How often do you say “we should go there” and then never quite get round to it? When you live in Sheffield, it’s easy to walk past places you’ve been meaning to visit for years or end up making the same plans every weekend.
Whether you’re getting friends together, planning a date or making the most of a day off, there are plenty of things to do in Sheffield worth stepping out for…
What to do in Sheffield…
Things to do in Sheffield include exploring the Botanical Gardens, visiting the Winter Garden and Millennium Gallery, and discovering the city’s history at Kelham Island Museum.
If you’re making evening plans, catch a show at the Crucible or Lyceum, settle in for a film at Showroom or join us for dinner at Napoleons Casino, Restaurant & Bar Sheffield.
Have a wander around the Botanical Gardens
Sometimes, all you want is a bit of fresh air and time to put the world to rights with someone you haven’t seen enough of lately.
The Botanical Gardens give you 19 acres to do just that. Follow the winding paths, have a look inside the glass pavilions and see if you can find the old bear pit between the Mediterranean and Himalayan gardens.
You don’t need to be a keen gardener to appreciate the surroundings, and entry is free. Bring someone whose company you enjoy and leave yourselves time for a wander.
Duck into the Winter Garden and Millennium Gallery
Wondering what to do in Sheffield when the rain arrives? These two neighbours make it easy to rescue your afternoon.
The Winter Garden is home to more than 2,500 plants from around the world. If you usually use it as a shortcut through town, give yourself a little longer to look around next time.
Then head into the adjoining Millennium Gallery, where you’ll find:
- Sheffield’s Metalwork Collection, celebrating the cutlery and tableware that made our city famous.
- The Ruskin Collection, bringing together art, illustrated manuscripts and minerals.
- Changing exhibitions, so there’s a reason to pop back even if you’ve been before.
Both are free to enter, with donations welcomed at the gallery – and great even when the weather is bright!
Rediscover Sheffield at Kelham Island Museum
If your last visit to Kelham Island Museum involved a school coach and a packed lunch, perhaps it’s time for another look.
Among the activities in Sheffield that help you get to know your own city; this one has plenty to keep you interested. Stroll along the cobbled Little Mesters Street, step inside the recreated 1916 house and take in the size of the River Don Engine.
It’s a reminder of the people and skills behind Sheffield’s steelmaking reputation. Admission is free, with donations encouraged; check the website for engine demonstration times and availability.
Give yourselves a night at the theatre
Looking for things to do in Sheffield for couples? Get a date in the diary, choose a show together and give yourselves an evening you’ve actually planned ahead for.
At the Crucible, seats wrap around three sides of the stage, with nobody more than 20 metres from the action. It’s a lovely way to feel close to a performance.
The Lyceum brings the grand surroundings, with an ornate auditorium and a programme of touring musicals, drama, comedy and dance. Whether you share the same taste or take turns choosing, there’s plenty to browse.
Try something different at Showroom
A film is a reliable choice when you’re searching for fun things to do in Sheffield, especially when nobody fancies making an elaborate plan.
Showroom offers British independent films, international cinema, documentaries and archive screenings in a converted 1930s Art Deco car showroom.
Choose something you might not normally watch or look out for a filmmaker Q&A. Either way, you’ll have something to talk about afterwards.
Pull up a chair at Napoleons Sheffield
You know those friends you keep promising to have dinner with? We’d love to help you make it happen.
We’ve been welcoming guests to Napoleons Sheffield in Hillsborough since 1996, with 2026 marking our 30th anniversary. That’s three decades of birthday meals, date nights and catching up around the table.
Depending on what you fancy, our dining offers include:
- Dine in Style: a drink on arrival, three courses and a £5 bet, subject to terms.
- Small plates: a few dishes to share while you catch up.
- 3Bs: Burger, beverage, and £5 bet – the ultimate trio.
Gaming is optional, and you’re welcome to make dinner and good company the focus of your visit. Napoleons is for over-18s only.
Take a look at our latest Sheffield events and offers and we’ll look forward to welcoming you.
Whether you’ve got a whole afternoon free or just an evening to yourselves, we hope you’ve found a few ideas worth getting everyone together for!