Sheffield City Break: 2 Fab Days in the UK’s Underrated City

If you’re planning a city break in Sheffield and you’re not quite sure what to expect from one of the UK’s most overlooked cities, look no further!

Tucked away in South Yorkshire, this former steel city isn’t usually the first place to come to mind when seeking a UK city break destination.

But after just 48 hours of exploring the beautifully pedestrianised streets of the city centre, and its seriously super foodie and cultural spots, I was hooked!

And it’s not just me, Sheffield was recently the UK’s best underrated city break by Time Out – that’s in addition to its being known as the UK’s outdoor city- music to my ears!

Sheffield might be known for its historic role in the Industrial Revolution, but in recent years its cemented its reputation as one of the greenest and coolest cities in the UK, thanks to its independent shops, a thriving music scene (Arctic Monkeys and Def Leppard, anyone?), and enviable proximity to the Peak District National Park.

Add to this its top restaurants and cafes, fascinating array of museums and galleries and that the fact it boasts a Winter and a Botanical Garden, and this northern hotspot is making a bis splash on the UK travel scene.

If you’re after an exciting under-the-radar city break, one that bucks the predictable trend for London, Edinburgh or Manchester, and is packed with plenty of unique experiences, from food markets to street art, this UK city break travel guide to Sheffield is all you need!

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My Trip to Unsung Sheffield

Proudly proclaiming itself as the city that inspires, Sheffield is a city that manages to maintain its working-class soul, whilst also embracing a creative, independent spirit that’s made it a magnet for anyone looking for something a little different from their UK getaway.

The perfect size for a weekend escape – small enough to navigate on foot, but large enough to offer then you can possibly squeeze into 48 hours – Sheffield is incredibly easy to get to with direct train connections from London, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Manchester, Nottingham and even Plymouth.

As soon as I step out of the train station, google map app in hand, and a stranger asks if I need help or directions, I remember I’m in friendly Yorkshire!

But what I don’t remember from my time in this county some 20 years ago – I was a student at Leeds and we visited Sheffield regularly then – were then independent shops, microbreweries, trendy co-working cafés, great street art and foodie hotspots I was about to discover over the next 2 days.

While remnants of the steel industry – coal-blackened buildings and repurposed factories – pay homage to the city’s past and impart an urban authenticity that adds to city’s unique appeal, Sheffield is also known as the greenest city in the UK.

With a third of its metropolis area located within the Peak District, and an expansive network of green spaces, public parks, and leafy streets that wind through the neighbourhoods, it’s also a dream destination if, like me, you like to mix your city culture with a good dollop of fresh area and heart-raising views!

Ready to explore Sheffield to its fullest?

Here’s how to spend the perfect 2 days in this Yorkshire gem….

Sheffield Day 1: City Centre & Kelham Island

Morning

My city break begins in London, but in just 2 hours I’m pulling into Sheffield’s central train station, ready to begin my creative, culture-filled city break, and it’s not even 11am!

Step out of the station, into the glorious blue Yorkshire sky (if you’re lucky like me!) and take in the fantastic Sheaf Square Fountain situated right outside.

Make sure you snap a pic – it’s a good intro to the vibrant modern culture of Sheffield city centre in contrast to its often tough reputation.

Next stop: caffeine!

A great place to head is Tamper Coffee, one of Sheffield’s coolest coffee joints, that serves up the best beans in town – expect proper flat whites, trendy vibes, and a seriously good breakfast if you’re hungry.

From there, take a leisurely walk through the pedestrianised city centre and enjoy 2 of Sheffield’s most loved open spaces: the Sheffield Winter Garden (the largest urban glasshouse in Europe!) and the tranquil yet stunning Peace Gardens with their beautiful water fountains – both are free to enter.

On your way through the city centre, be sure to swing by the ‘Sheffield Legends Walk of Fame’, where plaques honour local icons like Olympic hero Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill and, of course, Sean Bean (of Boromir / Ned Stark fame, and yes, he’s a Sheffield lad).

Then it’s time to indulge your arty side with a visit to the Millennium Gallery and nearby Graves Gallery, both packed with work by local creatives and world-renowned artists.

