With more than 2,500 plants from across the globe, the Winter Garden is among the largest urban glasshouses in Europe. Regardless of the weather outside, the glasshouse’s interior is the same lush green as the distant tropics. Snap photos of the sleek architecture, slanted wooden arches and glass frames that make up the exterior of this hub of exotic plants.
The building has a height of 72 feet (22 metres) and a length of 230 feet (70 metres), which is large enough to fit 5,000 domestic greenhouses. Note how the structure’s use of timber contrasts with the city’s prevalent industrial architecture.
Admire tropical plants and peruse the collection of more than 150 species that thrive in the glasshouse. Among the highlights are the large palm trees from Central America, Madagascar and China. Gaze up at the eucalyptus trees and Norfolk Island pines, which can reach a height of 150 feet (46 metres).
Check for temporary art installations that add to the intrigue and variety on show. Catch a musical performance and experience the glasshouse’s acoustics. Other events at the Winter Garden include its use as an exotic backdrop for coverage of the Snooker World Championship, which is held annually in the nearby Crucible Theatre.
Purchase your own plants and seeds from one of the shops. Enjoy drinks and snacks at the café with a view of the plants. You can also access the adjoining Millennium Gallery and its café from the glasshouse.
The Winter Garden is open daily and free to enter. It is surrounded by some of Sheffield’s key attractions and located in the centre of the city. Arrive at one of the nearby bus stops or the Sheffield Train Station, which is a short walk southeast from the garden. Make sure to visit the Millennium Gallery, the Peace Gardens and the Sheffield Town Hall while in the area.
