Explore a brutalist icon and its bold reinvention

Park Hill has been a visible landmark on the Sheffield skyline for over 60 years. It is considered of international importance due to being the first built example of external access decks (known as Streets in the Sky) and was awarded Grade II* listing in 1998. There followed a regeneration scheme, twice shortlisted for the Stirling prize for architecture in 2013 and 2024, which continues today. It is also culturally prominent, having featured in film, tv, music, artworks and on stage.

Park Hill Residents’ Association and Urban Splash invite you on this special 90 minute British Sign Language (BSL) tour to walk the Streets in the Sky.

Designed for guests with zero or very little knowledge in British Sign Language, this tour is an opportunity to learn some words in BSL and understand about how the Deaf community experience and talk about architecture. The tour will cover the history of Park Hill, its inspirations and people behind its design as well as its architectural concepts and distinctive details.

The tour will be led by architect and experienced BSL guide Martin Glover, delivered in BSL with the support of an interpreter and accompanied by a resident guide.

What is included

a history of of Park Hill delivered by an experienced BSL guide and interpreter

an introduction to it’s architectural concepts and details

a ride in the glass scenic lift to the top floor

access along the Streets in the Sky

a look inside a renovated flat*

* As an inhabited building, we rely on the generosity of residents or availability of flats between tenancies for flat interior visits.

Urban Splash is a regeneration company that has been leading the transformation of Park Hill for more than 20 years. Their vision extends far beyond the physical redevelopment of a building; at the heart of the project is the creation of a thriving, sustainable community where people can live, work and connect. Community organisations such as the Park Hill Residents’ Association (PHRA) and initiatives including guided tours play an important role in bringing people together, sharing Park Hill’s story and fostering a sense of belonging. The British Sign Language (BSL) tours are a perfect example of this commitment to inclusion and accessibility, and without the generous support of Urban Splash, these tours would not be possible.

Read about their work at Park Hill at https://www.urbansplash.co.uk/regeneration/projects/park-hill

Location

The tour meets at the lower end of South Street, close to the Park Hill Sales Office. Look out for our feather flag which signifies the tour meeting point.

For a location map, public transport, directions and car parking options, please visit https://www.parkhilltours.com/how-to-find-us/

Refreshments

Why not enjoy some refreshments before or after your tour at South Street Kitchen, the popular on-site cafe or our local pub, The Pearl at Park Hill.

Check out their websites to see menus and opening times.

https://www.southstreetkitchen.org/

https://www.pearlatparkhill.co.uk

Or for something to eat or drink on the go, pick something up from Park Hill Provisions convenience store or Bench La Cave bakery.

Extend your visit to Park Hill

Continue your design inspiration by visiting the Nest showroom and shop, located at the site of The Scottish Queen, one of Park Hills original pubs. Opening hours Monday- Friday 10-4.

Call in to the sales office to get a close look at the scale model of Park Hill. Opening hours variable.

Take a stroll through South Street Park where you will see the cobbled remains of some of the terraced streets that existed prior to the flats being built.

Description supplied by the event organiser.