Latest Pub News
If you know of any pub or Sheffield-related news that we have missed out, please contact us so that we can add the story.
Kapital European-Style Beer Hall Brings Bold New Energy to City Centre
Sheffield's hospitality scene just got a major upgrade with the arrival of Kapital - the city's largest European-style beer hall - now open on Wellington Street.
The £750,000 venue officially opened its doors on 27th June as part of Sheffield's £470 million Heart of the City development. It joins a growing lineup of destinations revitalising the city centre, alongside projects like Cambridge Street Collective and Leah's Yard.
Kapital is the latest creation from the team behind the award-winning Two Thirds Beer Co. on Abbeydale Road. After two years of planning and building, co-founders Ben Stubbs, Danny Clare, and Adam Inns are finally welcoming customers into a space they say is inspired by the great beer cities of Europe.
"It does feel quite surreal that we're now at the point where we're going to be opening the doors," said Ben Stubbs in a recent interview. "We spent a lot of time in Germany, in Prague and the Republic of Belgium - so we saw how they do things and are then bringing a little bit of each of those into one big space like this."
The result is a bold, high-capacity venue with more than 30 beer taps and an atmosphere that combines continental influence with local character. The centrepiece? Three enormous tanks of Budvar, the unpasteurised Czech lager, imported directly from South Bohemia.
"It's a cracking beer," Stubbs said. "Unpasteurised, fresh and comes straight from the cellars of the brewery. It's put in a tanker and driven over into the UK, straight to here."
Despite the team's deep passion for beer, Kapital isn't aiming to be exclusive or high-brow. Stubbs emphasised their goal of "grown-up drinking" - a quality-focused space where anyone can enjoy great drinks in a comfortable, thoughtfully-designed environment.
"Quality environment, quality product and quality service," he added. "It's a place you can come and have a decent beer, in a really nice environment."
With its massive footprint, curated drinks list, and a clear vision rooted in European beer culture, Kapital is set to become a standout addition to Sheffield's evolving city centre - and a new go-to for beer lovers across South Yorkshire.
Sheffield Crowned UK's Best Pub City by The Times
Sheffield has been named the UK's top "pub city" by The Times, praised for its unbeatable combination of quality pubs, high brewery count, and easy access around town.
While London may boast the most pubs in total, Sheffield "beats anywhere down south," said beer writer Pete Brown, citing the Steel City's unique mix of tradition, innovation, and accessibility.
What sets Sheffield apart? For starters, it has more breweries per head than any other UK city. That means locals and visitors alike can enjoy a wide selection of both classic ales and modern craft brews, all brewed close to the bar.
Pub crawls in Sheffield are also refreshingly straightforward. The compact city centre makes for easy walking, while the tram system opens up nearby neighbourhoods like Kelham Island, known for its thriving pub scene.
Brown connects Sheffield's brewing culture to its industrial roots. "The mesters may be long gone but their spirit of independence, sometimes manifested as grumpy stubbornness, still defines the city's culture," he said, referring to the city's historic “little mesters” - independent craftsmen central to its steelmaking past.
Despite the region's aversion to "showing off," Brown insists Sheffield deserves the spotlight. He notes that beer is now the second biggest driver of tourism to the area.
Eight standout pubs helped clinch the "best pub city" title: The Bath Hotel, The Crow Inn, The Dog & Partridge, Fat Cat, Kelham Island Tavern, Sheffield Tap, Shakespeare's, and The Wellington.
In addition, The Times recently singled out St Mars of the Desert, a taproom in Attercliffe, as one of the best in the country.
With heritage, character, and hops on its side, Sheffield has more than earned its title.
New Inn Closes And Owners Outline Future Plans
The New Inn, a CAMRA award-winning pub in Gleadless, has officially closed following the departure of its long-serving managers.
Nic Barber and Gill Oxley, who had run the Hollinsend Road venue for the past 14 years, announced their exit with a heartfelt message to customers. The pair, known for raising the standard of the pub and earning CAMRA's Real Ale Pub of the Month award during their tenure, said their goodbyes in a Facebook post.
"Just want to say a massive thank you to all our customers for an absolute fantastic 14 years. We've had a blast!" the post read. "Myself and Gill are gutted but there has to be an end game and now is our time. Thank you to all our staff past and present for putting up with us, especially through the hard times! We love you all."
The news sparked a wave of support and appreciation from regulars, many of whom praised the duo for transforming the New Inn into a cornerstone of the local community. One supporter commented, "The New Inn has been a safe and welcoming place while you've been in charge and the standard of the beer has always been excellent. We'll miss you both enormously and wish you the best of luck in your new venture."
The pub, owned by Star Inns, a division of Heineken, had been operated under lease by Barber and Oxley as an independent business. A spokesperson for Star Inns confirmed the pair's departure and outlined the company's intentions going forward.
"They have taken the decision to leave the pub," the spokesperson said. "We are looking to reopen it as quickly as possible and hope to do so within the next few weeks. Longer term, we are looking to recruit an experienced operator for the New Inn."
