Brown Bear

I have loved the Brown Bear ever since I was old enough to go into pubs. Always my favourite pub in the world. I've moved away from Sheffield (sadly) but when I do come home, the Brown Bear is my first stop.

I think the Brown Bear pub is amazing. I love the bar staff, especially the young one. She is extremely polite and always welcoming. Her name is Laura.

Go there Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Cheap decent proper lager and beer (none of that Fosters/Carling). Friendly staff and nice atmosphere. Much more character than any bar on West Street.

Steeped in over two centuries of rich history, the Brown Bear in Sheffield city centre unexpectedly closed its doors in December 2023, leaving patrons in dismay. However, just when it seemed like a piece of Sheffield's heritage might be lost, the Brown Bear has reopened once again under new management.

Just in time for Valentine's Day 2024, the Brown Bear opened its doors again under new landlord and landlady, Ian Finnie and Carrolyne Cousins. Ian, no stranger to the hospitality industry, brings with him a wealth of experience, having successfully managed other local establishments in the Rotherham area. Now, he and Carrolyne have set their sights on revitalising the historic Brown Bear.

For decades, the Brown Bear has stood as a testament to Sheffield's past, with its origins dating as far back as the 1700s. Recognised by the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) as one of the city's oldest pubs, its Grade II listed status underscores its significance in Sheffield's architectural and cultural landscape. Surviving the ravages of time, including the Sheffield blitz and urban redevelopment, the Brown Bear has remained a mainstay for generations of Sheffielders.

As Sheffield welcomes the return of this city centre institution, come and raise a glass at the Brown Bear and be part of its ongoing legacy in the heart of Sheffield. Cheers to new beginnings of a true Sheffield icon.

One of Sheffield city centre's historic pubs, the Brown Bear on Norfolk Street, unexpectedly closed again this month after a similar closure over the summer.

In June Samuel Smith Brewery, the venue's owner, confirmed the closure and assured that plans were in place for a swift reopening. A replacement manager was duly found and the pub reopened in July.

But now the pub is closed again a mere five months later, as Samuel Smith Brewery seek another manager for the venue.

The iconic pub dates back to the 1700s and is protected as a grade II listed building. It has a rich history, surviving the Sheffield blitz and urban planning efforts, and has been a cherished local establishment for over two centuries.