Autumn can be a hard season for many, especially students. Returning to university after a long summer break, being faced with a new load of work and welcoming dark nights by getting in bed at 7pm. But it doesn’t have to be all doom and gloom. In fact, Sheffield is one of the best places to spend the transitional months, with a mix of coffee shops, events, and days out pumpkin picking, it really does have it all. It also doesn’t go forgotten that doing something every day is expensive and bargains are a prized possesion. So, grab your to-do list and be sure to fit in some time for you. Add all the below to your autumn bucket list to make the most of this fall.
A morning in Leah’s Yard
Newly opened Leah’s Yard has a combination of cafes and independent shops. To explain it’s location, it may be easier to say it’s next to Benjamin Huntsman. One of my favourite things to do is spend the morning wandering around La Biblioteka finding my next read. Whether it’s thriller, romance or an autobiography, this slice of reading heaven has it all. Why not pop into the florist on your way out for an autumnal arrangement to sprinkle some of the season through your halls. The retail destination also has a gallery where you can spend half an hour looking at different forms of art. All shops are free to browse. Be aware through, you probably will spend more than you intend on after seeing all there is to offer.
A pumpkin pie latte at Mows
Located on Arundel Street, perfect for the Hallam City campus students, Mows has one of the most creative menus on offer. From pumpkin pie lattes to white chocolate s’more-tados, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Now that the cold mornings have begun, what better way to warm up that with a spiced, hot drink? Mows also offers sweet treats such as pumpkin pie, cinnamon rolls, and almond croissants. Basically, it’s straight out of a movie set. If it’s more of a savoury snack you crave, they also have a selection of grilled sandwiches, to eat in or take away. The establishment also uses the squid scheme, an app you can download for a digital loyalty card, meaning you get your sixth drink free.
A walk around Endcliffe park, with a hot chocolate of course
Central for most Sheffield students, Endcliffe park has one of the most scenic walks in the area. As soon as September hits, the leaves turn orange and brown and crunch under each step you take. You can grab a hot chocolate from the café situated in the middle of the park to keep you warm during your stroll. Fresh air is essential for a clear mind, so take a break from your assignment and get your steps in for the day. Seeing as it is located on Ecclesall road, you could even pick up an Urban Pitta or a flat white from Caffè Tucci.
Gilmore Girls quiz at Pom in Crookes
By far my favourite day of the season. The Gilmore Girls quiz at Pom in Crookes brings a slice of Connecticut to the streets of Sheffield. For any fans of the show, this is a must do. Pom decorates with leaves, Stars Hollow signs and even a ‘no cell phones’ poster in honour of Luke’s. This year the event cost £35 per person but did include a three-course meal including: Pumpkin soup, hotdogs, and an apple sauce sundae. If you’re looking for a cosy night, where you can have a laugh and be transported into your favourite series, you’re in the right place. The events are always in September / October which means the weather sets the scene. The cafe welcomes you in out of the storm and submerges you into the complete definition of coziness.
Date night at Fired Arts
For those who aren’t fans of Gilmore Girls, but are wanting a creative day or evening out, try Fired Arts- a pottery paining café on Ecclesall Road. Upon arrival you’re told about how everything works and then left to do your thing. Prices vary depending on what you decide to paint, for example a mug may cost £X, whereas a dish would be £Y. To make it extra autumnal, try and replicate a cosy fall design. Fired Arts do a mixture of evening events and day time painting slots, so if you plan on hibernating by 5:00pm every evening, they have you covered.
Whatever it is you decide to do this autumn, make sure you take time for yourself. Sheffield is full of hidden gems full of seasonal bakes, chunky knits, and spiced lattes. Pick the pumpkins, binge watch the TV show and take a walk with a hot chocolate, after all it is the start of the most wonderful time of the year.
