Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood, Sheffield
A serene historical monument and ancient woodland offering reflection, panoramic city views, and peaceful nature trails in Sheffield.
The Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood in Sheffield offer a poignant historical memorial set within tranquil landscaped gardens and ancient woodland. The neo-Gothic Cholera Monument commemorates the 1832 epidemic victims, surrounded by serene paths and vibrant greenery, with panoramic views over Sheffield. Clay Wood’s natural trails provide a peaceful retreat for nature lovers, blending history, reflection, and scenic beauty in a unique urban oasis.
A brief summary to Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
- Claywood Dr, Sheffield, S2 2UB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon to enjoy peaceful surroundings and capture stunning city views during sunrise or sunset.
- Explore the shaded path through Clay Wood to experience the ancient woodland’s wildlife and seasonal colors.
- Take time at the clay cobbled mound art installation to reflect on the lives lost during the 1832 cholera epidemic.
- Bring a camera for panoramic shots of Sheffield’s skyline from the monument’s elevated position.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
From Sheffield city centre, take bus number 75 or 76 towards Parkgate. After approximately 15 minutes, alight at the 'Claywood Drive' stop. From there, it is a 5-minute walk along Claywood Drive to the Cholera Monument Grounds. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £4.
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Bus
Alternatively, catch bus number 43 from the city centre towards Gleadless Townend. After about 20 minutes, get off at 'Gleadless Road/Drakehouse Lane'. Walk down Drakehouse Lane to reach the entrance to Clay Wood leading to the monument grounds. Tickets cost around £2 to £4.
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Walking
From nearby Heeley City Farm, walk along Heeley Road and then Claywood Drive for approximately 15 minutes. The terrain is mostly flat with some shaded woodland paths, suitable for most fitness levels.
Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
A Memorial to Sheffield’s 1832 Cholera Epidemic
The Cholera Monument stands as a solemn tribute to the victims of the devastating 1832 cholera epidemic that claimed 402 lives in Sheffield, with 339 buried in the grounds between Park Hill and Norfolk Park. Designed by M. E. Hadfield and sculpted by Earp and Hobbs, this neo-Gothic pinnacle was completed in 1835. Its foundation stone was laid by the poet James Montgomery, who also commemorated the tragedy in verse. The monument’s plaque names John Blake, a Master Cutler who perished in the epidemic, symbolizing the personal losses behind the statistics.Historic Gardens and Conservation Area
Surrounding the monument are gardens established in the 1850s, gifted to Sheffield by the Duke of Norfolk in 1930. These grounds form a conservation area recognized with a Green Flag Award for their quality and upkeep. A shaded path through Clay Wood, created between 1971 and 1995, connects Fitzwalter Road to the monument gardens, inviting visitors to stroll through this peaceful green space. The monument itself was restored after lightning damage in 1990, with the top removed for safety and rebuilt by 2006, earning a Marsh Award for public sculpture excellence.Clay Wood: An Ancient Woodland Escape
Adjacent to the monument gardens, Clay Wood is an ancient woodland offering winding trails and diverse wildlife habitats. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, enjoying birdwatching and seasonal changes that paint the landscape with vibrant colors. The woodland’s serene environment provides a quiet retreat from the city bustle, making it an ideal spot for reflection and relaxation.Artistic and Symbolic Features
In 2004, a clay cobbled mound art installation was added near the monument, symbolizing those who lost their lives in the epidemic. This evocative piece deepens the site’s contemplative atmosphere. The grounds also feature panoramic views over Sheffield’s city center, enhancing the visitor experience with striking vistas, especially during sunrise and sunset.Connecting Sheffield’s Heritage and Nature
The Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood are part of a 'green link' opened in 2014, providing pedestrian and cycle paths between Norfolk Heritage Park and the city center. This connection enhances access and integrates the site into Sheffield’s broader network of green spaces. The area’s historical significance, combined with its natural beauty, makes it a meaningful destination for those interested in public health history, urban nature, and memorial culture.Reflection and Remembrance in a City Setting
Visitors to the Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood find a space that balances historical gravity with natural tranquility. The monument invites contemplation of past public health challenges and community resilience, while the surrounding gardens and woodland offer a restorative environment. This unique blend of heritage and nature creates a poignant urban sanctuary in Sheffield.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Green Police Box
0.9 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.
