Latest Pub News
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The Harley Closes Temporarily for Refurbishment: Exciting Changes Ahead
The Harley, one of Sheffield's most iconic pubs, has closed its doors for a significant refurbishment. Located on Glossop Road, the venue is set to reopen in mid-January 2025, with plans to revitalise both the pub and the hotel upstairs.
The pub, which only resumed operations under new management in July 2024, closed again temporarily on Sunday 1st December. A spokesperson for The Andersen Group, the operators of The Harley, explained that the timing aligns with the quieter winter break as students leave the city, making it an ideal period for maintenance and upgrades.
While The Harley has long been celebrated for its live music scene, including hosting early performances by the Arctic Monkeys, its management plans to pivot slightly. The spokesperson revealed that while live music will continue, the emphasis will shift to early evening performances around 8 or 9PM, rather than late-night events.
The changes are part of a repositioning strategy to transform The Harley from a late-night club venue into more of a daytime and early evening bar. The pub aims to balance its vibrant atmosphere with the need to address noise complaints from nearby residents.
"We don't want to be upsetting our neighbours," the spokesperson said. As part of this effort, a new sound system will be installed to improve acoustic management.
In addition to its musical makeover, The Harley will reintroduce food service with a new menu focusing on street food, including loaded fries and pizzas, as well as breakfast offerings. The kitchen will undergo renovations to support this expanded culinary direction.
Excitingly, the 21-bedroom hotel upstairs, which has been closed for several years, is also set to reopen. The Andersen Group anticipates the hotel will be ready for guests by February or March 2025, further enhancing the venue's appeal.
The Harley has historically been a late-night destination, with a licence permitting it to remain open until 4:30AM. However, the pub plans to scale back its operating hours to close by 1 or 2AM, aligning with its redefined focus.
The Harley boasts a rich history, including its pivotal role in Sheffield's music scene and its connection to the city's Tramlines festival. However, it has faced its share of challenges in recent years, from financial difficulties that led to its closure in 2019 to an extended hiatus during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Since reopening in 2021, The Harley has undergone various operational changes, including its acquisition by The Andersen Group in 2024. The group, which manages several other hospitality venues across Yorkshire, is committed to ensuring The Harley remains a go-to destination in Sheffield.
Charity Box Stolen in Burglary at Railway Hotel on Bramall Lane
Sheffield's Railway Hotel, a popular match-day pub located opposite the Sheffield United stadium on Bramall Lane, has fallen victim to a shocking burglary that left its landlady and the local community outraged. The thief or thieves stole a charity box, vandalised the premises, and made off with a quantity of money.
The crime was discovered on Monday, 25th November, after the pub had been closed for several days. According to Carol Donaldson, the pub's landlady, the intruder gained access through an upstairs window before proceeding to ransack the establishment. They forcibly removed a charity box chained to the bar, consumed vodka from the stock, and smashed glasses, leaving behind extensive damage and disarray.
Speaking about the incident, Ms. Donaldson expressed her anger, describing the culprit as a "low-life scumbag".
South Yorkshire Police confirmed they were alerted to the burglary on 25th November. A spokesperson stated:
"It is reported that a quantity of money was stolen, and the incident is believed to have occurred between 16th and 25th November. Enquiries are ongoing, and anyone with information that could help is asked to contact us.”
The public is encouraged to provide any relevant information via the police's online portal or by calling 101, quoting investigation number 14/209991/24.
The Railway Hotel is a well-known gathering spot for Sheffield United fans and a fixture in the community. The theft of the charity box has been particularly upsetting, as it represents a loss not just to the pub but to a good cause the funds were meant to support.
The Norton Reopens After Stunning Refurbishment
The Norton pub, a landmark at Meadowhead, has reopened its doors after an extensive three-week refurbishment. The popular venue, which is part of the Sizzling Pubs group, had been temporarily closed since 28th October to undergo a transformation.
Located beside the bustling Meadowhead roundabout on the A61, The Norton has long been a favourite spot for locals. The general manager, Sam Jones, expressed his excitement about the revamped venue, describing the results as "absolutely superb." He added, "It now looks a million times better after the refurbishment. The comments from customers since we re-opened have all been about how good it looks."
Despite its new appearance, The Norton will continue to operate as a traditional pub offering food and drinks. However, there are plans to introduce a pub quiz in the near future, which promises to add a fresh layer of entertainment.
