Sheffield is a lesser-known chunk of gold on the UK tourist scene. With plenty of galleries, activities and rich history to explore, the atmospheric centre makes a handy staycation destination. Here are some of our favourite things to do in Sheffield.
Cultural attractions
Visit some of Sheffield’s cultural attractions whilst giving the kids plenty to see and do. The family-friendly Millennium Gallery Sheffield is right downtown and packed with local arts and crafts. Here you can learn all about the metalwork which made the city famous. There are plenty of family trails and one-off creative events for all ages, particularly during school holidays.
The beautiful Chatsworth House is just south of the city centre, around a 40-minute drive or bus ride from the Sheffield Interchange. With stunning gardens, 1000 acres of land, a large art collection and a gorgeous farm shop and restaurant, it makes a great day out for the whole family. Kids will love the farmyard and adventure playgrounds, which have animal handling, milking demonstrations, slides and trampolines.
To explore the city itself, hunt out the Sheffield Treasure Trail, an organised treasure hunt that invites you to seek out hidden treasures whilst passing through some of the city’s most scenic areas.
A memorable trip to the theatre
Inspire your kids with a special trip to the theatre. Sheffield hosts an array of enticing theatres from the Library Theatre to the City Hall. Take your children to see their favourite band or beloved TV star. Want to book ahead? Visit Theatres Online to ensure you never miss a show in Sheffield.
Sheffield for activity-seekers
The National Videogame Museum is a family-friendly museum where visitors can explore how videogames are made, who makes them, and even why they are made. Play over 100 games from retro arcade machines to modern console classics. Discover the history and cultural importance of games and the people behind them via unique exhibitions.
Magna Science Adventure Centre is designed for kids who love to explore and is packed with interactive exhibits that are as fun as they are educational. You can operate real JCBs, explode a rock face and even see a tornado of fire. The outdoor play centre uses the laws of physics to get children climbing and balancing.
For animal-lovers, a visit to the Tropical Butterfly House and Falconry Centre is essential. Here you can get hands-on with a variety of birds and mini beasts, including meerkats. The butterfly house itself replicates a rainforest environment and houses several species of reptiles and free-flying birds as well as, of course, plenty of butterflies.
Petting zoo. Photo © dennisvdw
At the Altitude High Ropes Adventure at iceSheffield you and your little ones can feel the exhilaration of a huge adventure-rope course that ends with a thrilling 30ft leap of faith. iceSheffield is also home to an enormous ice skating rink that has skating lessons for beginners and the occasional ice disco too.
Food and drink
There are several good family restaurants in Sheffield outside of the major chains. Homemade by Thelmas is the best for healthy options for the kids with plenty of fresh fruit and veg, whilst the Forum Café Bar is a licensed bar that welcomes families, making a great choice for older kids.
Good for you. Photo © romrodinka
