Fargate, Sheffield
Sheffield's historic pedestrian shopping street where medieval heritage meets modern vibrancy and community gathering.
Fargate is Sheffield's vibrant pedestrian shopping street, a historic thoroughfare that has been the heart of the city centre since its pedestrianisation in 1973. Running between Barker's Pool and High Street opposite the cathedral, this lively precinct blends heritage architecture with contemporary retail and hospitality. The street is known for its iconic Coles Corner meeting point, regular Continental Markets featuring European goods, and recent regeneration projects including new dining and drinking venues. Today, Fargate remains a dynamic destination for shopping, dining, and experiencing Sheffield's evolving urban landscape.
A brief summary to Fargate
- 38-8 Fargate, Sheffield, Sheffield City Centre, GB
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during the Continental Market (approximately four times yearly) to experience European food stalls, crafts, and seasonal goods in a festive atmosphere.
- Explore the architectural heritage by noting the Victorian and Georgian buildings, and look for the commemorative plaque honouring the historic Cole Brothers department store.
- Use Coles Corner as a natural meeting point and landmark; it remains the iconic intersection at the bottom of Fargate opposite the cathedral.
- Combine shopping with dining at newer venues like The Fargate pub, which offers craft beers and pizza with views across the street towards City Hall.
- Allow time to wander and people-watch; Fargate's pedestrianised design makes it ideal for leisurely exploration of Sheffield's city centre character.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport (Tram)
Sheffield's Supertram network serves the city centre with multiple lines. The nearest tram stops are Fargate Station (directly on the street) and Sheffield Cathedral Station, both within 2–5 minutes' walk. Trams run frequently throughout the day (typically every 5–15 minutes depending on the line). Single journey fares are approximately £1.80–£2.50 depending on zones; day passes cost around £4.50–£5.50. Journey times from Sheffield Railway Station are approximately 10–15 minutes.
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Walking from Sheffield Railway Station
Sheffield Railway Station is approximately 800 metres (10–12 minutes' walk) south of Fargate. Exit the station and head north through the city centre, following signs towards the cathedral and city centre. The route is well-signposted and passes through pedestrianised areas. This is a straightforward, flat walk suitable for most mobility levels.
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Bus Services
Multiple bus routes serve Sheffield city centre with stops near Fargate. The main bus interchange is at the Interchange Station, approximately 5–10 minutes' walk away. Local buses cost around £1.50–£2.00 per journey; day tickets are approximately £4.00–£5.00. Buses run throughout the day with varying frequencies depending on the route.
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Parking (Car)
Fargate itself is pedestrianised, but several multi-storey car parks are within 2–5 minutes' walk, including the Arundel Gate Car Park and the Sheaf Square Car Park. Parking costs vary but typically range from £1.50–£3.00 per hour, with all-day rates around £8.00–£12.00. On-street parking is limited in the city centre; the car parks offer the most reliable option.
Fargate location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Fargate
A Street Shaped by Sheffield's History
Fargate has been central to Sheffield's identity for centuries, though its modern character took shape in 1973 when it became one of the city's first pedestrianised streets. The street runs between Barker's Pool and High Street, positioned opposite Sheffield Cathedral, making it both a commercial hub and a symbolic gateway to the city centre. The most famous landmark is Coles Corner, named after the Cole Brothers department store that once anchored the intersection. This corner became legendary as a meeting point where generations of Sheffield residents gathered, a tradition immortalised in local culture and music. When Cole Brothers relocated to Barker's Pool in 1963, the building was eventually replaced with a modern structure, though a commemorative plaque now honours the store's legacy.Medieval Foundations and Archaeological Discovery
Beneath Fargate's contemporary surface lies evidence of medieval occupation. In 2005, archaeological excavations beneath Carmel House uncovered a medieval well over three metres deep, cut into the sandstone bedrock. Pottery fragments found within suggested the well was in active use by 1300 AD and was filled in around the time of the English Civil War. Among the artefacts were jugs crafted in the Hallgate area of nearby Doncaster and other ceramics from the Humber Estuary, indicating that medieval Fargate was part of a thriving regional trade network. These discoveries reveal a street with roots stretching back to the medieval period, long before its transformation into a modern shopping destination.Markets, Events, and Seasonal Vibrancy
Fargate's character shifts throughout the year, particularly when the Continental Market arrives approximately four times annually. This European-style market transforms the pedestrian precinct into a festive gathering space, with stalls offering cheeses, confectionery, clothing, plants, and handcrafted jewellery and ornaments. The street also hosted the Wheel of Sheffield, a 53-metre tall Ferris wheel with 42 gondolas that operated from mid-July 2009 to January 2010, providing panoramic views across the city centre. These events and installations reflect Fargate's role as more than just a shopping street—it is a venue for community gathering and seasonal celebration.Contemporary Retail and Hospitality Evolution
Today, Fargate continues to evolve as a retail and dining destination. The modern building at Coles Corner houses familiar high-street names including Burger King, Starbucks, and Greggs, serving the constant flow of shoppers and workers. More recently, the street has attracted independent and craft-focused hospitality venues, including The Fargate, a flagship pub opened by Thornbridge & Co in the historic former Yorkshire Bank building. This multi-level venue features a dramatic horseshoe bar on the ground floor with cask ales and craft beers, while the upper floor offers a contemporary pizza kitchen with views across Fargate towards City Hall. Such developments signal a shift towards experiential dining and drinking alongside traditional retail.Architectural Character and Urban Regeneration
Fargate's architecture reflects layers of Sheffield's development. Victorian stone-fronted buildings like Carmel House stand alongside Georgian brick properties, creating a streetscape of heritage value. The street is undergoing significant regeneration, with new developments including shipping container complexes and enhanced green spaces adding contemporary vibrancy to the historic precinct. These interventions aim to balance preservation of the street's character with modern urban vitality, making Fargate a living example of how historic city centres can adapt to contemporary needs.A Street for All Seasons
Whether visiting for seasonal markets, shopping, dining, or simply experiencing Sheffield's city centre culture, Fargate offers something throughout the year. Its pedestrianised environment makes it accessible and welcoming, while its blend of heritage, commerce, and community gathering creates a distinctly Sheffield experience. The street remains a focal point where locals and visitors converge, continuing a tradition established long before its formal pedestrianisation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Museum
0.1 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
0.2 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
0.3 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.
Crucible Stack
0.6 km
Explore Sheffield’s iconic Crucible Stack, a rare industrial landmark embodying the city’s pioneering steelmaking heritage and architectural resilience.
Iron Bridge
0.8 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
0.8 km
Award-winning industrial-chic venue in Kelham Island offering intimate events with exceptional food and warm hospitality in Sheffield.
Wicker Arches
0.9 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.
Godfrey Sykes Memorial
1.5 km
Victorian design genius immortalised in terracotta—Sheffield's tribute to a master craftsman.
Friesday Belgian Fries
1.8 km
Savor authentic Belgian fries in a cozy diner atmosphere at Friesday Belgian Fries, the perfect quick bite in Sheffield.
Rose Garden
2.3 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
2.3 km
Victorian heritage meets natural history at Sheffield's finest surviving bear pit, a Grade II listed landmark within beloved botanical gardens.
Sheffield Manor Lodge
2.3 km
Experience the historical charm and scenic beauty of Sheffield Manor Lodge, a premier events venue and heritage site in Sheffield.
Lost & Found Sheffield
2.4 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
2.5 km
Explore The Well Sheffield, a vibrant Baptist church in Sharrow, blending rich community spirit with stunning architecture and cultural events.
The Beer House
2.6 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
Sheffield Christmas Markets
0.0 km
Sheffield's festive celebration of local traders, alpine charm, and seasonal magic across the city centre.
Fronteer Gallery
0.1 km
Independent artist-led gallery showcasing thought-provoking contemporary art in Sheffield City Centre.
Cutlers' Hall Hospitality
0.1 km
Victorian grandeur meets modern event excellence in Sheffield's most prestigious banquet hall.
St Marie's Cathedral, Sheffield
0.1 km
Discover Sheffield’s Gothic Revival masterpiece, St Marie's Cathedral, a serene sanctuary rich in history, art, and community spirit.
Orchard Square
0.1 km
A vibrant open-air shopping and leisure destination in Sheffield, blending retail, culture, and community in a historic city-centre setting.
Victoria Hall
0.1 km
Historic Methodist landmark and vibrant events venue at Sheffield city centre’s cultural heart on Norfolk Street.
The Chocolate Factory
0.1 km
Discover Yorkshire’s first bean-to-bar craft chocolate factory where artisan passion meets rich cacao heritage in Sheffield’s vibrant Harvest Works.
Sheffield Cathedral
0.1 km
Discover over 1,000 years of history, faith, and art in Sheffield’s oldest building, a welcoming cathedral at the city’s heart.
The Montgomery
0.1 km
A vibrant Sheffield City Centre theatre and art centre offering diverse performances and cultural exhibitions in a charming architectural setting.
Crucible Theatre
0.2 km
Experience world-class theatre and iconic snooker in Sheffield’s intimate and historic Crucible Theatre.
Starbucks Coffee
0.2 km
A welcoming Starbucks coffeehouse in Sheffield’s Tudor Square, blending global brand comfort with local cultural vibrancy.
Sheffield Town Hall
0.2 km
Discover the architectural splendor and rich history of Sheffield Town Hall, a must-visit landmark in the heart of Sheffield City Centre.
Changing Places Toilet
0.2 km
Sheffield's accessible changing facility for people with complex care needs in the city centre.
Winter Garden
0.2 km
A verdant urban sanctuary: Europe's largest glasshouse brings tropical paradise to Sheffield's heart.
Peace Gardens
0.2 km
A tranquil urban oasis in Sheffield city centre, blending historic legacy with lush gardens and iconic water features.
Essential places to dine
VeroGusto
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian fine dining in a cozy Georgian townhouse with exquisite homemade dishes and an exceptional wine list in Sheffield.
Caffe Piazza
0.1 km
Authentic Italian pizzas and Mediterranean dishes served fresh daily in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre cafe.
Humpit- The Hummus & Pita Bar
0.1 km
Affordable vegan Mediterranean delights in Sheffield’s city centre, specializing in hummus, pita, and falafel with generous portions and fresh flavors.
Miller & Carter Sheffield City
0.2 km
Experience premium British steakhouse dining with expert cuts, elegant ambiance, and attentive service in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Mama’s & Leonies
0.2 km
Experience hearty Italian classics and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at Mama’s & Leonies.
Grazie
0.2 km
Experience authentic Southern Italian flavors with fresh handmade pasta and warm hospitality in the heart of Sheffield City Centre.
wagamama sheffield city centre
0.2 km
Discover fresh, bold Asian flavours and a welcoming communal vibe at Wagamama in Sheffield’s vibrant Leopold Square.
La Bottega
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian craftsmanship and artisanal flavors in the heart of Sheffield City Centre at La Bottega.
Cubana Tapas Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic Cuban tapas, vibrant Latin music, and lively salsa dancing in the heart of Sheffield’s city centre.
Ego Mediterranean Restaurant & Bar, Sheffield
0.2 km
Modern Mediterranean dining with gluten-free and vegan options, friendly service, and a vibrant bar in Sheffield City Centre.
The Botanist Sheffield
0.2 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
0.2 km
Modern Italian dining with vibrant atmosphere, vegan-friendly options, and stylish setting in Sheffield’s bustling Leopold Square.
Piccolino Sheffield
0.3 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
0.3 km
Classic Italian dining with warm service and diverse menu options in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre.
Browns Sheffield
0.3 km
Elegant British brasserie in Sheffield city centre offering classic and contemporary dishes in a refined, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Bird’s Yard Sheffield
0.1 km
A compact, owner-curated Aladdin’s cave of local makers and quirky design-led gifts in the heart of Sheffield.
skytrend
0.1 km
Explore Sheffield's Skytrend Jewellery Store for exquisite craftsmanship and unique pieces that capture the essence of elegance.
Sheffield Makers
0.2 km
Discover Sheffield's handmade soul in the Winter Garden: unique gifts from local makers, blending craft heritage with fresh creativity.
Ryan Vintage
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Ryan Vintage, Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing boutique in the city centre.
Søstrene Grene
0.4 km
Discover Scandinavian charm and creative inspiration at Søstrene Grene, Sheffield’s boutique for art supplies, home décor, and unique gifts.
Glass Onion Sheffield
0.5 km
Explore Sheffield’s premier vintage clothing store blending sustainable fashion with stylish, curated collections in a unique urban setting.
Sheffield Convenience Store
0.5 km
Your go-to convenience store in Sheffield City Centre for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials, open late night for all your needs.
Preloved Kilo
0.5 km
Discover vintage treasures priced by weight at Preloved Kilo, Sheffield’s vibrant hub for sustainable and stylish pre-loved clothing.
Mint (New name coming soon)
0.6 km
Discover Sheffield City Centre’s eclectic boutique blending fashion, jewelry, and unique local treasures on vibrant Division Street.
Rocky Horrors
0.6 km
Discover bold rock-inspired boots and shoes at Rocky Horrors, Sheffield’s iconic alternative footwear shop in the city centre.
The Alternative Store
0.6 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
0.6 km
Explore Sheffield’s vibrant vintage scene at Vulgar, a uniquely decorated shop with friendly service and eclectic fashion finds.
The Savage Sister
0.6 km
Discover rare vintage designer treasures from the '90s and '00s in Sheffield’s stylish and sustainable boutique, The Savage Sister.
True North Store
0.6 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.
Shady Gifts
0.7 km
Bold, handmade sarcastic and drag-themed gifts in Sheffield’s vibrant city centre, perfect for unique and cheeky presents.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Cheap Dates
0.1 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
0.2 km
Stylish Sheffield wine bar on Leopold Street for tapas, cocktails, brunch, and urban vibes near theatres and shops.
The Head of Steam Sheffield
0.2 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
0.2 km
Quirky underground cocktail haven in a repurposed Victorian toilet—creative drinks, intimate vibes, and Sheffield's inventive spirit in every sip.
Bamboo Door
0.2 km
A vibrant tiki-themed cocktail bar in Sheffield City Centre, famed for exotic rum drinks and lively late-night vibes.
The Dove & Rainbow
0.2 km
Sheffield’s vibrant rock pub with live music, cold ales, and an inclusive atmosphere in the heart of the city centre.
The Champagne Bar
0.2 km
A stylish city centre champagne bar offering classic cocktails and fine wines in Sheffield’s vibrant heart.
Kuckoo Sheffield
0.2 km
Inventive cocktails and pulsating beats define this Leopold Square gem, where Sheffield's nightlife ignites in a whirlwind of creativity and energy.
The Three Tuns, S1
0.3 km
A vibrant traditional pub in Sheffield City Centre, famed for excellent ales, hearty food, and lively karaoke and comedy nights.
Slug & Lettuce - Sheffield
0.3 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
0.3 km
Sheffield's all-day dynamo: daytime pub grub and sports, nighttime DJ beats and cocktails in the city centre buzz.
Trippets Lounge Bar
0.4 km
Sheffield's intimate jazz lounge where live music, gins, and tapas-style plates create an unforgettable evening retreat in the city centre.
Frog & Parrot
0.6 km
Lively British pub and live music venue in Sheffield City Centre, known for quality ales, traditional food, and vibrant nightlife.
Rutland Arms
0.6 km
Sheffield’s beloved city centre pub offering world-class craft beers, inventive pub grub, and a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
BrewDog Sheffield
0.6 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
Tank
0.3 km
A gritty, late‑night underground club on Arundel Gate — loud sound, house and techno nights, and a compact, rave‑style dancefloor.
The Viper Rooms
0.4 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
0.4 km
A vibrant nightclub in Sheffield city centre, Popworld offers lively pop beats, affordable drinks, and a welcoming party atmosphere every weekend.
Plot 22
0.5 km
Immerse in Sheffield's underground beats at Plot 22: no phones, pure rave energy, techno to jungle in an intimate 120-cap haven.
Al Ahsa Night Club
0.5 km
Dance the night away at Al Ahsa Night Club, Sheffield's premier disco destination for unforgettable nightlife experiences.
ONYX Nightclub Sheffield
0.5 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
0.5 km
Dive into Sheffield’s vibrant electronic dance scene at Fez, the city centre’s intimate nightclub with pulsating beats and dazzling laser shows.
Code Sheffield
0.6 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.
The Night Kitchen
0.6 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.
The Leadmill
0.7 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.
Corporation
0.7 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
0.9 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
1.1 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
16.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Waikiki Beach Bar, Derbyshire's go-to destination for dancing, drinks, and unforgettable memories.
Volt Nightclub
18.9 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
- Lively
- Casual
- Scenic
- Entertaining
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
