Goldsmiths North, an international shopping experience showcasing the finest contemporary silverware and jewellery from the UK and Europe, returns to Sheffield’s magnificent Cutlers’ Hall from 30th May to 1st June 2025, offering visitors the opportunity to meet and purchase from over 50 independent makers while celebrating Sheffield’s worldwide reputation for fine metalwork.
Cutlers’ Hall Venue History
The Cutlers’ Hall in Sheffield stands as a testament to the city’s rich metalworking heritage. The current Grade II* listed building, completed in 1832, is actually the third hall to occupy this historic Church Street site opposite Sheffield Cathedral. The Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire, established by an Act of Parliament in 1624, first purchased the land in 1638 and built their initial hall, which tradition suggests may have previously been an inn.
The second hall was constructed in 1725 at a cost of £442 (equivalent to £71,226 in 2023), but as Sheffield’s cutlery industry flourished, a more impressive headquarters became necessary. The present hall, designed by architects Samuel Worth and Benjamin Broomhead Taylor, was built at a cost of £6,500 and opened in September 1833. It features a magnificent Corinthian façade and has been expanded twice—in 1867 with the addition of the Large Banqueting Hall, and again in 1888 when the frontage was extended westward. Today, this architectural gem serves as both the headquarters of the Company of Cutlers and a prestigious venue for conferences, weddings, and social gatherings, maintaining its status as one of the finest livery halls in northern England.
50+ Independent Makers Showcase
Goldsmiths North 2025 will feature over 50 independent makers from across the UK and Europe, offering visitors a unique opportunity to discover and purchase directly from talented artisans. This carefully curated selection includes silversmiths and jewelers working with various techniques and materials—from traditional silversmithing to contemporary designs using recycled precious metals and responsibly sourced gemstones. Each maker brings their distinctive style and craftsmanship, with many pieces reflecting personal artistic visions inspired by architecture, nature, and urban environments.
- Every ticket holder receives the Goldsmiths North Annual, a magazine-style publication featuring informative articles about selected makers and their work
- £1 from each ticket sale will support Sheffield Hospitals Charity as part of the Master Cutler’s Challenge
- Early Bird ticket holders are automatically entered into a prize draw to win a £500 voucher to spend with an exhibitor of their choice
- The fair celebrates Sheffield’s metalworking heritage while showcasing contemporary talent, with some local Sheffield-based makers among the exhibitors
Sheffield’s Silversmithing Heritage
Sheffield’s silversmithing heritage dates back to the mid-18th century when Thomas Boulsover revolutionized the industry in 1743 with his invention of Sheffield Plate, a process that fused thin sheets of silver and copper together under heat and pressure. This innovation allowed for the production of silver-like items at a fraction of the cost of solid silver, making Sheffield a global center for silverware production. The city’s reputation for quality grew so strong that Sheffield candlesticks were purchased by other silversmiths who would superimpose their own hallmarks.
The city’s silversmithing tradition evolved from its cutlery roots, with the Company of Cutlers in Hallamshire (founded in 1624) becoming the leading guild by the 18th century. Sheffield received its own silver assay office in 1773, cementing its status in the precious metals industry. Though the traditional Sheffield Plate technique was eventually superseded by electroplating in the 1840s, the city maintained its silversmithing excellence through specialist production. Today, contemporary silversmiths like Rebecca Joselyn continue this legacy, with Sheffield remaining home to internationally recognized metalworkers whose pieces are held in prestigious collections including the Millennium Gallery and the Cutlers Company’s Silver Collection.
Accommodation – Best Western Sheffield City
For guests attending Goldsmiths North 2025, the Best Western Sheffield City Hotel offers convenient, comfortable accommodation just steps from Cutlers’ Hall.
Hotel Information:
- Location: George Street, Sheffield, S1 2PF (just a 1-minute walk from Cutlers’ Hall)
- Facilities: Free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, lounge bar, accessible rooms
- Breakfast: Available daily (charges may apply)
- Parking: Nearby public parking available at discounted rates for hotel guests
- Booking Tip: Book early for the best rates during event dates (30 May – 1 June)
This hotel is an ideal base for visitors looking to explore Sheffield’s cultural and historic centre while enjoying the convenience of close proximity to the event venue.
