Tag: Why I love Sheffield

Getting in touch with nature in Sheffield

By Abigail Cook, MSc Management

Sometimes when you are studying at university (especially in a big, busy city like Sheffield), it can be difficult to get away from staring at textbooks and laptops and get some fresh air, exercise outdoors and reconnect with nature. These are a few of my recommendations and ideas to help get you outside and exploring the wonderful city of Sheffield and the beautiful landscapes surrounding it!

  1. Rivelin Valley walk

This is a walk that I discovered entirely by accident one day, and which I have returned to countless times since. It is one of my favourite places to take family and friends when they come to visit, and never fails to disappoint! This trail takes you through the lovely Rivelin River valley in Sheffield, running alongside the river through beautiful woodland for about 2.5 miles. Along the way you’ll pass weirs, ponds, stepping stones and little waterfalls. Look out for the resident heron who always visits the riverbanks! The walk starts at the car park off the Rivelin Valley Road and follows the waterside trail to Rivelin Park, which has a cafe, toilets and play area. Advantages to this walk include the fact that it is entirely free and is enjoyable in any season of the year.

  1. Mayfield Alpaca Farm

Situated on the outskirts of Sheffield, Mayfield Alpaca Farm is one of my favourite days out! If you are craving some animal contact, or seeking an outdoor activity, Mayfield Alpacas ticks all the boxes. For just a few pounds, you can walk around the farm and meet the alpacas, llamas, goats, pigs, horses, meerkats and other animals for as long as you like. You can also buy food for the alpacas and feed them. The alpacas are very friendly, entertaining and always ready for a photo!

  1. Walks in the Peak District

My final recommendation for getting outdoors is the Peak District. The National Park is right on Sheffield’s doorstep, and has endless opportunities for exploring, cycling, walking and more. A personal favourite of mine is the walk to Stanage Edge from Hathersage, a small, picturesque village in the Hope Valley. Stanage Edge is a popular location, with its striking rock formations and spectacular views. It particularly attracts rock climbers, who can usually be seen scaling the dramatic rock face. The walk is approximately 10km/6.5 miles (3-4 hours), following country lanes and tracks across beautiful landscapes to Stanage Edge.

My tips for taking an epic photograph in Sheffield

By Henan Zhang, MSc Creative and Cultural Industries Management

If you love Instagram like I do, you’ll know that it’s important to get unique and interesting photos. Luckily, Sheffield is great for this! For those that need some extra help, I’ve put together some tips on how to get that perfect shot.

Tip 1. Use the unique views from libraries

A library’s main function is obviously studying, but that doesn’t mean they’re boring! Information Commons is my favourite library in Sheffield University. I like it not only because of its quiet vibe, but also due to the great views.  The higher you go, the broader sky you can catch. If you stay (and study!) long enough, you might be lucky enough to see the colour change in the sky. The most amazing time is the moment just before sunset. The blue and pink merges together, creating a romantic picture.

Sunset from Information Commons
Outside the fourth floor window

If you’re in the library until late, this can be one of the best times for getting a photo. As it’s more empty than in the day, it gives you the chance to play around and get a unique picture.

Late evening at the Information Commons

Tip 2. Always look at the sky!

If you rush around and don’t take the time to look upwards, you’ll miss so many great photo opportunities! I find the clouds particularly beautiful, especially at dusk and dawn when they can change from white to multi-coloured!

Outside the Hicks Building

You can also get creative and use reflective spaces to capture the sky. Windows are perfect for this!

The windows of the Alfred Denny building

Parks are another perfect location for a great shot!

Blue skies in Weston Park

Tip 3. Don’t rush

It can be easy to rush from one lecture to the next and not take in anything that’s going on around you. Taking a few extra minutes to look around, you can get inspiration for some great shots.

Outside Firth Court

Tip 4. The Arts Tower!

As well as being the University’s landscape and architecture hub, the Arts Tower is a famous landmark of Sheffield. No matter whether it’s against a blue or pink sky, it always looks amazing.

If you are lucky to have a friend who is majoring in architecture, you can get access to the studio and enjoy a unique view of Sheffield.

The view of Sheffield from the Arts Tower

 

The architecture studio in the Arts Tower

Tip 5. Explore the independent shops

I love vintage shops, and Sheffield has loads of them! You never know what you’ll find in these quirky shops, and they make a great backdrop for a photo.

Sheffield is full of amazing and unique places, and my best advice is to get out and explore! If you love Sheffield as much as me, follow me on Instagram (@daaaaanan) – I can’t wait to see all of your pictures!