For anyone eager to experience the changes firsthand, The Norton is now open and ready to welcome patrons once again.
Gypsy Queen Pub to Close and Transform into Hickory's Smokehouse Restaurant
The Gypsy Queen, a well-loved Sheffield pub located on Drake House Lane in Beighton, is set to undergo a major transformation. Currently part of the Hungry Horse chain operated by Greene King, the pub will close its doors in early March 2025 for extensive renovations. When it reopens in early summer 2025, it will take on a new identity as Hickory's Smokehouse, a restaurant known for bringing the flavours of America's Deep South to the UK.
Greene King, which owns both Hungry Horse and the Hickory's Smokehouse brand, has submitted plans to Sheffield City Council to make significant alterations to the Gypsy Queen's building. These include the addition of a single-storey extension, reflecting the scale of the investment in the venue's redevelopment.
For the people of Sheffield, this will mark the arrival of the first Hickory's Smokehouse restaurant in South Yorkshire. Hickory's currently operates 25 locations across the Midlands, Wales, and the north of England, with a growing reputation for its American-inspired cuisine.
A Hickory's spokesperson expressed excitement about the move, saying, "We are delighted to be coming to Sheffield - it's been on our wish list for a while now. Our ambition is to create something truly special, and we are looking forward to becoming part of the community for many years to come."
The transformation of the Gypsy Queen into Hickory's Smokehouse is set to create 100 jobs, with positions available for chefs, servers, bartenders, and managers. Greene King has assured that current staff at the Gypsy Queen have been informed about the plans and will be supported as part of this transition.
Hickory's also plans to release more details about the project and the new restaurant in early spring 2025, as the team finalises its exciting vision for the venue.
Hickory's Smokehouse is known for its authentic Southern flavours, offering dishes like 16-hour smoked Texas-style brisket, Memphis-style baby back ribs, and smoked brisket bourbon tacos. The chain's success in other regions has been bolstered by enthusiastic community support, and the team is optimistic about receiving a warm welcome in Sheffield.
With its grand opening set for summer 2025, Hickory's Smokehouse promises to bring a new culinary experience to South Yorkshire, blending deep-rooted American barbecue traditions with a lively and welcoming dining atmosphere.
New Micropub Brings Loxley Brewery’s Charm to Sharrow Vale
A new gem has emerged in the bustling independent shopping district of Sharrow Vale. No.3 Sharrow, the first micropub in this trendy neighbourhood, has officially opened its doors at 354 Sharrow Vale Road. This cosy venue is the latest venture by Loxley Brewery, marking its third licensed establishment and a new chapter in the brewery’s journey to bring its unique charm to the city's south side.
Sharrow Vale has become a hive of activity and the area is almost fully occupied with independent businesses, including the newly developed Dyson Place, which offers an array of restaurants and shops. While long-time favourites like The Lescar and the Porter Brook pubs have served the area for years, No.3 Sharrow stands out as the first real ale micropub in the neighbourhood.
No.3 Sharrow showcases the distinctive aesthetics and character that Loxley Brewery is known for. Patrons can enjoy a selection of three Loxley Brewery ales on cask, alongside seven keg beers. The pub also features a unique solid wood bar top, blending rustic appeal with modern brewing craftsmanship. Its intimate size and focus on quality make it a refreshing alternative to traditional pubs.
Loxley Brewery's story began in October 2015 when Stephen Wesley purchased the Wisewood Inn on Loxley Road. Two years later, he installed a brewery in the pub's old garage, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving business. Today, Loxley's beers can be found in its three establishments - The Wisewood Inn, The Raven Inn in Walkley, and now No.3 Sharrow - as well as in other free houses across Sheffield.
Building on the success of its other pubs, Loxley Brewery aims to bring its signature style and commitment to quality to Sharrow Vale. The addition of No.3 Sharrow enriches the area's already diverse and growing scene, providing a welcoming space for locals and visitors to enjoy expertly crafted ales.
Castle Inn Reopens Under New Management with Exciting Plans
The Castle Inn, a historic village pub on Twentywell Road in Bradway, is set to reopen its doors under new ownership. Following its unexpected closure in August, the pub will once again become a hub for the community, thanks to the experienced hands of Maurice Crookes, his wife Wendy, and their business partner Malcolm Bough.
