Step outside and rediscover the beauty on our doorstep

Growing up in Sheffield, I always remained within the same neighbourhood bubble: same shops, same parks, same pubs etc.

It is only now, after having spent considerable time away from my home city, that I have found a desire to explore new areas. So, why now? Well, why not now?

The Covid-19 pandemic has left me with too much free time and inbetween anxiously considering the future and nostalgically thinking of simpler times, I have pushed myself to go outside as much as possible and see what there is discover.

In Sheffield there are various places one has heard of but can’t actually picture, the

kind of place to make you say ‘that does ring a bell’.

I’ve found an exciting way to put a place to these vaguely familiar names is to look on a map and head towards any location which you recognise, like The Ponderosa, but are not quite sure if it’s a park or a 1960s’ jazz bar.

It’s equally fun to put your phone away and walk through an unfamiliar neighbourhood or park. The best thing that can happen is you get lost: the feeling of getting lost is quite an old-fashioned notion, but should still be experienced, because finding your way around through street smartness is quite special.

Through my many walks, I have found out Bole Hill is not a golf course, Ranmoor is not a farm and Meersbrook Park has the best view of the city.

I have also established the Sheffield Round Walk is not in my walking capacity. It’s no secret Sheffield is renowned for its hills, but this is only really visible - and felt – by walking across the city.

It’s often the case that taking a break from a place can improve your appreciation upon return; or alternatively when someone visits, you see the opportunity to present your city in the best way and end up searching ‘must-see places’ and ‘Sheffield bucket list’.

Through the eyes of a non-Sheffielder, you soon realise – or remember – how beautiful, diverse and brimming with character this city is.

Currently we can’t have visitors to prompt this revaluation, so the motivation lies in our hands, but, one day soon we’ll be able to show our city to friends and relatives with real pride and joy.

Head outside and rediscover your love for Sheffield.