Sheffield War Memorial
1.0 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.
The Museum
1.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
Crucible Stack
1.1 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Crucible Stack, a rare industrial landmark embodying the city’s pioneering steelmaking heritage and architectural resilience.
Wicker Arches
1.4 km
A dramatic Victorian railway viaduct running beneath Sheffield city centre, now home to workshops, bars and street art in a gritty, atmospheric urban space.
Iron Bridge
1.6 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Iron Bridge, a stunning early 20th-century iron landmark offering rich industrial heritage and scenic riverside views.
The Chimney House
1.7 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Friesday Belgian Fries
2.0 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
2.2 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Rose Garden
2.6 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sheffield's Rose Garden, a lush oasis of vibrant blooms and serene pathways perfect for relaxation and exploration.
The Glass Pavilions
2.6 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of The Glass Pavilions in Sheffield, a botanical paradise full of vibrant plant life and tranquil escapes.
Lost & Found Sheffield
2.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lost & Found Sheffield, a charming bar and pub with creative cocktails, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Bear pit
2.7 km
Victorian heritage meets natural history at Sheffield's finest surviving bear pit, a Grade II listed landmark within beloved botanical gardens.
The Well Sheffield
2.8 km
Explore The Well Sheffield, a vibrant Baptist church in Sharrow, blending rich community spirit with stunning architecture and cultural events.
Bishops' House
2.8 km
Explore Bishops' House in Sheffield: a historical gem blending rich heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant community events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sheaf Square
0.4 km
Sheaf Square: A vibrant, pedestrian-friendly urban oasis and cultural gateway in the heart of Sheffield city centre.
South Street Open Space
0.4 km
A vibrant city park offering panoramic Sheffield views, an open-air amphitheatre, and peaceful picnic spots amid historic surroundings.
Sheffield Town Twinning, Commonwealth Bench
0.5 km
Explore Sheffield's Commonwealth Bench - a symbol of international friendship and a peaceful retreat in the city's vibrant heart.
Howst Food & Drink
0.6 km
Fresh, all-day brunch and vibrant café culture meet in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at HowSt Food & Drink.
Millennium Gallery
0.6 km
Discover Sheffield’s rich metalwork heritage and Victorian art legacy at the vibrant Millennium Gallery, a cultural gem in the city centre.
Graves Gallery
0.7 km
Free art sanctuary above Sheffield's Central Library, showcasing centuries of British and European masterpieces in peaceful contemplation.
Sheffield Winter Garden
0.7 km
A stunning tropical glasshouse oasis in Sheffield city centre, home to over 2,500 exotic plants and free to explore year-round.
Winter Garden
0.7 km
A verdant urban sanctuary: Europe's largest glasshouse brings tropical paradise to Sheffield's heart.
Crucible Theatre
0.8 km
Experience world-class theatre and iconic snooker in Sheffield’s intimate and historic Crucible Theatre.
Starbucks Coffee
0.8 km
A welcoming Starbucks coffeehouse in Sheffield’s Tudor Square, blending global brand comfort with local cultural vibrancy.
Millennium Square
0.8 km
Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Millennium Square, the cultural heart of Sheffield, filled with events, dining, and local charm.
Victoria Hall
0.8 km
Historic Methodist landmark and vibrant events venue at Sheffield city centre’s cultural heart on Norfolk Street.
Peace Gardens
0.8 km
A tranquil urban oasis in Sheffield city centre, blending historic legacy with lush gardens and iconic water features.
