The National Videogame Museum, Sheffield
The UK’s only museum dedicated to videogames, where you can play over 100 games, explore gaming history, and even make your own – in the heart of Sheffield.
Step into the UK’s only museum dedicated entirely to videogames, located in Sheffield city centre. Explore over 100 playable exhibits, from classic arcade cabinets and retro consoles to modern and indie titles, all set in a vibrant, interactive space. Discover the history, culture and making of games through expertly curated displays, seasonal exhibitions and hands‑on activities. Perfect for families, retro fans and anyone curious about gaming’s past, present and future.
A brief summary to The National Videogame Museum
- Castle House, Angel St, Sheffield, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield, S3 8LN, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Thursday 1 pm-4 pm
- Friday 1 pm-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-1 pm
- Sunday 10 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Check the museum’s website before visiting, as opening hours vary by season and the museum closes briefly for lunch. During school holidays it’s open daily, but on regular weeks it’s only open Thursday–Sunday.
- Tickets are valid for a full year, so you can return as many times as you like – ideal if you want to explore different games or attend special events and workshops.
- Bring a reusable water bottle and light snacks; while there are no on‑site food options, the museum is happy for visitors to bring their own refreshments to enjoy during a longer stay.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drinking Water
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Supertram to Castle Square stop, which is a short, level walk from the museum in Castle House on Angel Street. Trams run frequently from Sheffield city centre and surrounding areas, making this a convenient and car‑free option.
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Walking
From Sheffield city centre, the museum is about a 5‑minute walk from the main shopping streets and train station. Follow signs towards Castle Square; the museum is on the ground floor of Castle House, clearly visible from the square.
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Car
There is no on‑site parking, but several public car parks are within a 2‑minute walk, including Sheffield Hartshead Square NCP. Allow extra time to find a space, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
The National Videogame Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The National Videogame Museum
A Living Museum of Play
Housed in the heart of Sheffield’s city centre, The National Videogame Museum is the UK’s first and only museum devoted solely to videogames. Far from a static collection of old hardware, it’s a dynamic, hands‑on experience where visitors are encouraged to play, experiment and engage with more than 100 playable exhibits. From towering arcade cabinets to retro home consoles and modern gaming stations, the museum spans five decades of gaming history, celebrating everything from pixelated classics to cutting‑edge indie titles. The space itself feels like a curated playground, where the history of games is told not just through text and screens, but through the act of playing them.From Arcade Classics to Local Legends
The museum’s layout guides visitors through different eras and styles of gaming. The Arcade section brings back the buzz of coin‑op culture with beloved titles like Space Invaders, Donkey Kong and Ms. Pac‑Man, while other zones showcase home consoles, handhelds and PC gaming. Multiplayer favourites such as Rock Band, Track & Field and local hits like Gang Beasts and Worms let friends and families compete or cooperate. Special attention is given to Sheffield’s own game‑development heritage, with exhibits highlighting titles from studios such as Sumo Digital, Gremlin Graphics and Team 17. Unique games created specifically for the museum, like the six‑player Super Snowball Fight Party, add a distinctive, playful twist that can’t be found anywhere else.More Than Just Playing
Beyond the screens and joysticks, the museum explores how games are made, who makes them, and why they matter. Curated displays and rotating exhibitions delve into game design, art, sound and cultural impact, offering insight into the creative and technical processes behind beloved titles. During school holidays, the museum opens daily and hosts drop‑in workshops where visitors can design characters, program simple games or build mini‑robots, making it a hub for learning as well as entertainment. These activities, developed by the museum’s award‑winning Learning Team, turn the visit into an immersive experience that appeals to both casual players and aspiring developers.A Space for Everyone
The National Videogame Museum is designed to be welcoming for all ages and levels of gaming knowledge. Whether you’re a lifelong gamer revisiting childhood favourites or someone who’s never picked up a controller, there’s something to discover and enjoy. The atmosphere is relaxed and inclusive, with staff often on hand to offer tips or explain the context behind a particular game or machine. With no time limit on visits, guests can linger as long as they like, diving deep into a favourite genre or simply soaking up the nostalgic glow of CRT monitors and the sound of 8‑bit soundtracks echoing through the room.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Crucible Stack
0.3 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Crucible Stack, a rare industrial landmark embodying the city’s pioneering steelmaking heritage and architectural resilience.
The Museum
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere at The Museum, Sheffield's beloved pub and restaurant, where local flavors meet a lively social scene.
Green Police Box
0.4 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
0.6 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.
Iron Bridge
0.6 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Iron Bridge, a stunning early 20th-century iron landmark offering rich industrial heritage and scenic riverside views.
Wicker Arches
0.6 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.
The Chimney House
0.7 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
1.7 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Friesday Belgian Fries
2.1 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
The Glass Pavilions
2.5 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of The Glass Pavilions in Sheffield, a botanical paradise full of vibrant plant life and tranquil escapes.
