University of Sheffield Tours and Activities

Guided tours allow you to join the students and admire the architecture in the dynamic campus of one of the U.K.’s original redbrick universities.

The University of Sheffield has long been among the top further education institutions in the United Kingdom. The university offers campus tours for a closer look at its historic buildings and cutting-edge facilities. Chat with the students to find out more about campus life in this educational hub.

Download the Campus Tour Podcast and embark on a self-guided circuit of the campus. You can also take one of the free 75-minute campus tours with a trained Student Ambassador on Wednesdays. Enter the Students’ Union to arrive in the epicenter of student life at Sheffield. Revel in the youthful vibe, as you browse its shops, bars and cafés. Attend a live music recital, watch a movie screening or attend a talk.

Among the campus highlights is the Octagon Centre, where graduation ceremonies take place. See one of your favorite bands in this acclaimed music venue. Admire the Edwardian Firth Court and the impressive Western Bank Library. Visit the Alfred Denny Museum of Zoology to see written letters from Charles Darwin alongside a range of animal specimens.

Other architectural gems dotted around the campus include the old hospital wing now known as the Jessop Building, the modern English department called The Diamond and the innovative music studios of The Soundhouse.

Note that the university first opened in 1905 and today has around 30,000 students and more than 8,000 staff. It is a part of the esteemed Russell Group, an association of research universities with members that are known for their extensive research facilities.

If you wish to visit the inside of a particular academic department, contact the related staff member 2 weeks in advance. At times, tours of student accommodations are available.

The University of Sheffield is on the western side of the city center. Ride the tram to the university’s namesake stop or get a bus here. Drive and for a fee you can leave your car in the parking lot in the university’s southwestern corner. Visit some of the neighboring attractions and green areas, such as Weston Park Museum, Crookes Valley Park and the Ponderosa park.

Popular places to visit

Weston Park Museum which includes heritage architecture

Weston Park Museum

Bring children to this family-friendly museum, which has fun-filled exhibits that link Sheffield to natural oddities and historic treasures across the globe.

Weston Park Museum
Sheffield City Hall which includes theatre scenes, a fountain and heritage architecture

Sheffield City Hall

Attend a concert at one of three halls in this impressive music venue, which has hosted some of the biggest names to come to Sheffield.

Sheffield City Hall
Sheffield Cathedral which includes night scenes, a church or cathedral and heritage architecture

Sheffield Cathedral

Peruse the intriguing military ornaments in the chapel and gaze up at the impressive lantern tower of this historic and architecturally intriguing church.

Sheffield Cathedral
Sheffield Town Hall featuring an administrative building, heritage architecture and a fountain

Sheffield Town Hall

Capture photos of the elegant façade and peruse the intriguing trinkets and treasures in this structure overlooking the Peace Gardens.

Sheffield Town Hall
Peace Gardens showing a fountain and a garden

Peace Gardens

Take a moment to relax or check out stunning water features and statues in this tranquil park fronting the splendid Sheffield Town Hall.

Peace Gardens
Kelham Island Museum which includes signage

Kelham Island Museum

Peruse the array of quirky contraptions and science displays that illustrate Sheffield’s industrial revolution at this intriguing island museum.

Kelham Island Museum

Top University of Sheffield Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Radisson Blu Hotel, Sheffield

Radisson Blu Hotel, Sheffield

4 out of 5
Pinstone Street, 30, Sheffield, England
Radisson Blu Hotel, Sheffield
Leonardo Hotel Sheffield

Leonardo Hotel Sheffield

4 out of 5
119 Eyre Street, Sheffield, England
Leonardo Hotel Sheffield
Leopold Hotel

Leopold Hotel

4 out of 5
2 Leopold Street, Leopold Square, Sheffield, England
Leopold Hotel
The Rutland Hotel

The Rutland Hotel

3 out of 5
452 Glossop Road, Sheffield, England
The Rutland Hotel
Novotel Sheffield Centre

Novotel Sheffield Centre

4 out of 5
50 Arundel Gate, Sheffield, England
Novotel Sheffield Centre
Hampton By Hilton Sheffield

