The outdoor city
As one of the greenest cities in Europe and with the Peak District National Park for a back garden, it’s no surprise that Sheffield has declared itself The Outdoor City.
If you’re an adventurous outdoorsy person, or you’ve always wanted to be, you couldn’t pick a better place to study. Ranked as the greenest city in the UK (NatWest’s Green Cities Report 2021), over 60% of our city is green space. There are way more trees than people. Choose from an impressive 250 parks, woodlands and gardens and discover a city full of adventure.
The peaks offer opportunities for a multitude of outdoor activities with walks, running trails and hill climbing, road cycling or mountain biking.
It is a real privilege to have such amazing countryside so close and it is a great place for me to undertake my hobbies. It also provides a welcome change of pace from the stresses of general life
Greg Godwin
Medicine
Climb, cycle, walk, run – a city packed with activity
There are so many ways to get active and enjoy the vast green spaces in Sheffield. Hikers, runners and cyclists flock to its surrounding hills, ancient woods and winding valleys. If you fancy climbing, you couldn’t pick a better place than Sheffield - it’s known as the UK’s climbing capital.
A third of the city is in the Peak District National Park, meaning its paths, hills, crags, reservoirs and lidos are easily accessible by bus and train. Take a 15-minute train ride to the lovely Peak village of Grindleford, hike up Froggatt Edge or ramble out to Baslow, then come back and drink tea at the famous Grindleford station cafe.
For the fluffiest, friendliest field in Sheffield, head to the alpaca farm. With a visitor centre and cafe, Mayfield Alpacas is on the Sheffield Round Walk route, right where Sheffield meets the Peak District.
Not sure where to start? Our sports clubs take full advantage of local facilities and welcome complete beginners. You might discover a hidden talent for Parkour. Or join a walking club and fall in love with the Peak District. Whatever your ability or experience, you’ll definitely find something that you love.
Hiking in the peaks has allowed me to spend time with my friends in a new way and I’ve been able to meet new people by organising big group walks as well as learning new skills such as climbing.
In the Peak District, there are good train and bus connections, as well as easy car access, making it very accessible for anyone who wants to give hiking a go.
Shefali Philip
Medicine
Places to visit
Hathersage
This busy village is the starting point for some great walks, cycle routes and climbing spots. It also offers award winning pubs and an open air swimming pool.
Bus: 30mins
Car: 20mins
Bike: 1hr
Chatsworth House
Home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, this impressive estate is one of the best in the country.
Bus: 1hr
Car: 30mins
Ringinglow
Walk straight from Endcliffe Park to this village bordering the peaks, home of the Norfolk Arms pub and the Mayfield Alpaca farm.
Walk: 1hr
Bus: 20mins
Bike: 35mins
The Botanical Gardens
Unwind in surroundings that offer an array of plants from all over the world and beautiful glass Pavilions.
Walk: 10mins
