Established as early as 1984 the Sheffield Fire and Police Museum has been an iconic fixture in the city for decades. Contained within the towering confines of what was once a fire station the aptly situated museum now serves as a premier cultural institution documenting the service of the city’s fire brigade and police department over the centuries. Conveniently located in the heart of the city at the Tenter Street and West Bar junction, the maroon brick façade museum notably features an ancient observation tower used by the fire brigade in the 1900’s.
A popular haunt for the young and old the museum is managed by volunteers under the guardianship of a charity organisation registered in the UK. The museum’s extensive collection of exhibits includes those that pertain to law and order while elements of social history in Sheffield are also featured in the displays. Open to the public for most of the year including bank holidays the heritage centre is a must-see highlight for all visitors exploring the charming environs of Sheffield.
One of its chief attractions is of course the more than 45 vehicles on display which served as emergency service vehicles and ambulances in the past. This also includes police cars, mine rescue apparatuses and fire engines drawn by horses which were used in decades past to fight fires. The museum also holds the prestigious honour of being the globe’s most extensive emergency services museum with informative exhibits delving in to the state of emergency services dating back centuries.
Police drama fanatics can also let their imagination run wild at the Police Cells in the museum while police vehicles, gear/equipment and even uniforms are also on show. The museum also employs audio visual elements to enhance the true-to-life experiences of day to day life in a fire house or police department with illuminators, smoke and sounds that bring life and death situations to light. Fire engine rides are also available for visitors on weekends while visitors can also witness the re-enactment of a motor traffic accident and learn how emergency staff responds in such a situation. A cosy cafe is also on-site with light refreshments.
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Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.
