Top Rated Attractions in Sheffield

The house itself, set in a picturesque park, was originally built in the 16th Century and was extensively remodeled in the 17th and 18th Centuries. Visitors can tour 26 of the most grand rooms and see a magnificent art collection and, for an extra charge, the rooms Mary Queen of Scots stayed in between 1570 and 1581. Don't miss the beautifully landscaped gardens, which feature a maze and cascading waterfalls. For visiting hours, check the website or call ahead.

Sheffield's Botanical Gardens are a popular green oasis lying just off a frenzied shopping area. Replete with winding paths, extensive plant collections, droves of mature trees, and charming edifices, the gardens are home to some extremely well-designed Glass Pavilions which harbor temperate vegetation. The plants residing at the gardens boast a long-standing heritage, hence not just displaying unabashed beauty, but also a treasured legacy. There are also excellent views of the gardens from the Curator's House Tea Rooms and Restaurant at the Clarkehouse Road entrance. The rolling lawns that carpet it, carry the gardens' secrets, such as the Pan statue in the rose garden and the Bear Pit. Home to a scenic boardwalk, a Victorian rose garden and a rare fossil, these beautifully landscaped gardens, designated by English Heritage as being of major architectural and historical interest, are a secluded sanctum of heavenly flora combined with moments of peace.

One of the most renowned universities of UK, University of Sheffield is known for its emphasis on academic excellence and excellence in all other fields such as sports and music. Many well-known personalities including Eddie Izzard and Joseph Marcell have pursued their academics through this university. Featuring a host of cultural events and activities the year round, the university is known for adding to the city's art and cultural milieu.

Mary, Queen of Scots was held a prisoner in and around Sheffield for several years, but this manor is thought to be where she spent the majority of her time here. The lodge was built in 1516 by the Earl of Shrewsbury. At that time, the surrounding land was an extensive park which contained over a thousand deer. The Turret House, which Mary was housed in, was added in 1574. Over a period of many years the lodge fell into disrepair, but today visitors can explore ruins, check out the Discovery Centre, take a guided tour, or explore the nearby farm, artist studios, and walking trails.

The Yorkshire Sculpture Park is well worth a visit even though it is a 30 minute bus or taxi ride from Sheffield city center. It is set in the beautiful grounds of 18th-century Bretton Hall and includes some of the finest works of art in Britain. The rolling green parkland is home to a collection of mostly contemporary sculptures from Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth and other younger and regional artists. Especially suitable for children is the Sculpture Trail, with its many smaller-scale sculptures of plants, animals, birds and insects. The Sculpture Park also offers many easy-going walks in the country park, as well as indoor galleries, a craft shop and cafe.

Children will love this center, 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Sheffield city center, which hosts a "tropical jungle" packed with a vast range of unusual butterflies, birds, animals (from snakes to crocodiles) and plants. The falconry display and bird of prey center, which allow visitors close contact with birds, are very popular, as are the nature trail and the farm area, where small animals can be fed by bottle. One-day courses provide tuition in falconry and guided tours (which can be personally designed according to interest) are available if requested in advance. An on-site day nursery is also available.