Maurice Crookes, a seasoned publican and former owner of The Millhouses pub, has come out of retirement to take on this new challenge. Joining forces with Malcolm Bough, the former proprietor of the White Swan, the team aims to revitalise The Castle Inn and restore its place at the heart of the community.
"This is my fourth last pub," Maurice joked. "I retired 12 months ago, but I just couldn't pass up this opportunity. We're excited to reopen and make it a space where the community feels welcome."
Ahead of its reopening, the pub is undergoing significant renovations, particularly in the kitchen. Once the doors open, Malcolm will spearhead the catering side, offering a menu of "traditional British fare" designed to please locals and visitors alike.
The pub will also introduce lower prices for drinks, aiming to attract a broad clientele, from neighbourhood regulars to those exploring the scenic walking routes in the area.
Maurice emphasised his commitment to making The Castle Inn more than just a pub. "You can't just open a pub, put some dominoes on the table, and expect people to come," he said. "We want to engage with the local community and provide what they want."
The team plans to host various community events and initiatives, including quiz nights, book clubs, and charity fundraisers. They're also inviting local groups to use the pub as a meeting space.
In line with their love for dogs, the pub's first community event will be a unique dog beauty competition. Categories will include the cutest, fluffiest, and most intelligent dogs, celebrating the area's many canine companions.
"We're a nation of dog lovers," Maurice noted, "and we want to make sure the pub is a place where everyone, including dog owners, feels welcome."
The reopening is just the beginning. Plans are already in place for further improvements, including redecorating the tap room, reinstating the fireplaces, re-upholstering furniture, and reopening the beer garden by next summer.
The Castle Inn's new chapter promises to blend tradition with modern community-focused touches. It is expected to reopen before Christmas, just in time to bring festive cheer back to Bradway.
Peacock Inn Wins Warm Hospitality Award
The Peacock Inn at Stannington has been recognised as one of the most welcoming establishments in the UK, earning the coveted Warm Hospitality award at this year's Thwaites Hospitality Awards. This national accolade celebrates the pub's commitment to creating an inviting atmosphere, exceptional food, and a community-focused approach.
The current management team, led by Tracy Shaw, took over the Peacock Inn last year and has since revitalised the pub's atmosphere. Reflecting on their journey, Tracy shared:
"When we took over the pub, we turned the place around and made it a welcoming place for all our visitors. It doesn't cost anything to make people feel special, and it makes a difference to their day."
This ethos has been a key driver in the pub's success. Judges praised the Peacock Inn for being "very welcoming and friendly," delivering "fantastic food," and having staff who are "knowledgeable on the products on offer." From cask ales to premium gins, the pub's fully stocked bar complements its menu of homemade dishes, making it a favourite for locals and visitors alike.
Beyond its warm welcome, the Peacock Inn has become a hub for community engagement. The pub hosts a variety of events, including a weekly quiz night on Tuesdays, live entertainment every month, and a "friendship lunch" on the first Wednesday of every month. These lunches, in particular, have been a lifeline for many.
Tracy explained the importance of the initiative:
"Our friendship lunches are something I am very passionate about. For some people, life is very lonely, and the lunches are the only time they leave the house. You wouldn't want to think of your gran or your mum sitting on their own."
The initiative has grown significantly, with attendance increasing from just a handful of participants to 47 people at the most recent lunch. The event provides a space for those who may be isolated to connect, share a meal, and enjoy each other's company.
The Warm Hospitality award is a testament to the Peacock Inn's dedication to its customers and community. Reflecting on the recognition, Tracy said:
"It can be a really challenging job, but the people make it worth it. It means a lot for our staff to be recognised for simply doing what we are here for."
The Thwaites Hospitality Awards, hosted annually by the Lancashire-based hospitality group Daniel Thwaites, celebrates excellence across its network of over 190 pubs. This year's ceremony featured 13 award categories, including Pub of the Year, Community Hero, and Best Investment. The judging process involved rigorous interviews and mystery visits to ensure the highest standards were met.
Andrew Buchanan, Director of Pubs and Brewing at Daniel Thwaites, highlighted the significance of the awards:
"Despite the many challenges the industry has faced, all of our winners have gone above and beyond to demonstrate their resilience to adversity, their dedication to the hospitality sector, and our core values."
The Peacock Inn's Warm Hospitality award is a shining example of how dedication to excellent service and a strong sense of community can transform a local pub into a nationally recognised success.
