Whether you’re new to the ‘Steel City’ or a seasoned student looking for stuff to do with your friends, this is your go-to guide.
From hidden gems to popular hotspots, we’ve got the lowdown on the best places to make your time in the vibrant city of Sheffield truly unforgettable. So, put down that textbook (for now), and let’s get to it.
Explore Ecclesall Road, Sheffield’s Independent Scene
Ecclesall Road stretches over 3 miles and is home to vibey restaurants, coffee shops, pubs, bars, and shops, which all conveniently connect you to some of the city’s best green spaces, including The Botanical Gardens and Endcliffe Park.
Alongside the well-known brands, many independent businesses are interwoven into the vibrant Ecclesall Road scene, including The Famous Sheffield Shop, which sells a range of items made with love in Sheffield. This independent is perfect for finding gifts to send back to your friends and family or treating yourself to a memento from your student town.
And while you’re out and about exploring Ecclesall Road, make sure to try the legendary Nonna’s Italian restaurant, which has won countless awards for its traditional Italian food.
Indoor Trampolining at Jump Inc
Jump Inc Sheffield is one of the largest specialised trampoline parks in the UK, offering over 36,000 square feet of spring-loaded excitement. Round up your pals and get stuck in as, after all, the Jump Inc. experience is a great way to get your exercise in while having fun. There’s not just trampolining on offer either; discover various other adrenaline-fueled activities within this expansive urban warehouse. Conquer demanding obstacle courses, play laser tag, navigate massive wipe-out balls, tackle an extensive ninja course, and engage in a five-a-side game in the football cage.
Carver Street: Head here for a memorable night out
Carver Street is a lively nightlife hotspot and, at the time of writing this article, is home to five buzzing nightclubs – Crystal, Popworld, Viper Rooms, Walkabout, and Tropicana playing everything from current club hits to throwbacks from the 90s and noughties. A little birdie tells us there’s a newcomer on the scene, too – Orb, which recently opened its doors on the adjacent Carver Lane.
Book tickets to see the iconic Sheffield Steelers
Established in the early 90s, the Sheffield Steelers are a professional ice hockey team based in Sheffield and are an institution within the region. The Steelers actively participate in the Elite Ice Hockey League and host their home games at the Utilita Arena just outside the city centre, making getting to games quick and easy.
And if you prefer football…
Head down to a Sheffield United game at Bramall Lane, which is the oldest professional football ground in the world.
Get your fix of fresh air in Sheffield’s Green Spaces
Embrace the natural beauty and tranquillity of Sheffield’s numerous green spaces, perfect for taking a break from your studies. Spend a leisurely afternoon in the Sheffield Botanical Gardens, where you can wander through 19 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and historic glasshouses filled with exotic plants. For a more active outing, head to Endcliffe Park, which offers picturesque walking trails along the Porter Brook, as well as spots for picnics and games. Graves Park, the city’s largest public park, provides expansive woodlands, lakes, and a farm animal area, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. These green spaces not only offer a refreshing escape but also provide an excellent setting for socialising, exercising, and connecting with nature right in the heart of Sheffield.
Cycle the city
Sheffield is bike-friendly, with plenty of cycling paths snaking through the city and its parks. What better way to get to know your new home than by exploring the city on two wheels to get a different perspective?
And if you’re looking for a more challenging outdoor experience, don’t forget the nearby Peak District. Sheffield is conveniently situated next to the breathtaking Peak District National Park, providing an ideal setting for climbing, hiking and rambling. And if you don’t have a car, no worries, it’s really easy to get a bus into the Peak District. Hop off at Fox House and you can easily walk to the iconic Stanage Edge.
Endless Entertainment at Lane 7
Experience a night of fun and excitement at Lane 7, Sheffield’s premier entertainment venue. Located in the heart of the city, Lane 7 offers a dynamic range of activities that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a competitive game of bowling, a thrilling round of mini-golf, or a retro arcade experience, Lane 7 has it all. The venue also features stylish bars and lounges where you can enjoy delicious food and creative cocktails, making it a perfect spot for a night out with friends. With its vibrant atmosphere and variety of entertainment options, Lane 7 guarantees an unforgettable night of endless fun and socialising.
Catch up with friends over coffee at Steam Yard on Division Street
Division Street, situated in the Devonshire Quarter of Sheffield, is home to numerous independents.
And here’s a fun fact: The gold Postbox located at the end of Division Street commemorates the 2012 Olympic Gold Medal triumph of Sheffield’s track and field athlete, Jessica Ennis Hill.
