Things to do in Sheffield

The Peak District

The Peak District is the second most visited National Park in the world after Mount Fuji, Japan – and little wonder. If you are feeling adventurous, there are a whole host of activities to explore, from mountain biking and climbing, to watersports and more.

If you prefer a relaxing stroll in the country, you will discover some of the most breath-taking scenery in the UK.

Markets

Sheffield is the perfect place to pick up a bargain, shop for something out of the ordinary, or simply take a stroll and sample the atmosphere.

The city hosts a wide range of unique markets, including the Moor Market that boasts almost 200 stalls selling everything from fresh fruit, vegetables, locally sourced organic produce, clothes, crafts, jewellery and more. There is also a farmers’ market, regular continental markets and of course, the ever popular Christmas markets.

Theatres

Home to the largest theatre complex outside London, Sheffield has a strong reputation for the dramatic arts. Made up of the Crucible, the Lyceum and Studio Theatres, the city’s theatre calendar is full all year round. Once a year, the Crucible also plays host to the Snooker World Championships, welcoming the best players from around the world.

Museums and galleries

The city offers a diverse range of museums and galleries to explore. Including the Millennium Galleries and Weston Park Museum. There is even a thriving art scene, from Yorkshire Artspace exhibitions to The Great Sheffield Art Show and Art in the Gardens.

Restaurants

When it comes to dining out in Sheffield, you really will be spoilt for choice. From Japanese to Polish, artisan bakers and delis, to pop-up bistros, there is a flavour to suit everyone’s taste buds. Whether you are looking to eat out at one of the big chain restaurants, experience Michelin star dining or sample home cooked food in a country pub, the options are almost endless.

Pubs, clubs and cinema

Sheffield is well known for its vibrant nightlife. With 20 different nightclubs and 45 cinema screens, the city also has a vast array of traditional pubs and trendy bars to choose from.

If you are a fan of real ale, Kelham Island is an area known for its thriving real ale scene, with the Fat Cat and award-winning Kelham Island Tavern top of the connoisseurs’ list. Book a tour of Sheffield’s real alehouses.

Music and comedy

From live gigs at the 13,000-capacity Sheffield Arena, to the Tramlines Festival, Sheffield offers some of the best live music in the UK. Beyond the big name artists and contemporary live acts, you will find everything from local choirs and orchestras to a burgeoning folk music community. Then there is the Last Laugh Sheffield Comedy Festival every October, one of the biggest in the UK.

Shopping

Whatever your taste or budget, you will find everything you need in Sheffield. The high street is full of all the usual big brand stores, alongside a range of boutique outlets in the fashionable Devonshire Quarter. You can also make a day of it at the Meadowhall shopping centre, home to 270 shops, restaurants and a cinema.

Days out

If you are looking for days out beyond the city, you will find some excellent visitor attractions, including the Magna Science Centre in Rotherham, the Yorkshire Sculpture Park in Wakefield, the Chatsworth Estate in Derbyshire and Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster.

Sheffield City Tour

Get a flavour of what it's like to live in Sheffield with this Sheffield City Tour video put together by some of our students.