Hampton By Hilton Sheffield

3 out of 5
West Bar Green, Sheffield, England
Hampton By Hilton Sheffield
DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City

4 out of 5
Bramall Lane, Sheffield, England
DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield City
easyHotel Sheffield

easyHotel Sheffield

3 out of 5
71 High Street, Sheffield, England
easyHotel Sheffield
Best Western Plus The Quays Hotel Sheffield

Best Western Plus The Quays Hotel Sheffield

4 out of 5
Victoria Quays, Furnival Road, Sheffield, England
Best Western Plus The Quays Hotel Sheffield
See all 1,301 properties in University of Sheffield
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near University of Sheffield

When visiting the University of Sheffield, you'll find exciting entertainment options nearby, including vibrant theatre performances. For those looking to unwind, Sheffield also boasts several relaxing spas where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments. Make sure to explore these activities to enhance your stay in this charming city.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Meadowhall Shopping Centre, only 6.4km away, offering a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, check out Parkgate Shopping Park at 11.3km and Chesterfield Market at 16.1km for unique finds and local vibes.

Recreation

At Ponds Forge International Sports Centre, enjoy a range of wellness activities including swimming and fitness classes, all within a relaxing environment. Sheffield City Hall hosts delightful music concerts, perfect for unwinding. Bramall Lane offers thrilling sporting events, immersing you in the vibrant sports culture of Sheffield.

Adventure

Experience the stunning Rivelin Valley Nature Trail, a scenic hiking adventure only 1.6km from the University of Sheffield. Enjoy the thrill of racing at Parkwood Karting, also 1.6km away, or take in the picturesque Sheffield and Tinsley Canal Trail, offering beautiful outdoor vibes.

Nightlife

The nightlife at the University of Sheffield is vibrant and diverse. The Crucible Theatre offers captivating performances, while The Play Arena guarantees fun for the whole family. For a cinematic experience, Cineworld Sheffield presents the latest films, perfect for a romantic night out or a family adventure.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near University of Sheffield

When visiting the University of Sheffield, you’ll find a mix of urban parks, museums, and entertainment venues to explore. Discover iconic Sheffield venues, visit the university itself, and check out nearby attractions like Sheffield Cathedral. For a comfortable stay, consider hotels close to the university. Whether you’re after culture, family-friendly activities, or outdoor experiences, Sheffield has something for everyone.

  • Utilita Arena Sheffield: This vibrant arena offers a thrilling entertainment experience, hosting concerts and events that cater to families and all ages. With its lively atmosphere, you’re sure to enjoy a memorable night out.
  • Sheffield Hallam University: As a modern institution, Sheffield Hallam University boasts a dynamic city vibe, blending cutting-edge facilities with a diverse student community. Explore its innovative spaces and perhaps catch a cultural event.
  • Kelham Island Museum: Dive into Sheffield’s rich industrial history at this engaging museum. With its cultural charm, you’ll discover fascinating exhibits that celebrate the city’s heritage and craftsmanship.

Best time to go to University of Sheffield

The best time to visit University of Sheffield can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around University of Sheffield falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature around University of Sheffield falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January38.7°F (3.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowSlightly Low
February39.7°F (4.3°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
March42.4°F (5.8°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighSlightly Low
April46.6°F (8.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May52.0°F (11.1°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
June57.6°F (14.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
July61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly High
August60.6°F (15.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
September56.7°F (13.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately HighAverage
October51.3°F (10.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November44.6°F (7.0°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage
December40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyModerately LowAverage

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for University of Sheffield

For a budget-friendly trip to the University of Sheffield, consider visiting from January to March when accommodation prices are lower, especially on Sundays. Avoid Saturdays for the best rates. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and preferences, and sort results from lowest to highest. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Explore free activities around Sheffield, and take advantage of local public transport options to save on travel costs. Keep an eye out for special offers and discounted hotel rates to maximise your savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around University of Sheffield are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May to July, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around University of Sheffield is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around University of Sheffield is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you prefer. To uncover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by combining your hotel stay at the University of Sheffield with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.