Sidney & Matilda: the former paper factory that became a home for new music

Tucked away on the edge of Sheffield's Cultural Industries Quarter, a former paper factory at Rivelin Works has become one of the city's most talked-about places for a night out. Sidney & Matilda opened in 2018, founded by artist, curator and producer Al Daw, whose earlier projects in London and fascination with Sheffield's dormant industrial buildings inspired the venue.

When it opened, Our Favourite Places called it "a welcome addition to Sheffield's vibrant music and arts scene". Since then it has grown room by room. Welcome to Sheffield describes it as the city's most dynamic, versatile venue with three different rooms of varying sizes.

The Gallery Room is the newest and largest space, holding 300 people. Downstairs, the 180-capacity Basement has dim lighting and a low ceiling, perfect for club nights that run into the early hours. The Factory Room, holding 80, is aimed at up-and-coming local and touring artists, while the ground-floor Warehouse bar has resident DJs playing through the evening.

The guest list has included Horse Meat Disco, Alexis Taylor of Hot Chip, Greg Wilson, Erol Alkan and Sally C, along with nights from local promoters such as Steel Dancin', Bass Off and Funky Drummer. The venue is open almost every day of the week, often with several events running at once.

It is a place that refuses to be pigeonholed. In a 2025 profile, Now Then Magazine spoke to the pair behind the venue under the headline "Culturally, we try to hold up a mirror to what's happening in Sheffield", noting that they never want to pigeonhole themselves to one genre of music. During the 2025 Tramlines Fringe, the venue hosted more than 30 acts over three days, and Now Then said the team "provide the perfect platform for up-and-comers."

Alongside gigs and club nights there is comedy, an outdoor yard and occasional film screenings and exhibitions. Our Favourite Places summed it up as "the perfect hangout for culture vultures from across South Yorkshire."

The Warehouse and Factory Room have level, step-free access, and there is an accessible toilet on the ground floor.

Sidney & Matilda is at Rivelin Works, 46 Sidney Street. The full events calendar is on the venue's website.