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The hidden gem of the U.K

Updated: Sep 7, 2019


Part of the intrigue of Sheffield is getting there, flying into any of the UK's airports, Sheffield is just a train ride away. Manchester is the closest airport with international flights. Just take the train to Sheffield Station (SHF) or the bus to Sheffield Interchange. There is also the option to rent a car and enjoy the scenic countryside.



The fountain at SHF Train Station, Sheffield
The fountain at SHF Train Station, Sheffield

I used google maps to find my way. I stayed at the Mercure St. Pauls. I stayed at the hotel due to its proximity to everything in the city. When I visit anywhere, my first intention is to eat. I had lunch at Smoked Barbecue. I noticed on the Menu there was a man vs Food challenge, I tried my luck but was unsuccessful. (I hope you have better luck than I did) That meal warranted a nap, and that's exactly what I did. I spent the rest of the night at West Street Live.



View from the Mercure hotel, Sheffield
View from the Mercure hotel, Sheffield


A great way that I learn cities, I take jogs. I came across a few great spots that I noted to visit. Later that day I visited the Peace Garden, the Winter Garden, and the Millennium Gallery. The Millennium gallery was a look into Sheffield's past in metal works. I ended the night having a wonderful Italian dinner at Piccolino. They have a great points system, where I was able to return days later and get a free meal on them. (January 50% Bonus)


Sheffield Winter Garden
Sheffield Winter Garden

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High tea at Patisserie Valerie was everything. The idea of snacks and tea on a Sunday morning was new for me but I love to immerse myself in the local culture. It was a great experience. Not to mention I think Patisserie Valerie sells the best pastries in Sheffield. Afterward, I explored the Devonshire Quarter. That day, I had my first pub lunch at Yates. Of course, I had my favorite Fish and Chips. That’s roughly my entire diet while in the United Kingdom.



Fish and Chips from the Yates pub, Sheffield
Fish and Chips from the Yates pub, Sheffield


I then walked over to Leopold Square and had a great Italian meal at Strada. I spent the remainder of my day playing pool and darts at Cavendish. The next day I went to Weston Park and the Weston Park Museum. Afterward, I created my own little bar crawl moving from pub to pub from West Street to Castle Square, most notably was Beer School at Brew Dog.



Beer School at the Brew Dog, Sheffield
Beer School at the Brew Dog, Sheffield

The next day, I did a little shopping for souvenirs and trinkets. My selection changes by destination but I always get something to remind me of my journey. Lunch that day was at Mr. Miagi Sushi. I took advantage of orange Wednesday and had some great sushi at a discount price. The idea is of a rotating sushi bar with everything at one price worked out fine for me. Later that night I took salsa lessons at Bloo 88. After lessons, I went downstairs and tried to put what I learned to the test. It was truly an awesome experience.


Thursday gave me the key reason why people actually get travel insurance. Being sick and not being able to do anything about it is no joke. Therefore, I see myself being the new member of Allianz Travel Insurance. (Spent the day in bed)



Allianz Travel Insurance
Allianz Travel Insurance


On Friday I enjoyed a show at Crucible Theater, had lunch at Las Iguanas, had cocktails at Revolutions and then had a few at a pub called the Graduate. (Love those pints)



Crucible Theatre, Sheffield
Crucible Theatre, Sheffield


Sheffield is a college town, Sheffield is a foodie town, Sheffield is my kind of place!


 Interesting art on the campus of  Sheffield Hallam University
Interesting art on the campus of Sheffield Hallam University


Editors Note: Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any parties mentioned. None of the entities mentioned has reviewed, approved or endorsed the content listed in this post.

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