Get Together

Sheffield is very easy to reach by train or coach. The main Sheffield train station is just a short walk from the city centre and has frequent direct trains to major UK cities. For example, a train from London to Sheffield takes roughly 2.5 hours, and Manchester or Leeds are just over an hour away. Birmingham and Nottingham are also accessible by rail in about 2 hours. The nearby Sheffield Interchange handles local buses and long-distance coaches (including National Express) with services to and from London, Birmingham and Manchester. Once in the city centre, local buses and the Supertram light-rail system can carry you up to Kelham Island and other districts.

If you're flying in, the closest major airport is Manchester Airport (about 1–2 hours away by car or train). East Midlands Airport (near Nottingham) and Leeds Bradford Airport (near Leeds) are also options, each reachable in a couple of hours by connecting train and bus. Many international visitors fly into London (Heathrow or Gatwick) and then take the train to Sheffield (around 3 hours). Doncaster Sheffield Airport is small and currently has very limited service, so most travelers use the larger airports. From any of these airports you can rent a car or catch a train/coach to Sheffield; for example, trains from Manchester Airport to Sheffield run frequently and take about 1 hour via Manchester Piccadilly.

By car, Sheffield is easily reached via the national road network. The M1 motorway (junctions 33 and 34) brings you close to the city, and the A57/A628 connects from Manchester in the west. Major roads like the A61 lead into Kelham Island from the city centre. There are many long-stay car parks in and around the city centre, as well as park-and-ride sites on the outskirts (for example at Meadowhead and Crystal Peaks). Keep in mind that during big events the roads can get busy, so allow a bit of extra travel time. If you prefer not to drive through the city centre, you might park further out and hop on the Supertram or a bus straight to Kelham Island.

Sheffield offers a wide range of places to stay. In the city centre you'll find well-known chain hotels, cosy B&Bs and guesthouses, and even a couple of hostels for budget travelers. Kelham Island itself has a few trendy guesthouses and apartment rentals for a more local feel. The city’s universities also sometimes rent out dorm rooms in summer, which can be very economical. Because Get Together attracts many visitors, it's best to book your accommodation early. Staying downtown puts you within walking distance of restaurants, pubs and nightlife after the festival, while Kelham or Neepsend lodging means you’re just steps from the venues (though parking is more limited).