Immerse yourself in the urban tranquillity of Britain’s greenest city.
Sheffield is home to over 2 million trees, with one third of its area designated as part of the Peak District National Park. Sheffield is a nature lover’s paradise. For locals and visitors alike, it’s reassuring to know that staying in the hustle and bustle of Sheffield, you’re never far from a green space to find a bench and grab a few minutes of much-needed peace and quiet. For a visitor, Sheffield is a green-hued treasure trove of parks and gardens to explore in depth as they devote the whole day to reconnecting with nature.
Peace Gardens
With its fantastic Peace Gardens Sheffield takes the lead in showing other cities how to provide a green city-centre oasis for its residents to work, rest and play in. Located in a city square, with the imposing architecture of the gothic style Sheffield Town Hall as a backdrop, the gardens were a key part of Sheffield’s recent Heart of the City redevelopment project. In the summer families come prepared with swimming gear as it’s a rare child who can resist joining in the fun and splashing in the fountains before enjoying their picnic.
Sheffield Botanical Gardens
The 19-acre Sheffield Botanical Gardens were born in response to a petition in 1833 complaining about a lack of public green spaces and have been a key part of the city’s scenery ever since, providing a treat for the eyes all year-round. The gardens are proud to house the stunning Grade II listed Glass Pavilions, which have been restored to their former glory after being boarded up in the 1990s. The Asia Garden, Rose Garden and Woodland Gardens are all highlights, but there’s something to see at every turn, so no need to follow the map. There is also a flourishing special events programme of music, art and open air theatre for visitors to enjoy. The popular café is perfect for tea and cake.
Graves Park
When you’re enjoying the 87 hectares of Graves Park it can be hard to imagine that you are only three miles away from the city centre. If you’re visiting at the weekend or during school holidays you can take in the scenery from the Land Train that travels round the pond and drops you off at the café. Children will love both of the two playgrounds and the Animal Farm Park that is home to rare breed farm animals and a pets’ corner. Outdoor sports facilities for activities like fishing, tennis and pitch and putt are available seasonally. Alternatively, it’s possible to get right back to nature by just exploring the nature trail, woodlands and lakes.
Sheffield Winter Garden
Located in the city centre close to the Peace Gardens and the Millennium Gallery, the Winter Garden is a truly unique Sheffield icon. Home to over 2,500 species of plant that flourish in its temperate climate, the 70-metre long and 22-metre high Winter Garden is the largest urban glasshouse in the whole of Europe. Although greenery is in abundance here, the city’s presence is felt with a few niche retail outlets including an ever-changing pop up shop, and an interesting schedule of special events.
Endcliffe Park
Opened in 1887 to commemorate the jubilee of Queen Victoria, Endcliffe Park has been a favourite day out destination for Sheffield’s visitors and residents ever since. Located a couple of miles south-west of the city centre, Endcliffe Park has plenty to keep you happy all day long. The ever-changing floral landscape is a delight at any time of year, and with lakes, woodlands and riverside trails to wander, you’re spoilt for choice as to which route you take. As you explore you’ll come across pretty waterfalls and fascinating statues and sculptures. Children are well catered for with a playground and there’s a café to enjoy if you haven’t brought a picnic.
