This website uses cookies. Read more about our cookie/privacy policy.

Accept and Close

The Sheffield culture guide written by in-the-know locals

Sheffield Home of Football Guided Walks

Sat. 12 April 2025

Sat. 24 May 2025

Sat. 5 July 2025

Sat. 27 September 2025

£5

Join the folks at Sheffield Home of Football for a fascinating stroll around Sheffield city centre, as you explore the remarkable story of Sheffield, the crucible of the modern game of football.

The walk starts at the site of the old Surrey Theatre, owned by Thomas Youdan, the founder of the Youdan Cup – the first football cup competition in the world. The walk will conclude at the cafe at Freeman College, the former home of Lockwood Brothers, the oldest ‘works team’ in the world.

You will visit important landmarks and ‘hidden places’ steeped in heritage and hear stories about the early pioneers of the global game.

During the walk you will hear stories about the FIFA recognised oldest club in the world, Sheffield FC; the oldest ground in the world, Sandygate; and the first rules of modern football.

You'll also hear about recent discoveries of forgotten Sheffield clubs and tactical innovation, from the 180 clubs that were playing in Sheffield between 1857 and 1875.

The walk, designed by Sheffield Home of Football trustees Steve Wood and John Stocks, will last for 1 hour 30 minutes with the opportunity to ask questions at the end.

The walk has moderate inclines but should be accessible to most. Toilet stops with accessible toilets are available, if needed, and refreshments can be purchased at the end.

Starting outside the National Emergency Services Museum, 110 West Bar, S3 8PZ.

You might also like...

Lanre Bakare: We Were There

Thu. 1 May 2025

Workstation, 15 Paternoster Row, S1 2BX

Journalist Lanre Bakare talks to writer Désirée Reynolds about his new book on modern Britain. We Were There brings into our national narrative stories of Black cultural creation, organising and resistance from outside London and across the UK.

Tummy Monster + Director Q&A

Fri. 9 May 2025

Showroom

When a narcissistic tattoo artist gets an unexpected visit from a celebrity client, a seemingly innocent selfie request causes the night to spiral into a game of psychological warfare. With an in person Q&A with the film's director Ciaran Lyons.

Sheffield Stories: Caribbean Footsteps

Fri. 10 May 2024 — Sun. 2 May 2027

Weston Park Museum

An exhibition celebrating the many ways that people of African Caribbean heritage have contributed to Sheffield life. With stories of sport, carnival, fighting racism, and more.

Joycelyn Longdon: Natural Connection

Wed. 21 May 2025

Workstation, 15 Paternoster Row, S1 2BX

A deeply researched book celebrating the people who paved the way for today’s environmental action. Bringing together inspiring stories from marginalised people from around the world, rooted in our connection with nature and the power of community.