A thriving student population helps liven up things in the South Yorkshire city of Sheffield, a destination that gained significant public exposure through its depiction in the popular movie The Full Monty. In recent years, the city has begun to gain itself a reputation as a cultural center and with its location on the edge of England’s scenic Peak District, it’s understandable why it has become such an attractive day trip and short break destination.
Venture into the city center to find attractions such as the impressive Winter Garden, a botanical wonder that boasts the title of largest glasshouse in Europe. The Garden is home to over 2,000 plants with specimens from across the globe and includes a palm collection assembled from Madagascar, China and Central America. After an immersion in nature, opt for an immersion in culture at the nearby Millennium Galleries, where you will find a series of four different galleries that feature both permanent and visiting exhibitions.
For a touch of retail therapy, Sheffield offers plenty of options with the city center hosting pedestrianized areas, classy precincts and indoor shopping centers with big name stores. Meadowhall, located on the outskirts of the city, is a giant mall with over 270 stores plus restaurants and is the ideal place to head to when the English weather is living up to its sorry reputation.
Highlights
Birley Spa: dating from Victorian times, these now restored mineral baths are believed to offer healing powers to those who immerse themselves in the waters.
Sheffield Ski Village: attempting to replicate the conditions and terrain of a genuine ski resort, this manmade snow sports center offers an impressive eight different ski runs and can be used by skiers and snowboarders alike.
The Edge Climbing Centre: rock climbing is a popular outdoor sport in Sheffield and for those who prefer to get a little indoor practice before taking on local peaks and crags, this well equipped climbing center has everything necessary, including equipment and knowledgeable staff.
Sheffield Botanical Gardens: covering 19 acres and open since 1836, this popular attraction is a must for lovers of unusual and foreign species of flora.
The Peak District: just five miles from the city center, England’s Peak District is home to some of the country’s most beautiful scenery and the ideal place for pursuing outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking and rock climbing.
Millennium Galleries: check out artworks from the National Collection as well as works by contemporary artists in visiting exhibitions at this impressive gallery space.