Sheffield Botanical Gardens
Historic and serene 19-acre botanical gardens in Sheffield featuring Victorian glass pavilions, diverse themed plant collections, and free entry year-round.
Sheffield Botanical Gardens, spanning 19 acres in the Broomhall district, is a historic and beautifully maintained green oasis in Sheffield. Established in 1836, the gardens feature over 5,000 plant species across themed areas such as the Mediterranean, Asian, and Rose Gardens. The Grade II* listed Victorian glass pavilions are a centerpiece, housing exotic tropical plants. Open year-round with free entry, the gardens offer peaceful pathways, sculptures, and a café, making it a perfect urban retreat for nature lovers and families.
A brief summary to Sheffield Botanical Gardens
- Clarkehouse Rd, Sheffield, Broomhall, S10 2LN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the Victorian glass pavilions to see tropical and subtropical plants in a unique historic setting.
- Explore themed gardens like the Rose Garden and Mediterranean Garden for seasonal floral highlights.
- Take advantage of free entry and bring a picnic to enjoy on the spacious lawns.
- Join one of the monthly guided tours or talks to deepen your understanding of the gardens’ history and botany.
- Check opening times seasonally, especially in winter when hours are shorter, and note the gardens close on Christmas Day.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Regular bus services run from Sheffield city centre to Clarkehouse Road and Ecclesall Road near the Thompson Road entrance. Journey times range from 15 to 25 minutes. Buses are frequent but check schedules for weekend variations. A single fare typically costs £2 to £3.
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Walking
A pleasant 30-minute walk from Sheffield city centre follows Ecclesall Road to Thompson Road and then Clarkehouse Road. The route is mostly flat with some gentle slopes and is suitable for wheelchair users, though some areas have steps with alternative accessible paths.
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Car
Limited roadside parking is available on Clarkehouse Road and Thompson Road, including designated spaces for Blue Badge holders. A Pay and Display car park is located across Ecclesall Road near Tesco Metro. Parking can be challenging during peak times and events.
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Coach
Coaches can drop off visitors at the main entrance on Clarkehouse Road. There is no dedicated coach parking within the gardens, so arrangements for parking nearby should be made in advance.
Sheffield Botanical Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Sheffield Botanical Gardens
A Living Legacy of Botanical Heritage
Established in 1836, Sheffield Botanical Gardens have flourished into a verdant sanctuary covering 19 acres on a gentle south-west facing slope in the Broomhall area. Originally opened to a crowd of 12,000, the gardens have evolved while preserving their Victorian charm. The site is Grade II listed and renowned for its historic glass pavilions designed by Benjamin Broomhead Taylor, which were restored and reopened in 2003. These iconic structures provide a humid environment for tropical and subtropical plants, creating a striking visual and horticultural focal point.Diverse Themed Gardens and Plant Collections
Visitors can explore over 5,000 species of plants arranged in more than 18 distinct garden areas, each themed by geography or botanical classification. Highlights include the fragrant Rose Garden, the vibrant Mediterranean Garden, and the serene Water Garden. Magnolia Avenue bursts into color in late spring, showcasing around 30 species of magnolias. The gardens also feature notable sculptures such as the bronze statue of Pan, the Spirit of the Wood, and remnants of the historic bear pit, adding layers of cultural interest.Engaging Visitor Experience and Facilities
The gardens are designed for accessibility, with well-maintained pathways suitable for all ages and abilities, including wheelchair-friendly routes that circumvent steps. A visitor centre and the Curator's House café offer refreshments and a welcoming spot to rest. Informative plant labels and an Iris database accessible via phone enhance the educational experience. The gardens host regular guided tours and talks, covering topics from botanical history to themed explorations like Shakespeare’s Botanicals and Potions and Poisons.Year-Round Natural Beauty and Seasonal Highlights
Open daily except Christmas Day, the gardens adapt with the seasons, offering varied experiences from spring blossoms and magnolias to autumnal foliage. The glass pavilions provide a warm refuge in colder months, while summer evenings extend visiting hours until dusk. Wildlife, including tame squirrels, adds to the tranquil atmosphere. The gardens are a favored spot for picnics, photography, and quiet contemplation amid urban Sheffield.Community and Conservation Commitment
Managed by the Sheffield Botanical Gardens Trust, the gardens are free to enter, supported by donations and volunteer efforts. The Trust actively promotes sustainability and conservation through educational programs, virtual tours, and community events. The gardens serve as a vital green space for Sheffield, balancing heritage preservation with modern environmental stewardship.Connectivity and Accessibility
Situated about 1.5 miles southwest of Sheffield city centre, the gardens are accessible via regular bus services to Clarkehouse Road and Ecclesall Road entrances. Limited roadside parking is available nearby, including spaces for Blue Badge holders. The gently sloping terrain and multiple entrances ensure convenient access for visitors arriving on foot, by public transport, or coach.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Lost & Found Sheffield
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Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Friesday Belgian Fries
0.6 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
The Endcliffe Campus
0.6 km
A vibrant student village blending modern living, social hubs, and green spaces at the University of Sheffield’s Endcliffe Campus.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
1.2 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Sheffield War Memorial
1.9 km
A solemn and iconic Grade II* listed cenotaph in Sheffield city centre, honoring the city's wartime sacrifices with striking sculptures and historic symbolism.
