10 things to do before the end of term

Arriving in a new city by yourself is always daunting.

With so many different people and places it’s easy to feel a bit lost with no idea where to start! Thankfully, this cheeky little guide is here to help.  Get well and truly stuck into Sheffield by working your way through this list of things to do before you head back home at Chrimbo. Chop, chop. 

PAT AN ALPACA

Take a trip to Ringinglow Village on the outskirts of Sheffield and meet the alpacas at Mayfield Alpaca farm. For just £3.50 you can wander freely around the venue, see the animals and take a break in the coffee shop. Extending for over 45 acres within the beautiful Mayfield Valley, it’s also close to the fab Norfolk Arms pub – meaning you can finish your alpaca petting with a pint. Perfick. www.mayfieldalpacas.com

JOIN THE CIRCUS

Do something a little bit different this term and teach yourself a few new tricks. Take part in the adult classes at the Greentop Circus and show off your skills to all your newfound friends. Whether it’s learning to use the trapeze, acrobalance or the beginner’s aerial classes, you’ll be performing like a pro in no time. Not recommended after a heavy one the night before. www.greentop.org

GO GO KARTING

Feel the need? The need for speed? Visit the exhilarating 470 metre outdoor Parkwood Karting circuit and their stunning 50mph karts. Ideal for any size group, it’s the perfect day time experience for a fun day out with your mates. Even more fun when it’s raining. Trust us. www.parkwoodkarting.com    

TAKE THE KAMIKAZE CHICKEN WING CHALLENGE AT CHAMPS

You won’t struggle to find Man V Food style challenges in Sheffield – but one of our faves is this face-fusing feast at sports Mecca Champs on Ecclesall Rd.  A bowl of chicken wings smothered in their secret hot sauce with just 15 mind-melting minutes in which to finish the lot. We’ve seen grown men cry attempting it. That said, we smashed (like a boss) in just 1 minute 30 secs. Got a certificate an’ the lot. Do it. We dares ya. And be sure to take advantage of all else that Champs has to offer while you’re at it – such as over 30 HDTVs, Sky and BT sports, pool tables and student offers galore. www.champssheffield.com

HAVE A ROUND OF ADVENTURE GOLF

Put that fancy dress golf attire you’ll no doubt be donning to good use with a few holes at Paradise Island out Centertainment way. A short jaunt on the tram, two adventure golf courses over two levels await. Explore the mysterious sea caves, mystical jungle ruins and the exotic desert island – all for £6. Whilst in the neighbourhood, be sure to indulge in some bowling, laser quest and IMAX action an’ all.

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GO GREEN

Take a trip to the Peak District before the weather turns too cold and see the breath taking countryside and beautiful views on offer. Stroll around the many trails, try horse riding, go cycling or even stay the night on the camp sites. You can also see the natural beauty from the skies and the water with the air and water sports. Just 5 miles from the city centre, a different world awaits! www.peakdistrict.gov.uk

BE EXTREME

Take to the skies, or at least get off the ground, at Aerial Extreme. This action packed urban high ropes course is designed to bring you thrills and excitement as you explore 34 fully loaded obstacles. Located just behind Ice Sheffield, you can experience dizzying heights with the 14m high climbs and 13m Power Fan Drop. Just £20 per person, it’s free parking and easily accessible via the yellow route tram. www.aerialextreme.co.uk/courses/sheffield

GIVE BLOOD

Give a little something back this year with the Sheffield Donor Centre. Open five days a week, the centre’s always on the lookout for more donors. Anyone between the ages of 17-65 can take part so, if you think you’re ready and up for the challenge, sign up now! Located at Cathedral Court on Church Street, it’s right in the heart of the city centre. Free tea and biccies too.

HOP ON THE BUS

Celebrate Halloween and Bonfire Night in style this year by visiting two of Sheffield’s biggest autumn shindigs courtesy of Yellow Bus Events.

Fright Night and After Dark are two Sheffield institutions held during October and November. With live music, food stalls and a giant fun fair at both, they get bigger and better each year. Come in your fancy dress for Fright Night and enjoy the fireworks and bonfire at After Dark. Fright Night – Free entry, 3.30pm – 8.30pm in the city centre. After Dark – £10 Adults, £5 under 14s, 5.30pm – 10pm. www.yellowbusevents.co.uk 

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GET INTO A SKIRMISH

Take a trip to the Skirmish Paintball centre in Sheffield and be prepared to get messy (depending on how good you are)! Experience the thrill of the chase as you take part in the fast paced, trigger pumping games and battle against your contemporaries. With a range of different packages available to suit your student budget, it can be the perfect bonding session for you and your flatmates. www.skirmishpaintballsheffield.co.uk

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Samantha Butler