Christmas is fast approaching, and for those looking for a unique stay in the Steel City, there's plenty to get you in the festive spirit.
From hotel stays to afternoon teas and where to spend Christmas Day without the washing up, we've got you covered...
Where to stay
Image: Supplied
Halifax Hall offers the perfect escape from the bustle of city life but still just moments from quaint cafes and food spots in Sheffield.
The boutique hotel has 38 bedrooms, including three suites and two accessible rooms, all with 100% Egyptian cotton linen, free Wi-Fi, luxurious robes and complimentary Noble Isle toiletries.
There's a selection of room sizes to suit all adventures into the Steel City. From twin, double and executive suites to family rooms, and the team are always available for queries about big groups or any additional requirements you might have for your stay.
Location-wise, you're a ten minute drive from the heart of the city, with close access to Eccy Road, Sheffield Botanical Garden and local hospitals, so regardless of your need to visit Sheffield, there's plenty to access within close walking distance.
Throughout the festive period,Halifax Hallwill host a range of Christmas Dinner options, including exclusive use of the private dining room for those wanting to celebrate with a formal meal, and a Wreath Making Class for those looking to unleash their inner creative whilst tucking into hand-picked afternoon tea favourites.
Food and Drink
Image: Supplied
Even Christmas Dinner is available fromHalifax Hall, so when the big day does roll around, you don't have to leave your boutique staycation to enjoy a festive feast.
Naturally there's everything you'd expect from a turkey dinner, but there's plenty of additional options for those with dietary requirements or who just fancy something a little different this year.
Think curried crab and mango salad; twice baked Comte cheese soufflé or red pepper and sun blush tomato to start with before tucking into a roast turkey crown, Sirloin of grass-fed Yorkshire beef, field mushroom and spinach Tian or pan roast Salmon fillet for the main course. Served with braised and lightly pickled spiced red cabbage, cauliflower cheese, maple roasted parsnips, carrots, sprouts and Yorkshire puds, this is a true festive feast.
Image: Supplied
There's sweet treats aplenty to finish off the remaining courses too. Expect classic Christmas puddings with brandy, as well as glazed lemon tart, Bullion chocolate pudding trifle and a full board of Yorkshire cheeses, pickles and chutneys, served with a glass of Port.
The marshmallow jar is open for those craving something sweet with a cuppa too - this really promises to be a Christmas Day meal that leaves you stuffed to the brim.
Leading up to Christmas Day itself, there's alternative Christmas lunch and dinner menus served inside private dining rooms within Halifax Hall - perfect for an office get together before breaking up for the holidays.
Plus, a Festive Afternoon Tea for those wanting to wine and dine in an alternative setting. Expect finger sandwiches like turkey and cranberry; mature cheese and chutney or roast carvery ham and cherry tomato, as well as mini goat's cheese tarts, pistachio macarons and mini mince pies.
If you're looking for somewhere closer to the SU, INOX on Durham Road plans to host a huge Christmas menu with similar menus to Halifax Hall offered throughout the festive period.
Events
On Sunday 3 December, Halifax Hall will be collaborating with Bloom Sheffield to bring a special one-off Wreath Making Class to Sheffield. Start the morning learning about the intricacies of making your very own wreath, and once you've created your masterpiece to take home with you, tuck into an indulgent afternoon tea, with items hand-picked by the chefs.
Tickets cost £60 each and are available on the Halifax Hall website here.
There will also be a Festive Evening with Joe Berry, Master Chef of Great Britain at INOX on Sunday 25 November where guests are invited to celebrate the Christmas season with a true feast.
Tickets cost £90 each and include a welcome drink as well as a specially paired wine flight.
And the best part is, you're invited to it all. Regardless of whether you're a student at the University of Sheffield or not.
Sheffield's much loved bookshop is reopening with a brand-new look.
You may remember back in January when Novel sadly had to close its doors due to circumstances beyond the team’s control.
Since opening in Crookes in 2024, co-owner Katie and the team had experienced ongoing intimidation and harassment, eventually leading to the decision to close the much-loved bookshop and bar indefinitely.
It was a heartbreaking turn of events for a business that had quickly become a much-loved part of the Crookes community. Katie, alongside her husband and business partner Joe, had ‘tried everything’ to keep Novel open, but with their safety becoming a growing concern, they were ultimately left with no choice but to step away.
At the time, it felt like that might be the end of Novel. Thankfully, it seems it wasn't.
Five of the best new openings in Sheffield recently – from cookie kiosks to Italian trattorias
Clementine Hall
It's been an absolutely belting year for new openings in Sheffield, and we're only just getting started.
We don't know about you guys, but we think Sheffield is really thriving with all it has to offer at the moment. And trust us, that's a lot.
We've had some cracking spots arrive in the city so far this year, and if you haven't visited them then we urge you to check them out pretty pronto.
But first, allow us to tell you all about them...
Maria
4 Wellington St, Sheffield, S1 4HD
Images: The Sheff
The talented team behind Bench and The Pearl opened up this beautiful restaurant in the city centre back in March, and it'll come as no surprise to you that it's absolutely class.
Maria, located on Wellington Street in the new heart of the city development, is a homage to owner Ronnie's grandmother and a nod to his southern Italian heritage. It's a space unlike anything in the city, a small but perfectly-formed space complete with counter dining where you can watch the magic happen.
They're cooking up Sicilian-inspired dishes made using Yorkshire produce, like the tortellini in brodo with Yorkshire ham from Swaledale Butchers in Skipton.
Manchester’s beloved bakery, Gooey, has opened a gorgeous kiosk inside Meadowhall and we’re utterly obsessed.
They’ve brought their thick cookies, pillowy doughnuts and fabulous drink creations (hello French toast matcha) to Sheffield and it’s the perfect mid-shopping fuel.
Memory Dance
21 Chapel Walk, S1 2PD
Images: The Sheff
There’s a brand-new space that’s just opened on Chapel Walk, celebrating Sheffield in a truly unique way. From vinyl records and exhibitions to immersive cinematic experiences, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves the city’s rich creative heritage.
JD Sports
Meadowhall, S9 1EP
Images: The Sheff
High street sportswear and footwear giant JD Sports has officially unveiled its brand-new superstore at Meadowhall, and it’s safe to say they’ve pulled out all the stops.
Packed with the latest trainers, streetwear, and all your favourite clothing brands under one roof, this new store is a must-visit if you’re planning your next shopping spree.