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

Off the Shelf

Photos from Off the Shelf 2022

Autumn in Sheffield is pretty much synonymous with literary delights, as Off the Shelf festival of books, words and ideas returns to the city. The festival hosts a programme packed with talks and readings from world renowned authors and poets, famous folk off the telly, and a few knowledgable locals.

Each year, the festival absorbs audiences in topics ranging from pop music to politics, fine art to feminism.

Come back soon for dates and our highlights among the writer talks, workshops and events in the 2026 programme.

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Rhyme and Reason

For over two decades this colourful, charming shop has specialised in books for children. In recent years it’s expanded into a place where adults too can treat themselves to a new read.

Footprints Jazz Festival

Sat. 31 January 2026

Peddler Warehouse, 92 Burton Road, S3 8BX

A huge lineup of northern artists, celebrating art, music and culture under one roof at SADACCA. Headlined by saxophonist, composer and band leader Jasmine Myra. Also featuring Mu Quintet, Fuji Speedway, Ashley Holmes, and more.

Akeem Balogun

Writer Akeem Balogun talks to Annalisa Toccara about his short story collection about human survival, and why he co-founded independent publishing company Okapi Books.

Novel

An absolute gem in Crookes, Novel's owners Kate and Joe create a personal touch with their recommendations, particularly when it comes to contemporary fiction. The shop also hosts the Graphic Novel Reading Room upstairs.