Venue
SEFI 2027 will be hosted at The Diamond — the University of Sheffield's flagship engineering and science building. Purpose-built for engineering education, The Diamond provides high-quality teaching spaces, lecture theatres and breakout areas that will support the conference programme and create opportunities for discussion and collaboration.
Getting to the venue
The University's main campus is easily accessible from Sheffield station and Sheffield Interchange.
Supertram (recommended)
From Sheffield station, take the Blue Route tram towards Malin Bridge and alight at University of Sheffield. The tram ride typically takes under 10 minutes, with services approximately every 12 minutes.
On foot
The campus is around a 20-minute walk from Sheffield station — a pleasant route through the city centre.
Bus
Regular bus services operate from Sheffield station and Sheffield Interchange to the university campus.
Taxi
Taxis are readily available outside Sheffield station and typically take around 10 minutes to the venue.
International travel
Sheffield is straightforward to reach from across Europe and beyond. The most common routes for international delegates are via Eurostar from mainland Europe, by flying into one of the regional UK airports, or by ferry from the Netherlands.
Eurostar
Travelling via Eurostar is a convenient and sustainable way to reach Sheffield from mainland Europe. Direct Eurostar services connect London St Pancras International with destinations across France, Belgium and the Netherlands.
On arrival at London St Pancras, regular direct train services run to Sheffield, with journey times of approximately two hours. Sheffield station is located in the city centre, providing easy access to conference venues, hotels and local attractions.
Flying
While Sheffield does not have its own airport, it is well served by several international airports across the region, all offering convenient onward connections to the city by rail and road.
Manchester Airport is the closest major international gateway, reachable from Sheffield by rail in approximately 1 hour 15 minutes. Other nearby airports include East Midlands Airport, Leeds Bradford Airport and Birmingham Airport, all of which offer regular rail and coach connections.
Travel times to Sheffield
| Airport / International Gateway | By Public Transport | By Car |
|---|---|---|
| Manchester Airport (MAN) | 1 hr 15 mins | 1 hr 20 mins |
| East Midlands Airport (EMA) | 1 hr 25 mins | 1 hr |
| Humberside Airport (HUY) | 1 hr 15 mins | 1 hr 5 mins |
| Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) | 1 hr 30 mins | 1 hr 10 mins |
| Birmingham Airport (BHX) | 1 hr 40 mins | 1 hr 30 mins |
| London Airports* | 2 hr 30 mins – 3 hr 3 mins | 2 hr 30 mins – 3 hr 3 mins |
| London St Pancras International (Eurostar) | 2 hrs | 3 hr 30 mins |
| Humberside Ferry Terminal | 1 hr 15 mins | 1 hr 25 mins |
* London Heathrow and London Gatwick
Ferry
For delegates travelling from mainland Europe, ferry services provide an alternative route to Sheffield. Regular crossings operate between Rotterdam in the Netherlands and Hull Ferry Terminal on England's east coast.
Hull is easily accessible from Sheffield by rail, with journey times of approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. The ferry terminal is located a short taxi or bus journey from Hull city centre. By road, the journey between Sheffield and Hull takes around 1 hour 25 minutes.
This option offers a convenient alternative for delegates wishing to travel with their own vehicle or reduce the need for air travel.
UK travel
Thanks to its central location, Sheffield is well connected to cities across the UK by rail and coach. Direct rail services connect Sheffield with London, Manchester, Leeds, Birmingham and many other destinations, making it easy for delegates to travel to the conference from airports, ports and cities across the country.
Rail travel
Sheffield station is located in the city centre and provides direct rail connections to major destinations throughout the UK. London St Pancras can be reached in approximately two hours, while Manchester and Leeds are both less than one hour away.
Train services are operated by several rail companies, including East Midlands Railway, which manages Sheffield station and operates services between Sheffield and London St Pancras via Chesterfield, Derby and Leicester.
To plan your journey and purchase tickets, visit National Rail Enquiries or your preferred train operator.
Coach travel
Sheffield is also served by a comprehensive national coach network. National Express and FlixBus services operate from Sheffield Interchange, which is conveniently located opposite Sheffield station in the city centre.
Megabus services operate from Meadowhall Interchange, approximately four miles from the city centre. Meadowhall is easily connected to Sheffield by tram, train and bus services.
