By Rachel Measures, Masters in PR.
Here are a few of the things I like to do in Sheffield that cost nothing at all, so they’re great on a student budget.
Based on Arundel Gate, the gallery features several collections and exhibitions, two which are permanent and two are temporary, and leads into the Winter Gardens (a very pretty indoor garden). You don’t have to pay a penny but if you feel like donating or buying something in the gift shop you can. The gift shop is great; I frequently wander through the gallery and have something catch my eye. It’s really good for quirky gifts for other people too.
You can take a walk from the city centre to Endcliffe Park and enjoy a wander around the trees, ponds and park spaces that create the perfect mix of woodland and parkland to spend an afternoon in. I absolutely adore Endcliffe Park and I find it a relaxing walk.
Feed Squirrels at the Botanical Gardens
19 acres of land are tucked away off Ecclesall road within the amazing Botanical Gardens. I adore days out to the gardens and really enjoy taking new people to them to feed the squirrels, enjoy the scenery and look at the plants.
Explore Weston Park and Museum
Weston Park is another park hidden within the city which was originally developed as the grounds to Weston Hall. However, Weston Hall has now been converted into a museum which features Sheffield archaeology, natural history, art and social history collections. I’ve been to the park a few times and enjoy popping into the museum for free to learn more about Sheffield’s past.
Independent Shops down Eccy Rd or Division Street
If you like shopping I would recommend wandering down either Division Street in the city centre or down Ecclesall Road on the way to and past Collegiate Campus. Both roads are filled with quirky independent stores; Division Street is particularly popular for vintage stores and has helped me find the perfect skirt before.
Take a walk down Victoria Quays
For a peaceful walk, you can head to the canal and learn about Sheffield’s industrial past. I haven’t yet explored this walk but I can’t wait to give it a go!
See animals at Heeley City Farm
Hidden away, Heeley City Farm has a range of animals to go and say hello to. I’ve been before for the beer festival and it was a good day out, but I can’t wait to take my boyfriend and explore it again.
Head out to the peaks for a day
Take a hike, see the scenery, enjoy the views and the nature; there’s a tonne of hidden gems not far from Sheffield which are totally free to look at. Those nearer can be walked to, but otherwise a bus can take you closer. I love taking trips to the Peak District and it never gets boring.
