A travel guide to
Sheffield.
Known for
The Steel Industry, Outdoor spaces, Sporting Heritage, The Arctic Monkeys, Culture…
This is Sheffield.
Welcome to Sheffield, the vibrant heart of South Yorkshire. Nestled amidst rolling hills and verdant landscapes, this city boasts a unique blend of industrial heritage, cultural vibrancy, and natural beauty. From its historic steelworks and iconic landmarks to its thriving arts scene and lush green spaces, Sheffield offers a diverse tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.
In this comprehensive guide, whether you’re embarking on your inaugural journey to this dynamic city or returning to uncover its hidden gems, you’ll find everything you need to make your Sheffield adventure unforgettable. Navigate seamlessly through the maze of attractions, discover insider tips on public transportation, and delve into the pulse of Sheffield’s culinary delights and vibrant nightlife. So, prepare to immerse yourself in the charm of one of England’s most captivating cities and discover why Sheffield is a true gem of South Yorkshire.
Sheffield Supertram
The Sheffield Supertram is a light rail tram system serving the city of Sheffield and its surrounding areas in South Yorkshire, England. Here are some key points about the Sheffield Supertram:
History: The Sheffield Supertram began operation in 1994, making it one of the earliest modern tram systems in the United Kingdom. It was developed as part of efforts to improve public transportation in Sheffield and reduce reliance on cars.
Network: The Supertram network consists of three main lines: the Blue Line, the Purple Line, and the Yellow Line. These lines connect various parts of Sheffield, including residential areas, business districts, and leisure destinations. The network spans approximately 29 kilometers (18 miles) and includes 48 tram stops. And a fourth tram-train line that connects the city with Rochdale.
Stations: Supertram stations are strategically located throughout Sheffield, providing convenient access to key destinations such as Sheffield City Centre, Meadowhall Shopping Centre, Sheffield University, and Sheffield Hallam University.
Metro Tickets
The Sheffield Supertram offers a variety of ticketing options to cater to different travel needs. Here’s an overview of ticketing on the Sheffield Supertram:
Single Tickets: Passengers can purchase single journey tickets for immediate travel. These tickets are valid for a single journey between two tram stops and must be used within a specified time period, typically around 90 minutes.
Day Tickets: Day tickets are available for unlimited travel on the Supertram network for a full day. They offer flexibility for passengers who plan to make multiple journeys within Sheffield and its surrounding areas.
Weekend Tickets: Weekend tickets are available for unlimited travel on Saturdays, Sundays, and bank holidays. These tickets offer discounted rates compared to standard day tickets and are ideal for leisure travellers exploring Sheffield over the weekend.
CityBus Tram Train Tickets: Passengers can purchase integrated tickets that allow travel on both the Sheffield Supertram and certain local bus services within Sheffield. These tickets provide seamless travel across different modes of public transportation in the city.
Stored Value Cards: Passengers can purchase stored value cards, known as ‘TravelMaster’ cards, which can be loaded with credit for use on the Supertram network and other participating public transport services in South Yorkshire. This option provides convenience for regular travellers who use public transportation frequently.
Concessionary Passes: Concessionary passes are available for eligible passengers, including seniors, disabled individuals, and children. These passes offer discounted or free travel on the Supertram network, depending on the passenger’s eligibility criteria.
Mobile Ticketing: Passengers can purchase and store tram tickets on their mobile devices using the Supertram mobile app. This convenient option allows passengers to buy tickets in advance and use them whenever they need to travel.
Operating Hours
The Sheffield Supertram operates with the following general schedule:
Monday to Thursday: Trams typically run from around 5:30 AM to midnight.
Friday and Saturday: Service is extended, with trams operating until approximately 1:00 AM.
Sunday and Bank Holidays: Service hours may be slightly reduced, with trams generally running from around 7:00 AM to midnight.
Please note that these are approximate operating hours, and exact timings may vary depending on the specific tram line, day of the week, and any special events or holidays. It’s always a good idea to check the official Supertram website or consult timetables at tram stops for the most up-to-date information on operating hours and service frequencies.
