About Sheffield
Places to visit
Parks and gardens
Sheffield Botanical Gardens (map)
Faithfully restored to its Victorian glory, the Botanical Gardens is a lovely spot for a gentle promenade followed by coffee and cake in the excellent tea rooms.
Winter Gardens
You won’t miss out on this recent addition to the Sheffield skyline, since it is right next to the conference venue. The conference Wine reception will be held here and it will be open exclusively for Conference delegates both Wed and Thu nights.
Of the many Sheffield Parks, verdant Endcliffe is perhaps the finest. Catch a bus to Hunters Bar or stroll down tree-lined Ecclesall Road past the boutiques and restaurants, before exploring the park and woodlands. If you are feeling really adventurous you can continue up through Bingham Park, Whiteley Woods and the Porter Valley all the way into the Peak District, or even attempt the Sheffield Round Walk.
Museums and Galleries
Millenium Galleries (map)
Adjacent to the conference venue, so no excuse to miss this one, which features exhibitions on Sheffield’s cutlery industry and other topical themes.
Weston Park Museum (map)
Another recently restored attraction, which is next door to our departmental base at IWP in Mushroom lane. Set in the pleasant Weston Park and with a nice café too. Catch a 51 or 52 bus from town to the Childrens’ Hospital; the main gates are just opposite.
Kelham Island Museum (map)
The full might of Sheffield’s industrial past is captured in a series of exhibits, the highlight of which is the giant River Don engine, which is started up a few times each day. Next door to Kelham Island Brewery and the legendary Fat Cat pub. Catch a tram to Shalesmoor and walk through the atmospheric back streets of this old industrial, area.
Magna (map)
Not strictly in Sheffield, but this award-winning interactive science and technology visitor attraction in an old steel mill is just the other side of city limits in neighbouring Rotherham.
The Sheffield Tourist Board website offers further information on all of the above and a host of other attractions.
Shopping
Devonshire Quarter(map)
Quirky independent shops and cafes, with a relaxed feel. Five minutes walk up Division Street from the Conference Hotel.
Ecclesall Road (map)
This attractive tree-lined road is home to Sheffield’s upmarket boutiques and bars, and some interesting shops; the Sheffield Shop is a fine place to buy a memento of your visit! A number of excellent cafes cluster around the Hunters Bar area; try Taste to eat in and the Greek Deli for a fine takeaway lunch.
Meadowhall(map)
Large out-of-town shopping centre on the Eastern edge of the city. Access by tram or train advisable; it tends to get very busy at the weekend.