Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood, Sheffield
A tranquil Sheffield oasis blending poignant 19th-century history with scenic woodland and panoramic city views.
The Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood in Sheffield is a serene historical site commemorating the victims of the 1832 cholera epidemic. The Grade II listed neo-Gothic monument stands amid tranquil gardens and ancient woodland, offering panoramic views over Sheffield city centre. The grounds, a conservation area with a Green Flag Award, provide a reflective green oasis blending poignant history with natural beauty.
A brief summary to Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood
- Claywood Dr, Sheffield, S2 2UB, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 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 during early mornings or late afternoons for the best light and peaceful atmosphere.
- Explore the shaded path through Clay Wood to experience the ancient woodland adjacent to the monument.
- Take time to read the inscriptions and reflect on the history of the 1832 cholera epidemic commemorated here.
- Bring a camera to capture panoramic views of Sheffield city centre from the monument grounds.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take Sheffield’s bus routes 120 or 271 from the city centre to Norfolk Park, with a journey time of around 15 to 20 minutes. Services run frequently during the day, but check schedules for evening or weekend variations. From Norfolk Park, it is a 10-minute walk through Clay Wood to the Cholera Monument Grounds.
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Tram and Walk
Use the Sheffield Supertram to Park Grange tram stop, approximately 20 minutes from the city centre. From there, enjoy a 15-minute walk through residential areas and into Clay Wood to reach the monument. The walk involves some gentle inclines and is suitable for most visitors.
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Car
Driving from Sheffield city centre takes about 10 minutes via Norfolk Road. Limited street parking is available near Claywood Drive; however, spaces can be scarce during peak times. Be mindful of local parking restrictions and consider alternative transport during busy periods.
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Walking
For those who enjoy longer walks, it is a 30 to 40-minute walk from Sheffield city centre to the Cholera Monument Grounds. The route passes through urban streets and green spaces, with mostly flat terrain but some uneven woodland paths near the monument.
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 Rooted in Tragedy and Remembrance
The Cholera Monument was erected in 1835 to honor the 402 victims of the devastating 1832 cholera epidemic in Sheffield, of whom 339 were buried in the grounds adjoining Clay Wood. Designed by Michael Ellison Hadfield and sculpted by Earp and Hobbs, the monument is a striking neo-Gothic pinnacle that solemnly marks this mass burial site. A plaque commemorates John Blake, a Master Cutler who succumbed to the disease, while the foundation stone was laid by the poet James Montgomery, who also penned a poem reflecting on the epidemic's human toll. This monument stands not only as a tribute to those lost but also as a symbol of the city's historical struggle with public health crises.Gardens and Ancient Woodland: A Green Sanctuary
Surrounding the monument are gardens established in the 1850s and the adjacent Clay Wood, an ancient woodland that adds a natural, tranquil dimension to the site. These gardens were gifted to Sheffield by the Duke of Norfolk in 1930, enhancing the area's status as a peaceful urban retreat. A shaded path, created between 1971 and 1995, weaves through Clay Wood, connecting the monument gardens with Fitzwalter Road. The grounds have been recognized for their quality and significance with a Green Flag Award, underscoring their importance as a conservation area and green space within the city.Restoration and Artistic Commemoration
The monument suffered damage when struck by lightning in 1990, necessitating the removal of its top section for safety. A dedicated restoration project began in 2005, led by Jim Hurley and his team, culminating in 2006 and earning the prestigious Marsh Award for Excellence in Public Sculpture. In 2004, a clay cobbled mound art installation was introduced nearby, symbolizing the individuals who perished during the epidemic. These efforts reflect the community’s commitment to preserving the monument’s historical and cultural significance while enhancing its contemplative atmosphere.Panoramic Views and Urban Connection
The site offers fantastic views overlooking Sheffield’s city centre, making it a favored spot for quiet reflection and photography. The opening of a 'green link' in 2014 established paths and cycleways connecting Norfolk Heritage Park to the city centre, improving access to the Cholera Monument Grounds. This link also opened up the north-western corner of the grounds, providing visitors with striking vistas and a direct route to Shrewsbury Road. The juxtaposition of urban skyline views with the solemn monument and natural woodland creates a unique and evocative experience.Historical Context and Public Health Legacy
The Cholera Monument Grounds serve as a poignant reminder of Sheffield’s industrial-era challenges, including overcrowding and poor sanitation that contributed to the epidemic. The site reflects early public health responses, with the establishment of a dedicated burial ground to isolate victims and prevent further spread. The monument and its surroundings preserve the memory of those affected and highlight the evolution of urban health and sanitation practices in the 19th century.A Place for Reflection and Nature Escape
Today, the Cholera Monument Grounds and Clay Wood offer a peaceful retreat within Sheffield, blending historical gravity with natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy relaxing walks through the woodland, appreciate the carefully maintained gardens, and contemplate the stories embedded in the monument. The site’s tranquil ambiance, combined with its panoramic city views, makes it a meaningful destination for both history enthusiasts and those seeking a serene urban green space.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
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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
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Green Flag Award
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- 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
