The unofficial ranking of Sheffield's parks 2025

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About the author: My name is Lucie Waring, I’m 19 years old, and I’m a 2nd year student studying BA Digital Media and Society at the University of Sheffield. I am originally from York, but I’m loving my new life in Sheffield and getting to know all the student hotspots—especially finding the local coffee shops and parks. During my time at university I am a member of many societies, from the Sociology Society to the University of Sheffield Lacrosse Club, which I love to attend with friends and where I partake in fun social events!

Named the greenest city in the UK with over 22,600 acres of green spaces spanning across the Steel City, there is no doubt that Sheffield has its fair share of parks and green grounds for students to explore and ‘reconnect with nature’. Especially with the spring skies brightening over South Yorkshire and the summer heat soon to arrive, it's the perfect time of year to experience the wildlife and greenery. So whether you are on the hunt for a Sunday morning country walk, or some post-lecture downtime; here is my unofficial ranking of our beloved city’s parks so you are never lacking in vitamin D.

1. Endcliffe Park

A park where Hallam habitants and first year Uni Of residents meet, Endcliffe park is located just off Ecclesall Road and backs onto Endcliffe student village. Therefore, spanning across both universities, in addition to Sheffield’s long-time homeowners, this green landscape secures the number one spot on my ranking of Sheffield’s parks. With various wildlife walks and running trails, Endcliffe Park is the perfect spot to start your fitness era and get summer ready, hosting the Saturday morning Parkrun every week. In addition, due to its central location, you can venture down the pathways of Ecclesall Road and Sharrow Vale Road and grab a post-exercise takeaway brunch from one of their array of options and enjoy it on a picnic bench in the sun.

2. Bole Hills

Residents of the Sheffield suburb Crookes are lucky enough to live within walking distance of second place on the ranking: Bole Hills, a gorgeous viewing spot that overlooks the west side of the city and the Peak District. Dog walkers and afternoon saunters can find peace at this greenland, an escape from the industrial city that lies behind the serenity. In addition, with various independent vendors and cafes all huddled in Crookes, it is the perfect location to grab a takeaway coffee and croissant from one of the many options around and take on your venture into the hills and watch the sunset over the Steel City.

3. Weston Park

Another key park and third on my list is Weston Park, situated across from Sheffield’s Children's Hospital and surrounded by some of the University of Sheffield’s buildings; this open green space offers culture to the outdoor gardens. Housing the Weston Park Museum and the last surviving bandstand in Sheffield, history is paired with tranquility—so take the scenic route home after your lectures and soak up the sun in one of our city’s most culturally significant parks.

4. Crookes Valley Park

Fourth on my list, University Of students will be familiar with this parkland, situated in the Crookesmoor area (aka uni of students homeland), Crookes Valley Park is in perfect reach for a pre-lecture run or a post-seminar stroll. Bordering a lake, it’s also common to spot the Sheffield University Canoe Club or Swim Club taking a dip in the frosted pool—no pressure to join though, instead just watch from afar with a pint at Dam House. However, beware, Crookes Valley Park is infamously known as a breakup hotspot. I know of many relationships that have been ended with a sombre stroll around the park; so the next time your recent Hinge date suggests a walk in Crookes Valley Park, be sure to pack a few tissues.

5. Sheffield Botanical Gardens

Spring is blossoming and so are the trees and gardens of this Broomhall nature retreat, offering peace and tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle. A plant lover's heaven, the winding paths take you on excursions around the secluded park, encountering 18 different gardens, friendly squirrels, and creepy crawlies at every corner. To add, the indoor glasshouse is home to worldwide species, so even when it's raining you can enjoy the plants. However, technically not a park, Sheffield’s Botanical Gardens is last on my rankings, but this is definitely not a reflection of what it has to offer; this is arguably the most diverse and green garden in all of Sheffield.

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