Hotspot: Sheffield Botanical Gardens

If you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Sheffield city centre for a short while, then I would strongly recommend taking a trip to Sheffield Botanical Gardens.  Well within walking distance of the centre of town, the botanical gardens are the perfect place to stretch your legs and get a great big dose of nature. Even better - it’s great if you’re on a budget because these beautiful gardens are free to visit!

The site spans an incredible 19 acres and there are many different areas to explore. With nearly 20 different zones, from the traditional Victorian Garden through to the exotic Asian Garden, it’s super easy to get lost for a few hours. My favourite part of the gardens is the glass pavilions. In this stunning grade II listed building you’ll find unusual plants from far away regions such as South America and Australia. For me, the succulents and cacti in here are real highlights, and have given me loads of indoor-orientated botanical inspiration.

If the weather’s good you should definitely bring some food with you and have a picnic. I tend to find the lower gardens are the best spot to lay down the gingham – there are some lovely trees to sit under and you might even make friends with a squirrel or two!

In the winter, or if the weather isn’t so great, there’s a lovely café in the grounds called the Curator’s House. This cosy little eatery serves beverages, homemade cakes alongside more substantial meals such as burgers and sandwiches, so you certainly won’t go hungry!  

Once you are finished exploring the gardens don’t forget to head to Eccleshall Road (situated right outside the gardens) to hop in and out of a cluster of independent shops and cafes.

Sheffield Botanical Gardens
Clarkehouse Road, Sheffield S10 2LN

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