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The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Festival of the Mind

Amazing work goes on behind university walls. New ideas constantly bounce from one laboratory or seminar room to the next. With a little help from Sheffield's creative community, that work and those ideas are let loose in the city throughout the Festival of the Mind.

Every other autumn, academic and creative minds from Sheffield come together to host exhibitions, talks, screenings, performances and more, in venues across the city. Past editions of Festival of the Mind have also brought to town a Spiegeltent, a glorious 18th century structure that's acted as the festival's hub.

Come back soon to find out what's in store for the next Festival of the Mind in autumn 2026.

In the meantime, keep an eye on the festival's Facebook page for updates.

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Alder

A hang-out built around good beer, great music and community spirit. Hosting the weekly Kelham Island Film Club, a regular open jazz night, an eclectic mix of gigs and the occasional art exhibition.

Folk Train

A surreal combination of folk bands, music lovers, alcohol and regular commuters on a packed and ageing Northern Rail carriage, with a Peak District pub as the destination.

Yorkshireman

A friendly rock pub with the motto "silence is overrated" – complete with jukebox and basement gig venue. Live performances specialise in rock, punk and metal, while it also hosts comedy nights and a regular drag show.

Everywhere At Once: Sheffield

Fri. 26 June 2026 — Sun. 28 June 2026

Bringing the festival season to grassroots venues across the country for one big weekend. Sheffield's lineup includes Jim Ghedi, Jodie Harsh​​​​​​​, Toddla T and more, at venues Sidney & Matilda, Lughole, FORGE Warehouse, Gut Level and Dryad Works.