For journey planning and ticket bookings, visit National Express, FlixBus or Megabus.
By road
Sheffield is accessed from the M1 motorway (junction 33 for the city centre). Car parking is available near the venue, though delegates are encouraged to consider rail or coach where practical.
Useful links
Getting around
Sheffield has an extensive and affordable public transport network, making it easy to travel between the city centre, conference venue, hotels and local attractions.
Trams
The Sheffield Supertram network provides one of the easiest ways to travel around the city. The University of Sheffield has its own tram stop on Upper Hanover Street, just a short walk from the conference venues.
Direct tram services run between Sheffield station and the University every 12 minutes, with journey times of approximately 10 minutes.
Buses
Frequent bus services operate throughout Sheffield and South Yorkshire. Sheffield Interchange, the city's main bus station, is located adjacent to Sheffield railway station and provides connections across the city and surrounding region.
Taxis
Taxis are readily available throughout Sheffield, including at Sheffield station and key locations across the city centre. A taxi journey between Sheffield station and the University typically takes less than 10 minutes.
Useful links
Driving and parking
Sheffield is easily accessible by road from across the UK via the M1 motorway and surrounding road network. While we encourage delegates to consider public transport where possible, several convenient parking options are available for those travelling by car.
A number of public car parks are located within walking distance of the University and conference venues, including:
- Q-Park Durham Road
- Q-Park Rockingham Street
- Q-Park Solly Street
All offer convenient access to the University campus and Sheffield city centre.
We recommend checking whether your hotel offers on-site parking or discounted rates at nearby car parks, as this may provide a more convenient and cost-effective option.
Park and Ride
For delegates wishing to avoid city centre traffic, Sheffield operates several Park and Ride sites connected to the Supertram network. These allow visitors to park outside the city centre and complete their journey by tram.
The University of Sheffield tram stop is located on Upper Hanover Street, a short walk from the conference venues.
Sheffield Clean Air Zone
Sheffield city centre is covered by a Clean Air Zone. Private cars are exempt from charges; however, some commercial vehicles may be subject to a fee. Delegates travelling in vans, campervans or other commercial vehicles are advised to check their vehicle's status before travelling.
Useful links — driving and parking
- Sheffield Park and Ride
- Q-Park Durham Road
- Q-Park Rockingham Street
- NCP Solly Street
- Sheffield Clean Air Zone
Walking
Walking is one of the easiest ways to explore Sheffield. The city centre is compact, and the conference venue and many hotels, restaurants and attractions are within comfortable walking distance of one another.
As the UK's Outdoor City, Sheffield is home to more than 200 parks, woodlands and public gardens, offering plenty of opportunities to enjoy green spaces during your visit. Walking is not only a convenient and cost-effective way to travel around the city, but also an environmentally friendly option.
Maps
Accommodation
Sheffield has a wide range of accommodation to suit every budget. We have negotiated special conference delegate rates at a selection of hotels and created an Accommodation Hub where you can book directly. Some room blocks are limited — book early to avoid disappointment.
Recommended hotels
Leopold Hotel Sheffield
Sheffield's only four-star boutique hotel, built on the former site of a Grade II listed Boys Grammar School. Situated centrally on Leopold Square amongst an array of upmarket bars and eateries, each of its 90 en-suite bedrooms is uniquely furnished with every modern amenity for the discerning traveller.
Amenities: room service, minibar, internet access, air conditioning, TV, satellite cable TV, hair dryer, desk, tea and coffee.
Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria Sheffield
A striking Grade II-listed building dating from 1862, set in well-tended grounds at the end of a private drive. Facilities are complemented by ample city-centre car parking and free high-speed internet throughout.
Amenities: room service, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, sauna, minibar, parking, meeting rooms, wireless internet, in-room safe, tea and coffee, TV.
Hampton by Hilton Sheffield
A contemporary city centre hotel with 142 stylish bedrooms, free WiFi and a fitness suite. All rates include a hot and continental breakfast. The hotel is within a five-minute walk of The Diamond and a 15-minute walk from Sheffield station. On-site parking is available at an additional charge.
Amenities: restaurant, bar, fitness centre, free WiFi, parking, meeting rooms, in-room safe, 24-hour snack area, air conditioning, tea and coffee, TV.