Rose Garden
2.5 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Sheffield's Rose Garden, a lush oasis of vibrant blooms and serene pathways perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Bear pit
2.6 km
Victorian heritage meets natural history at Sheffield's finest surviving bear pit, a Grade II listed landmark within beloved botanical gardens.
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.
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.
The Beer House
2.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and extensive beer selection at The Beer House, Sheffield's favorite pub for locals and visitors alike.
Unmissable attractions to see
King Edward VII Statue
0.1 km
Discover the King Edward VII Statue in Sheffield, a stunning historical landmark celebrating British heritage amidst the vibrant city life.
Victoria Hall
0.2 km
Historic Methodist landmark and vibrant events venue at Sheffield city centre’s cultural heart on Norfolk Street.
Sheffield Christmas Markets
0.2 km
Sheffield's festive celebration of local traders, alpine charm, and seasonal magic across the city centre.
Sheffield Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover over 1,000 years of history, faith, and art in Sheffield’s oldest building, a welcoming cathedral at the city’s heart.
Fargate
0.3 km
Sheffield’s vibrant pedestrian precinct blending historic charm, lively markets, and modern urban culture in the city centre.
Cutlers' Hall Hospitality
0.3 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern event excellence in Sheffield's most prestigious banquet hall.
Crucible Theatre
0.3 km
Experience world-class theatre and iconic snooker in Sheffield’s intimate and historic Crucible Theatre.
St Marie's Cathedral, Sheffield
0.3 km
Discover Sheffield’s Gothic Revival masterpiece, St Marie's Cathedral, a serene sanctuary rich in history, art, and community spirit.
Fronteer Gallery
0.3 km
Independent artist-led gallery showcasing thought-provoking contemporary art in Sheffield City Centre.
Orchard Square
0.4 km
A vibrant open-air shopping and leisure destination in Sheffield, blending retail, culture, and community in a historic city-centre setting.
The Chocolate Factory
0.4 km
Discover Yorkshire’s first bean-to-bar craft chocolate factory where artisan passion meets rich cacao heritage in Sheffield’s vibrant Harvest Works.
Starbucks Coffee
0.4 km
A welcoming Starbucks coffeehouse in Sheffield’s Tudor Square, blending global brand comfort with local cultural vibrancy.
National Emergency Services Museum
0.4 km
Explore the heroic history of emergency services in Sheffield’s stunning Victorian police, fire, and ambulance station museum.
The Montgomery
0.4 km
A vibrant Sheffield City Centre theatre and art centre offering diverse performances and cultural exhibitions in a charming architectural setting.
Graves Gallery
0.4 km
Free art sanctuary above Sheffield's Central Library, showcasing centuries of British and European masterpieces in peaceful contemplation.
Essential places to dine
The Chakra Lounge
0.1 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.
Caffe Piazza
0.3 km
Authentic Italian pizzas and Mediterranean dishes served fresh daily in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre cafe.
VeroGusto
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining in a cozy Georgian townhouse with exquisite homemade dishes and an exceptional wine list in Sheffield.
Mama’s & Leonies
0.4 km
Experience hearty Italian classics and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at Mama’s & Leonies.
Miller & Carter Sheffield City
0.4 km
Experience premium British steakhouse dining with expert cuts, elegant ambiance, and attentive service in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Grazie
0.4 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian flavors with fresh handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre.
La Bottega
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian craftsmanship and artisanal flavors in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at La Bottega.
Humpit- The Hummus & Pita Bar
0.4 km
Affordable vegan Mediterranean delights in Sheffield’s city centre, specializing in hummus, pita, and falafel with generous portions and fresh flavors.
Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar, Sheffield
0.4 km
Modern Mediterranean dining with gluten-free and vegan options, friendly service, and a vibrant bar in Sheffield City Centre.
wagamama sheffield city centre
0.4 km
Discover fresh, bold Asian flavours and a welcoming communal vibe at Wagamama in Sheffield’s vibrant Leopold Square.
Cubana Tapas Bar
0.5 km
Experience authentic Cuban tapas, vibrant Latin music, and lively salsa dancing in the heart of Sheffield’s city centre.
The Botanist Sheffield
0.5 km
A lush, botanical-themed bar and restaurant in Sheffield city centre offering inventive cocktails, hearty meals, live music, and a vibrant social scene.
Zizzi - Sheffield Leopold Square
0.5 km
Modern Italian dining with vibrant atmosphere, vegan-friendly options, and stylish setting in Sheffield’s bustling Leopold Square.
Piccolino Sheffield
0.5 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and chic alfresco dining in the heart of Sheffield’s Millennium Square at Piccolino.
