About Network Sheffield
Network Sheffield is a modern live music and club venue in the heart of Sheffield’s city centre. It opened in 2019 on the first floor of the Cambridge Street DINA complex, created by a partnership between Sheffield arts centre DINA and local music shop Music Junkee. The venue repurposed an old Sunday-school/spoon-factory building, blending historic character with new infrastructure. It comprises three interconnected performance spaces (often called Network 1, 2, and 3) plus a small outdoor garden (www.gigseekr.com ). Together these offer hundreds of standing-capacity – the main hall alone holds roughly 1,000 people, with smaller rooms of ~500 and ~150 capacity, respectively (www.thestar.co.uk ) (www.gigseekr.com ). Network was purpose-built for live shows and nightclubs; it was “fully technically rigged” with fresh staging, lighting and PA equipment from day one (www.thestar.co.uk ). The interior was fully refurbished (new bar and updated restrooms) to host touring acts and club nights (nowthenmagazine.com ). In short, Network is notable as Sheffield’s newest multi-room music hub, filling the gap left by venues like The Harley and The Boardwalk, and reviving the city’s reputation for quality live shows (www.thestar.co.uk ). It’s centrally located, easily visible, and near major roads – all part of its appeal to promoters and audiences (www.thestar.co.uk ).
Events and Programming
Network hosts a very broad mix of events. You’ll find rock, indie and pop bands sharing the bill with tribute acts, punk and metal gigs, funk/jazz ensembles, reggae and ska events, world music nights, hip-hop and electro shows. The club calendar includes themed nights, D&B and jungle sessions, retro or chart hit DJ dances (e.g. weekly Student Fridays), and festival-related parties (it even hosts some of Sheffield DocFest’s official parties each year (www.sheffdocfest.com )). Since opening, hundreds of acts have played Network, from headline names to local favourites. (For example, its launch weekend in September 2019 featured Chicago house DJ Rahaan and was followed by bookings for hardcore band Agnostic Front and indie singer A.A. Bondy (www.etnow.com ).) The programming deliberately ranges from grassroots local showcases to national/international touring artists; a facility that is “highly attractive for incoming promoters” and helps keep Sheffield on the touring map (www.thestar.co.uk ) (www.etnow.com ). Recurring events include dance club nights (80s, indie, chart, etc.), community-friendly gigs (all-ages rock or jazz sessions), student nights, and genre-themed parties. Ticket prices vary by event: intimate local shows might be around £10–15, mid-level national acts often £15–25, while club/party nights are usually cheaper (often under £10, especially early or if you have a membership).
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Network Sheffield shows are typically available online well in advance of each event. Check the official Network site or the promoting organisation for on-sale dates and links (the venue often uses reputable ticketing services). Popular shows will list a specific on-sale time; for best success, sign up for the venue’s mailing list or follow their socials so you can buy immediately when tickets drop. Day-of-show tickets are sometimes sold at the door, but there’s no guarantee – if an event sells out in advance, door tickets may not be offered. As with most venues, booking fees may apply to online sales. When purchasing, choose standard or advanced tickets instead of front-row add-ons, unless you want the extra perks. There is usually no physical box office open every day – the main point of sale is online or through partnered outlets. In general, it’s safest to buy in advance for headliners; for smaller events or club nights, arriving early at the venue (around opening time) can often secure a ticket if any remain.
Seating and Layout
Network Sheffield has an open, standing-room layout rather than fixed seating. The main performance area (often called Network 1 ) is a large rectangular hall with a stage at one end. It is general admission (no assigned seats) and will hold roughly 1,000 people at capacity (www.gigseekr.com ). Directly attached or adjacent is a medium-sized second room (Network 2 ) with its own stage/booth area, holding about 500. A third smaller room or bar space (Network 3 , ~150 capacity) can serve as a DJ lounge or minor gig space. All floors are flat; there is no upper balcony or stratified seating in the panels. The layout is designed for standing crowds; however, there may be ledges or booths along the sides in one room for sitting or leaning. An exterior courtyard/garden area provides a bit of fresh-air space outside. For sightlines and sound, standing roughly central to the stage gives the most balanced audio experience. Avoid standing directly under the main speakers (sound can be overwhelming there), and back corners may ear less clarity. In general, the venue has excellent acoustics due to its professional rigging, so any spot on the main floor can rock – but centre-floor just a few paces back is often ideal for both view and sound. Note: one quirky hardware note – the famous rotating disco-floor mechanism (from the previous incarnation of the club) is still in place Beneath the floor, though it is not used (rumour is reactivating it would be very costly (nowthenmagazine.com )).
Getting There and Parking
Address: Network Sheffield is located at 14–16 Matilda Street, Sheffield, S1 4QD (www.networksheffield.co.uk ). This places it just off The Moor in the city centre, a short walk from the Market Square and Fitzalan Square areas.
By bus: The venue is well-served by city buses. Routes 2, 51, 73, 75 and 8 (among others) run along nearby main streets (e.g. Pinstone Street or Cambridge Street) and stop within a few minutes’ walk of Network (moovitapp.com ). Plan to get off at stops for the Moor Street or Cambridge Street areas and walk a block.By tram/train: Sheffield Supertram runs a city-centre loop; the closest tram stops are around 300–500m away (for example, the City Hall stop or the Sheffield Interchange stop). Sheffield railway station is about 0.5–0.7 miles south (roughly a 10–15 minute walk up Commercial Street), or a few minutes by taxi. Northern trains stop at the main Sheffield station (not Meadowhall).By car/parking: Street parking on Matilda Street itself is very limited (only a few pay-and-display spaces for short-term use). These operate ~8am–4:30pm Monday–Saturday and cost about £3.25 per hour (en.parkopedia.co.uk ). For longer stays, use the nearby multi-storey car parks. The Matilda Street Car Park has about 90 spaces (managed by Euro Car Parks) and is literally a block from Network (www.parkme.com ). Other nearby public car parks include the Arundel Gate multi-storey or Q-Park Charles Street (each a 5–10 minute walk). Check the latest local signs/intercom for pricing. Taxi/Rideshare: Taxis can usually pull up or park briefly on Caroline Street or the end of Matilda Street for drop-offs. Uber or similar rideshare services will have no problem finding the venue by address; the drivers often drop off right outside on Matilda Street (which has a small passenger-loading zone after 6:30pm).
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival, expect a standard club-entry procedure. Staff at the door will check tickets (print or mobile) and photo ID if required. Bags may be searched and events often have an age policy posted (gigs often 14+ or 16+; club nights 18+). Once inside, you’ll find a very clean, industrial-chic interior. The main bar is up on the first floor (just after the entry stairs), offering a full range of drinks (beer, cider, wine, spirits and mixers, plus non-alcoholic options). There’s no full kitchen or food menu – typically only bar snacks or nothing – so eating beforehand or nearby is wise. The venue hosts a permanent bar-serving area; each room has access to bar service either via that single bar or short internal windows. The staircase and interior were recently refurbished, as were the toilet facilities, which are now modern and kept clean (nowthenmagazine.com ). (Note: toilets are only on the upper floor where the shows are, so expect a trip upstairs for facilities.)
The atmosphere is lively and youthful. Lighting rigs add dynamic stage lights during shows and house-colored mood lighting between acts. A small merchandise area is often set up by touring acts to sell shirts/CDs. There is usually no coat check on most nights (the space is limited), though some larger events may arrange a cloakroom. Phone signal inside is generally OK (the venue is city-centre, so London 4G works). The venue does not advertise free WiFi, so if you need the internet, be prepared to rely on your mobile data.
Nearby Amenities
Network’s central location means you’re surrounded by food, drink and hotel options. The Moor area just outside has several chain cafes (Starbucks, Patisserie Valerie) and fast-food spots, as well as the Moor Market (an indoor market hall with hot food stalls). A couple of minutes’ walk away on Cambridge Street is the new Cambridge Street Collective, which houses eateries like Grazie (Italian) and Browns (pub food) – both popular pre-show dining spots. Pinstone Street and West Street (to the east) have pubs and casual bars (such as The Chimney House or The Ten Dollar Shake for burgers). The city-centre pedestrian malls (Fargate) are a 5–10 minute walk with shops and restaurants of every kind. If driving, the nearest hotel parking is on Cambridge/St Paul’s Way (Novotel Sheffield Centre on Arundel Gate or Leonardo/EasyHotel near Eyre Street are within a few minutes’ walk (www.concerthotels.com ) (www.concerthotels.com )).
For late-night returns, the Supertram runs until around midnight on weekdays (later on weekends), and night bus services (N2, N22) pass nearby. Sheffield’s main taxi ranks (Arundel Gate) are about 10 minutes on foot. Overall it’s sensible to allow extra time for travel after shows, especially on weekend evenings when taxis queue.
What Makes This Venue Special
Network stands out for being Sheffield’s first truly new large-scale gig venue in years. It has a creative origin story – transforming a 19th-century Sunday school into a cutting-edge club space – and it retains a bit of that history (legends mention the old rotating dancefloor still lurking beneath the floorboards, awaiting revival (nowthenmagazine.com )). Importantly, it filled a crucial gap in Sheffield’s live scene. As the venue’s directors note, much-loved spots like The Harley and Boardwalk have closed, and before Network, artists could skip Sheffield for bigger cities. Network “will fill an important gap in Sheffield’s gigs and nightlife offering” by providing a mid-sized room for national touring acts (www.thestar.co.uk ). The sound and production are also top-notch – the venue installed professional HK Audio rigs throughout, ensuring high-quality sound for every genre (www.etnow.com ) (www.etnow.com ). Local musicians love it too, since they can graduate from basements into this prime space. In short, Network marries Sheffield style, top production standards and a central location to become a go-to stop for both fans and bands. It’s quickly developed its own identity (independent of but complementary to sister venue DINA downstairs and the historic Corporation club), and many visitors say that both the sound and atmosphere feel insider-cool and welcoming for a wide range of crowds.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Because Network sits on an upper floor of an older building, step-free access is limited. A straight staircase leads to the venue level; if you have mobility needs, contact the venue ahead of time to discuss accommodations.
What to bring: Valid photo ID (18+ events), a charged phone, and cash or PayWave for drinks/merch are recommended. Large bags are discouraged for safety and may be searched or refused. Ear plugs can be wise for very loud concerts. Arrive early: Popular shows can have lines, and once inside, standing-room starts filling fast. Early arrival (e.g. 30–60 minutes before doors open) means shorter queues and time to claim a preferred spot. Age and Dress Code: Dress is casual. For men, smart trainers or shoes are fine; for women, heels are not ideal given the packed dancefloor. Most gigs are open to teens (14+ or 16+) but club nights enforce 18+. Always bring ID if needed. Rain contingency: The outdoor waiting areas are uncovered but there is shelter near the entrance. If it’s raining, you can queue indoors near the bar foyer. Food and Breaks: Since there’s no kitchen, plan to eat beforehand or grab a bite nearby. During shows with breaks, patrons often step out to the garden or the surrounding streets for a smoke or drink upstairs (smoking is not allowed indoors). Etiquette: Be mindful in crowd – it’s friendly but crowded. No video recording (it can annoy performers), and remember that the venue often hosts late events (music until 3–4am for club nights). You can stake out an area once inside, but never obstruct exits or lean on speakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Network Sheffield located?
Network Sheffield is at 14–16 Matilda Street, Sheffield, S1 4QD . This is just off The Moor in Sheffield city centre. The venue is above the DINA building on Cambridge Street; look for the pink “NETWORK” sign on the Matilda Street side.
What is the capacity of Network Sheffield?
Network has three performance areas. The main hall (Network 1) holds roughly 1,000 people, the second room (Network 2) about 500, and the smallest space (Network 3) about 150. In total, the venue can hold around 1,600–2,000 people across those rooms.
How can I buy tickets for shows?
Tickets are sold through the venue’s official site and affiliated ticket platforms. Check Network Sheffield’s website or social media for links to buy tickets online. For some shows there may be limited door sales (i.e., paying at the venue) if tickets remain. For popular acts, it’s best to buy in advance when they go on sale to avoid disappointment.
How much are tickets and do prices vary?
Prices vary by event. Small local or tribute acts often charge £10–15. Bigger touring bands might charge £15–25 (or a bit more for top acts). Nightclub events and DJ sets can be cheaper (frequently around £5–10, sometimes even free or student discount nights). Booking fees from ticket sites may add a couple of pounds. Always check the announced ticket price when the event is listed.
What are the age restrictions at Network Sheffield?
Age restrictions depend on the show. Many live music events are open to those 14+ or 16+, but some are strictly 18+ (especially hardcore or certain club nights). Club nights and dance events are typically 18+ only. Always bring valid photo ID (passport or UK driver’s license) if there’s any chance an event could be 18+. The venue’s event listing will state the age limit for that night.
Is there a box office or can I buy tickets at the door?
Network Sheffield does not have a daily manned box office, but on-show days you can often buy tickets at the door (start time varies by event, typically around the posted door time). Door sales are first-come, first-served and may be cash only. For guaranteed entry at popular shows, it’s safer to buy in advance online.
How do I get to Network Sheffield by public transport?
By bus, take any city-centre route that stops near The Moor or Cambridge Street. In particular, buses numbered 2, 51, 73, 75 and 8 stop a short walk away (moovitapp.com ). The nearest Supertram stops (yellow line) are around 200–300m away at “City Hall” or “Sheffield (Interchange)”. Sheffield railway station is about 10 minutes’ walk toward Commercial Street, or 2–3 minutes by taxi.
Is there parking available near the venue?
Street parking is very limited on Matilda Street itself (a few Pay & Display spots at about £3.25/hour (en.parkopedia.co.uk )). It’s better to use a nearby car park. The Matilda Street Car Park (90 spaces) is just around the corner from the venue (www.parkme.com ). Other nearby car parks include Arundel Gate or Queen Street Car Parks (both a 5–10min walk).
Can I get dropped off/picked up by taxi or Uber?
Yes. Taxis and rideshares can pull up on Midfield Road or Caroline Street adjacent to Matilda Street, which is a very short walk to the entrance. Many drivers also simply use Matilda Street itself (it has a small passenger load/unload zone, especially after 6pm). Sheffield’s main taxi ranks are a 10-minute walk up Arundel Gate, but immediate drop-off is easy right by the venue.
Is Network Sheffield seated or general admission?
All performance areas are standing-room only (general admission). There are no fixed seats or assigned places on the venue floor. You may sit or lean on ledges along the walls if you wish, but in front of the stage it is all standing. Find your own space once inside – front and centre is common for the best view, while sides or the back allow for some personal space.
Are there VIP or balcony sections?
Network 1 is a single-level hall and has no official balcony or VIP seating area. VIP tickets (if offered) might include perks like a separate queue or bar area, but physically the room is flat. The sound/lighting booths on the sides are raised but not for general use. The side areas behind the gear are not meant as regular viewing areas.
What should I avoid bringing into Network Sheffield?
Common no-go items include glass bottles, large backpacks, weapons or sharp objects, and professional camera equipment. Security is strict: your bags will be checked at the entrance. Small purses or pouches are fine, but avoid oversized bags (which may be refused). Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not allowed inside; you must step into the outdoor area to smoke.
Can I take photos or record the performance?
Personal smartphones for pictures are usually allowed (no flash on shows), but dedicated video equipment or large cameras typically require permission. For safety, video or audio recording is often discouraged or banned, especially if it obstructs others. It's best to enjoy the moment or ask at the door if recording is permitted. Always follow the artist's policy (some acts have “no photography” rules).
Are there bars and food available inside?
There is a main bar upstairs that sells beer, wine, spirits, cocktails and soft drinks. However, there is no kitchen serving meals. The bar may offer snacks like crisps or nuts, but for a full meal you’ll need to eat before the show or at a nearby restaurant. Note that drink queues can form during busy events, so consider grabbing a drink early or after opening.
Is there a cloakroom or lockers?
Coat check is not guaranteed every night. On very busy nights, the venue may set up a temporary cloakroom (usually for a small fee) in the stair foyer. There are no permanent lockers. If you bring a coat or bulky items, be prepared to carry them or ask staff if a coat check is available that evening. Many patrons simply wrap their coat around their waist during shows.
Where are the toilets and are they accessible?
Restrooms are on the upstairs level (same level as the performance space) and have been recently refurbished (nowthenmagazine.com ). As far as toilets go, there are multiple stalls. However, since the shows are all one floor up, this area is only accessible via stairs – there is no ground-floor toilet. If you have accessibility needs, note that it is a stair-only access to the toilet area.
Is Network Sheffield wheelchair accessible?
Because the venue is on an upper story and the staircase is the only access, wheelchair access is not straightforward. There is no elevator. If you require step-free access or have special needs, contact the venue directly in advance. The staff may be able to make arrangements or advise on accessible alternative entry (if any).
Is there an outdoor space at Network Sheffield?
Yes, Network has a small outdoor courtyard/garden area. It's adjacent to the building and usually used as a smoking or chill-out area. It has fresh air but no seating, so on a warm evening people might step out there for a break. Keep in mind, it’s exposed to the weather, so in rain there’s limited shelter outside.
Are drinks or food allowed to be brought in?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside Network. The only beverages allowed are those purchased at the venue’s bar (usually plastic cups for drinks). If you bring water or snacks, staff may ask you to discard them. Plan to buy a drink inside or eat beforehand. (Staff are usually understanding if you just want to bring a bottle of water, but it’s at their discretion.)
What types of events does Network Sheffield host?
Network hosts a very wide range of events. On any given month you might find rock, punk, metal, soul, folk, jazz, hip-hop, or tribute concerts, as well as electronic music nights (house, drum & bass, jungle, retro chart night, etc.). It also holds club nights (like weekly/termly student nights), themed dance parties, stand-up comedy and spoken-word events, open Mic nights, and even private hire or showcase events. Essentially, if it’s live or club music, it could be on at Network.
Does Network Sheffield have a dress code?
There is no strict dress code. Casual clothing is normal. The only thing to note is that club nights (especially themed nights) sometimes encourage a style (e.g. ‘90s rave or indie Britpop attire), but no one will turn you away for casual clothes. Avoid expensive heels (the floor is standing and can get packed) and bring layers if you tend to feel cold. Overall, wear what you’re comfortable dancing or jumping around in.