Leonardo Hotel Sheffield
A 3-star hotel ideally situated in the heart of the city centre, five minutes' walk from Sheffield station. Leonardo Hotel Sheffield is the only hotel in Sheffield to hold Gold accreditation from Green Tourism in Business, and friendly staff are available 24 hours a day.
Amenities: internet access, air conditioning, TV, satellite cable TV, hair dryer, desk, tea and coffee.
voco Sheffield
A luxury four-star hotel in the heart of Sheffield, minutes from the railway station and the Crucible and Lyceum Theatres. The Yard Restaurant and Grill provides excellent dining, and extensive leisure facilities include an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, aroma grotto and technogym.
Amenities: room service, restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, steam room, minibar, free internet, air conditioning, TV.
DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield
A modern hotel with 155 well-appointed bedrooms featuring contemporary furnishings. The Do Deli bar and restaurant on the ground floor offers a relaxed dining experience. On-site parking is available and the hotel is easily accessible by road and rail.
Amenities: room service, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, parking, WiFi, meeting rooms, concierge, video conferencing, air conditioning, TV.
Radisson Blu Hotel Sheffield
Overlooking the Town Hall and Peace Gardens in the heart of the city, the Radisson Blu blends a sympathetically restored Victorian façade with contemporary Scandinavian design and steel details that echo Sheffield's industrial heritage. 154 rooms, a rooftop speakeasy-style Indian restaurant, flexible event spaces with an outdoor terrace, and a fully equipped fitness centre.
Amenities: room service, restaurant, bar, fitness centre, meeting rooms, free WiFi, in-room safe, refrigerator, air conditioning, tea and coffee, TV.
Sandman Signature Sheffield
A peaceful quayside location next to Victoria Quays, 10 minutes from the M1 and 10 miles from the Peak District. The Tavern on the Quays bar and restaurant brings a bold dose of Canadian hospitality with globally inspired comfort food. Leisure facilities include an indoor pool, sauna, steam room and jacuzzi.
Amenities: room service, restaurant, bar, indoor pool, fitness centre, sauna, jacuzzi, steam room, solarium, parking, free WiFi, meeting rooms, balcony rooms available, air conditioning, TV.
Ibis Sheffield
A 10-minute walk from Sheffield station, next to Ponds Forge Leisure Centre and close to the Crucible Theatre. The hotel features a modern restaurant, 24-hour snack bar, and all rooms include free internet and tea/coffee facilities. Discounted undercover parking is available adjacent to the hotel.
Amenities: restaurant, internet access, parking, direct-dial telephone, tea and coffee, TV.
Further options
The following hotels are not on the Accommodation Hub and can be booked directly. All are within reasonable distance of the conference venue.
Additional hotels in Sheffield
| Hotel | Address | Distance from venue |
|---|---|---|
| easyHotel Sheffield City Centre | 71 High Street, S1 2GD | 1.2 km |
| Mercure Sheffield Kenwood Hall & Spa | Kenwood Road, S7 1NQ | 2.5 km |
| ibis Budget Sheffield Centre (St Mary's Gate) | Velocity Tower, 10 St Mary's Gate, S1 4LR | 1.1 km |
| ibis Budget Sheffield Arena | 298 Attercliffe Common, S9 2AG | 5 km |
| Premier Inn Sheffield City Centre (Angel Street) | 19 Angel Street, S3 8LN | 1.2 km |
| Premier Inn Sheffield City Centre (St Mary's Gate) | Young Street, S1 4UP | 1 km |
| Premier Inn Sheffield (Arena) | Attercliffe Common Road, S9 2FA | 4.9 km |
| Premier Inn Sheffield Meadowhall | Sheffield Road, Meadowhall, S9 2YL | 8.2 km |
| Travelodge Sheffield Central | 1 Broad Street West, S1 2BQ | 1.5 km |
| Travelodge Sheffield Meadowhall | 299 Barrow Road, S9 1JQ | 6.8 km |
| Travelodge Sheffield Richmond | 340 Prince of Wales Road, S2 1FF | 5.1 km |
About Sheffield
While Sheffield may not be one of the UK's traditional tourist destinations, visitors are often surprised by what they discover. A vibrant, welcoming city with a rich industrial heritage, thriving cultural scene and easy access to the countryside, Sheffield offers something for every interest.
