’re a lover of nature or want to expand your knowledge of plant biology, then look no further than these magnificent gardens. Open throughout the year, the Sheffield Botanical Gardens often host special events, especially in the summer. Be sure to check out their website before you visit to see what’s on. The gardens also have regular plant sales, enabling guests to take home some wonderful flora!

Botanical Gardens

Address: Clarkehouse Rd, Sheffield S10 2LN, UK

Website: Botanical Gardens

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20. Discover exotic species of butterflies at Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre

Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mark Oakley used under CC BY-SA 2.0

For a major city, Sheffield has plenty of ways to reconnect with nature and the Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre is another prime example of this. Home to meerkats, prairie dogs and a wide range of birds of prey, the center is popular with locals and travelers alike.

The butterfly house is home to a variety of different and exotic species of butterflies, as well as some gorgeous plants. The center also looks after giant tortoises, which are a joy to observe. There is an onsite cafe for light lunches and refreshments.

Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre

Address: Woodsetts Rd, North Anston, Sheffield S25 4EQ, UK

Website: Tropical Butterfly House, Wildlife & Falconry Centre

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21. Experience farm life at Our Cow Molly Dairy Farm & Ice Cream Shop

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

If you’re looking for an alternative day out, then look no further than the Our Cow Molly Dairy Farm & Ice Cream Shop. Experience a taste of Yorkshire farm life and some tasty ice cream, too. The farm offers milking demonstrations and petting sessions for children, which provide an opportunity to learn about farm animal management and how your milk gets from the cow to your fridge!

Our Cow Molly Dairy Farm & Ice Cream Shop

Address: Cliffe House Farm, Hill Top Rd, Dungworth, Sheffield S6 6GW

Website: Our Cow Molly Dairy Farm & Ice Cream Shop

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22. Admire a collection of over 2500 plants at Sheffield Winter Garden

Sheffield Winter Gardens
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Steve F used under CC BY-SA 2.0

Sheffield Winter Garden is another fine example of the city’s natural and green feel. The garden is the largest temperate glass house in the UK and is a little over 100 years old. The glasshouse itself is incredibly photogenic, let alone all the plants inside! Set in the heart of the city, Sheffield Winter Garden is easy to access and boasts a collection of over 2500 plants from all around the world. It is open every day of the year, except Christmas Day.

Sheffield Winter Garden

Address: 90 Surrey St, Sheffield S1 2LH, UK

Website: Sheffield Winter Garden

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23. Go for a picnic at Endcliffe Park

Endcliffe Park, Sheffield
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Shanerounce used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Opened in 1887 in celebration of Queen Victoria’s Jubilee, Endcliffe Park is a much-loved​ feature of Sheffield’s landscape. Offering flat paths perfect for running, the park is a great place to spend an afternoon with a picnic. Endcliffe Park also features a woodland area that provides ample shade during balmy summer days.

Endcliffe Park

Address: Rustlings Rd, Sheffield S11 7AB, UK

Website: Endcliffe Park

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24. Visit National Emergency Services Museum with your little ones

Fire Engines Display Sheffield
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Chemical Engineer used under CC BY-SA 4.0

The National Emergency Services Museum provides interesting and interactive insight into the functioning of the 999 National Emergency Services. The museum encourages hands-on learning and you can even dress up in uniform. If you’re traveling with little ones who want to grow up to be a police officer or firefighter, this is the place to visit!

National Emergency Services Museum

Address: Old Police/ Fire Station, W Bar, Sheffield S3 8PT

Website: National Emergency Services Museum

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25. Plan a hiking trip to Rivelin Valley Nature Trail

Rivelin Valley Nature Trail
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Tejas Itraj used under CC BY-SA 3.0

The Rivelin Valley Nature Trail is one of the most picturesque walking and hiking routes in South Yorkshire. The trail ventures a little out of the city and is a wonderful adventure regardless of the season or weather. The footpaths are well signposted, so there is little chance of getting lost; a popular route with local dog walkers, there’s always someone nearby to point you in the right direction!

Rivelin Valley Nature Trail

Address: Rails Rd, Sheffield S6 6GF, UK

Website: Rivelin Valley Nature Trail

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Something for everyone in Sheffield

Sheffield is a wonderful city to explore, with a surprising amount of nature close by. Get your camera at the ready, for Sheffield is waiting to be photographed by you!

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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