Ship Inn Pub

I have visited the Ship Inn twice since it re-opened at the beginning of October and can say they have done an excellent job on the refurbishment.

For the lager and continental beer drinkers there is a large and varied selection, something for everyone. The real ales are good, but a little limited in number.

My only grouch would be that at 3 pounds plus for a 4 per cent ABV beer, it's a tad overpriced for the area.

Nevertheless, well worth a visit!

One of Sheffield's oldest and most storied pubs, the Ship Inn on Shalesmoor, has reopened its doors under the leadership of its new landlord, David Ambler-Young. This historic venue, which traces its roots back to 1833, is not only a local landmark but also a site steeped in tales of the paranormal, adding to its unique character.

David, who has taken over the reins following a brief closure since New Year, brings with him a wealth of experience in the pub industry, having managed several establishments across Sheffield, including the Francis Newton and the Walkley Cottage. For David, the Ship Inn stands out among them all.

"I love the building and want to help preserve it going forward," he said. "It's the most beautiful pub I've worked in, and it's got great character."

The pub's history is not without intrigue, as it is said to be haunted by the spirits of two smugglers who perished in the cellar during the Great Sheffield Flood of 1864. However, David takes this in stride, noting, "There are a lot of people who have said they have heard things in the cellar. But I think every pub is haunted!"

David's vision for The Ship Inn centres on maintaining its traditional charm while enhancing its offerings. He plans to reintroduce food service to the venue, beginning with smaller dishes akin to tapas. "Not Spanish, but smaller dishes," he clarified, noting that a future expansion of the kitchen could allow for a broader menu, subject to planning approval.

In addition to the culinary enhancements, David aims to strengthen the pub's community ties by reviving popular traditions such as the Thursday quiz night and introducing open mic nights for local musicians.

"I know a few people were disappointed to see it closed after New Year, so I wanted to get it back open as quickly as possible for the community," he added.

David's enthusiasm and plans for the Ship Inn have drawn praise from Admiral Taverns, the company behind the pub. Business development manager Anthony Lowther-Knowles expressed his confidence in David's ability to reinvigorate the venue.

"I am absolutely delighted to welcome David to the Ship Inn," he said. "His passion for the site is tangible, and I'm very much looking forward to seeing him bring his vision for the pub to life. I know David has fantastic plans in the pipeline to cement the Ship Inn at the heart of the community, and so on behalf of myself and the whole team at Admiral Taverns, we'd like to wish him the very best of luck in his endeavours."

With its doors open once more, the Ship Inn is poised to begin a new chapter in its nearly 200-year history. Under David's stewardship, this much-loved Sheffield pub aims to preserve its heritage, embrace its community roots, and offer an inviting space for locals to gather, dine, and enjoy entertainment.

The Ship Inn, a historic pub located in Shalesmoor, Sheffield, has temporarily closed its doors following the departure of its previous landlords. The closure, which took effect on New Year's Day, has left drinkers saddened but hopeful, as plans for the pub's future have been outlined.

Admiral Taverns, the company that owns the venue, has confirmed that The Ship Inn will reopen under new management. In a statement the pub group announced: "We can confirm that The Ship Inn will be re-opening this weekend with a new licensee."

The Ship Inn is well-known in Sheffield for its unique character and historical significance. The pub is listed on the Sheffield Local Inventory of Historic Pub Exteriors, recognised for its distinctive tiled exterior. Originally built by the Sheffield brewery Tomlinson's, the venue is a favourite among locals and visitors to the area.

The Ship Inn's previous operators, who also run the nearby Yellow Arch Studios, announced their decision to step away from the pub due to rising operational costs. In a heartfelt statement shared on Facebook, they explained their struggles:

"As you may have heard by now, after almost three years, sadly the time has come for us to leave the Ship Inn. Whilst we've absolutely loved our time here bringing you Kelham Island's local boozer, we cannot sustain rising costs. The price of beer we buy from our suppliers continues to rise, energy rates for this small cosy pub continue to go through the roof, and the looming rise in rates and other costs have all led us to this very difficult and heartbreaking decision."

The landlords expressed gratitude to their patrons, staff, and the community, giving a special mention to Kelham Island FC, whom they wished continued success. They have chosen to focus their efforts on Yellow Arch Studios, their live music venue nearby.

The reopening of The Ship Inn this weekend marks the beginning of a new chapter for the beloved pub. While the identity of the new licensee has not yet been revealed, Admiral Taverns' swift action to find new management demonstrates their commitment to preserving the venue's legacy and role in the community.

For regulars, the upcoming reopening is a reason for optimism, ensuring that The Ship Inn remains a cornerstone of Shalesmoor and a destination for those seeking good company, history, and a welcoming pint.

We have re-added The Ship Inn at 312 Shalesmoor after a period of closure. The pub has been taken over by Artisan Tap and refurbished. It now features a number of real ales and other artisan food and drink.