We all know that England is a little lagging behind its pals on the continent when it comes to Christmas markets, but one thing is for sure: we’re improving year on year. Both Manchester and Leeds now boast large, beautiful, annual markets filled with hand made gifts, food, and of course; alcohol. So how does Sheffield compare to its neighbours?
The Christmas markets themselves run up the city centre’s main shopping street, Fargate, and continuing right up toward the Peace Gardens. The markets host a modest 50 stalls but is still very enjoyable to walk around; and are open from 10am, 7 days a week. The market includes all the essentials you need for that true Christmas market experience: German sausages, Churros and Baileys hot chocolates. With the obligatory sleigh bar situated outside the town hall.
THOR’s tipi is becoming a staple part of everyone’s Christmas experience; the perfect end to a Christmas shopping trip – or great for those after-work mulled wine’s. THOR’s tipi made its return to Sheffield on November 22nd 2017, and is pulling in crowds like no other year. With locations in five cities across the UK: Sheffield, Leeds, York, Lincoln and Milton Keynes. THOR’s tipi Sheffield has beers from local beer maker; Abbeydale Brewery. Alongside a variety of lagers and draft ales, mulled wine and hot cider. And if none of that floats your boat you can treat yourself to an alcoholic hot chocolate to warm you up on a cold evening.
THOR’s is a new drinking experience with a surprisingly cosy atmosphere; being in a Tipi, in England, in December. The staff are extremely friendly and even allow you to bring dogs inside! There’s a roaring log fire in the middle seating area creating a relaxed and homely vibe – enticing each customer to have just one more drink before braving the cold December night.
Once you’re suitably full of mince pies, you’ve got a few options of where to head in Sheffield. If you fancy getting on the cocktails and heading for a boogie I would recommend taking yourself to West Street. Packed with bars and clubs you’ve got ample choice of which dance floor will be yours for the night. If you’re after a more chilled out bar scene then you will enjoy Division Street – with The Devonshire and Bungalows & Bears being two of my favourites on this street. Alternatively, you could go and grab a Christmas movie. Sheffield is lucky to play home to 2 cinemas which frequently show independent movies: Curzon and Showroom. Which sit alongside The Light and Odeon for your more mainstream options.