Prospective operators interested in taking over the New Inn are invited to contact Star Inns' recruitment team at 08085 949596.
The closure marks the end of a significant chapter for the Gleadless pub, but plans are in motion to bring it back to life in the near future.
Rivelin Hotel Announces Closure
The Rivelin Hotel, a popular pub on Tofts Lane near Stannington, is closing its doors. Managers Abbie Mullen and her business partner Simon shared the news with "great sadness," saying they are "absolutely gutted" to be leaving.
The closure impacts around 18 staff members and marks the end of what has been a meaningful chapter for the team and the local community. "We are absolutely gutted not only for us but for all our lovely customers and the friends we have made here," Abbie wrote in a public message on Facebook.
She thanked patrons for their support and kind words, noting how much the encouragement has meant to them. "We are so sad to leave," she added, "but also got a fire in our belly for what is to come at our new home."
The Rivelin will host a farewell party on Saturday 31st May starting at 7PM, with a free buffet for guests. The final meals will be served on Sunday 1st June.
Abbie and Simon won't be out of the pub game for long. They're set to reopen the Bulls Head on Fulwood Road in Ranmoor, with opening day planned for Friday 6th June.
Mount Pleasant Pub Reopens with Fresh Energy and Big Plans
The Mount Pleasant pub in Norton Lees has reopened its doors with new licensees at the helm and a vision to turn the historic pub into a buzzing community hub.
Located on Derbyshire Lane, the early 19th-century pub closed temporarily in February when long-time landlady Gill Nugent stepped down after eight years. Nugent was the eleventh licensee since the pub's opening in 1841.
Just weeks after the closure, new tenants Leanne Austin and her partner Mark took over and began reshaping the venue. Their focus has been on breathing new life into the space with a calendar packed with events and entertainment.
"So far so good," said Leanne. "We've hosted lots of different events - we're looking to go more that way in future."
Already, the couple has introduced activities like psychic nights and karaoke, expanding the pub's appeal beyond its traditional roots. Live music, something the Mount Pleasant had never hosted before, is now a key part of their plans. Leanne and Mark aim to make the most of the summer by bringing performers outdoors, with a family-friendly setup that includes an outdoor bar and even a bouncy castle.
Looking ahead, the couple is organising a fundraising event for Weston Park Hospital and launching Mount Fest, which promises live music and food trucks. They're also planning a coach trip in August to see Tom Jones perform at Market Rasen.
With strong early support from the community and a growing list of events, the Mount Pleasant is not just back open - it's setting the stage for a new chapter full of energy, music, and local spirit.
Former Toilets Shortlisted for Prestigious National Pub and Bar Awards
Sheffield's acclaimed cocktail spot, Public, has been named one of the top venues in South Yorkshire as it earns a coveted place on the shortlist for the 2025 National Pub and Bar Awards.
The awards, which celebrate the finest drinking establishments across the UK, will culminate in a ceremony in London on 24th June. Public is one of three South Yorkshire venues to make the cut, alongside Biscuit Billy's in Doncaster and The Woodman in Rotherham.
Housed in a former underground public toilet beneath Sheffield Town Hall, Public has built a strong reputation since opening its doors in 2017. Known for its inventive drinks and distinctive setting, the bar has already collected a string of accolades - and now adds national recognition to its list of achievements.
This year's National Pub and Bar Awards sees 256 venues from across the British Isles compete for honours, with judges assessing a wide range of criteria, including service quality, design, digital presence, and customer experience. For the first time, the awards will also recognise top performers by county, in addition to national and regional titles.
In total, 94 awards will be handed out, including high-profile accolades like Pub Group of the Year, and the overall National Pub and Bar of the Year. The 2025 edition will also debut a new Top 10 Pubs and Bars in the UK list, selected by industry peers.
Tristan O'Hana, editor of Pub and Bar magazine, which organises the event, said: "The aim of the National Pub and Bar Awards is simple - we want to showcase how brilliant these businesses are and how valuable pubs and bars are to the fabric of society across the whole of the UK. It has never been harder in hospitality."
With its unique setting and continued commitment to quality, Public stands out as a strong contender in this year's awards - and as a symbol of Sheffield's vibrant hospitality scene.
Michelin-Starred Pie Lands in Sheffield
Sheffield food lovers are in for something special - The Florentine in Fulwood is set to serve a pie created by Michelin-starred chef Tom Shepherd. Since 17th April the pub has offered the "Best Ever Pub Pie," a rich, triple-layered dish packed with hand-pulled beef cheek, caramelised onions, and roast potatoes.
Shepherd, who runs the acclaimed Upstairs restaurant in Staffordshire, is sharing his secret recipe for the first time through a new partnership with the Marston's pub chain. The dish will be available nationwide for a limited 12-week run.
