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Sheffield

The steel industry that made Sheffield famous is long gone, but after many years of decline this industrious city is on the up again – like many of northern England's cities, it has grabbed the opportunities presented by urban renewal with both hands and, shored up by a thriving student population, is working hard to reinvent itself.

Some of its old foundries, mills and forges are now interesting museums celebrating South Yorkshire's industrial heyday, and Kelham Island in particular is in the throes of a fascinating redevelopment. Sheffield isn't likely to win any prizes for its looks anytime soon, but its history is interesting enough to warrant a day or two's exploration.

Explore Sheffield

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Top attractions

These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Sheffield.

  • Museum

    Kelham Island Museum

    Sheffield's prodigious industrial heritage is the subject of this excellent museum, set on a human-made island in the city's oldest industrial district…

  • Gallery

    Millennium Gallery

    Sheffield's cultural revival is embodied in this collection of four galleries under one roof. Inside, the Ruskin Collection houses an eclectic display of…

  • Museum

    Abbeydale Industrial Hamlet

    In the days before steel mills, metalworking was carried out in hamlet communities like Abbeydale, situated by rivers and dams that were harnessed for…

  • Gardens

    Winter Gardens

    Pride of place in Sheffield's city centre goes to this wonderfully ambitious public space with a soaring glass roof supported by graceful arches of…

  • Gallery

    Graves Gallery

    This gallery has a neat and accessible display of British and European art from the 16th century to the present day, plus touring exhibitions; the big…

Top experiences

Whether it’s a guided tour of a historic landmark, private tasting of local delicacies, or an off-road adventure — explore the best experiences in Sheffield.

  • Activities