Sheffield is renowned for its fantastic nightlife. But, that’s just one of a long list of things that you can do in the city.
Beyond its bars and clubs, Sheffield is a city buzzing with arts, culture and some of the best food in the country.
If you’re a new student to the city, whether you’re practising a sober lifestyle or just looking for a different way to spend your evening, there’s a wealth of sights to see and things to do.
Below, we’ve shared our 10 favourite places to go if you’re sober in Sheffield.
1. The Winter Garden
Right in the heart of Sheffield’s city centre, you can find the North’s answer to the Eden Project.
This giant wooden-and-glass structure houses an abundance of sprawling plants, including species from all over the world. The gardens are completely free to enter, and there are numerous benches tucked away on the paths. These offer the perfect spots for visitors to sit, observe and relax.
After a day of studying, what better way to unwind?
2. Graves Park
Sticking with the outdoorsy theme, Graves Park is within easy walking distance of Sheffield’s centre, and offers the perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Grab a drink (and a cake, of course) from the park’s cafe, then follow the paths through the forests and around the fields. Time your visit right, and you might even be able to see Graves Park’s herd of deer.
3. Live music at the Dorothy Pax
Yes, it may be a bar, but the Pax is about far more than just beers. The Dorothy Pax is located on Victoria Quays, and represents one of Sheffield’s most popular arts hubs.
Throughout the year, it has a packed calendar of live music, artist exhibitions and more. These include everything from jazz bands to local photographers, and indie rock bands, to the true crime special, ‘The Sins of Sheffield’.
4. Millennium Gallery
Another great spot for art-lovers, the Millennium Gallery is home to both historic and contemporary artwork, and internationally renowned pieces alongside the work of local talent.
Plus, if you’re interested in Sheffield’s history, check out the gallery’s Metalwork Collection. This celebrates the metalworking industry that has played such a pivotal role in shaping Sheffield’s history.
5. The Climbing Works
Whether you’re a seasoned climber or have never even set foot on a wall, The Climbing Works is a fun, laid back and welcoming spot.
Beyond the fun of the climbing itself, this is easily one of the best ways to meet new people in the city. This climbing wall is a firm favourite amongst locals, and both staff and climbers alike are super friendly.
If you’re new to climbing, speak to the staff in advance and book a beginner session.
6. Peddler Market
The Peddler Market is a monthly event, dedicated to celebrating some of the city’s best street food. In fact, it’s widely regarded as one of the country’s best street food markets.
Located in Kelham Island (right in the hub of Sheffield’s industrial city centre), the market takes place in a former industrial warehouse. Alongside the top-tier food, the market is also renowned for its live music and exhibition of local brands and creators.
7. Hike in the Peak District
If you’re looking for a cheap day trip, Sheffield is right on the doorstep of the Peak District National Park.
The Peaks boast some of the most beautiful walks in the country, with no end of lush, rolling green hills.
A quick bus takes you from Sheffield directly to Bakewell. Then, from there, you can choose from any number of walking trails, before (naturally) stopping off to try an authentic Bakewell Tart.
8. Sheffield Antiques Quarter
If you play your cards right, you could find some absolute gems. Thanks to the eco-conscious Gen Z, antiques shopping has enjoyed a big revival, and Sheffield has a fantastic antiques quarter, filled with charming shops and quirky pieces.
Snag yourself a few bargains, and bring some personality to your new home.
9. The National Videogame Museum
Ready player one? This is the only dedicated videogame museum in the UK. And, it’s hard to imagine a more engaging, interactive series of exhibits. The National Videogame Museum boasts a collection of over 5,000 objects, including over 100 playable exhibits.
Spanning everything from retro arcade machines to the very latest consoles, visitors can learn more about the history of gaming, and the technology and artistry that have shaped it.
10. The Leadmill
As you’d expect from the birthplace of the Arctic Monkeys, Sheffield has one of the most dynamic music scenes in the country.
The Leadmill is one of Sheffield’s oldest and most iconic music venues. Throughout the year, it hosts a huge variety of artists, all at very reasonable ticket prices. And who knows, you might just stumble across the next Alex Turner.
Whether you’ve just started your first year, or are celebrating your final hand in, we hope you enjoy exploring the city. And, if you’re on the lookout for Sheffield student houses, the PC Properties team is on hand to help.