Sheffield is a city forged in steel, and this rich heritage has helped shape it into the bustling metropolis you see today. Bars, restaurants, gigs, shows – it really does have something for everyone. Sheffield is home to the famed Crucible theatre and every year trains to Sheffield bring fans from around the globe when the venue hosts the World Snooker Championship. Meadowhall, Yorkshire’s largest shopping centre, is also a short ride away on the train.
Sheffield station has a choice of options when it comes to onward travel. Trams run regularly from platform 5, while buses operate from the interchange opposite the main entrance. For unlimited bus travel around the city, buy a Sheffield Plusbus ticket with your train ticket for £4 (£2.65 with a Railcard).
If you’re looking for culture, one of the first things to do in Sheffield is head to the Graves Art Gallery for your fix of fine art. Recently restored to its 1930s glory, this beautiful space plays host to work by the likes of Cezanne, Gaugin and Picasso. The Leadmill is a live music venue and nightclub that has seen a host of famous names pass through its doors, from Pulp to The Stone Roses – make sure you check out who’s playing when you’re in town. Sheffield Cathedral is as old as the hills, partly because it's built from the stone that lay in those hills many, many years ago. It's a grand, beautiful building that documents the early development of Sheffield.
A real local hero, The Hidden Gem Café started life as a charity-run café for people with learning difficulties. It continues to be so, but after a radical overhaul, it's begun creating amazing food at great prices and getting rave reviews. The Wick at Both Ends is a music-led pub and DJ bar, on the fringes of the trendy Devonshire Street. Finally, Nonna's delicious and authentic Italian offerings ensure it’s one of the most talked about restaurants in Sheffield.
Looking for a place to stay in Sheffield with a difference? Houseboat Hotels offers self catering on permanently moored boats in central Sheffield, giving you an aquatic view of this beautiful city. A short taxi ride from the station brings you to Whitley Hall. This ivy-clad country manor is the perfect place to unwind, and right next door to the sensational Peak District National Park, too. For a modern boutique hotel try the converted grammar school Leopold Hotel - it's just 10 minute's walk from the station.
In need of a little R&R? Then spend some time at Sheffield’s iconic Botanical Gardens. Filled with exotic plants and greenery, this tropical paradise is perfect for nature lovers of all ages. The Climbing Works is Sheffield’s flagship climbing facility and a great way for kids to learn the ropes (and burn off energy, while you have a nice cup of tea). Heeley City Farm, with its friendly animals, cute gift shop and fantastic café, is another must for families.
If you’re a retail connoisseur, then the 5-minute train journey from Sheffield to Meadowhall is a must. This sprawling shopping mecca contains department stores and high-street boutiques galore, and it’s a great place to pick up goodies and gifts. Fargate is a pedestrianised city-centre street lined with boutiques, while the Devonshire Quarter is where the hip kids go to find one-of-a-kind clothing and accessories. The Moor Market is a covered market serving craft beer, local farm food and more.
For more ideas on what to do in Sheffield, check out Visit Sheffield.