Sheffield is a vibrant city that blends industrial history and modern culture, leaving it full of art, music, and sports to explore. The city is home to a lively nightlife alongside a diverse and exciting culinary scene. As such, there are tons of spots to check out of an evening! My personal favourite is Kelham Island, it is so unique and offers a perfect spot for a date night or a night with friends!
1. Head to one of the many student bars or clubs
Sheffield has a vibrant nightlife scene, with student clubs and bars hosting events and themed nights weekly. This is a great way to spend a night in Sheffield, with cheap drinks and music you’ll love, it’s hard to go wrong. Clubs and bars on West Street tend to be free entry so that is always a great place to start.
There are lots of great student nights in Sheffield to try out. I recommend starting in West Street Live to make the most of a few cheap drinks (and I mean super cheap, if you spend more than £3 on a drink you’re doing it wrong!), make sure to get a cute picture in the photobooth before heading to Bierkeller, where I love to splash out on a pitcher they’re a tenner each but totally worth it! Have a dance on the benches before ending the evening in Tiger Works, there might be a queue to get in, but it’s the best club on West Street so no wonder everyone queues up for it! Clubs such as The Leadmill, The Foundry, Tank or Code (only open for specific events) are ticketed so make sure you buy a ticket in advance, you can chance it on the door if you are desperate!
2. Take a trip to Kelham Island
Kelham Island is a neighbourhood known for its industrial arty vibe, filled with independent bars, eateries, galleries and indie shopping locations. In fact, it was voted one of Britain’s coolest neighbourhoods by the Telegraph! Looking for itinerary inspo? Have a few drinks at The Fat Cat, a Victorian brewery with outdoor seating and live music. Next, dine at Cutlery Works, a popular food court. Then enjoy a street art tour and keep your eyes peeled for the famous ‘Phlegm’ mural or head to the Peddler Night Market (open first Friday and Saturday of the month) and enjoy street food and cocktails. Finish up your evening with live music at Yellow Arch studios!
3. Go for a relaxing dinner & drinks
Sheffield has plenty of options regarding dinner and drinks, whether you are dining on a budget or looking to explore international cuisine. The primary student hotspots are the city centre, like Ecclesall road or Broomhill. There are lots of independent restaurants which offer student discounts or deals, so it’s worth following their social media accounts to keep up to date with the best offers! Personally, I’d try out Mowgli’s – an Indian streetfood restaurant where you dine on swings ambient fairy lights!
4. Take an evening stroll
You may have heard of The Winter Garden and Peace Gardens; they are located in the city centre right by the town hall, and contain one of the largest temperate glass houses in the UK, which is specially lit up at nighttime. The Peace Gardens also boasts serene fountains and seating areas. With free entry to both, this is a perfect way to enjoy a no-spend evening!
5. Try one of these nocturnal activities
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If you are on the lookout for some fun nighttime activities look no further. Sheffield has a host of bowling alleys, mini golf courses, cinemas, theatres, comedy clubs and arcades to entertain you and all your friends. Check out Paneka, Tenpin Sheffield, Roxy Ballroom, Shuffle Shack and the Treehouse Board Game Cafe to get you started! As always, look out for student deals to save you a few quid and book in advance to save any wasted trips!
I’m a second year Politics and International Relations student at Sheffield, I am particularly passionate about social justice, reducing inequality and international affairs. Outside of academica, I try to make the most of every day and like to keep myself very busy! I enjoy writing about student life, particularly top tips for new students and mental wellbeing.