Accessibility
The Sheffield Supertram offers convenient accessibility throughout the city, with most tram stops equipped with ramps for easy wheelchair access. Additionally, all trams are low-floor, providing step-free access for passengers with mobility aids or strollers. Announcements and displays inside the trams provide clear information for visually impaired passengers, enhancing the overall accessibility of the system.
Alternative Transport
In addition to the Sheffield Supertram, Sheffield offers a range of other public transportation options:
Buses: Sheffield has an extensive bus network operated by several companies, including Stagecoach, First South Yorkshire, and TM Travel. Buses cover a wide area within Sheffield and its surrounding suburbs, providing comprehensive coverage for residents and visitors. The bus network offers various routes and schedules to accommodate different travel needs.
Trains: Sheffield is served by several train stations, including Sheffield Station, which is the primary railway station in the city center. Sheffield Station provides connections to destinations across the UK, with regular services to major cities such as London, Manchester, Leeds, and Nottingham. The rail network offers both regional and intercity services, providing convenient transportation options for commuters and travelers.
Cycling: Sheffield is a cyclist-friendly city, with a network of cycle lanes, paths, and routes for cyclists to explore. The city’s topography, with its hills and valleys, provides both challenging and scenic cycling opportunities. Sheffield also has a public bike-sharing scheme called “Sheffield Cycle Hub,” offering rental bikes for short-term use.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber operate in Sheffield, providing convenient door-to-door transportation options for passengers. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked in advance, while ride-sharing services offer on-demand rides through mobile apps.
Walking: Sheffield’s compact city center and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking a convenient and enjoyable way to get around. Many of the city’s attractions, shops, and restaurants are within walking distance of each other, allowing visitors to explore the city on foot.
Things to do in Sheffield
Discover Sheffield’s vibrant cultural scene, historic landmarks, and outdoor attractions. From exploring the city’s renowned museums and galleries to hiking in the nearby Peak District, there’s something for every traveler to enjoy in Sheffield. Dive into this section to uncover the top attractions and experiences that make Sheffield a captivating destination.
Weather in Sheffield, UK
In Sheffield, the weather varies throughout the year, experiencing mild summers and chilly winters. Rainfall is spread fairly evenly across the seasons, with occasional snowfall in the winter months. Overall, the climate is temperate, with moderate temperatures and a mix of sun, clouds, and precipitation throughout the year.
Average monthly temperatures
January 5°C (41ºF) | February 5°C (41ºF) | March 7ºC (45ºF) | April 9°C (48ºF) | May 12°C (54ºF) | June 15°C (59ºF) | July 17°C (63ºF) | August 17°C (63ºF) | September 14°C (57ºF) | October 11°C (52ºF) | November 7°C (45ºF) | December 5°C (41ºF)
Currency
The Currency in the UK is the Great British Pound.
Symbol: £
ISO Code: GBR
Bank notes come in £5 £10 £20 and £50, but £50 notes are rarely used.
There are 100 pence in a pound and the coins are in units of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p £1 and £2.
Some nicknames you might hear for notes:
fiver – £5
tenner – £10
Tipping
It’s less common to tip in the UK than it is in other countries and in most cases tipping is done out of politeness. If you go to a restaurant, especially if there is a large number of you, there may be a gratuity charge added on top of your bill. If there is no gratuity charge you can tip 10% – 15% if you think the service was good. Tipping in bars, pubs and clubs isn’t usually done unless you’re receiving table service.
Internet
Getting access to internet in Sheffield is pretty straight forward. Free Wifi can be found in most coffee shops, fast food restaurants and hotels. Sheffield Free Wi-Fi is a family friendly Wi-Fi service. It brings free, ultrafast Internet access to everyone living in, working in and visiting Sheffield City Centre. Alternatively, you can use this map of free Wifi hotspots available in Sheffield which is available for download on iOS and Android.