When I moved to Sheffield for university six years ago, I'll be honest – I didn't really know what to expect.
Like many students, I arrived with a couple of suitcases, a room in halls and very little knowledge of the city beyond the fact it had two universities and a lot of hills.
Fast forward six years and things have changed. I've explored more of Sheffield than I ever thought I would, written about it professionally and the more time I spend here, the more convinced I become that it is one of the best places to live in the country.
Sorry, London. Sorry, Manchester. Sorry, Leeds.
You might have bigger skylines, more famous landmarks and better transport links, but when it comes to quality of life, Sheffield wins.
From its parks and museums to its food scene, festivals and sense of community, these are nine reasons why I think Sheffield is the best place to call home.
5. The street art makes the city feel alive
It wasn't until a friend visited Sheffield and pointed it out that I realised how much street art there is across the city - and just how much it brightens up the city. Murals brighten up walls, underpasses and buildings across Sheffield, adding colour and character to everyday journeys. It's something locals often stop noticing, but visitors definitely don't. | Local Library
6. Kelham Island always has something going on
I definitely didn't make the most of Kelham Island when I first moved to Sheffield. Now it feels like one of the city's most exciting areas, packed with independent bars, restaurants, events and creative businesses. There's always something happening, whether it's live music, a market or a DJ set. The Kelham Island and Neepsend Jazz Festival is a perfect example of the area's appeal – a weekend that brings together music and community in a way Sheffield does so well. | Iconic Media
7. Sharrow Vale feels like a different world
One of Sheffield's biggest strengths is its independent businesses and nowhere shows that better than Sharrow Vale. A walk down the road takes you past bakeries, cafes, gift shops and businesses that all have their own personality. Then there's the Sharrow Vale Market, which transforms the area a few times a year and always attracts huge crowds. | Iconic Media Group
8. The Museums tell Sheffield's story
I'll admit it – museums aren't always top of my list when I'm looking for something to do at the weekend, but Sheffield's are worth making time for. The city has an impressive mix, whether you're interested in art, local history, industry or design. At one end you've got the world-class exhibitions at the Millennium Gallery, which brings some of the best art and design collections to the city. At the other, there's Kelham Island Museum, where Sheffield's industrial story is brought to life through the steelworks, machinery and inventions that helped shape the city we know today. What makes them stand out is that they don't just preserve history – they help explain why Sheffield is the city it is today. Whether you're learning about 300 years of innovation, discovering local stories or getting hands-on with creative exhibitions, there's always something new to uncover. | Local Library