Old Crown Inn Set for £190,000 Revamp, Seeks New Landlord
The Old Crown Inn, a longtime fixture of Sheffield city centre's London Road, is poised for a significant transformation. The historic pub is slated for a £190,000 refurbishment that promises to modernise its appeal while retaining its traditional charm. However, Star Pubs, the company behind the revamp, is on the lookout for a new landlord to lead the pub into its next chapter.
Known for its vibrant live music scene, the Old Crown Inn has been a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. Now, Star Pubs aims to broaden its appeal by targeting a more premium market. The proposed refurbishment will touch on all trading areas, including a revamped garden space, to create a venue that is both "on-trend and welcoming."
This investment is part of Star Pubs' strategy to elevate the pub's profile, making it a standout location in Sheffield's bustling city centre.
The Old Crown Inn offers more than just a business opportunity. The role of landlord comes with private accommodations, including three bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a bathroom. This makes it an ideal opportunity for someone looking to merge their personal and professional life in a thriving urban environment.
However, the extensive refurbishment plan hinges on final approval from Star Pubs' board. Despite this, the company's vision signals a bright future for the Old Crown Inn, provided the right leadership steps in.
For those with a passion for the hospitality industry and a knack for creating memorable customer experiences, the Old Crown Inn presents a unique chance to helm a revitalised piece of Sheffield's history. The search is on for a landlord who can embrace the challenge and steer the pub through its upcoming transformation.
The Peacock Temporarily Closes for £350,000 Refurbishment
The Peacock, a popular pub located at Owler Bar in North Derbyshire, is set to close temporarily as it undergoes a £350,000 refurbishment. The venue, which offers breathtaking views of the Peak District, has recently come under new ownership by Longbow Venues, a company steadily expanding its portfolio of premium establishments.
Built in the 19th century by the Duke of Rutland, The Peacock is a grade II listed building that once served weary travellers on the old turnpike road to Chatsworth House and Bakewell. Now, under the stewardship of Longbow Venues, the pub is set for a modern transformation while retaining its historic charm.
Rob Hattersley, founder of Longbow Venues, shared his vision for the pub:
"The Peacock commands what must be the best pub views in the area, surrounded by the Peak District countryside. Whether you're walking, driving, or cycling, you see it and it's almost like a mirage, set against the rugged landscape."
The refurbishment will include the addition of a new outdoor seating area, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the pub's stunning surroundings. Inside, the focus will be on creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere, with attention to comfort and quality.
Hattersley elaborated:
"Everything we have planned for The Peacock is about providing our guests with a premium pub experience. It's about warmth, joy, cosiness, seasonal dishes that feel special but aren't at all fussy or overcomplicated."
Executive chef Adrian Gagea, trained under renowned chef Raymond Blanc, will lead the culinary direction. The menu promises to blend pub classics with a contemporary twist, incorporating global inspirations and seasonal ingredients sourced from local farms and artisan producers.
The revamped Peacock will cater for 130 diners, offering a dining experience that is both diverse and grounded in the best local produce.
The refurbishment is expected to be completed in time for a grand reopening before Christmas 2024. Once reopened, The Peacock will operate daily from 11am to 11pm.
The pub, previously managed by Chef & Brewer, will officially close its doors on 18th November, as it transitions into its new chapter under Longbow Venues.
Plans Submitted to Convert Queen's Head Pub into a House
Plans have been submitted to convert the Queen's Head, a well-known community pub on Wortley Road, High Green, into a residential property.
The proposal was lodged with Sheffield City Council by Dave Kay of Kay Property Holding Ltd. It seeks to change the pub's use from a public house to a "dwelling house."
The Queen's Head has long been a popular gathering spot, hosting regular events such as quiz nights and live music. Despite the submission of conversion plans, the pub remains open to the public.
The existing structure already includes accommodation for the pub manager on the upper floor, featuring three bedrooms, a kitchen, living room, and office. According to the plans, these facilities would be expanded to include a fourth bedroom.
The ground floor, currently used for the pub's operations, would be reconfigured into a residential layout, comprising a living room, dining area, lounge, and kitchen.
Externally, minor changes are proposed, including the addition of one extra car parking space, bringing the total to three. No new buildings or extensions are planned, with the application describing the alterations as "minor."
The application was validated on 22nd October, and public consultation ended on 14th November. A final decision is expected from Sheffield City Council around 17th December.
The future of the Queen's Head remains uncertain as the council reviews the proposal.