"I have been asked to share the recipe a lot, but it hasn't felt like the right partnership - until now," Shepherd said. "For me, when I think of the pub, I think of a good pie, so I was delighted to have the chance to work with the Marston's team to bring this pie to life."
Marston's director of operations, Claire Robertson, praised the collaboration: "We've worked really hard together to create the most delicious dish possible. It's rich, decadent and absolutely delicious."
The Florentine, located next to Thornbury Hospital, will be one of the select venues serving the chef's take on the classic pub favourite.
Pie fans and foodies alike now have a new reason to stop by Fulwood. For 12 weeks only, a Michelin-starred taste is just a fork away.
The Old Shoe Named Sheffield CAMRA's Cider Pub of the Year 2025
The Old Shoe, a bold and unconventional bar tucked away in Orchard Square, has officially been crowned Sheffield CAMRA's Cider Pub of the Year 2025. Opened in 2023, the pub has quickly made its mark by pairing a fearless drinks menu with a welcoming, knowledgeable team - earning high praise for its unique approach.
Founded by Matt Beety, owner of The Bear on Abbeydale Road, and Mike Pomranz, formerly of The Cider Hole in Kelham, The Old Shoe set out to combine "accessibility with bravery." That vision has clearly paid off.
The bar specialises in its own brewed ciders and an ever-changing list of rare cask and keg beers. But it doesn't stop there - its shelves are lined with artisan ciders, natural wines from lesser-known regions, and fruit wines made with unexpected ingredients. For those who prefer to take their drinks home, four fridges are stocked with a wide array of bottles and cans ready for takeaway.
CAMRA judges highlighted the bar's diverse cider offering but also noted its broader appeal, including locally-roasted coffee, a solid selection of non-alcoholic drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere soundtracked by vinyl records. A monthly comedy night adds further character to the space.
The Old Shoe is still evolving. The team has plans to expand into the building's upper floor, with a new bar concept intriguingly named "Not Open Dont Come". A licensing application has been submitted to Sheffield City Council for late-night opening hours, and a planning request outlines the conversion of the former Schuh staff room into a vibrant new space with one full-time and six part-time employees.
For now, though, The Old Shoe is celebrating its recognition as Sheffield's top cider pub - a win for fans of quality, curiosity, and craft.
Controversial Plan for Outdoor TV at Belfry Pub Sparks Noise Concerns
The Belfry pub in Beighton is seeking planning permission to install a 65-inch television screen in its outdoor beer garden - a proposal that's stirring debate among local residents.
Submitted to Sheffield City Council by the pub's owners, Greene King, the planning documents detail the installation of a large TV mounted on a black metal stand in the pub's patio area. The application describes the setup as a way to allow patrons to enjoy televised sports and other programming in the open air while socialising.
According to the design and access statement, the TV would be "undertaken in a way that minimises any negative impact on the building's appearance" and is intended to "enhance the pub's role within the community," helping it remain a relevant social hub.
But not everyone is onboard.
A formal objection has already been lodged with the council, raising concerns about increased noise levels. The complaint claims the noise tests submitted with the application do not accurately reflect how loud the area could become during televised sports events.
The letter argues: "By having a TV outside this will increase ambient noise from customers who will be shouting in response to the sports being played at the time. At present noise for any sports is limited to inside the pub."
It further criticises the impact assessment as inadequate and suggests the outdoor screen adds little value, given the existing TV facilities inside the pub.
The council will now weigh the potential community benefits against the noise concerns raised by neighbours before making a decision on the application.
Late Licence Bid for Wharncliffe Arms Opposed
A Sheffield brewery's plan to reopen a village pub with extended late-night hours has sparked backlash from residents in Wharncliffe Side.
Bradfield Brewery, known for its range of beers brewed on a working dairy farm in the Peak District, has applied for a new licence for the Wharncliffe Arms, located on Main Road. The pub has been closed for renovations since 2023 and is described by the brewery as "a traditional village pub" welcoming both locals and visitors.
However, the proposal to allow the pub to stay open until 1am every night - along with permission for live and recorded music until midnight - has drawn strong objections from nearby residents.
The application will go before Sheffield City Council's licensing sub-committee at a meeting in Sheffield Town Hall on 20th May.
A local resident, in a formal objection submitted to the council, described the plans as "completely unsuitable for this location," highlighting concerns about noise, disruption, and anti-social behaviour in what they called a "quiet residential street." The objection also pointed to the potential impact of late-night traffic, car doors slamming, and groups gathering outside the pub, especially during warmer months when the outdoor seating area would be in use.
The resident added: "While I support local business and hospitality, it must be balanced with the rights of residents to peace and quiet, particularly during night-time hours. This application represents a fundamental change in the nature of the premises from a traditional village pub to a late-night venue."
A wider petition signed by members of the community echoed the concern, calling the proposed hours "excessive" and warning that they would bring "ongoing public nuisance, increased safety risks, and a fundamental change to the character of our community."
The outcome of the licensing application will be decided following the council hearing next week.