Green Police Box
2.1 km
Sheffield’s unique green and white police box, a charming relic of early 20th-century policing, stands proudly outside the Town Hall as a symbol of local heritage.
The Museum
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
King Edward VII Statue
2.5 km
A majestic 1913 bronze statue in Sheffield’s Fitzalan Square, honoring King Edward VII with rich allegorical reliefs celebrating peace, unity, and philanthropy.
Kelham Central
2.5 km
Experience modern urban living at Kelham Central, Sheffield's innovative housing development, blending sustainability with community spirit.
Kelham Island Walks
2.5 km
Discover Kelham Island, Sheffield’s historic steelmaking heart transformed into a vibrant hub of culture, craft beer, and urban charm.
The Chimney House
2.6 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Kelham Island Museum
2.6 km
Uncover the fascinating industrial history of Sheffield at Kelham Island Museum, featuring interactive exhibits, a café, and a unique gift shop.
Steel City Chapel Ltd
2.6 km
Discover the enchanting Steel City Chapel in Sheffield, a unique wedding venue blending historic charm with modern elegance for your special day.
The River Don Engine
2.6 km
Explore the River Don Engine in Sheffield, a fascinating museum celebrating the city's industrial heritage and engineering marvels.
Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
2.6 km
Explore the serene Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood, a historical landmark in Sheffield offering beautiful nature and poignant history.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rose Garden
0.1 km
Explore the Victorian elegance and fragrant beauty of Sheffield Botanical Gardens’ Rose Garden, featuring historic roses and the iconic Pan statue.
Botanical Gardens Fountain
0.1 km
A tranquil cast iron fountain centerpiece nestled within Sheffield's historic 19-acre Botanical Gardens, blending horticultural beauty with Victorian heritage.
Rock Garden
0.1 km
Discover the serene Rock Garden within Sheffield Botanical Gardens, a tranquil haven showcasing diverse alpine and rock plants in a beautifully designed natural setting.
The Glass Pavilions
0.1 km
Discover the historic Glass Pavilions in Sheffield Botanical Gardens, a Victorian masterpiece showcasing global temperate plants in stunning glasshouses.
Marnock Garden
0.1 km
Historic Victorian garden oasis in Sheffield with elegant glasshouses, diverse plants, and friendly wildlife for peaceful urban escape.
Bear pit
0.1 km
Discover the Bear Pit in Sheffield, a historical attraction that offers a glimpse into the city's past and a serene escape in a beautiful green setting.
The Well Sheffield
0.4 km
A welcoming Baptist church in Sheffield’s Sharrow district, blending modern worship with community spirit since 2015.
The Beer House
0.5 km
Sheffield’s pioneering micro pub offering cozy charm and an exceptional selection of real ales and craft beers on Ecclesall Road.
Sheffield Makers Hunters Bar
0.6 km
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures from Sheffield’s finest local makers at this vibrant Hunters Bar gift shop.
Endcliffe Park Playground
0.7 km
A beautifully refurbished, inclusive playground set within the historic and scenic Endcliffe Park, perfect for family fun and nature exploration.
Endcliffe Park
0.9 km
Victorian heritage park with woodland walks, historic monuments, and the poignant Mi Amigo memorial.
Turnip & Thyme
0.9 km
Cozy Sheffield bistro serving creative modern British dishes with seasonal flair and welcoming service on Ecclesall Road.
Weston Park Museum
1.1 km
Discover Sheffield’s rich heritage and natural wonders in the historic Weston Park Museum, a family-friendly cultural gem nestled in scenic Weston Park.
