Top 10 things to do while studying at Sheffield University

By Jade Ellis, BA Accounting and Financial Management

There is so much to do in Sheffield whilst you’re studying at university, so here are my top 10 things that you cannot miss out on doing!

Ecclesall Road

This road is not one to be missed, with a prime location next to Sheffield Botanical Gardens and Endcliffe park, it is a great for students living around the Endcliffe area and around. What doesn’t this road have? From luxury eateries to hair salons, “Eccy Road” (as it is known locally) is a stretch full of quality restaurants, coffee houses, pubs, bars and shops. My personal favourites would be eating at Red’s True BBQ and then going for cheaper drinks (as Ecclesall Road can be quite expensive) at every student’s favourite place ‘Spoons (The Sheaf Island).

Sheffield Botanical Gardens

Going back to Sheffield’s history the gardens opened in 1836, covering 19 acres and was re-opened by HRH The Prince of Wales on 1 September 2003. It is a very relaxing place, especially in the summer to go and look at the variety of plants. The collection of plants is from all over the world including Mediterranean, Asian, American prairie-style, woodland and rock-and-water plantings. It is definitely worth a visit if you are wanting a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in the centre.

Meadowhall Shopping Centre

One of Sheffield’s most known attractions is Meadowhall, Yorkshire’s largest shopping centre, and from the University of Sheffield it is a 20-minute tram ride away. It has everything from top high street fashion like Topshop and River Island, to designer shops like Flannels and House of Fraser. Not to forget the huge Oasis food court that has a vast number of restaurants like TGI Fridays, Nando’s, Coal, Wagamama’s and many more. It is a nice place to catch up with friends and have a bit of retail therapy to get you through long assignments and hours of revision.

 West Street

If you’re looking for a cheap night look no further than West Street. The £5 round Mon-Thurs from Tiger Works is a dream, it includes a VK of your choice, single vodka and mixer, sours shot and the deadly Jager bomb. You won’t need much more after this awesome foursome. There is also West Street Live that is still a casual and cheap night, so perfect for students and they also have deals throughout the week day nights.

 Valley Centertainment

A great place to go and spend some quality time socialising with your Uni friends is Centertainment. There is so much you can do such as; go to the cinema, go bowling with your course mate, go to adventure mini-golf, eat at restaurants like Coast to Coast and Chiquito’s or something a bit cheaper and quicker like a Five Guys or Subway catch up if you have a gap between lectures. There is something for everyone, and it is again only a 20 minute tram journey away from the University of Sheffield stop.

Ice Sheffield

Fancy a change from the usual leisure activities? Why not try ice-skating! It’s only a 20 minute tram ride to the arena stop and a 2 minute walk to Ice Sheffield, so it’s really easy to get there. You don’t need to be a pro to go, you can go and have a laugh with your mates and it’s a great way to keep fit and active. I think it is a great hobby and I really enjoy seeing my progress from not being able to stand on the ice to skating freely on it.

Kelham Island

A 15 minute walk from the city centre, Kelham Island has become one of thehippest places in the UK! It is mainly known for its Peddler Night Market on the first Friday and Saturday of every month, which offers amazing street food, craft beer and live music. It is truly not one to miss, with a diverse range of talent, it is an enjoyable weekend for you and your friends to enjoy, as well as stuffing your faces with fresh, great tasting food.

The Moor

It is a great shopping experience with only a 5 minute walk from the main University buildings to the centre. It has many high street retailers such as; Primark, Burton, Debenhams, GAP outlet and many more. It is an easy and quick way to go and update your university wardrobe for all the events at the SU. It is also a nice break from revision to go and browse the shops.

The Light Cinema

In the heart of the city centre is this smaller, cosier cinema in comparison to Centertainment’s Vue. It is a great experience with friends and is more of an intimate atmosphere, to give you a more personal experience watching the latest blockbusters and creating great memories.

 Revolution Sheffield

A great place to go to have a drink and socialise is Revolution just off West Street. They have an amazing menu with the choice of a selection of tasty grazers like mustard sausages and succulent chicken burgers. Not forgetting the 2 for 1 cocktail offer on weekdays, the Pornstar Martini is a must try! It is definitely an insta worthy experience with the great aesthetically presented food and drink, they even have a dance floor, what more could you ask for?