After living in Sheffield for four years, my time here comes to an end, along with my studies at the University of Sheffield. It’s been an absolute rollercoaster and I’d like to think I’ve seen the best that the city has to offer.
So, from an old hat to someone moving here for the first time, I give a little bucket list of things to do whilst you’re here. Sheffield has great food, drink, music, clubs and much more, here’s my top picks!
FOOD: the 2024 foodie capital
It’s no secret that Sheffield has one of the widest array of great places for food in the UK, with it being crowned the Foodie capital of the UK in 2024. So here’s a little list of places to check out whilst you’re a student.
I would recommend Marmadukes, a locally owned bakery and cafe chain with 3 stores across the city. The Sorting Office, at the top of Ecclesall road, is home to their main bakers, so will be sure to have something fresh. Big windows mean you can watch that dough get kneaded right before you buy.
A personal favourite of mine is Falafel King, a set of two shops across the city. Great value for money as well as being the biggest wraps I think I’ve laid eyes on and with tonnes of fresh ingredients and vegan options. A proper hangover cure.
Finally for food, a Nottingham House pie is an absolute must have. In a cosy pub at the start of Fulwood road, their grub fills that need for a bit of a home style comfort and again, with great vegan and veggie options to boot.
DRINKS: Student Booze
I’m sure many readers will be looking for a good old fashioned soak-up, after all it’s a large part of the so-called student experience.
If you are looking for cheap and cheerful, I recommend none other than the famous west street live. Ridiculous shots and ridiculously low prices. If you leave without having a Skibidi Rizz bomb, then you’ve missed out. Just remember to have paracetamol on hand for the morning after.
Shakespeare’s, on Gibraltar street, one of Sheffield’s oldest pubs and widely regarded as one of its best has great beers, ciders and craft ales on offer. Their gigs in their upstairs room offer a cosy atmosphere, one perfect for that candlelit, chilled listening on a sweet summer evening.
BUT if you’re looking for an alcohol free experience, Public, a bar on Surrey street offers non-alcoholic versions of their cocktails, giving the chance for a sweet sip with none of the spirits.
MUSIC: Gigs Galore
Sheffield is famous for its music, whilst the list has got smaller over the past year or so, it still shines bright as one of the best in the UK.
For small bands and indie styled gigs, Sidney and Matilda and the Leadmill are both Sheffield staples.
Sidney and Matilda offers slick, local basement bands and a vibrant atmosphere with DJs often following. With three rooms and gigs often running simultaneously, this sweet little event space is certainly one to keep an eye on, always something for everyone.
The Leadmill will give that freshers club night vibe, as well as hosting world famous artists. Being that it is set to close, paying a visit to the iconic club is a must do. Soak up over 40 years of music heritage.
But if you’re more into your electronic tunes, Forge, Dryad works and Plot 22 will fill the gap with fantastic nights of heavy bass and laid back beats from DJs all over the city. Pints, power and frankly, piles of attitude.
NATURE: The Green City
Sheffield is widely recognised as the greenest city in the UK and that’s no understatement. An abundance of parks and gardens are dotted around the city, leaving a place to soak up that sun always just around the corner.
A Bole Hill sunset is a perfect spot for a picnic, meetup or perhaps that romantic moment. Beautiful views of the city await, only for those that can brave the walk up to the top!
Sheffield’s Botanical Gardens are also a fantastic picnic or strolling spot, with the local Joni Cafe able to offer a cool refreshment in these coming summer days.
Or perhaps swimming is something you’re interested in. Crookes Valley Park is a keen spot to get cooled off or do a few laps for a jog if you prefer sticking to dry land.
Final Words: from a fourth year to a fresher
My time here has been monumental for me, and if you’re just moving away from home for the first time, my advice is this: enjoy it. Take every opportunity as it comes, jump at the chance to absorb an experience, a sound, a sight and song. You only get one proper go round at uni, so make it a good one. And be happy with the choice you made to come to Sheffield. It’s really got something for everyone.
Image Credits: NME