A myriad of hotspots and wonderful memories

Matthew Riley and wife Kay are the proud owners of Riley's & Co collective nostalgia emporium and tearooms, which opened earlier this month, on the couple's first wedding anniversary, in the heart of Sheffield's antiques quarter.
7 July 2016..... Matt and Kay Riley who are opening a new Vintage Emporium and Tea rooms  in Sheffield's Antiques Quarter on July 16th. Picture Scott Merrylees7 July 2016..... Matt and Kay Riley who are opening a new Vintage Emporium and Tea rooms  in Sheffield's Antiques Quarter on July 16th. Picture Scott Merrylees
7 July 2016..... Matt and Kay Riley who are opening a new Vintage Emporium and Tea rooms in Sheffield's Antiques Quarter on July 16th. Picture Scott Merrylees

The couple married on July 15 last year and are living their dream of having a business together where they can explore their mutual love of vintage and food. Matthew is passionate about food, and relaxes in the kitchen by practising and devising old and new dishes. He is also a keen Rugby Union fan and enjoys a day out at Twickenham. Matthew was born in Chesterfield, but has lived in Sheffield for the past 16 years, now with Kay, step daughter Abigail and son Sam, plus the two family Sprockers, Mac and Bonnie.

Tamper Sellers Wheel

My first date with Kay and our wedding reception was held at Tamper. The relaxed atmosphere and attention to detail makes Tamper a favourite place in Sheffield to eat and to take friends, knowing the food and the service is always second to none. Ben from Tamper made our wedding reception an event to remember, catering for our every whim. Friends and family could not believe the quality of the food and attention to detail.

Sheffield Tap

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Whether it’s a quick pint waiting for the train or meeting friends to catch up, the Tap is a great place to visit. With its large variety of cask ales and wines, there is never any disappointment in the quality. The friendly atmosphere and the buzz of excitement of people ready for their travels give the tap a unique atmosphere. The uphill walk from the station to Sheffield Hallam’s Owen Building is also a walk I have done daily for many years, and there is something very special about walking up this hill - whether it’s the excitement of an afternoon out in Sheffield with my wife or friends, or the nerves of my first day at university not knowing what to expect or how I would fit in as a mature student.

Sheffield Antiques Quarter

With its bohemian feel and busy streets, this bustling area of Sheffield is an exciting place to visit, whether you are searching through the charity shops or looking for that different vintage piece. The Antiques Quarter has a varied selection of eateries, from street food to a delicious afternoon tea, the choice is endless - so frequent visits to this area are a must for me!

The Wick at Both Ends

Traditional foods get a modern and unique twist here. The vast array of fresh herbs being prepared in an afternoon for the countless cocktails to be served in the evening is a demonstration of the passion and care placed into every meal or drink served. The staff are so attentive that when waiting on tables, that they have never felt the need to write down our order, they simply listen to what we would like and relay this to the amazingly talented chefs.

Dapper Dan’s Barbers

Tucked away on Chapel Walk is this quirky traditional barbers. My monthly visit is a joy, with the friendly atmosphere and banter. The shops security dog ‘Ziggy Stardust’ nibbles away at your shoe laces when you are helplessly having you hair washed. It’s always a joy to go there; having your coffee served in a tin mug helps keep it hot for those moments when you can grab it quick between snips. To top it all off they manufacture and sell their own hair product which I swear by. It’s also #madeinsheffield, hoorah!

Peace Gardens

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The Peace Gardens brings back so many happy memories for me, a visit there always brings a smile, even if it is just for a quick lunch break. There always seems to be a happy atmosphere in this area of the city, drinking prosecco whilst cooling my feet in the water during a jazz set at the Tramlines festival or with my closest friends and family, minutes after getting married.

Heeley Bank Antiques

This has been the inspiration for me and my family to follow our dream. We have been frequenting this wonderful emporium for some time to allow us to collect vintage items for our home. My personal favourite item squirreled from this wonderful building has to be the original Babycham glasses we purchased for the 1960s drinks cabinet (with lights) for our summer house. Samphire and Scott always press our buttons with their vintage and retro kitchen and home-ware, the wallet may take a hit, but it’s always worth it.