If you’re heading down to Division Street, why not try the Steam Yard for coffee? They also offer delicious light bites and baked treats.
Theatrical Treats: Take a trip to see a show
Immerse yourself in Sheffield’s vibrant performing arts scene by catching a show at one of the city’s renowned theatres. The iconic Crucible Theatre, known for its distinctive thrust stage, offers a diverse program of plays, musicals, and dance performances that cater to all tastes. Just a stone’s throw away, the Lyceum Theatre provides a traditional proscenium arch experience, hosting everything from West End productions to opera and comedy shows. For a more intimate setting, the Lantern Theatre offers an eclectic mix of amateur and professional performances in a cosy, historic venue. Whether you’re a seasoned theatregoer or new to the world of live performance, Sheffield’s theatres promise an array of theatrical treats that will entertain and inspire.
Head down to Sheffield Beer Week
For those interested in craft beer, Sheffield Beer Week is a celebration of the city’s vibrant brewing scene. Explore beer tastings, brewery tours, and special events during this week-long celebration, which usually takes place annually in March.
Try an Escape Room
Another excellent choice for team building if you have a penchant for puzzles, The Great Escape Sheffield offers several themed escape rooms for all abilities, including No Hope In Hell, Run and Abducted – Will you make it out in time?
Take a trip to Meadowhall
Meadowhall is a large shopping and leisure hub about 3 miles (4.8 kilometres) from Sheffield city centre. You can get there by tram, train, bus or car in no time at all. The impressive food court offers a range of cuisine from around the world, and there is a Vue cinema, too, if you fancy catching a blockbuster film while on your day out.
A feast for your ears – Sheffield is a music hub
For music enthusiasts, Sheffield boasts vibrant venues like the O2 Academy and the legendary Leadmill. The Leadmill is your go-to spot for an electrifying entertainment experience, from gigs and club nights to various events.
Sheffield also hosts multiple music festivals throughout the year. Check out the super popular Tramlines Festival based at Hillsborough Park to see this year’s lineup.
Past lineups have seen the likes of Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Blossoms, Nial Rogers, Sam Fender, and The Streets warmly welcomed to the city of Sheffield.
Visit the Graves Park Animal Farm
Yep, you read that right, a farm, but you are in glorious Yorkshire, after all! So, if you’re missing your furry friend at home, why not visit the Graves Park Animal Farm, which has FREE admission seven days a week, from 10 am to 3:30 pm? See Alpacas, Shetland Ponies, Piglets, Lambs and more.
Check out the Moor Market
Dive into the vibrant atmosphere of The Moor Market, a bustling hub in Sheffield that offers an array of stalls brimming with fresh produce, delicious street food, and unique crafts. This lively market is a favourite among students for its affordability and variety, making it the perfect spot to find everything from fresh vegetables and artisanal bread to handmade jewellery and quirky gifts. Whether you’re looking to do your weekly grocery shopping, grab a quick and tasty meal, or simply enjoy the vibrant market vibe, The Moor Market is a must-visit destination that captures the essence of Sheffield’s local culture.
Anyone for a spot of crazy golf?
Check out the lively and diverse world of Golf Fang, an 18-hole crazy golf adventure infused with local graffiti art, themed cocktails, street food, and dynamic DJ beats.
Navigate through eccentric golf courses featuring off-the-wall designs such as buses, shop fronts, film studios, and pubs. There are loads of packages available, and students can choose the dedicated ‘Student Package’, which includes 18 holes and a drink with prices from £6.50pp.
Sheffield has a rich student scene and something to offer everyone, regardless of your interest or hobby. We hope you’ve found our guide helpful in helping you fill your diary up with fun things to do for the year ahead!
And if the Steel City has captured your attention, you may also be interested in our guide to life in Vita Student Sheffield.
Living at Vita Student offers an all-inclusive service, allowing you to focus on your studies and maximise your overall student experience.
Discover Vita Student accommodation in Sheffield, Telephone House.
Here are just some of the benefits of living in Vita Student accommodation in Sheffield.
● All-Inclusive of bills
● City-centre locations.
● Inspiring spaces and modern design
● 24/7 security and key-fob access.
● High-quality amenities like an on-site gym, private dining rooms and study rooms.
● A close-knit student community and regular social events
If you’re looking for even more information on studying and living in Sheffield as a student, check out our blog, Exploring Sheffield: The Ultimate Student Guide.
