Even though we’ll be keeping you busy with a jam packed itinerary for the Conference, we also understand that you’ll be wanting to see more of what Sheffield has to offer. So we’ve spent some time coming up with the top 10 things, we feel as native Sheffielders, that you need to see and do before leaving our wonderful city.
1.Visit the Botanical Gardens
The Sheffield Botanical gardens were designed by Robert Marnock and opened in 1836 to the public. The money for the build was raised through the selling of shares to the general public by the Sheffield Horticultural Society. By the end of the 19th Century, the Sheffield Town Trust purchased the Botanical Gardens and it has been a free attraction to the public ever since. The gardens have over 5000 species of plant over 19 acres as well as Victorian conservatories housing a range of exotic plants. Finish your day at the lovely tea room situated at the entrance to the gardens over looking the exquisite landscape.
2. See a show at the largest theatre complex outside of London
The Sheffield Theatres are the largest theatre complex outside of London and regular house well-renowned shows such as The Jersey Boys, An inspector calls and Grease: The musical as well as locally produced plays and amateur dramatic societies’ productions. It is quite common for visitors to book tickets on the day although many well known productions are easily sold out. The Lyceum theatre was built in 1879 and renovated in 1991 when it was reclassified to Grade II status. The Crucible theatre was built in 1971 and hosts the World Snooker Championships each year.
3. Visit the Winter Gardens
The Winter Gardens is the largest temperate glass house to be built in Europe and houses over 2,000 plants from all over the world. The glass construction was part of a £120 million “Heart of the City” regeneration project that renovated the area around the theatres and Winter Gardens. Also included in this was the Millennium Galleries and Peace Gardens; both of which are the perfect way to spend lazy afternoons. The bedding plants in the Winter Gardens are changed five times a year and each plant is watered individually by either a hosepipe or watering can to ensure that each plant is watered sufficiently. The Winter Gardens also comprises of a shop, café and entertaining space and is a favourite amongst families.
4. Afternoon tea at Leopold Square
Nothing is more quintessentially British than afternoon tea. We’ll be serving this during our poster session but if you can’t quite get enough of salmon blinis, finger sandwiches and scones with clotted cream, head down to Leopold Square where the Leopold Hotel will cater to your every need. Their afternoon tea is a mix of beautifully presented cakes, dainty pastries and scones served with an exquisite blend of the world’s finest teas. Served either inside the impressive lounge area or outside in the courtyard, this is definitely one to tick off your to do list.
5. Shopping at Meadowhall
For the shopaholics amongst you, nothing will curb your cravings for fashion like the Meadowhall shopping centre. Situated a short tram ride from the City centre, Meadowhall comprises of over 280 shops, a dining oasis featuring many well-know restaurants there will be something that takes your fancy and houses a cinema, it is definitely shopping heaven.
Stay tune for the remainder of our top 10 things to do in Sheffield before you leave.
Until next time,
Katy and the admin team.