Things to see and do
Festival of the Outdoors 2025
Every March, as the days are getting longer, drier, and warmer in Sheffield, we celebrate what it means to be The Outdoor City, by hosting the Festival of the Outdoors.
You'll find everything from large-scale international sporting events to small community gatherings; from guided walks to some of the worlds hardest bouldering problems; outdoor markets to film festivals.
Check out the festival programme so far, with more to be announced...
'Steel City' to Real City
In the 1900s Sheffield was famed for its industry, and it remains a city of innovation to this day. However, the smoking chimney stacks are no more - instead you'll find a green, modern cityscape set against the stunning backdrop of the Peak District National Park.
With an amazing array of independent eateries and microbreweries, renowned live music, great outdoors, award-winning theatre, colourful street art, fascinating exhibitions and vibrant festivals throughout the year, there’s always something to keep you entertained.
So it's certainly not grim up north and you won't find a dull moment in Sheffield!
Top 10 Things to See
From the largest urban glass house in Europe to the largest theatre complex outside of London, there's lots to experience in Sheffield.
Don't know where to start? Here's 10 of the best, for a whistle-stop tour of Sheffield's must-see attractions.
What takes your fancy?
We might be England's 4th largest, but Sheffield is a compact city- so it's easy to get around and gives you more time to see/do more.
Museums & Galleries
We have an incredible selection of free galleries and museums to visit, from contemporary art to prolific industrial heritage.
Retail Therapy
Our extensive independent scene is tucked in different pockets all around the city. There's loads to explore, from specialist plant shops to vintage stores.
A bit of adventure
We are, after all, The Outdoor City. Here you can rock climb, boulder, ride, run and walk to your heart's content - and still find great food and drink to go with it all.
Heritage & Architecture
Everywhere you go you'll find contrasts between old and new. From neo-classical to Brutalist, we even have the largest Grade II listed building in Europe- Park Hill.
Parks & Gardens
Sheffield has array of beautiful outdoor places to enjoy. From the manicured lawns of the Botanical Gardens to ancient woodland and the parkland valleys you can follow out to the peaks.
See a show
Aside to the world famous Crucible and stunning Lyceum Theatre, there's also a wealth of smaller theatres dotted around the city and a strong scene of producing companies.
Game on with Sheffield's activity bars
If you're looking for a fun night out with friends, Sheffield has a great variety of activity bars to keep you thoroughly entertained.
From seriously crazy indoor golf, to shuffle board, bowling and board games- you will definitely not be bored!
Look Up!
Just launched in February 2023, you could be one of the lucky ones to see this world-first experience that is turning rooftops of city centre buildings into a free, augmented reality art gallery.
A pretty unique and memorable way of sharing where you've been with friends and family on social media...
Who are you visiting with?
There really is something for everyone - so whether you're with friends, family or loved ones, Sheffield has you covered.
Families
Sheffield is a really family-friendly city, so there's plenty to keep them entertained, no matter what age!
Couples
Whether it's a special occasion or you just want to explore somewhere new, there's lots to enjoy with your favourite person.
Groups
A brilliant city for that long-needed weekend away with your mates, Sheffield's size means there's loads to go at, but it's not so big that getting around becomes a mission.