St Marie's Cathedral, Sheffield
0.9 km
Discover Sheffield’s Gothic Revival masterpiece, St Marie's Cathedral, a serene sanctuary rich in history, art, and community spirit.
King Edward VII Statue
0.9 km
Discover the King Edward VII Statue in Sheffield, a stunning historical landmark celebrating British heritage amidst the vibrant city life.
Essential places to dine
Silversmiths
0.6 km
Elegant Modern British dining with a Yorkshire twist in Sheffield’s historic former cutlery works building.
COSMO All You Can Eat World Buffet Restaurant | Sheffield
0.7 km
Explore over 150 dishes from around the world at COSMO Sheffield’s vibrant all-you-can-eat buffet in the city centre.
Smoke BBQ
0.7 km
Experience authentic American pit-smoked barbecue with bold flavors and generous portions in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Piccolino Sheffield
0.8 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and chic alfresco dining in the heart of Sheffield’s Millennium Square at Piccolino.
Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar, Sheffield
0.8 km
Modern Mediterranean dining with gluten-free and vegan options, friendly service, and a vibrant bar in Sheffield City Centre.
Bella Italia - Sheffield St Paul's
0.8 km
Classic Italian dining with warm service and diverse menu options in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Mama’s & Leonies
0.8 km
Experience hearty Italian classics and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at Mama’s & Leonies.
Browns Sheffield
0.8 km
Elegant British brasserie in Sheffield city centre offering classic and contemporary dishes in a refined, inviting atmosphere.
Miller & Carter Sheffield City
0.8 km
Experience premium British steakhouse dining with expert cuts, elegant ambiance, and attentive service in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
The Chakra Lounge
0.9 km
A vibrant vegan café in Sheffield city centre serving fresh Indo-Western fusion dishes in a cozy, colorful setting with a welcoming community vibe.
VeroGusto
0.9 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining in a cozy Georgian townhouse with exquisite homemade dishes and an exceptional wine list in Sheffield.
The Furnace - Sheffield
1.0 km
A vibrant Sheffield restaurant and bar blending British and American grill traditions with live music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Humpit- The Hummus & Pita Bar
1.0 km
Affordable vegan Mediterranean delights in Sheffield’s city centre, specializing in hummus, pita, and falafel with generous portions and fresh flavors.
El Paso
1.0 km
Lively Mexican dining in Sheffield with authentic flavors, generous portions, and a vibrant social atmosphere.
ASK Italian
1.0 km
Modern Italian dining with local spirit and inclusive menus in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Sheffield Makers
0.7 km
Discover Sheffield's handmade soul in the Winter Garden: unique gifts from local makers, blending craft heritage with fresh creativity.
Bird’s Yard Sheffield
0.9 km
A compact, owner-curated Aladdin’s cave of local makers and quirky design-led gifts in the heart of Sheffield.
Søstrene Grene
0.9 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creative inspiration at Søstrene Grene, Sheffield’s boutique for art supplies, home décor, and unique gifts.
skytrend
0.9 km
Explore Sheffield's Skytrend Jewellery Store for exquisite craftsmanship and unique pieces that capture the essence of elegance.
The Works
1.0 km
Central Sheffield’s practical, budget-friendly shop for books, stationery, craft kits and everyday gifts — good value for quick, sensible shopping.
Shady Gifts
1.1 km
Bold, handmade sarcastic and drag-themed gifts in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre, perfect for unique and cheeky presents.
Glass Onion Sheffield
1.1 km
Explore Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing store blending sustainable fashion with stylish, curated collections in a unique urban setting.
Ryan Vintage
1.2 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Ryan Vintage, Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing boutique in the city centre.
Mint (New name coming soon)
1.2 km
Discover Sheffield City Centre’s eclectic boutique blending fashion, jewelry, and unique local treasures on vibrant Division Street.
Rocky Horrors
1.2 km
Discover bold rock-inspired boots and shoes at Rocky Horrors, Sheffield’s iconic alternative footwear shop in the city centre.