Weston Park
1.2 km
A historic Victorian park in Sheffield blending serene green spaces, cultural heritage, and recreational charm beside the Weston Park Museum.
Arts Tower
1.4 km
Discover Sheffield’s iconic Arts Tower, a brutalist masterpiece with the UK's largest paternoster lift and panoramic city views.
Essential places to dine
Joni at The Botanical Gardens
0.1 km
Garden café bliss: fresh brunches, lush views, and dog-friendly vibes in Sheffield's Botanical haven.
Maranello's Sheffield
0.4 km
Authentic Italian dining with fresh seafood, rustic charm, and a warm atmosphere on Sheffield's vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Koko Restaurant
0.4 km
Sophisticated Pan-Asian dining with fresh sushi, vegan options, and warm service in Sheffield’s vibrant Sharrow district.
Zaap Thai Street Food Sheffield
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere of authentic Thai street food in the heart of Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road.
Nonna's Sheffield
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at Nonna's Sheffield, a vibrant culinary gem on Ecclesall Road.
Mowgli Street Food Sheffield
0.5 km
Experience authentic Indian street food flavors in a vibrant, market-inspired setting on Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road.
Akentannos
0.5 km
Discover authentic Sardinian cuisine in Sheffield’s Sharrow district, where tradition meets warm hospitality and inclusive dining.
Italian Kitchen
0.5 km
Modern Italian dining with fresh ingredients and generous portions in Sheffield’s vibrant Sharrow district.
Bella Donna Sicilian Restaurant
0.5 km
Authentic Sicilian flavors and warm hospitality combine in this cozy Sheffield gem, perfect for a genuine Italian dining experience.
Brocco Kitchen
0.5 km
Elegant Nordic-inspired dining in a charming Edwardian villa, offering fresh, seasonal dishes in Sheffield’s peaceful Brocco Bank neighborhood.
Uncle Sams Diner
0.5 km
Experience hearty American classics and friendly vibes at Uncle Sams Diner, a beloved Sheffield spot for juicy burgers and generous portions.
Thyme Café
0.6 km
Lively rustic café in Sheffield’s Broomhill serving seasonal modern European dishes with a warm, casual atmosphere and attentive service.
Butcher & Catch
0.6 km
Savor Sheffield’s finest modern British meat and seafood dishes in a warm, wood-panelled setting with bold flavors and generous portions.
Napoli Centro
0.9 km
Authentic Neapolitan pizza and unique Italian desserts in Sheffield’s vibrant Broomhall neighborhood.
Olive
1.0 km
Mediterranean-inspired dining with Italian and Moroccan flair, set in a warm, rustic Sheffield venue with artistic charm and attentive service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Ringinglow Toys and Gifts
0.1 km
Explore the enchanting world of Ringinglow Toys and Gifts, where creativity and fun come together in Sheffield's beautiful Botanical Gardens.
SAYPALOMA
0.3 km
Ibiza-inspired ladies' fashion on Sheffield's trendiest stretch—discover boho-chic treasures at Saypaloma amid Ecclesall Road's indie buzz.
Cocoa Wonderland
0.4 km
Step into Sheffield's magical chocolate emporium, where handmade treats and cozy hot chocolates await in a wonderland of sweets and whimsy.
The Famous Sheffield Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Sheffield-forged cutlery and gifts at this iconic shop, preserving the city's steelmaking mastery since 1983 amid Ecclesall Road's vibrant charm.
Sister
0.4 km
Discover designer elegance at Sister, Sheffield's chic haven for women's fashion on lively Ecclesall Road.
Mookau
0.4 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan treasures in the vibrant heart of Sheffield’s Ecclesall Road at Mookau.
Trove
0.5 km
Uncover Sheffield's creative treasures at Trove, where local artistry and quirky gifts await on Sharrow Vale Road's charming stretch.
Spirals
0.5 km
Discover unique gifts and exquisite greeting cards at Spirals, Sheffield's eclectic haven on bustling Ecclesall Road—perfect for thoughtful, one-of-a-kind treasures.
Oliver Bonas
0.6 km
Quirky British style on Sheffield's Ecclesall Road: gifts, fashion, jewellery, and homewares that spark joy in every discovery.
The Stock Exchange
0.6 km
A compact, curated women's boutique in Hunters Bar offering distinctive clothing and accessories in a friendly neighbourhood setting.
The Village Store
0.8 km
Discover The Village Store in Sheffield: Your go-to convenience stop for snacks, drinks, and local treats in a cozy atmosphere.
