5 Museums in Sheffield for Your Next Day Out

Looking for a change of scenery from the library or just a fun way to spend an afternoon? Sheffield is a city bursting with culture and history, and its museums are some of the best ways to experience it. Whether you’re an international student exploring your new city or a local looking for something new, the range of museums in Sheffield means there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of them are completely free, making them perfect for that student budget!

Let’s dive in and explore our five top museums in Sheffield for your next day out.

1. Weston Park Museum

Weston Park Museum is a fantastic place to begin your day of museum hopping. Set in a stunning park near to the University of Sheffield, it’s easy to get to and explore the amazing exhibits.

Visitors can wander through galleries that tell the story of Sheffield from prehistoric times to the present day, immersing you in the entire history of your student city. The section on the city’s development from a small town to a bustling industrial hub is particularly interesting. Aside from this, you’ll also find Egyptian artifacts, and a real-life polar bear inside.

It’s the ideal museum for anyone wanting to enjoy a little bit of everything from their day out.

2. Kelham Island Museum

If you’re into history, innovation, or just love a good story, then Kelham Island Museum is a must visit. This place is all about the historic steel industry that put Sheffield on the map.

The museum itself is located on the man-made Kelham Island in the middle of the River Don and feels like a step back in time. Inside, you can witness the massive River Don Engine in action, which is an incredible sight that truly brings the city’s industrial past to life.

You can also explore the ‘Little Mesters’ workshops, which show what life was like for the local craftsmen who built Sheffield’s reputation as the “Steel City.”

3. National Videogame Museum

For more of a modern day out, the National Videogame Museum is a place of pure fun for students. Forget everything you thought you knew about museums, because here you’ll be enjoying the art of play.

Featuring over a hundred playable exhibits, you can get your hands on everything from retro arcade classics to recently released indie games. It’s a brilliant way to spend an afternoon with friends, challenging each other to high scores.

This is not just a game centre, though; it’s a proper museum that explores the history of video games and the culture around them. It’s one of the more unique things to do in Sheffield and worth the ticket price for a day of fun.

4. Millennium Gallery

Anyone who appreciates classic art and design, the Millennium Gallery is the perfect spot for some time to yourself. Located right in the city centre, it’s a calm oasis away from the hustle and bustle.

The gallery has a stunning collection of metalwork that highlights the city’s incredible craftsmanship. You’ll also find a rotating lineup of special exhibitions from major galleries like the V&A and Tate.

It’s always a good idea to check their website to see what’s on, as there’s often something new and exciting to indulge in. It’s a great place to soak in some culture from Sheffield and beyond.

5. National Emergency Services Museum

If you want to see some cool vehicles and learn about some real-life heroes, the National Emergency Services Museum is a fantastic choice. Housed in a former police, fire, and ambulance station, this museum is packed with incredible history.

You can see everything from vintage fire engines to old police cars. It’s a great place to get up close to the amazing vehicles and equipment that have been used to save lives and keep the city safe for generations.

The museum also has a range of interactive displays and is popular with people of all ages. It’s a bit different from your typical museum and is a great option for a unique day out in Sheffield.

Why Are Museums a Great Idea for Students?

Beyond the obvious fun and educational benefits, museums are a brilliant resource for student life. Here are just a few reasons why you should make them part of your weekend routine:

• They’re often free: As mentioned, many of Sheffield’s museums, like Weston Park and the Millennium Gallery, have free admission. This makes them a perfect activity when you’re on a tight budget.
• They offer a quiet space: When the library is too loud or you just need a break from studying, a museum provides a calm and reflective environment to clear your head.
• They’re social: Museums can be a great place to meet up with friends for a coffee and a chat. You can explore together or just use it as a relaxed backdrop for catching up.
• They’re a learning experience: They offer a chance to engage with Sheffield’s culture and history outside of a classroom setting, which can be a great way to deepen your understanding of the city around you.
• They help with wellbeing: Stepping into a different environment can reduce stress and improve your mood, giving you a refreshing break from your academic workload.

Ready to Explore Sheffield? 

These five museums offer just a taste of what the city has to offer. Whether you’re into history, art, or just want to have some fun, there’s a museum for every interest. The best part is that many of them are free, so you can visit as often as you like without breaking the bank. So, why not grab a friend or a flatmate and make a plan for your next day out?

Looking for more reasons why Sheffield should be your new home? Take a look at our dedicated city page to learn more.