Sheffield (South Yorkshire, England) might not be the first place you think of when you want to get involved with nature, but let me tell you – there are plenty of places in and around the area that remind us that a city isn’t all about big grey skyscrapers. According to the NHS it’s incredibly important to get outside and be more active, so read on.
Fortunately, there are loads of parks and nature safe havens that allow for a break from the hustle and bustle of the lively and exciting city. I’ve compiled a list of visitors’ favourite nature spots to visit and why you should check them out while you’re in town.
Butterfly House
You might think that with a name like the Butterfly House this place would have a pretty specific area of focus. It turns out that this place has a lot more to offer than just a few Monarchs; you’ll find meerkats, prairie dogs, skunks, wallabies and porcupines among other mammals.
One of the fan-favourites is the tropical house that is home to some of the creepier, crawlier animals. Alligators, mice, snakes, spiders, geckos and, of course, butterflies. Make sure you come along to the Butterfly House, as it’s well worth the visit.
The Botanical Gardens
The Botanical Gardens are a place for extended solitude and peace in amongst the rush of the city in every sense of the meaning.
The rose gardens are a beauty to behold as are the man species of plants in the glass house. Take a casual stroll around the perimeter or join in some of the yearly events that are held in the gardens such as the locally famous Music in the Gardens or, if you’re so inclined, Art in the Gardens.
The weekends offer the chance to see local art exhibitions and the opportunity to support the upkeep of the place at the quaint little gift shop.
The Gardens are only a 10 minute walk away from one of my favourite hotels in Sheffield – The Mercure Sheffield St Paul’s Hotel and Spa.
Graves Park
This park has a little bit of something for just about everyone. It’s free to get in so makes an ideal visit if you’re travelling on a budget.
There is a small area in which you’re able to let the kids (and the adults) pet some animals, and a river to sit by or splash in when the sun comes out.When you’re feeling peckish you should head to the café for something to eat before sampling some of the delicious ice-cream on offer. If you can spare the £1.50, there’s a mini train that runs around the one of the fields and it’s great fun.
If you’ve been to or live in Sheffield and you’ve got some ideas of what fun, nature-related things people can do in the area, please be sure to let us know in the comments!
I haven’t spent much time in Sheffield but when I next visit my family nearby I’ll be sure to check out some of these places, beautiful up in South Yorks!