Six must know life hacks for Sheffield students on a budget

As one of the most cost friendly, culturally diverse cities in Yorkshire, Sheffield has so much to offer students. We can all relate to the feeling of turning out our pockets, waiting for the blessed day when the next student loan instalment comes in. Well, you can still enjoy the charms of Sheffield on a budget.

Whether you want to explore cultural experiences, plan an exciting day out with friends or find day-to-day hacks to save money, Sheffield can accommodate you. Here are some tips and money-saving hacks to keep you one step ahead of the cost-of-living crisis and help you make the most of your time in Sheffield. 

Local markets 

When doing your weekly food shop, does it give you a heart attack when you see the total at the checkout? If yes, local markets could be your saving grace. By avoiding expensive stores and visiting local markets, you could cut the price of your weekly food shop in half.

For fresh fruit and vegetables, The Moor Market offers the perfect combination of affordability and quality. It’s home to a variety of stalls that are certainly worth exploring. As a bonus, you’ll be in the centre of the town near the shops, so it puts you in a good spot if you’re shopping for other necessities. 

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Alternatively, if you’re looking for a treat or to splash out, The Pollen Market is a wonderful inner-city flower market. It showcases art, local produce, food and artisanal products that pop up on the third Sunday of every month. With live music and greenery galore, it’s the place to go for unique and handcrafted products whilst supporting small businesses. 

Student Deals 

As a university student, you should absolutely take advantage of the student discounts shops, restaurants and cafes have to offer! Meadowhall is a hotspot for all student deals with places such as Nando’s, Caffe Nero, Pizza Express and more, offering discounted food.

More interested in shopping? By signing up with companies such as Unidays and Student Beans, you can get discounts at Superdry, Urban Outfitters, and many more of your favourite shops. 

If you’re looking for somewhere local to the City Centre, check out the Treehouse cafe. It’s an awesome board game cafe that offers a student deal on weekdays. It’s also a perfect place to bring friends or family, with a range of board/card games to choose from, offering a delicious menu of food and drink to enjoy whilst you play. For those of you who are competitive, you’re sure to have a great time. 

Do you use public travel regularly? Consider buying the 3-year student railcard if you’re planning to return home often or visit cool nearby cities such as Manchester and Liverpool. I promise you will get a lot of use out of it and save a large amount of money when buying train tickets (money that could be spent on sweet treats). 

Cultural experiences 

Cinema tickets can be exponentially high in Sheffield, sometimes costing as much as £10. So why not check out a cheaper alternative? The University of Sheffield’s film society showcases three different (current and old) films a week, selling tickets for only £3. Seating is on a first come first served basis, so you can grab the best seat without paying VIP prices. 

If it’s vintage clothing you’re after, Sheffield has many cool vintage shops. On Division Street, check out the Glass Onion and on Devonshire Street you’ll find The Vintage Store and Vulgar. There are many hidden gems to be found. 

Additionally, look out for charity shops if you want to find cheaper vintage and good quality clothes without breaking your budget. Ecclesall Road boasts of some of the best charity shops in Sheffield (I may be biased as I’m a frequent visitor). You’re not a true uni student if you haven’t tried to reinvent your style with a charity shop haul. 

Explore the outdoors 

Sheffield is known for its hilly landscape so if into keeping active, Sheffield has it all. With the Peak District on its doorstep, Sheffield has many scenic hiking trails and walks to try out. For example, Mam Tor is a breathtaking spot in the peaks to visit and even more beautiful at sunrise. It’s a very beginner friendly trail for those planning on a shorter climb.  

There are also many local scenic spots in Sheffield, perfect for helping you feel closer to nature. The Winter Gardens, for example, is located in the City Centre and free to enter. It offers a large glasshouse enclosure featuring tall growing plants, trees and bamboo. It is an ideal spot to sit and relax while enjoying the surrounding nature. 

The Botanical Gardens, located near the city, is also free to enter. With a variety of paths to follow, it is a breath of fresh air. It’s also great for weekend walks with friends or solo mental health walks. With an indoor plant greenhouse and cosy cafe on site, it’s the perfect place to sit with your thoughts after a busy week. If you’re living near Endcliffe or Crookes, I recommend you check it out. 

Exercise 

If you’re looking to add some variation into your weekly routine, get involved with the sports societies Sheffield Uni or Sheffield Hallam Uni has to offer. There are a variety of sports teams you can join such as Netball, Volleyball, Tennis and many more. If you’re not feeling competitive, there are several casual sessions you can go along to. 

If you want something more flexible then why not try the gym? By signing up to your university’s gym or a gym nearby, you can fit it to suit your schedule. Many gyms offer student deals such as The Gym Group’s 10 per cent student discount. 

Job opportunities

It can be difficult finding a part-time job in a new city, especially one that has two universities worth of students vying for them. With the cost-of-living preying on your mind, an extra bit of income goes a long way in supporting that. Stuck on where to look? You should try applying for jobs within your university.

Roles such as student ambassadors or jobs within the Student’s Union such as working on reception or at the bar. These jobs pay well and are a great way to get to know other students and make friends. 

However, if you are looking to gain work experience there are many opportunities to get involved here in Sheffield. There are plenty of charity shops across the city you can volunteer at and gain valuable experience in organisation, communication and customer service. Look out for roles within the university societies you’re a part of as it’s a fantastic opportunity to help run something you’re passionate about.