Bella Italia - Sheffield St Paul's
0.5 km
Classic Italian dining with warm service and diverse menu options in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bird’s Yard Sheffield
0.2 km
A compact, owner-curated Aladdin’s cave of local makers and quirky design-led gifts in the heart of Sheffield.
skytrend
0.4 km
Explore Sheffield's Skytrend Jewellery Store for exquisite craftsmanship and unique pieces that capture the essence of elegance.
Sheffield Makers
0.4 km
Discover Sheffield's handmade soul in the Winter Garden: unique gifts from local makers, blending craft heritage with fresh creativity.
Ryan Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Ryan Vintage, Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing boutique in the city centre.
Søstrene Grene
0.7 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creative inspiration at Søstrene Grene, Sheffield’s boutique for art supplies, home décor, and unique gifts.
Sheffield Convenience Store
0.7 km
Your go-to convenience store in Sheffield City Centre for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials, open late night for all your needs.
Glass Onion Sheffield
0.7 km
Explore Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing store blending sustainable fashion with stylish, curated collections in a unique urban setting.
Preloved Kilo
0.8 km
Discover vintage treasures priced by weight at Preloved Kilo, Sheffield’s vibrant hub for sustainable and stylish pre-loved clothing.
Kelham Island Books + Music
0.8 km
An intimate second‑hand book and vinyl shop on Shalesmoor, full of eclectic titles, records, posters and locally minded finds.
Mint (New name coming soon)
0.8 km
Discover Sheffield City Centre’s eclectic boutique blending fashion, jewelry, and unique local treasures on vibrant Division Street.
Rocky Horrors
0.8 km
Discover bold rock-inspired boots and shoes at Rocky Horrors, Sheffield’s iconic alternative footwear shop in the city centre.
The Alternative Store
0.9 km
Sheffield's fiercely independent hub for unique streetwear, hats, and jewellery since 1992—quality alternative fashion with local flair and eco-conscious craft.
Vulgar
0.9 km
Explore Sheffield’s vibrant vintage scene at Vulgar, a uniquely decorated shop with friendly service and eclectic fashion finds.
The Savage Sister
0.9 km
Discover rare vintage designer treasures from the '90s and '00s in Sheffield’s stylish and sustainable boutique, The Savage Sister.
True North Store
0.9 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Dove & Rainbow
0.1 km
Sheffield’s vibrant rock pub with live music, cold ales, and an inclusive atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
The Head of Steam Sheffield
0.4 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.
The Three Tuns, S1
0.4 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Sheffield City Centre, famed for excellent ales, hearty food, and lively karaoke and comedy nights.
Cheap Dates
0.4 km
Affordable cocktails and lively vibes await at Sheffield’s beloved dive bar, Cheap Dates, in the heart of Orchard Square.
All Bar One Sheffield
0.4 km
Stylish Sheffield wine bar on Leopold Street for tapas, cocktails, brunch, and urban vibes near theatres and shops.
Public
0.4 km
Quirky underground cocktail haven in a repurposed Victorian toilet—creative drinks, intimate vibes, and Sheffield's inventive spirit in every sip.
Bamboo Door
0.4 km
A vibrant tiki-themed cocktail bar in Sheffield City Centre, famed for exotic rum drinks and lively late-night vibes.
The Champagne Bar
0.4 km
A stylish city centre champagne bar offering classic cocktails and fine wines in Sheffield’s vibrant heart.
Kuckoo Sheffield
0.5 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
0.6 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.
Yates - Sheffield
0.6 km
Sheffield's all-day dynamo: daytime pub grub and sports, nighttime DJ beats and cocktails in the city centre buzz.
Kelham Island Tavern
0.7 km
Sheffield's CAMRA-acclaimed real ale haven with 13 cask pumps, cozy rooms, beer garden, quizzes, and folk nights in historic Kelham Island.
Trippets Lounge Bar
0.7 km
Sheffield's intimate jazz lounge where live music, gins, and tapas-style plates create an unforgettable evening retreat in the city centre.
The Fat Cat
0.7 km
Sheffield's original real ale haven in Kelham Island, pouring cask classics, hearty pies, and community spirit since 1981.
The Millowners Arms
0.8 km
Cozy Kelham Island pub pouring craft lagers beside the museum, with burgers, outdoor seats, and laidback tunes in Sheffield's industrial enclave.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Plot 22
0.2 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Tank
0.4 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
Al Ahsa Night Club
0.6 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
The Viper Rooms
0.6 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.
Popworld - Sheffield
0.7 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
The Night Kitchen
0.7 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.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
0.7 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
0.8 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
The Leadmill
0.8 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.
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.
Corporation
1.0 km
Sheffield’s iconic nightclub with non-stop dance beats and an electric atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
Dempseys Bar and Club
1.2 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.
Temple Sheffield
1.2 km
Dive into Sheffield's underground heartbeat at Temple Nightclub, where beats thump till 6am, drinks flow affordably, and nights ignite with raw energy.
Waikiki Beach Bar
16.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Volt Nightclub
18.7 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
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Photo Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
