Some of the most unusual things to do in Sheffield!
If you are looking for interesting things to do in Sheffield then you have come to the right place. Sheffield is known for its many unusual attractions, vibrant culture and thriving food and drink scene, and is home to a variety of unusual things to do. Many people choose to relocate to Sheffield every year due to the variety of things on offer. Quirky bars and cafes, places to eat, underground walks, historical buildings and activities. Whether you’re looking for a fun, unique atmosphere, eccentric decor, or unconventional themes, there are many cool things to do in Sheffield and it has something to offer for every taste. In this article, we will take you on a journey through some of the most unusual things to do in Sheffield.
Steam Yard – Coffee with an industrial twist
For coffee lovers seeking a unique coffee shops experience, Steam Yard is a must-visit on days out in Sheffield. Housed in a former industrial building, this quirky cafe combines industrial aesthetics with a cozy atmosphere. Marvel at the exposed brick walls, vintage signage, and repurposed machinery as you enjoy a cup of expertly brewed coffee. Steam Yard takes pride in their specialty coffee offerings, from espresso-based drinks to pour-over brews.
Don’t forget to try their famous “Duffin” (a cross between a donut and a muffin) or indulge in their delectable brunch options. It’s a haven for coffee enthusiasts looking for a distinctive and relaxed setting. Welcome to Steam Yard
The Treehouse Board Game Cafe – Playful fun for all ages
If you are in Sheffield, places to see are many! Embark on a one-of-a-kind social adventure at The Treehouse Board Game Cafe. Nestled within its whimsical walls, this enchanting cafe boasts an extensive array of board games, ensuring endless amusement for all who enter. Savor delectable beverages and indulge in mouthwatering treats as you explore a captivating world of gaming. From beloved classics to engaging strategy games, there’s a game to captivate every heart.
Immerse yourself in the lively and inviting ambiance of The Treehouse, where friendships flourish and music and laughter fills the air. Whether you’re seeking a laid-back gathering with friends or a delightful family outing, this charming haven is the ideal destination. Unleash your inner child and lose yourself in the captivating realm of board games, where time disappears and memories are made.
For more info go to The Treehouse Board Game Cafe (treehousesheffield.com)
Tabby Teas -a cat café for cat lovers!
Amongst the many unusual things to do in Sheffield, Tabby Teas proudly provide a home to 11 delightful rescue cats. Their mission is to create a serene and soothing atmosphere, allowing both their customers and feline residents to bask in each other’s delightful company. Whether you arrive with a group of friends or seek a tranquil moment alone with our adorable kitties, they guarantee a purr-fectly wonderful experience.
Tabby Teas collaborate closely with two esteemed local charities: Mill House Animal Sanctuary and Cat-Ching Sheffield. Through their partnership, they ensure that the cats residing in the café are carefully chosen to lead contented lives there.
The rescued feline companions, all of whom are indoor cats, delight in the company of fellow cats and humans alike. If you’re considering adoption, they highly recommend reaching out to Mill House Animal Sanctuary or Cat-ching for further guidance and assistance.
Tabby Teas | Cat Cafe | Sheffield
Bishop’s House
Another of the interesting things to do in Sheffield is a visit to Bishop’s House. Immersed in a rich historical tapestry and exuding captivating allure, Bishops’ House stands as a testament to Sheffield’s vibrant past. This remarkable timber-framed building, lovingly preserved, serves as both a museum and Sheffield’s finest example of architectural grandeur.
Originally a yeoman’s farmstead nestled amidst sprawling fields, Bishop’s House has gracefully transformed into one of the region’s architectural gems. Today, it welcomes visitors as a captivating museum and plays host to a myriad of events, enchanting weddings, festivals and educational school visits.
The tireless efforts of The Friends of Bishop’s House, in collaboration with Sheffield City Council, who oversee the maintenance of the building, and Museums Sheffield, who expertly curate the displayed artifacts, ensure that Bishop’s House remains open to the public, preserving its historical legacy for generations to come.
To learn more visit Bishops’ House – Sheffield’s hidden Tudor gem (bishopshouse.org.uk)
Tour Secret Tunnels beneath Sheffield to The Megatron
One of the most unusual things to do in Sheffield is to visit the underground tunnels!
The Sheaf and Porter Rivers Trust formed to try and preserve and uncover hidden rivers in and around Sheffield. An example is the Porter Brook Pocket Park. Here, the river runs alongside a little city centre park; somewhere you can go to enjoy lunch or have a nice relaxing sit right next to the river.
Entrance/exit to secret tunnels under Sheffield Train Station
Attracting wildlife back into the city is an important aim too. With open rivers and gardens come more diverse fish and wildlife. Water flowing and plants being able to grow in the open attracts various bugs, birds and other animals that have previously been lost due to urban spread. Reintroducing this biodiversity helps with health, mental wellbeing, economy, tourism and many other important factors.
Additionally, the trust have been conducting tours of river culverts underneath Sheffield. The ‘urban caving’ walks in these ‘secret tunnels’ follow a large portion of the city centre. Visitors can discover what there is to offer from these lost and hidden rivers — and what exists beneath Sheffield.