Preloved Kilo
1.2 km
Discover vintage treasures priced by weight at Preloved Kilo, Sheffield’s vibrant hub for sustainable and stylish pre-loved clothing.
Sheffield Convenience Store
1.2 km
Your go-to convenience store in Sheffield City Centre for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials, open late night for all your needs.
The Alternative Store
1.2 km
Sheffield's fiercely independent hub for unique streetwear, hats, and jewellery since 1992—quality alternative fashion with local flair and eco-conscious craft.
True North Store
1.3 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.
Vulgar
1.3 km
Explore Sheffield’s vibrant vintage scene at Vulgar, a uniquely decorated shop with friendly service and eclectic fashion finds.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rutland Arms
0.6 km
Sheffield’s beloved city centre pub offering world-class craft beers, inventive pub grub, and a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
The Champagne Bar
0.8 km
A stylish city centre champagne bar offering classic cocktails and fine wines in Sheffield’s vibrant heart.
The Head of Steam Sheffield
0.8 km
A converted Victorian bank turned busy craft‑beer pub on Tudor Square — big beer list, good vegan choices and a social, theatre‑friendly vibe.
Public
0.9 km
Quirky underground cocktail haven in a repurposed Victorian toilet—creative drinks, intimate vibes, and Sheffield's inventive spirit in every sip.
Cheap Dates
1.0 km
Affordable cocktails and lively vibes await at Sheffield’s beloved dive bar, Cheap Dates, in the heart of Orchard Square.
The Dove & Rainbow
1.0 km
Sheffield’s vibrant rock pub with live music, cold ales, and an inclusive atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Yates - Sheffield
1.0 km
Sheffield's all-day dynamo: daytime pub grub and sports, nighttime DJ beats and cocktails in the city centre buzz.
Bamboo Door
1.0 km
A vibrant tiki-themed cocktail bar in Sheffield City Centre, famed for exotic rum drinks and lively late-night vibes.
All Bar One Sheffield
1.0 km
Stylish Sheffield wine bar on Leopold Street for tapas, cocktails, brunch, and urban vibes near theatres and shops.
Kuckoo Sheffield
1.1 km
Inventive cocktails and pulsating beats define this Leopold Square gem, where Sheffield's nightlife ignites in a whirlwind of creativity and energy.
Slug & Lettuce - Sheffield
1.1 km
Vibrant Sheffield cocktail bar where every hour feels like happy hour—brunch by day, cocktails and dancing by night in stylish city centre surrounds.
The Three Tuns, S1
1.2 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Sheffield City Centre, famed for excellent ales, hearty food, and lively karaoke and comedy nights.
Frog & Parrot
1.2 km
Lively British pub and live music venue in Sheffield City Centre, known for quality ales, traditional food, and vibrant nightlife.
Trippets Lounge Bar
1.2 km
Sheffield's intimate jazz lounge where live music, gins, and tapas-style plates create an unforgettable evening retreat in the city centre.
BrewDog Sheffield
1.3 km
Discover BrewDog Sheffield, a lively craft beer bar with a spacious beer garden, modern industrial style, and an impressive selection of brews in the heart of Sheffield.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Leadmill
0.4 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
0.5 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
0.7 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Code Sheffield
0.8 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.
Plot 22
1.0 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Dempseys Bar and Club
1.0 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.
The Viper Rooms
1.1 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.
Corporation
1.1 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Popworld - Sheffield
1.1 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
1.3 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.
Fez Sheffield
1.3 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
Al Ahsa Night Club
1.4 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Night Kitchen
1.6 km
Dive into Sheffield's industrial heartbeat at The Night Kitchen, where former cutlery factory walls pulse with electronic beats until dawn in a raw, inclusive nightlife haven.
Waikiki Beach Bar
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Volt Nightclub
19.6 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
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
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Green Flag Award
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Photowalk
- Mindfulness
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly