Are you looking for Summer holiday activity inspiration? We have outlined the best 10 things to do with kids in Sheffield this Summer.
Our guide will lead you to creating some unforgettable memories for you and your family. From outdoor adventures to interactive museums to fun-filled workshops, there’s something to suit every interest and age group. You’ll find suggestions for free, affordable and paid for options, ensuring that there’s an activity to suit your needs!
1. The Tropical Butterfly House
The Tropical Butterfly House in Sheffield is a unique attraction that immerses visitors in the enchanting world of tropical butterflies and more. Spanning over several acres, this activity provides a serene escape from the city.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a kaleidoscope scene of an array butterfly species. Experience their habit with a humid, tropical environment, rich with native plants and flowers to thrive in. As you explore the enclosure, you can witness the captivating and educational life cycle of butterflies, from caterpillars to chrysalises and finishing as fully formed butterflies.
Furthermore, Tropical Butterfly House is home to a diverse range of exotic animals, including lemurs, meerkats, birds of prey, and reptiles. Educational talks and interactive displays are often on throughout the day to provide families with valuable insights into the natural world, promoting conservation and environmental awareness.
The Tropical Butterfly House Overview
Opening Hours: Monday- Friday: 10-4
Weekends and bank holidays: 10-5
School holidays: 10-5
Prices:
Adult: £16.99
Child: £15.99
Student & Senior Citizens: £15.99
Explorer Family Pass: £56.00 (2 adults and 2 children)
Family Ranger Pass: £68.00 (2 adults and 3 children)
Website:https://www.butterflyhouse.co.uk/
2. Gullivers Valley Theme Park
Gulliver’s Valley Theme Park (Sheffield) is a new attraction to the city that guarantees to create lasting memories for all the family. Nestled within the Rother Valley Area, this expansive theme park is a fun day for every age group.
You will find thrilling roller coasters, water rides, gentle carousels and fairground classics. This diverse selection of rides cater for thrill-seekers and those looking for a more relaxed experience. Walking around, you will discover enchanting themed areas, such as Lost World, Western World, and Safari Kingdom which transports visitors to imaginative worlds filled with magical creatures and fascinating landscapes.
In between exploring and rides, you can take part in a whole host of interactive experiences, including live shows, animal encounters, and adventure playgrounds. Children can let their imagination run wild as they explore the park’s many play areas and embark on exciting quests.
Gullivers Valley Theme Park Overview
Prices: Park Day Ticket
Entry to the Theme Park for the day.
Online Adult: £27.00
Online Child: £21
Online Senior: £25
Under 90cm: Free Entry
Concessionary: £15
Online Advance Adult & Child: £21
Online Advance Senior: £19
Online Advance Concessionary: £15
* For best prices book online 2+ days in advance. Short breaks are also available.
Website: https://www.gulliversvalleyresort.co.uk
3. Heeley City Farm
Heeley City Farm is located close to Sheffield City Centre and is cherished by the local community as it encompasses nature, education, and sustainable living since 1981.
The 4-acre farm is home to a range of animals, including goats, sheep, pigs, and chickens, providing a hands-on opportunity for children and adults alike to connect and learn about what is involved with animal care.
You can also discover beautiful gardens that grow organic produce and showcase sustainable gardening techniques. Visitors can look around the herb garden, pick up gardening tips, or even get involved in volunteer programs that promote ecological awareness. There are further workshops and educational programs that are popular for children.
After this, take a break and relax in the cosy café that serves delicious, homemade food made from locally sourced ingredients.
Heeley City Farm Overview
Opening Times: Everyday between 9:30 & 4pm.
Price: Free
Website: https://www.heeleyfarm.org.uk/
4. Alpaca and Llama Treks
Alpaca and llama treks at Holly Hagg Community is a hidden gem activity and promises a unique experience for any age. The treks are led by knowledgeable guides who provide fascinating insights into the behaviour, history, and care of alpacas and llamas. You’ll have the chance to interact with the animals, learn about their individual characteristics, and then lead them along the idyllic trail.
Holly Hagg Community Farm’s alpaca treks offer more than just a scenic walk; they provide an opportunity for visitors to connect with the animals on a personal level. The treks promote appreciation for nature and promote the importance of sustainable agriculture, making it both an educational and scenic walk.
Alpaca Trek Overview
Schedule: Alpaca Trek Schedule
Prices: Depend on how many people there are and if children are attending. You can also buy gift vouchers.
Website: https://hollyhagg.org.uk/alpaca-trekking/
5. National Video Game Museum
The National Video Game Museum is a unique museum that celebrates the art, culture, and history of video games, offering visitors an interactive and nostalgic journey through the evolution of gaming entertainment.
Discover a vast collection of artifacts, consoles, and games that span through the decades, from arcade machines to the latest gaming technology. It allows visitors to relive iconic gaming moments, discover the stories behind legendary titles, and explore how a game develops through the creative process.
Visitors can also get involved and try their hand at classic arcade games, nostalgic retro consoles and the latest virtual reality adventures. The museum’s interactive exhibits cater to gamers of all ages, creating an engaging and inclusive environment that promotes the joy and camaraderie that gaming brings.
Beyond the exhibits, the National Video Game Museum offers educational programs and workshops that delve into the science, art, and technology behind gaming. From coding workshops to game design sessions, visitors can learn new skills and gain a deeper understanding of the gaming industry.
National Video Game Museum Overview
Opening Times: Wednesday – Friday: 1pm – 4pm
Saturday & Sunday: 10am – 1pm & 2pm – 5pm
Times may vary through the Summer Holidays and Half Terms.
Prices: Adult: £11
Child: £9
Concessions: £9
Family Ticket: £36
Under 5s: Free entry
Website: https://thenvm.org/
6. Peace Gardens
The Peace Gardens are right in the heart of Sheffield city centre and provides a serene environment for visitors to unwind and relax in the midst of bustling city life.
The area features vibrant flower beds, green lawns, water features and the iconic Peace Memorial dove statue. This is a popular outdoor space for families to enjoy with children running through the ground up water sprinklers.
The gardens host a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from cultural festivals to musical performances. If there isn’t a summer event on your visit, you can enjoy a picnic, a leisurely walk, or simply find a quiet spot to reset and embrace the relaxing atmosphere.
This is a free area but please check for individual Summer events ahead of your visit.
7. Graves Animal Park
Graves Park is popular among visitors and locals as there is fun for all the family to enjoy. There are beautiful woodlands, many walking trails, playgrounds, cafe and of course, the animal farm.
You can get up close to a range of animals including pigs, sheep, birds of prey, goats and many more. When you’ve finished up here, you can take your own picnic or enjoy refreshments at the nearby cafe.
Take a stroll by the streams flowing through the park or enjoy the surrounding woodland. This vast landscape can take you many ways to embrace the surrounding countryside, making it fun for all the family.
Graves Animal Park is free to walk around. Find out more information: https://www.facebook.com/gravesparkanimalfarm
8. National Emergency Services Museum
The National Emergency Services Museum is located close to Sheffield city centre and is housed in a historic fire station. The museum offers visitors to embark on the journey through the evolution of emergency services, providing a glimpse into history and their invaluable contributions.
You can see a collection of artifacts, vehicles, and equipment from over the years. From vintage fire engines and police cars to ambulance vehicles and equipment, visitors can explore the remarkable progress made in public services overtime.
Visitors can learn about historical events, hear personal accounts, and understand the resilience and bravery that define emergency service personnel. It’s an educational day out for all the family to learn about life-saving techniques and emergency response protocols. It provides a captivating experience that honours contributions while offering visitors the opportunity to explore the world of emergency services.
National Emergency Services Museum Overview
Opening Times:
Monday Closed except on Bank Holiday Mondays.
Tuesday Closed
Wednesday 10:00 – 16:00
Thursday 10:00 – 16:00
Friday 10:00 – 16:00
Saturday 10:00 – 16:00
Sunday 10:00 – 16:00
Prices:
£9.50 – Adult (16 – 60 years of age)
£7.50 – Child (3 – 15 years of age)
Free – Under 3 years of age
£26.50 – Family
(2 adults and 2 children OR 1 adult and 3 children)
£8.50 – Concessions (60+ years of age)
£8.50 – Student (With valid ID)
£5.50 – 999 Staff (with valid ID)
£5.50 – Wheelchair users
(Due to limited access around the old building)
Website: https://www.visitnesm.org.uk/
9. Weston Park
Weston Park is a popular public area and is spread over 5 hectacres. Visitors can enjoy a blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational amenities.
The well-maintained green areas, colourful flower beds and walking trails offer a space to relax with the iconic Victorian bandstand.
This park is also home to Weston Park Museum, which showcases Sheffield’s history and diverse heritage. The museum boasts a collection of exhibits, including archaeology, natural history, and fine art, providing a fascinating insight into the region’s past.
For families, there is a children’s playground, complete with swings, slides, and climbing frames, ensuring little ones are entertained. The open spaces are perfect for picnics, ball games, or simply relaxing in the sun. Throughout the year, Weston Park hosts various events and festivals so check which ones you want to attend this Summer!
10. Kelham Island Museum
Kelham Island museum is focused on the city’s industrial heritage, including the evolution of machinery and production. The museum is located within the former industrial complex which was once a hub of steel and tool manufacturing. The buildings themselves are an impressive example of the past and adds to the authentic atmosphere.
Inside the museum, visitors can explore interactive displays, working machinery, and exhibitions that showcase Sheffield’s industrial prowess. From the production of steel and cutlery to the evolution of industrial technology, the museum offers a comprehensive insight into the city’s industrial past and its impact on the world. One of the highlights of the museum is the impressive River Don Engine, a massive steam engine that once powered Sheffield’s mills and factories.
The museum’s location in the vibrant Kelham Island area adds to its appeal with independent restaurants and shops on offer to explore afterwards.
Kelham Island Museum Overview
Opening Times:
Tue-Sat 10am-5pm
Sun 11am-4pm
Please check to see if these are altered due to events.
The museum has free entry but accepts donations.
Website: https://www.sheffieldmuseums.org.uk/visit-us/kelham-island-museum/
Please note: for all activity opening times and prices displayed may be subject to change and vary, so please check with provider.