Sheffield Store
1.2 km
Affordable, stylish clothing with a charitable spirit at the heart of Sheffield University’s Students' Union.
Within Reason
1.5 km
Discover quirky gifts, jewelry, toys, and home treasures at this independent Sheffield gem on Devonshire Street—unique finds for every occasion.
True North Store
1.6 km
Discover Sheffield’s craft spirit heritage at True North Store, a hub for artisan gins and unique local gifts in the heart of the city centre.
Airy Fairy
1.6 km
Discover unique gifts and spiritual treasures in a cozy bohemian café setting at Sheffield’s Airy Fairy.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Monk Bar
0.4 km
Cool cocktail haven on Sheffield's trendy Ecclesall Road, serving inventive drinks, 2-for-1 happy hours, and industrial-chic vibes for intimate nights out.
Porter Brook
0.4 km
Traditional Sheffield pub with hearty grub, buzzing events, sunny beer garden, and dog-friendly vibes on lively Ecclesall Road.
The Local
0.4 km
A cosy Ecclesall Road microbar serving local ales, craft beers and neat cocktails in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Harritt wine bar
0.5 km
Cozy Sheffield wine bar with exceptional selections, cheeseboards, and personal service on vibrant Ecclesall Road – ideal for intimate evenings.
The Lescar
0.5 km
Vintage Sheffield pub pouring local ales, serving roasts and comedy in cozy wood-paneled rooms with a sunny beer garden—your Hunters Bar local gem.
The Portland House Bar
0.6 km
Sheffield's cozy micro pub gem: craft beers, live tunes, and quiz nights in a vibrant Ecclesall Road hideaway.
The Nursery Tavern
0.6 km
A friendly Ecclesall Road pub mixing classic tavern vibes with modern touches, a big beer garden and regular events for a casual Sheffield night out.
Kettle Black
0.6 km
Sheffield's premier cocktail haven with expert mixology, exclusive late license, and chic private spaces on vibrant Ecclesall Road.
Bar Lujo - Sheffield
0.6 km
Vibrant Sheffield cocktail bar with live DJs, terraces, and eclectic drinks on lively Ecclesall Road.
The Edge Bar
0.7 km
Vibrant University of Sheffield bar buzzing with pub grub, craft drinks, pool, darts, quizzes, and live sports in the heart of student residences.
Wildcard Bar and Grill
1.2 km
Sheffield's ultimate sports bar: 40+ screens, giant Jumbotron, epic American grill, shuffleboard, pool, and cocktails in luxury style.
The Dark Horse Bar
1.4 km
Sheffield's cozy fusion of pub warmth, cocktail flair, and burger bliss on vibrant Ecclesall Road—perfect for craft drinks and casual nights out.
Revolution Sheffield
1.4 km
Lively bar and grill in Sheffield’s West One Plaza with four unique bars, rooftop views, and expertly crafted cocktails.
Green Room Bar
1.5 km
A lively independent bar and live music venue in Sheffield’s city centre, known for great beers and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Wick at Both Ends
1.5 km
A warm, unpretentious cocktail bar in Sheffield city centre serving crafted drinks, lively music and a social, rustic interior.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Dempseys Bar and Club
1.5 km
Sheffield's enduring gay bar and club: two floors of drinks, dances, karaoke, and late-night energy from noon till dawn in the city centre.
Corporation
1.5 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Fez Sheffield
1.7 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
1.8 km
Dive into Sheffield's raucous nightlife at ONYX, where neon quirks, bass-heavy beats, and cheap thrills fuel epic nights till dawn in the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
1.8 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Viper Rooms
1.8 km
Sheffield's stylish split-level nightclub: upscale cocktails on the terrace lounge, eclectic beats on the dancefloor—dress sharp for urban nights that pulse till dawn.
Code Sheffield
1.8 km
Sheffield's ultimate nightclub: massive dance floor, six bars, LED lights, and epic nights till 6am—student favorites and global DJs collide in city-centre chaos.
Al Ahsa Night Club
2.1 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
2.2 km
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The Leadmill
2.2 km
Sheffield's 40-year heartbeat of live music, club nights, and comedy in a gritty, immersive venue near the station—where crowds roar and nights ignite.
Temple Sheffield
2.3 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Tank
2.3 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Plot 22
2.7 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Waikiki Beach Bar
15.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Volt Nightclub
20.0 km
Experience Barnsley's vibrant nightlife at Volt Nightclub, where lively music, dazzling lights, and affordable drinks create unforgettable nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly