Millennium Galleries, Sheffield

The Millennium Gallery is a prominent art gallery and museum located in the heart of Sheffield. Opened in April 2001, the gallery is conveniently near the mainline station, Sheffield Hallam University, the Central Library Graves Art Gallery, and Sheffield Theatres. Designed by the architectural firm Pringle Richards Sharratt, the building features a modern design of concrete and glass, with galleries branching off a central avenue that links Arundel Gate to the Sheffield Winter Garden.

The Millennium Gallery houses two permanent collections, and two temporary exhibition spaces, and offers versatile spaces for corporate events and weddings, alongside a café and shop. One of its key attractions is the Guild of Saint George’s Ruskin Collection, established by the Victorian scholar John Ruskin in 1875 to inspire Sheffield's workers. The collection includes various watercolors, drawings, prints, plaster casts, minerals, illustrated books, manuscripts, and coins. Due to its large and delicate nature, the collection is displayed on a rotating basis in a specially refurbished gallery space.

Another highlight of the Millennium Gallery is Sheffield's renowned Metalwork Collection, comprising over 13,000 objects. This collection, which holds Designated Collection status from the Department for Digital, Culture, Media, and Sport (DCMS), features an extensive range of Sheffield-made cutlery, flatware, and holloware, showcasing superior design and craftsmanship from around the world. The collection serves as a historical reference and a source of inspiration for manufacturers, designers, and makers.

The gallery’s dynamic exhibition program features a mix of national and international art and design, alongside works from regional talents. It regularly showcases displays that celebrate Sheffield’s metalworking heritage and the impactful art and artifacts brought to the city by Ruskin.

Visitors can also enjoy the café, Ambulo, known for its excellent coffee and grilled cheese sandwiches, and explore the gallery's shop, which offers a range of unique gifts, homeware, hand-crafted jewelry, books, and stationery, making it one of Sheffield’s best shopping spots.