By Christian Hassell, BA (Hons) Film and Media Production, 3rd Year.
Despite being one of the largest cities in Britain, Sheffield is often described as feeling more like a large town. With one of the biggest selling points being its sense of community. However, being so big there are many places which often go overlooked, especially right on your doorstep. With the holidays fast approaching it’s a good time to take a look at those little gems closer to home, those little places that make Sheffield so special. Here are 10 to get you started!
#1 THORS, Peace Gardens
First on the list is THORS. Only appearing at christmas it often goes overlooked, especially by students busy with revision and assignment work. But for a well earned break from your christmas shopping (or a bit of procrastination), head down to the Peace Gardens, buy a nice warm cider or mulled wine and take a seat beside the roaring log fire. There’s even an outdoor BBQ if you get peckish!
#2 Student theatre tickets only £5!
Theatres are an integral part of Sheffield. However, as the years go by the popularity of theatre shows have died down and for students running low on funds, especially at this time of year, the theatre is often the last thing on their mind. Well, unknown by many students, is that all year round, on the first Friday of the month, Sheffield theatres offer a limited number of student tickets, at only £5 each! These have included popular musicals such as Hairspray and the Wizard of Oz as well as Shakespeare performances and even ballet. Tickets are available either on the Sheffield Theatres website or the box office, so what are you waiting for!
#3 Cocoa Wonderland, Ecclesall Rd
Down Ecclesall road, just past Collegiate Campus, this little dessert café is hidden away. Owned by two ex-students from Sheffield Hallam, they serve amazing hot chocolates as well as cakes and other treats, which can’t go amiss during the coldest season of the year.
#4 Nottingham House, Whitham Rd
Close to University of Sheffield, a lot of Hallam students might not even know this place exists, but with the warm atmosphere, delicious home-made pies and value for money, I cannot recommend Nottingham House enough!
#5 Tabby Teas, Cemetery Rd
Cats! Opened earlier this year near London Road and Waitrose is Sheffield’s very own cat café! This is a gem many people have not heard of yet, but whether you have a love for cats or you’re feeling a bit homesick for you pets, nothing could be better than enjoying a hot drink with a furry friend (and maybe invite some human friends along too)!
#6 DINA, Cambridge Street
I never thought much of this little building. It doesn’t look like much from outside, tucked away behind John Lewis in the city centre. But it’s a great little venue with events running consistently throughout the year, from stand-up comedy nights and music performances, to small theatre productions. I went for the first time recently to watch an amateur theatre performance and it was a great night! Good drinks, friendly atmosphere and events to suit all tastes.
#7 Curzon
Hidden away just off the high street is this repurposed bank offers a genuine cinema experience difficult to match anywhere else. Showing independent films as well as new blockbuster releases, there’s also a great bar upstairs, where you can sit and catch up with friends before you go into the film.
#8 The library vending machine
The vending machine we need, but not the one we deserve. Many times, in the days and nights of darkness have I looked upon the vending machine. Spent my total sum of £1 on coffee and chocolate to help me survive the all-nighters slaving over assignments. Regardless it’s a gem… one we take for granted.
#9 The CABIN
The Cabin, tucked away just off The Moor, has got to be on the list! Head down to this Canadian-style waffle house with your family or friends. There’s everything from waffle based pizzas to ‘the works’ breakfast pancakes, available all day long, and a huge choice of sweet options too it’s entirely up to you! And whilst you’re there why not take on their pancake challenge!
#10 Roller disco
Many people don’t realise that on Queens Road, there is actually a roller-skate venue, just by the Casino. I ended up going to a roller disco there during my first year during fresher’s week. Probably not a good idea to mix drinks and skates, but despite some falls, everyone had an amazing time and we all had a lot to laugh about afterwards. Definitely worth a couple of bruises and I recommend a visit!