Known as The Outdoor City, Sheffield is the only major UK city with a national park within its boundary, combining urban attractions with green spaces and outdoor adventures. Whether you're interested in history, culture, architecture, food and drink, or simply exploring somewhere new, there is plenty to enjoy during your stay.
If you are planning to arrive before the conference or extend your visit afterwards, here are some of the attractions and experiences Sheffield has to offer.
Millennium Gallery
One of the most-visited free attractions in England, located inside the Millennium Gallery, is Sheffield's premier destination for art, craft and design. The permanent home of Sheffield's unique Metalwork Collection and Ruskin Collection, it also hosts major touring exhibitions.
Find out more about Millennium Gallery
Sheffield Winter Garden
The largest urban glasshouse anywhere in Europe, Sheffield's Winter Garden is 70 metres long and 22 metres high — large enough to house 5,000 domestic greenhouses — and home to more than 2,500 plants from all around the world.
Find out more about Sheffield Winter Garden
Sheffield Theatres
Converging in the heart of the city in the regally named Tudor Square, Sheffield Theatres comprises The Crucible, its more intimate Tanya Moiseiwitsch Playhouse and the adjacent Lyceum Theatre. Together with the neighbouring Library and Montgomery Theatre, they form the largest theatre complex outside of London.
Find out more about Sheffield Theatres
Kelham Island Museum
Kelham Island Museum celebrates 300 years of Sheffield making history. Explore the story of making in the city, from master craftsmen to mass production — experiencing life during the Industrial Revolution, celebrating the Women of Steel, and discovering how industry forged the modern city.
Hear the roar and feel the rumble of the mighty River Don Engine, a 425-ton, 12,000hp visitor favourite, in steam at 12pm and 2pm Thursday to Sunday.
Find out more about Kelham Island Museum
Sheffield Botanical Gardens
Opened in 1836 and covering 19 acres, Sheffield Botanical Gardens are listed by English Heritage as a Grade II site of special historic and architectural interest. Over 18 garden areas — based on geographical and botanical themes from across the world — are home to more than 5,500 species.
Find out more about Sheffield Botanical Gardens
Sheffield Cathedral
The oldest building in the city, still in daily use. Granted Cathedral status in 1914, the history of Christianity on this site stretches back over 1,000 years. From Norman bricks to its 1960s tower, the Cathedral is full of stories that reflect the evolution of the city and its people.
Find out more about Sheffield Cathedral
The Peak District
Around a third of Sheffield lies within the Peak District National Park — the unique geography that earned the city its name as The Outdoor City. Whether you're looking for a gentle stroll or a more challenging hike, the Peak District offers breathtaking landscapes, picturesque villages and historic landmarks.
Visitors can also discover Chatsworth House and its stunning gardens, one of the UK's most celebrated stately homes. Chatsworth and many other Peak District destinations can be reached by public transport, including the 218 bus service from Sheffield Interchange.
Find out more about the Peak District
National Videogame Museum
The UK's national cultural centre for videogames. Inside the iconic Castle House building, an interactive museum explores the culture, playfulness, design and people behind videogames.
Find out more about the National Videogame Museum
National Emergency Services Museum
The world's largest combined Emergency Services Museum, housed in one of Yorkshire's first purpose-built combined Police, Fire and Ambulance Stations dating from 1898. There are over 40 vehicles on display across three floors of exhibits.
Find out more about the National Emergency Services Museum
Weston Park Museum
Discover the real story of Sheffield — from its geological roots to the people, politics and music that shaped the modern city. Amazing collections brought to life through fascinating histories, incredible facts and interactive exhibits.
Find out more about Weston Park Museum
Look Up
A world-first experience turning rooftops of city centre buildings into a free, augmented reality art gallery — an unexpected way to see the city from a new perspective.
Retail and culture
For a truly local souvenir, browse the Made in Sheffield shop, which showcases products created by local makers, artists and craftspeople. From handmade gifts to locally produced food and drink, it's the perfect place to take home a piece of Sheffield.
The city centre also offers a wide range of high-street and independent shopping, including the popular areas around Fargate, The Moor, and the award-winning Winter Garden and Peace Gardens quarter.
Find out more about things to do in Sheffield
We hope you'll take the opportunity to arrive early or extend your visit and experience everything that makes Sheffield such a unique and welcoming destination. We look forward to introducing delegates to everything the city has to offer.