Going out

You've heard the stories about the student lifestyle. Clubbing and parties 24/7, and all that. In reality there's a lot more to it.

True, if you want to go clubbing and partying, you're never far from some spectacularly good clubs and parties around here. But what if that's not your thing? Don't fret. Sheffield caters for everyone. Your options for a night (or day) out here are so far-reaching and diverse that there's always fun to be found, whatever your tastes.

A legendary music scene

Band playing at the Foundry

Sheffield's inventiveness and sense of fun mean we've been at the forefront of British pop music for about 30 years now. Whether it's live bands or DJs you're after, study here and immerse yourself in a music scene full of thrills.

From big touring bands at the Leadmill or Academy to small but perfectly formed 'boutique' venues like the Redhouse, you'll find whatever you're after, be it indie, rock, folk, electro, dance, R&B or chart pop. After all, there can't be many cities that gave birth to Def Leppard and Gatecrasher.

If you want to get involved, Sheffield's thriving DIY culture means it's easy to put your own night on if you like. Just keep your cameraphone ready, as there's always the chance of bumping into an Arctic Monkey or a member of Pulp.

Food and drink

If alcohol's not your cup of tea – or you just fancy a night off the booze – there are more great coffee shops and cafes than you can shake an abstemious stick at. And we're not just talking Starbucks.

Check out the Rude Shipyard for a bite and a book club, Bragazzi's for authentic Italian, the Blue Moon for veggie delights and Tamper for coffee done the New Zealand way.

Or if international cuisine is your thing, there are restaurants serving Chinese, Turkish, Italian, Thai, Mexican, Japanese, Greek and Vietnamese... and that's just on London Road.

What our students say

Watch this video and see what our students say about going out in Sheffield. They know more about it than we do, after all.

A warm welcome for LGBT students

Sheffield is a safe, tolerant and welcoming city for all students, including lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans people.

Good times are guaranteed at the Climax club night held right here at our Students' Union – which attracts LGBT folk from miles around.

For more on the scene around the University and the city, check out the union's LGBT Committee and Sheffield Pride.

The best pubs...

Sheffield is the best place in Britain for pubs. It's that simple. They're friendly, they're full of character, and they're brimming with life-alteringly good beer.

Pub lovers visit Sheffield from all over the UK to sample outstanding local ales from the likes of Thornbridge, Abbeydale and Acorn. One place here recently scooped Camra's 'best pub in Britain' award for two years running.

The prices aren't bad either – there are still places that sell a pint for less than £2, all day, every day. Just don't tell everyone or you'll never get served.

...bars and clubs

Students in the Forum bar

Prefer a bar or club? Thousands of our students enjoy a top night out in the West Street/Devonshire Street area close to the University. It's buzzing most nights of the week. (One bar around there is the only place we know that's ever employed bouncers to turn away people who are too smartly dressed.)

There are loads of special offers for students to make sure your bank balance doesn't get too hair-raising. And we've noticed that 'locals' and students seem to get along better in Sheffield than in a lot of other places. So you can stay out of trouble literally as well as financially.

But don't forget – some of the best club nights for miles around are right here at the University. Check out our Students' Union to see what gets your toes tapping.

Everyone says it, but...

When you've had enough to drink, it's an excellent idea to not drink any more. A good night out is even better if you can remember it the next day. So keep safe. Our Students' Union has some sound advice on this.