In what can only be described as a real hidden gem, Steelyard Kelham is an undeniable must see space neighbouring Kelham Island.
This deceptively large retail & food space opened in 2019 and has grown tremendously in popularity in the last 18 months. It’s amazing to see what was once a drab concrete car park, has now become such a treasured part of Kelham Island’s community.
Comprising of 56 individual shipping container units, Steelyard has more than enough to keep you busy, well fed and entertained. Having spent a hot summer's day at Steelyard recently, we can vouch for it being a very vibrant and happening place to be. We found that Steelyard managed to make us feel like we'd unearthed a secret hideout, as we had no idea it would be so big, bustling or varied when we first walking into it. However do make sure you book in advance before rocking up, as it will be busy! So what does Steelyard have in store we hear you ask?
First up, bringing a small slice of Ibiza to Sheffield (weather not guaranteed) is DECKS. This Mediterranean themed, rooftop bar is a very aesthetically pleasing cocktail bar, with many exotic plants scattered around the place to give it a transformative feel. It also offers plenty of seating to suit, no matter what the weather. They often host live events too, and have recently been showing EURO 2020 - there’s plenty going on! So if chilled out beats, locally promoted Sheffield DJ’s and getting that holiday feel without the travel, make sure to stop by.
If, like us, you’re more of a guitar loving, indie anthem kind of person, then you’ll need to stop by at Indie-go (see what they did there?). These guys have, for our money, the best playlist of all bars in Sheffield. The music has also been stylishly coupled up with some brilliant decor by local artist Paul Staveley, which creates an all round feel of a bar which knows very much the chord it wants to strike with its customers. They also host many events showcasing local musical talent by having an open mic event called Steel Jam every Wednesday, where if you’re brave enough, you can bring your instrument of choice, to try and impress the punters. They also have a comedy night on the last Thursday of every month, and a quiz every Tuesday evening. So what are you waiting for!?
Now for the food, we have to start with Icarus & Apollo. These guys have grown strength to strength from their mobile origins, a trendy caravan (which was very snazzy). They have now upgraded into one of the main containers and are incredibly popular, not just at Steelyard, but all over Sheffield, including delivery as well! They specialise in plant based meals, inspired by cuisines from all over the world, and trust us, they have smashed it. We couldn’t stop praising it whilst eating from there, and the owners were a lovely couple too. Whether you’re full vegan, or just wanting to try and incorporate less meat in your diet, these guys will certainly be somewhere you venture to more than once.
Another Restaurant we've sampled and can personally recommend is Urban Pizza Co. We probably don’t need to explain much about this venue given the name, but as for their pizzas - MAMMA MIAAAAA!!! (apologies) they are very, very delicious. All their pizzas have that sumptuous, wood fired Italian dough you can only get from freshly cooked pizza. They also offer a whopping 27 different varieties, so you simply cannot be stuck for choice at this place.
Until you visit for yourself, you really can’t underestimate how much personality has been placed into each of the shipping containers at Steelyard. Each has managed to make it their own, and add their own ethos and individual stamp inside, creating a unique home for their business right in the heart of Kelham Island.
So why delay? Head on down to Steelyard today.