Sheffield Student City Guide
Sheffield might be modest in size but it’s certainly not lacking in culture, bars, restaurants and history. From cocktails at The Great Gatsby bar to exploring the Sheffield Botanical Gardens, there’s a wealth of things to see and do in the compact city centre. Plus, you’re within easy reach of the Peak District National Park and the Trans Pennine Trail, ideal for students who want to embrace the great outdoors.
Home to the University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University and Sheffield College, the city welcomes students from across the globe and is known for having a vibrant and multicultural community.
If your heart is set on Sheffield as somewhere you want to study then allow us to paint a better picture of the city. Read on for our Sheffield Student Guide and find out all there is to know about living as a student at Sheffield University.
Get social
While your studies should take priority, the social aspect of university life is also very important. Here we’ve rounded up just a handful of great places the city has to offer, whether it’s for dinner, drinks or simply to hang out with your coursemates.
Restaurants
The Sheffield Water Works Company
Owned by JD Wetherspoons, this all-day restaurant and bar is housed in a brooding Victorian Building, conveniently close to the city centre. It has an extensive menu, quick service and bargain prices, meaning it continues to be a firm favourite among Sheffield University students. The atmosphere tends to be quiet and laid back, particularly midweek so it's a good place for grabbing a quick bite in between lectures.
The Depot Bakery
The smell of freshly baked sourdough bread alone is enough to lure you inside The Depot Bakery. Located on Burton Rd, about 19 minutes walk from Sheffield University, this artisan bakery serves delicious coffee, baked treats and toasties oozing with cheese. As a weekend treat, be sure to check out the brunch menu.
Craft & Dough Kelham Island
Housed in a red-brick building, here you’ll find amazing and affordable artisan pizzas made on-site daily. Expect classic toppings including mozzarella or prosciutto, or choose the spicy nduja sausage or even Frazzles. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it!Cafes
The Grind
For reliably good coffee and generous servings of toast, The Grind will provide. With three locations across the city, you’ll never be too far from a delicious cup of java to fuel early-morning lectures.
Marmadukes
At each of Maramadukes three locations, you’ll find one of the best brunch menus with lots of delicious things on toast plus hearty salads and irresistible banana bread.
Hygge
Hygge roughly translates as cosiness in Danish and this cafe has this down to a T. With a location near the station, it’s ideal for those who study at Hallam and have lessons on the city campus.Bars
The Wick at Both Ends
Famous for its flaming lemon drizzle shots and its large collection of delicious cocktails and craft beers. Back in 2018, it was named winner of the prestigious ‘Best Bar’ award at the Sheffield Social Awards.
Molly Malones
No matter what night of the week it is, Molly Malones always seems to be buzzing. Here you’ll find regular sports screenings and live music every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday from around 9.30 pm.Be Entertained
Bag a ticket to a play at The Crucible Theatre or catch your favourite band playing at The Leadmill, Sheffield has a thriving cultural scene with a wide variety of genres and venues to choose from.
The Crucible
A beloved icon in the centre of the city, the Crucible has played host to a starried line-up of actors, dancers and directors over the years since it opened in 1971. Its programme is well known for its seasons dedicated to modern playwrights; in recent years, Harold Pinter, Michael Frayn and Brian Friel.
Millennium Gallery
The gallery has a regularly changing exhibition programme showcasing some of the best in national and international art and design. You’ll also find permanent collection displays celebrating Sheffield’s metalworking prowess and the remarkable artefacts brought to the city by the artist and writer, John Ruskin.
Mayfield Alpacas Animal Park
You might think South Yorkshire and South America are worlds apart. However, they have more than a shared love of football in common as both are home to alpacas. At Mayfield Alpacas, just outside Ringinglow on the edge of the Peak District you can spend the afternoon hanging out with these furry friends.Go Shopping
If you’re looking for retail therapy, you’re in the right place. Sheffield has several fantastic shopping destinations including Fargate, The Moor and Meadowhall.
Fargate
New for 2023, Fargate is a soon-to-open village of shipping containers located in Sheffield’s city centre. The contemporary design will house food vendors, shops, living walls, outdoor seating and a big screen.
The Moor
The Moor really is a one-stop shop for all your retail therapy needs. You’ll find high street staples like Boots, H&M and Holland & Barrett alongside The Gym and a wealth of restaurants.
Meadowhall
Meadowhall is one of the UK's leading shopping destinations. The glass-clad building houses 290 stores as well as 50 places to eat and drink and an 11-screen cinema.Get outdoors
You may or may not know that Sheffield is one of the greenest cities in the UK. One minute you might be in the thick of city life but just 10 minutes’ drive away you’ll be in the heart of the Peak District. Our best tips?
Peak District
Discover Britain's first national park - The Peak District! It covers 555 sq miles and spills into five counties. The area offers many outdoor activities, ranging from cycling to horse riding and caving. The park is great for all ages and abilities with traffic-free cycling trails like the Monsal and Tissington Trails.
Explore the Rivelin Valley Nature Trail
Discover Sheffield’s Rivelin Valley Trail. This nature and heritage trail stretches 2.5 miles and links the city to Peak District National Park. It has 20 watermills and 21 mill dams, some dating back to the 16th century. With cascades and waterfalls stepping stones, rope swings and more, there's plenty to keep you entertained along the route.
Sign up to Will4Adventure
Explore the Peak District and beyond with Will4Adventure! Find a range of adventures, activities and courses from guided walks and rock climbing to outdoor first aid training. Ideal for anyone from novice to experienced mountaineer! Book online now and join us for an unforgettable experience!Earn money
To fuel all of your explorations, why not consider applying for a part-time job? This will add to your overall university experience by giving you a bit of extra pocket money to play with. In Sheffield, there are a variety of jobs available from working as a barista in a coffee shop, in a retail store, as a tutor or even through a volunteering organisation.
