The Student Guide: 10 Fun Things To Do In Sheffield
Famed for its industrial past, for being one of the greenest cities in Europe and for having the oldest football club in the world, Sheffield is a city which is bursting with activity on every corner.
Whether you’re a student currently living here or heading to The Steel City for university come September, you’ve come to the right place as we’re here to spill the beans on all of the fun things to do.
With our guide, you’ll be able to fill up your calendar and make some great memories in this vibrant and diverse South Yorkshire city.
Let’s get the ball rolling…
1. Sheffield Botanical Gardens
Looking for some fun things to do in The Steel City? Sheffield Botanical Gardens are an absolute must-visit.
Located just off Ecclesall Road outside of the city centre, this green haven has been bringing in visitors to its 19 acre site since 1836.
The Grade II site is beautifully kept with 5,000 species of plants within its glass pavilion including tropical plants and cacti.
If you’re looking to spend some quiet time reading a book, heading out on a peaceful walk or even enjoying a picnic with your friends, there’s over 15 different garden areas which feature plant collections from all across the world!
This peaceful oasis is free to visit too, so you have no excuse but to check it out…
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Address: Clarkehouse Rd, Broomhall, Sheffield S10 2LN
2. Kelham Island
Whilst studying in Sheffield you’ve got plenty of exciting options for things to do, and one place in particular worthy of visiting is Kelham Island.
Formerly an industrial area, this man-made island is over 900 years old and is today known as one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the world.
This industrial-hip area is home to an array of independent bars, pubs, cafes, shops and restaurants including the Fat Cat, The Cutlery Works, Craft & Dough, The Kelham Flea along with many more.
It’s not just all eating, drinking and shopping either, it’s also home to the Kelham Island museum which showcases Sheffield’s industry and steelmaking history.
It even features the most powerful working steam engine in Europe and it’s free to visit too!
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Address: Kelham Island, Sheffield
3. Weston Park Museum
Are you keen to immerse yourself in the real story of Sheffield? Weston Park Museum is where you need to head to.
Dating back to 1875, this Victorian museum is the largest of its kind in Sheffield and features archaeology, natural and social history exhibits, as well as temporary ever-changing exhibitions.
If you need respite from the busy city centre, this popular spot is a great place to relax and learn about Sheffield’s past and present.
Once you’ve finished taking a look around, there’s even a cafe so you can grab a coffee and a little treat!
For those with a few hours to spare on the weekend, this local museum is certainly worth your time and admission is free so you’ve got no excuse…
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Address: Western Bank, Weston Park Museum, Mushroom Ln, Sheffield S10 2TP
4. Sheffield Winter Garden
Sheffield Winter Garden is the largest urban glasshouse in Europe and is a real asset to the city.
This multi-award winning space is located in the heart of the city centre and is home to more than 2,500 plants from around the world.
Open daily from 8am until 6pm, the stunning green oasis is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city no matter the time of year.
You’ll definitely get some Insta-worthy photos inside, and there’s even some shops and cafes so you can sit down with a bite to eat and drink!
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Address: 90 Surrey St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2LH
5. South Street Park
Located adjacent to Sheffield Train Station is South Street Park, a marvel of a green space which overlooks the city.
Featuring an arboretum and a beautiful amphitheatre, this park is the ideal place to head to on a sunny day and admire the view whilst catching up with your friends.
Due to its convenient location, if you’re mooching about the city centre or you’re catching a train home, you don’t have to travel far as it’s just behind the station.
If you’re wanting to keep fit and healthy, running up and down the park steps is a great exercise too!
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Address: 21 South St, Sheffield S2 5PN
6. Graves Gallery
If you’re an art lover living in Sheffield, Graves Gallery houses the city’s visual art collection and should be at the top of your list when it comes to things to do.
Graves Gallery is located on the 3rd floor of the Central Library and has been a part of Sheffield’s cultural scene since 1934.
Inside this real gem in the heart of the city centre, you can explore art and design exhibitions from artists such as Cezanne, Burne-Jones, Turner, Bridget Riley, Grayson Perry and Damien Hirst.
There’s also an exciting programme of temporary exhibitions so no two visits will be the same, head to the official website to see what’s on currently.
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Address: Surrey St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 1XZ
7. The Great Escape Game Sheffield
Whether you’re after a fun-filled weekend or celebrating a special occasion, The Great Escape Game Sheffield is the place for you.
This highly immersive break out room is unlike anything you would have experienced with plenty of different game experiences to choose from, as well as freshly made pizzas and a selection of tasty cocktails.
Once you and your group have chosen your Crystal-Maze styled breakout room, you can all put your brain power to the test in an attempt to race against the clock and escape in time.
We’d highly recommend this place for anyone who loves a challenge and is looking for things to do in Sheffield!
Remember to flash you student ID card to benefit from some money off…
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Address: St. James House, Vicar Ln, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2EX
8. The Crucible
Whether you love the theatre or live sports, don’t look past The Crucible.
Having been a part of Sheffield since 1971, this world-famous theatre hosts an exciting programme of top productions throughout the year.
What’s on for 2023? Some of the shows include Buffy Revamped, Miss Saigon, TLC Forever and so many more.
Aside from theatre, this Norfolk Street venue also hosts the annual World Snooker Championship so if you’re wanting to experience the most prestigious tournament in professional snooker, it’s just on your doorstep!
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Address: 55 Norfolk St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 1DA
9. Gloryholes Sheffield
Head over to the High Street where Gloryholes is bringing you one of the most fun things to do in Sheffield.
This quirky adult-only golf club features 33 holes of mini-golf across 3 floors, with arcade games, pool tables, beer pong and a variety of custom-made cocktails and beers too.
If you’re keen to make some great memories with your friends and take some funny pictures too, book in and show off your golf skills!
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Address: 43 High St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2GB
10. Showroom Cinema
When it comes to fun things not to miss in Sheffield, a film night at Showroom Cinema is up there.
This independent cinema is located in a former 1930’s car showroom in Sheffield’s Cultural Industries Quarter and showcases an array of hand picked films from across the world.
Some of the current showings include Inland Empire, Beau Is Afraid and The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, along with so many more.
The Showroom Cafe Bar is located inside so you can grab a few drinks and something tasty to eat before immersing yourself in a cinematic experience like no other.
They even offer student tickets so your next movie night will be great value for money!
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Address: Paternoster Row, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2BX
Sheffield is a bustling city offering things to do to suit everyone, so you don’t have to worry about being kept busy during your student years.
With a student population of over 60,000 you’ll meet people from all walks of life too, so go out there and explore all that The Steel City has to offer!
What do you like to get up to in Sheffield? Share it with us @urbanstudentlife.
Are you curious as to what exactly Sheffield is famous for? If so, take a read of our blog post to uncover the truth!