History of secret tunnels and hidden rivers beneath Sheffield
There is a lot of history to discover from the culverts and storm drains of Sheffield.
Victorian tunnels under Sheffield Train Station, where the Porter Brook meets the river Sheaf, eventually leading to the Megatron
Along the rivers you can find remains of old Crucibles — used in steel-making — that had been discarded into the river.
A cheap snack for working classes in Victorian times would have been oysters. This fact is visible due to the plentiful of oyster shells to be found along the river journey into town.
There is also other industrial and architectural history. Abandoned artefacts, such as bricks from Sheffield’s Gregory Brick Company amongst others, give a glimpse of the city’s heritage. Meanwhile, the tunnels themselves are an insight into incredible Victorian architecture.
Plans to uncover Sheffield’s hidden rivers
At the Megatron, Chair of Sheffield’s Waterways Strategy Group Simon Ogden tells us about future plans for Sheffield’s culverts.
Ambitions include creating the ‘Sheaf Field’ park and removing part of the deteriorated culvert. This would open out the river Sheaf by the ruins of Sheffield’s old castle at the old Castle Market site. Stakeholders are exploring the possibility of having water sports such as kayaking on a stretch of the river here.
Plans for Castlegate ‘Sheaf Field’ Park on the site of the old Castle Market
There are also plans to open up light wells where access points are currently situated. As a result, fish — including salmon — would be able to move upstream and into the city centre.
Hidden rivers and secret tunnels route to The Megatron
Secret Tunnels under Sheffield Train Station, leading to The Megatron river culvert system
On the tour you go from Porter Brook Pocket Park past BBC Radio Sheffield and under South Yorkshire Archives/Red Tape Studios. For this section of the journey you follow the Porter Brook river.
Tunnels get smaller as you go under Site Gallery/The Showroom/Workstation. Continuing under Shoreham Street/Sheaf Street you then emerge by the Station Q-Park for a short distance in the open.
Under Cross Turner Street you head underneath Sheffield Train Station to the amazing Victorian tunnel network. The Porter meets the river Sheaf directly under Platform 5A.
For more details of this unusual and interesting tour go to Sheffield’s Secret Tunnels, Hidden Rivers and ‘The Megatron’! • The Sheffield Guide
Axe throwing in Sheffield!
Discover the ultimate thrill for the warrior in you at some cool places in Sheffield! Indulge them in an exhilarating axe throwing adventure, where they’ll receive comprehensive instruction on the art of expertly hurling tomahawk axes at timber targets.
Under expert guidance, you’ll strive to achieve a perfect stick with each throw, engaging in friendly competition with others or honing your technique independently.
Experience the sheer thrill and addictive nature of successfully landing your axe onto the target!
Pricing:
Approximately £50-£70 for 1-2 people for a duration of about an hour, and £30 per person for groups of 3-12 individuals.
Embrace this one-of-a-kind opportunity, as our range caters exclusively to one booking at a time. Your session will be completely private and customized to accommodate your preferences and needs. Below are some links to get you started!
Axe Throwing – Sheffield (boombattlebar.com)
Sheffield Axe Throwing | BattleAxe Urban Axe Throwing | England (battleaxesheffield.co.uk) This company also offers parties!
Extra Life Gaming Lounge
Another of the unusual things to do in Sheffield is to immerse yourself in an exhilarating evening at Extra Life Gaming Lounge, the ultimate destination for endless fun and excitement. Step into a captivating world of video games, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere of this premier gaming bar. With a diverse collection of consoles and games available free of charge, you can choose your favorites and embark on thrilling adventures.
Alternatively, take a moment to relax and savor the delightful combination of a steaming cup of coffee and a mouthwatering slice of cake. Indulge your palate with a tempting array of snacks, as well as hot and cold food options, perfect for enjoying on-site or taking away. Treat yourself to a homemade burger, a tantalizing melt, or satisfy your sweet cravings with a slice of exquisite cake. After all, who can resist the allure of cake?
Curious about the duration of your visit?
Their fair use/spend guidance policy encourages a minimum spend of £2.50 per person on food and drinks for each hour of gaming.
Extra Life Gaming Lounge extends a warm welcome to families and prides itself on being a family-friendly establishment. However, to ensure safety and comply with their alcohol license requirements, they have a few exceptions. Children under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult, and individuals under 18 are not permitted on the premises after 21:00.
If you’re solely interested in gaming without food or drink, you’re in luck! You can enjoy their exceptional video games for a fixed price of £4.00 per person per hour.
If you have a specific console or game in mind, they recommend booking in advance to ensure availability during your visit.
Other attractions in Sheffield include the Botanical gardens which showcases exotic birds, plants and flowers, Meersbrook park, farm animals at Graves Park and Heeley City Farm where you can get hands on experiences of holding the small animals such as guinea pigs and rabbits. Mayfield alpacas is in Fulwood and open for alpaca walks and feeding. The list is endless so it might be worth visiting Things to see and do in Sheffield (welcometosheffield.co.uk)
These are just some of the unusual things to do in Sheffield. If you are thinking of moving to Sheffield, check out Steel City Relocation Services who can help find you your perfect property and ease you into Steel City Life!
