What do a parade of lions, a controversial club revamp and some very colourful dungarees have in common? They’re all coming to Sheff in 2026. From million-pound makeovers to long-awaited openings (and re-openings), the city’s got a packed to-do list next year – and Isobel O’Mahony’s been nosy enough to go poking around it early. Here’s a quick look at what’s en-route…
Electric Studios
Electric Studios taking over the Leadmill building has already stirred plenty of controversy. Managed by Brixton’s Electric Group, the venue owners have promised advanced lighting, big acts and a new d&b audiotechnik PA system – but can it live up to the sticky-floored, fiercely local legacy of the Leadmill?I guess we’ll soon find out.
Event Central
That massive empty building you keep passing on Fargate? That’s multipurpose space Event Central. In August, it was revealed the budget for the revamp had doubled to £14.1 million, so the 200-person live event room and multiple office spaces should be worth the wait when it opens towards the end of year.
Lucy & Yak
Next to the former Monki and Weekday stores, the ‘comfy and cosy’ clothing brand is bringing colourful dungarees and sustainable fashion to Sheffield. Calling over-the-road town Barnsley home, the store will finally grace the city centre after delaying its original opening date.
Castle View Park
Castlegate will be gaining a whole new park in 2026. The site has been under development since 2021, with aims to bring a bit of green to the area as well as expose the remains of Sheffield Castle for the first time.
Pride of Yorkshire trail
Sheffield Children’s Hospital is roaring into 2026 with a lion sculpture trail dotted around South Yorkshire to raise funds for their charity. The free public art exhibition will feature 150 lions and 150 lion cubs in celebration of the hospital’s 150th anniversary.
Harmony Works
The repurposing of the 1895 Grade II-listed Canada House by the University of Sheffield will create a ‘new cultural/education centre for young musicians’. Just off the tram stop at Ponds Forge, it’s already opened its doors for the first time in 15 years for fundraising and tour events.
S1 Artspace
Celebrated arts organisation S1 Artspace will be moving operations to a majorly refurbished space in the former Yorkshire Bank on Haymarket. With support from the council and the Architectural Heritage Fund, it hopes to establish a lively exhibition schedule and a permanent home for its artists.
Maria
The duo behind Bench and The Pearl are heading to the city centre with an Italian restaurant inspired by family, food and a few chaotic summers in Sicily. Named after co-founder Ronnie’s nonna, Maria will bring southern European flavours and that signature Bench hospitality to the Heart of the City development. Expect a galley kitchen, seasonal small plates and, crucially, a strong £5 negroni. Yer can’t whack that.
Arundel Emporium Events Space
Music store Record Junkee has taken over the events space at Matilda Street’s Arundel Emporium, transforming it into a vibrant hub for performances. Expect a mix of live music, masterclasses and creative gatherings within the Emporium itself.
