Victoria Quays is a large canal basin in Sheffield City Centre, close to the train station. It was built between 1816-1819 to bring the new Sheffield Canal into the city and was used as a cargo port right up until 1970. After falling into disrepair the warehouses and terrace of coal merchant's offices have been restored and redeveloped and now house cafes, bars, offices and a hotel as well as hosting an annual Waterfront Festival. It is a great place to investigate local history and is a brilliant example of how a place can change and adapt over the years.
Victoria Quays - Sheffield
Victoria Quays - Sheffield
Sheffield, S2 5SY
Educational visits to Victoria Quays
Workshops
KS1&2 Local History
Find out why there is a canal in Sheffield when the city has so many rivers. Discover how the canal was made and the difference it made to the local area. Brings in links to transport and rivers.
KS1&2 Waterside Habitats
Discover who has made their home along the canal.
New for 2026 - Waterside Wellbeing
Join us for a cross-curricular waterside wellbeing visit. We will be incorporating storytelling, natural artwork, habitats, local history, reflection and wellbeing exercises into a visit to the Quays.
Water Safety
Guided walk with habitats or pollution focus
Don't forget a boat trip!
Boat trips may also be possible in conjunction with a local company that offers a special discounted rate for schools. Please enquire about this when booking.
Learning Resources
Facilities
We offer free preliminary visits and our website features downloadable trails/activities suitable for pre-visit planning or follow-up work.
On-site facilities include picnic tables.
There is no parking on site but we are close to the train station and a tram stop and there is space for coaches to drop off.
Price
Visits to Victoria Quays are FREE!
More to discover...
Last Edited: 27 August 2025