The former has a rotating exhibitions in its main rooms (John Hoyland’s sculptures and paintings were on display when I visited), and the latter hosts pieces by David Hockney, Tess Jaray, Claudette Johnson and Keith Piper.

Don’t miss Turner Prize-winning artist, Grayson Perry’s large scale tapestry, Comfort Blanket, while you’re here either.

Both Millennium Gallery and Graves gallery are free to enter (perfect for fellow budget travellers), and a showcase the official cultural offerings of Sheffield perfectly.

Afternoon

When you’re ready for lunch, stroll to Kollective Kitchen, a colourful, modern café known for fresh, locally sourced dishes and a mouthwatering cake cabinet. The large salad plate I had here was absolutely delicious and more than enough to set me up for a whole afternoon!

After refuelling, swing by Sheffield Cathedral for a quick look at this impressive, centuries-old architectural gem – it’s thought to be the oldest building in the city. Handily, the 1554 cafe, found right within the church, is the perfect stop if you fancy some post-lunch caffeineation.

Afterwards, head over to Pounds Park – and don’t forget to look up! Sheffield has an amazing street art scene and you’ll find 2 fantastic pieces right here.

The first piece to look out for is ‘Reverie’ – Sheffield’s tallest mural, created by local artist Peachzz. The second is ‘Muriel’, created by Peter McKee and located on the side of Art House on Carver Street.

Then, get ready to shop like a local at nearby, Grade II listed, Leah’s Yard, home to some of the city’s best local traders including beautiful boutiques, like Roots & Bloom florists, Mesters Market and La Biblioteka.

Still got some retail therapy in you?

Then wander along Division Street, one of Sheffield’s coolest neighbourhoods, where you’ll find record shops, vintage shops, and the unforgettable Cowboy Boot Store (yep, it’s as good as it sounds), which definitely deserve a look in for some unique and unforgettable bargains.

Round off the day in the trendy Kelham Island area, where you’ll find some more of Sheffield’s top attractions, including the fantastic Kelham Island Museum.

Set on a man-made island, this museum and offers a fascinating look at the city’s 300 year old roots in steel production and industrial churn, and is interactive, atmospheric, and a great one for families especially.

Make sure you grab a drink from neighbouring Millowners Arms pub afterwards – part exhibition, part real-deal pub – you’ve earned it!

Evening

As golden hour approaches, head back to Sheffield’s centre and snap historic treasures such as the Victoria Hall, City Hall and Town Hall – don’t miss the iconic Women of Steel sculpture while you’re here!

Then duck inside the Cosy Club, where the seasonal cocktail menu is the perfect pick me up (especially if you go for the tiramisu martini!) and you can enjoy dinner amidst a picturesque vintage decor – the Thai steamed seabass is a winner apparently!

If you’re up for a show, grab tickets to a performance at the world-famous Crucible Theatre, which is home to the World Snooker Championships and award-winning theatrical performances.

This isn’t just one of the top things to do in Sheffield – it’s one of the best things to do in Yorkshire!

Otherwise, keep things chilled with a luxe film night at nearby Curzon Cinema – with cocktails and carefully chosen flicks, it’s a high-end cinema experience that still feels down-to-earth.

Spend the Night

When it’s time to crash, head to Miller & Carter, a centrally located hotel perfect an overnight stay that’s just a short walk from the Peace Gardens.

Offering clean, comfortable rooms for families, solo travellers, couples and families, I think it’s one of the best hotels in this vibrant city.

Plus there’s a popular posh steakhouse below the hotel if you’re ever peckish!

Late check-outs here mean you’ll have plenty of time for a slow morning on day 2 if you need to catch your breath!

Sheffield Day 2: Peak District National Park

After a brilliant first day exploring the heart of Sheffield, it’s time to leave the centre of this underrated spot and explore further afield!

My tip is to head out to the Peak District – of the UK’s best national parks that lies right on Sheffield’s doorstep!

From charming villages to epic hikes, it offers all manner of amazing adventures, but here’s the option I went for thanks to its easy public transport access from Sheffield and ability to get more than enough of my daily steps in!