Latest Pub News
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Itchy Pig Is Sheffield CAMRA's "Pub of the Year"
A pub known for its pork scratchings has been crowned "Pub of the Year" in Sheffield.
The Itchy Pig in Broomhill has earned acclaim from CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) for its selection of the savoury bar snack, along with its five cask lines and six keg lines.
Located on Glossop Road, this micropub has been named CAMRA’s Pub of the Year 2024 for West Sheffield.
Since its opening in 2016 by Ted Finlay, a joiner and real ale enthusiast, the Itchy Pig has quickly become a must-visit spot in the area. According to Paul Crofts in the May edition of CAMRA’s Beer Matters, "The pub offers a variety of flavoured pork scratchings, which inspired its unique name. Real ale fans in Sheffield have embraced the Pig, evidenced by its multiple awards."
The award will be presented at the pub at 9PM on Thursday 23rd May.
The Bath Hotel: Victorian Gem Scoops CAMRA Award
The Bath Hotel, a popular Victorian pub, has been recognised as the best in Sheffield city centre, praised for its exceptional national historic importance by real ale enthusiasts.
Located on Victoria Street, just behind the historic Glossop Road Baths, The Bath Hotel has been awarded the title of Sheffield CAMRA's Pub of the Year for the city centre. This accolade is a significant achievement for owners Brian and Ruth Johnson, who first took over the establishment in 2001. After leasing it to Thornbridge Brewery in 2012, they resumed management in 2022.
Now operating as a freehouse, The Bath Hotel offers an impressive range of beers that attracts visitors, regulars, students, and real ale aficionados alike.
The pub, situated at the end of a row of mid-Victorian terraced houses, originally faced a covenant that prohibited the sale of alcohol, according to CAMRA. However, it obtained a licence in the 1880s and has been a favourite spot for drinkers ever since.
Admired for its preserved original features, despite a 1931 refit by Ind Coope, The Bath Hotel stands out in CAMRA's publication "Sheffield's Real Heritage Pubs." It is one of only two 'three-star' heritage pubs in the city, considered of 'exceptional national historic importance.'
CAMRA highlights that the pub is "an unusually complete example of a Sheffield corner public house, retaining, in almost complete form, the 1931 plan and fittings."
In recognition of its preservation efforts, The Bath Hotel was honoured with CAMRA's Conservation Award in 2003, a distinction awarded in collaboration with English Heritage and the Victorian Society.
Shepley Spitfire Reopens After £360,000 Revamp
Totley's Shepley Spitfire reopened on 9th May, marking a milestone in its transformation. Located on Mickley Lane, the pub now operates under the banner of Hive Pubs, a new Greene King franchise offering aspiring pub owners a reduced risk opportunity. Steering this new chapter is Gary Marshall, who brings with him a wealth of experience from his two-decade-long tenure in the pub industry, starting from his roots in Chapeltown's Coach & Horses.
The pub's much-anticipated reopening brings an extraordinary makeover, with a staggering investment of £360,000. Gary elaborated on the extensive overhaul, noting, "While the internal layout remains unchanged, virtually every surface has undergone a revitalisation, except for the floor."
The exterior received considerable attention, with enhancements including a covered and heated seating area, perfect for patrons seeking outdoor relaxation. A large outdoor TV and a revitalised sunken garden, once neglected, now stand as prime attractions.
Reflecting on the renovation process, Gary commended the tireless efforts of the contractors. "The transformation was remarkable, accomplished within a remarkably short timeframe," he remarked. "The sheer dedication of the 20 to 30 workers on-site was evident, even though the car park resembled a bustling construction zone."
Gone are the days of a tired appearance, as the Shepley Spitfire now radiates freshness and vibrancy.
To commemorate its grand reopening, the pub arranged a special evening of live music featuring the tribute band Indigo, playing nostalgic tunes from Oasis, The Killers, Blur, and other iconic hits from the 90s and 00s.
Prince Of Wales Gets £128k Refurbishment
The Prince Of Wales in Norton Lees has been transformed following a significant investment of £128,000. Situated on Derbyshire Lane, the Prince of Wales is throwing open its doors again, with festivities kicking off at 11AM on Friday 3rd May to celebrate its grand reopening.
Under the stewardship of Craft Union, a leading pub company within the Stonegate Group, the Prince Of Wales promises an exciting new chapter for its patrons. Following a brief closure for refurbishment, the establishment benefited from an investment totalling £128,000.
Inside, the pub's interior has undergone a complete makeover, boasting revamped furnishings, newly upholstered seating, and contemporary lighting fixtures to enhance its welcoming ambience. Patrons can expect an enhanced entertainment lineup, with lively discos scheduled for Fridays and Saturdays, along with monthly tribute acts.
Taking the reins as the new operator is Daimion, a seasoned hospitality professional boasting 32 years of industry expertise. Returning to his hometown, Daimion, alongside his partner Gemma, is dedicated to preserving the pub's community spirit.
