People love to point out how Sheffield’s not what it used to be, or to mourn the venues and landmarks which have been lost over the years, from the Hole in the Road to Sheffield Ski Village.
But with the city centre’s transformation finally taking shape, there’s a refreshing sense of optimism about Sheffield today and what the future holds.
We’re taking a look at some of the things you can do now that you couldn’t do in Sheffield back in the 80s.
Some are new additions to the city, while others have been around since the 1990s.
What do you think is the best thing to have happened to Sheffield in recent years?
1. Run through the fountains at the Peace Gardens
What better way to cool off on a summer's day than at the Peace Gardens fountain? The water feature has provided countless hours of entertainment for youngsters since the jets were first switched on after a major revamp of the much-loved public space in 1998. | National WorldPhoto: Scott Merrylees
2. Relax in the lazy river at Ponds Forge
Ponds Forge Leisure Centre opened in 1991, when it was used as a venue for the World Student Games. It replaced Sheaf Valley Baths, which had opened in 1972 and featured a mural by the since disgraced TV star Rolf Harris. Ponds Forge remains a popular venue, with the leisure pool featuring a wave machine and a lazy river, though the flumes were removed in 2021. | National WorldPhoto: National World
3. Go shopping at Meadowhall
Meadowhall changed the way we shop when it opened on the site of the former Hadfields' East Hecla steelworks on September 4, 1990. With 280 stores it was the UK's second largest shopping mall. | OtherPhoto: Other
4. Play at Pound's Park
Pound's Park opened in 2023 on the site of the former fire station, between Rockingham Street and Carver Street, in Sheffield city centre. It has been a hugely popular addition, thanks to the sand and water play areas and the huge climbing frame. | National WorldPhoto: National World