"We're thrilled to unveil the revamped pub to our guests," remarked Daimion and Gemma in a joint statement. "With its fantastic atmosphere, we're eager to host unforgettable entertainment nights. Sheffield thrives on community, and we're excited to unite guests from across the city for memorable experiences and quality drinks."
Sports enthusiasts will find renewed joy with upgraded darts boards and a weekly friendly competition slated for Thursdays. Additionally, a new pool table promises added amusement for patrons.
Outside, the beer garden has received a makeover just in time for warmer days, featuring fresh seating arrangements and festive lighting. Guests can indulge in the pub's updated beverage selection, which now includes Amstel, Peroni, and Cruzcampo.
To commemorate its reopening, the Prince Of Wales is rolling out a special launch weekend on May 4th and 5th, featuring a lively karaoke disco and an electrifying ABBA tribute act. All are welcome to join in the revelry and experience the pub's exciting new chapter.
Steve Davis Surprises Sheffield Drinkers
In an unexpected turn of events, snooker luminary Steve Davis graced a bustling Sheffield pub, engaging in friendly banter with patrons over a pint and even spinning some tunes.
The atmosphere at Hallamshire House on Commonside, Crookesmoor, crackled with excitement as drinkers found themselves taken aback by the unexpected arrival of the six-time former snooker world champion.
Rather than taking to the green felt, synonymous with the establishment boasting its very own full-size snooker table, Davis opted for a change of pace, mingling with locals and staff.
According to Lottie Garvey, one of the barmaids, Davis proved to be an absolute delight, captivating everyone with his amiable demeanour. He arrived at the pub on Thursday evening, and much to the patrons' delight, lingered well beyond his scheduled DJ set, graciously indulging them with photo opportunities and engaging conversations.
Simon Walkden, Thornbridge Brewery's Chief Operating Officer, echoed the sentiments of the gathered crowd, expressing his appreciation for Davis's presence at the pub, labelling it as "very cool."
Following his retirement from professional play, Davis has diversified his interests, delving into commentating, DJing, and electronic music. Notably, the 66-year-old has graced renowned venues such as the Glastonbury Festival in Somerset with his musical talents.
During his time in Sheffield this week, Davis has not only entertained audiences with snooker trick shot demonstrations but also lent his expertise to various media endeavours.
As the Snooker World Championships unfold at The Crucible Theatre in Sheffield city centre, Davis' impromptu visit serves as a prelude to the excitement yet to come.
Kuckoo Bags Top Industry Award
A Sheffield gem, the rock-and-roll cocktail bar nestled in Leopold Square, has recently claimed the spotlight at an esteemed award ceremony often dubbed the "Oscars of hospitality."
Kuckoo, with its signature blend of music and mixology, secured the prestigious title of "Best Late Night Operator" at The Publican Awards 2024, solidifying its position as a front-runner in the UK hospitality scene.
The grand event, hosted at Evolution London, drew over 1,500 industry luminaries to celebrate excellence and innovation.
Richard Powell, the visionary behind Kuckoo, expressed profound elation at the win, remarking, "Winning this award is an absolute thrill. Kuckoo has been my passion project, and receiving national recognition is truly humbling, a testament to the dedication of our exceptional team. At Kuckoo, we pride ourselves on our distinctive identity and unwavering commitment to our brand values, qualities that undoubtedly contributed to our success. This accolade propels us onto the national stage, a milestone we embrace with immense pride."
Kuckoo's triumph underscores its unwavering commitment to delivering unparalleled experiences and nurturing a dynamic, inclusive ambience.
Ed Bedington, the editor of The Morning Advertiser, the awards' organising body, lauded the winners, noting, "These awards represent the pinnacle of achievement for operators in the sector. Our rigorous selection process ensures that only the best emerge victorious. Each finalist showcased outstanding qualities, making their triumph truly commendable. Despite the challenging landscape of the hospitality industry, these companies continue to thrive, demonstrating resilience and excellence in the face of adversity—a testament to their exceptional dedication and innovation."
Pitcher & Piano Closes Down Unexpectedly
Pitcher & Piano, a favourite cocktail destination in Sheffield city centre, has bid farewell to its patrons after a successful five-year stint in the heart of the city.
The renowned cocktail chain, located on Holly Street, served its last drinks this past weekend, drawing a mix of nostalgia and sadness from its loyal customers.
Confirming the closure, the establishment revealed it has been acquired by another company, paving the way for a fresh venue to grace the summer scene.
Assuring continuity, Pitcher & Piano shared that its dedicated team will transition to the new venture, ensuring familiar faces behind the bar for patrons to enjoy.
Housing For Former Overflow Car Park of Sheffield Pub
Sheffield Council's planning officers have given the green light to plans for the construction of new homes on the former overflow car park of a prominent pub located on East Bank Road.
The proposal entails the development of five new houses adjacent to The Earl Marshall pub, utilising a "relatively flat" 0.2-hectare parcel of land that previously functioned as overflow parking for the establishment.
Outlined in the planning documentation presented by the applicant, Stonegate Group, the approved project comprises two two-bedroom, two-storey semi-detached homes, and three three-bedroom, two-storey detached houses. Access to the development will be facilitated through an adapted vehicular access point from East Bank Road.
Notably, due to the project's scale falling below the threshold of ten homes, there is no provision for affordable housing within the development.
In their submission, the applicants emphasised the project's potential to address housing needs in Sheffield by utilising a naturally available "infill" site, further asserting its viability for short-term implementation.
While recommending approval, the planning officer highlighted potential concerns regarding noise emanating from both the adjacent road and pub. Accordingly, further details outlining measures to mitigate such concerns will be required.
Specific details regarding the architectural design of the houses and additional mitigation strategies will be submitted to planners for consideration in the near future.
Pangolin: Hillsborough's Craft Beer Haven Added
Sheffield Pub Guide welcomes a new addition to its lineup: Pangolin, a craft beer bar and shop nestled conveniently on the inbound platform at Hillsborough Park tram stop. Since opening its doors in May 2021 amidst the gradual easing of COVID restrictions, Pangolin has swiftly become the talk of the town, impressing locals and drawing in beer enthusiasts from far and wide.
Situated on the cusp of Hillsborough Park, Pangolin boasts a prime location right at the tram stop, making it easily accessible for both locals and visitors alike. Whether you prefer to savour your brew on-site or take it to go, Pangolin offers an ever-evolving selection of cask and keg beers, complemented by speciality wines from Kask Wine and an impressive array of tins, bottles, craft ciders, AF beers, and canned cocktails courtesy of Vacay. And fear not, four-legged friends are more than welcome to join in on the fun inside the cosy confines of Pangolin.
For the beer aficionados among us, Pangolin is a paradise. With five keg and three cask beers on tap at any given time, alongside a diverse range of cans and bottles, there's always something new and exciting to sample. The passionate team, led by owner Nick Davy, formerly of Walkley Beer Co., is on hand to guide patrons through their latest offerings and help them discover their next favourite brew.
But Pangolin isn't just about the drinks; it's about the experience. With seating available on the main floor and additional capacity downstairs, there's plenty of room to unwind and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. And if the main area seems bustling, a quick inquiry at the bar might reveal space waiting to be discovered downstairs.
Speaking of Nick Davy, his love for craft beer and commitment to the local community shine through in every aspect of Pangolin. With fifteen years as a Hillsborough resident and a five-year stint at Walkley Beer Co., Nick's expertise and passion are evident in every carefully curated selection of beers, wines, and premixed spirits that grace the shelves of Pangolin.
The name "Pangolin" itself holds special significance to Nick, derived from his admiration for the unique and endangered creature. This affinity is reflected not only in the name but also in the shop's branding, thoughtfully crafted by Imogen Wood.
So, whether you're a seasoned beer enthusiast or simply looking for a cosy spot to unwind with friends, Pangolin promises a warm welcome and an opportunity to discover your next beer obsession.
Sheffield Pub Guide's Newest Gem: Saw Grinders Union
Sheffield Pub Guide is delighted to announce the latest addition to our esteemed list of watering holes: Saw Grinders Union. Nestled in the heart of Sheffield's iconic Kelham Island, this independent venue is a fusion of history and modernity.
Saw Grinders Union isn't just another bar; it's a testament to Sheffield's rich industrial past and its vibrant present. Housed within the historic Globe Works, a Grade II listed building dating back to 1824, this venue seamlessly blends heritage with contemporary flair. The Globe Works, once a bustling cutlery factory, now stands as a beacon of Sheffield's industrial legacy, offering a unique backdrop for Saw Grinders Union's endeavours.
At Saw Grinders Union you'll be greeted by a space that exudes warmth and character. Whether you're a coffee connoisseur, beer enthusiast, cocktail aficionado, or burger aficionado, there's something for everyone here. With two handpumps serving up cask ales alongside an array of craft beers on keg, the beverage selection is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
But it's not just about the drinks; Saw Grinders Union takes its culinary offerings just as seriously. From indulgent brunches to hearty dinners there's no shortage of delectable delights.
But Saw Grinders Union isn't just a place to enjoy great food and drinks; it's also a hub for community engagement and entertainment. Keep an eye out for their events, which promise to add an extra layer of excitement to your visit. And if you're looking to start your day on the right note, don't miss out on their bottomless brunch offer, where you can feast on delicious fare while sipping on endless Martinis or your beverage of choice.
Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply someone looking for a welcoming spot to unwind, Saw Grinders Union invites you to experience the best of Sheffield's hospitality.