Latest Pub News
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New City Centre Bar Taking Shape
A new venue called Watt Bar is being developed in Sheffield city centre.
The bar is set to open in a former electricity sub-station on Charles Street. Owner Andy Grice has shared a series of videos on Facebook showing the fit-out and preparations as work continues on the building.
Mr Grice said he was inspired to open Watt Bar after seeing other venues launch in the city centre, including The Fargate and Kapital.
Watt Bar's Facebook page was first set up in 2019 and has previously shown building work at the site, including the installation of a new roof. Recent posts describe the venue as a former sub-station and say it will serve beer, spirits and wine. Live music is also listed, along with what is described as an "exciting kitchen colab".
The page states that the bar restaurant is due to open in early 2026.
Mr Grice also owns other venues in Sheffield. These include the Lock Inn at Victoria Quays, which opened in December 2025, and the Dark Horse at Banner Cross.
Further details about Watt Bar have not yet been announced.
Half Moon Closes For Refurbishment
The Half Moon pub in Darnall has closed temporarily to allow for a major refurbishment, with last orders served on 1st February.
The popular local on Mather Road, located on the Littledale estate, will shut for around a month while work is carried out to update both the exterior and interior of the building. The refurbishment is being funded by Heineken-owned Star Pubs, which is investing £205,000 in the project.
When the pub reopens in early March, it will be taken over by local licensee Richard Crookes and his partner Keeley Marsden.
Externally, the overhaul will see the pub repainted in a classic sage green, with new gold and black signage and carriage-style lighting installed. The changes are intended to give the building a fresher appearance and enhance its place in the neighbourhood.
Inside, the pub will be fully redecorated using warm colours. Improvements will include new soft furnishings, carpets, lighting and furniture. The layout is being redesigned to offer different spaces, including a traditional bar, a lounge area and a new games room.
The games room will feature a pool table, halo-lit darts with electronic scoring, and a high-spec audiovisual system with a large screen showing Sky and TNT Sports.
Richard Crookes said The Half Moon plays an important role on the estate.
"The Half Moon is the only pub on the Littledale estate; it's a vital hub of the community where residents meet up and enjoy a natter," he said. "It's incredibly friendly, and that's down to the regulars. All ages mix and multiple generations of some families use it. It's got a very loyal following - one regular has been going in for over sixty years. Keeley and I are very excited. We can't wait to get back behind the bar and to show customers their new-look local."
Following its reopening, the pub will create six new jobs. A programme of events is planned, including bingo, a quiz and live entertainment. Other activities mentioned include Funday Sundays, classic car meets featuring hot rods and American cars, trips to the races, seaside coach trips and family days out.
Space at the pub will also be available to reserve for local causes and private celebrations.
Chris Carratt, Star Pubs' area manager for Sheffield, said the investment was about securing the pub's future.
"It's very dated at the moment, like stepping back in time," he said. "Our aim is to give it the new lease of life it needs to keep it thriving for the long term. We're well aware of how important The Half Moon is to Littledale residents, and we'll be working flat out so it can reopen as soon as possible."
Shock as Revolution Closes Without Warning
A popular Sheffield cocktail bar has closed suddenly, leaving customers shocked and disappointed.
Revolution, based in the West One complex on Fitzwilliam Street, confirmed on 27th January that it had shut its doors with immediate effect.
The bar announced the closure in a statement posted on Facebook. It said: "We have loved shaking your cocktails and creating unmissable parties and events over the years, but as of today, 27th January 2026, we will sadly be closing our doors in Sheffield. We want to extend an enormous thank you for joining the Revolution party and making some unforgettable memories. Any guests with bookings will be contacted in due course - Thank you for your patience and understanding. Goodbye and Thank You."
The closure comes as part of a wider shake-up affecting Revolution's owner, The Revel Collective. The company has closed 21 venues across the UK, resulting in the loss of 591 jobs, after appointing administrators.
FTI Consulting, which has been appointed as administrator for the pub and bar operator, said the business has faced rising costs and weaker consumer spending, particularly among younger customers.
The venues closing with immediate effect include 14 Revolution bars, six Revolucion de Cuba bars and one Peach Pub.
Despite the closures, FTI confirmed that two separate deals have been agreed to secure the future of 41 sites and protect 1,582 jobs.
Under the agreements, the Revolution and Revolucion de Cuba brands and assets have been bought by Neos Hospitality Group, which also operates the Barbara's Bier Haus and Bonnie Rogues brands. The remaining Peach Pubs business has been acquired by the newly formed Coral Pub Company.
The Canary Opens On Waverley Estate
A new micro-bar has opened on the Waverley estate, adding one of the first permanent hospitality venues to the area's growing Olive Lane.
The Canary opened on 12th September 2025, and has quickly become a popular spot for local residents. From retirees and dog walkers to parents and after-work drinkers, the bar has been drawing a steady mix of customers throughout the day.
Located in the heart of the development, The Canary focuses on a rotating selection of independent craft and cask beers. The range includes brews from local names such as Abbeydale and Triple Point, alongside a small selection of wines, gins and cocktails. Rather than offering its own kitchen, the bar encourages customers to bring in food from nearby street food trucks, supporting other businesses on Olive Lane.
Assistant manager Alex Sinclair said the response since opening has been stronger than expected.
"Since the official opening it's been busy - even during weekday afternoons," he said. "Retired couples come in, dog walkers pop by. I was a bit dubious about being next to a nursery but so many parents say, 'my kid's still asleep, I'll have a quick drink'."
He described the atmosphere as relaxed and welcoming. "It's a really friendly, community atmosphere. Everyone is so nice - brilliant customers, great to talk to."
The Canary hosts regular events, including quizzes, DJs on Friday nights and "sip and paint" sessions. It is dog- and child-friendly until 7pm, helping to create a space that works for a wide range of people.
"If you've got friendly dogs, or friendly kids, bring them in," Alex joked.
The bar is one of the first permanent venues to open on Olive Lane, a new public space designed to act as a social hub for Waverley, with pop-up markets and food vendors. An Indian restaurant has also opened nearby, with more businesses expected to follow.
Waverley is built on the former site of the Orgreave coking plant, once a key part of South Yorkshire's mining industry and closely linked to the 1984-85 miners' strike. Over the past decade, the area has been transformed into a large residential and commercial community.
The Canary's website says the history of Orgreave and its "strong, working-class spirit" helped shape the bar's ethos.
"Community matters here," a spokesperson said. "This is more than just a bar. It's a place to belong."
Although still new, the venue has already seen busy weekends.
"It's slowly filling up, but even now it's very crowded on a Saturday night," Alex said. "Everyone has loved it - so positive and enthusiastic."
The Psalter: Tom Lawson's Vision Earns Michelin Guide Recognition
In a significant milestone for Sheffield's culinary scene, The Psalter in Sharrow has officially been included in the prestigious Michelin Guide's latest UK selection. The recognition comes just five months after the venue's rebranding to "Tom Lawson at The Psalter," marking a remarkably swift ascent for the establishment.
Owner and chef Tom Lawson took the keys to the property in July 2024. Following an intensive six-week refurbishment - which saw the addition of a full kitchen, upgraded bar facilities, and 20 boutique bedrooms - the venue opened its doors in August as a combined bar, restaurant, and hotel.
The decision to transition to a taster menu-only restaurant under the name "Tom Lawson at The Psalter" took place in May. Since then, the restaurant's commitment to high-end gastronomy has clearly caught the eye of the Michelin inspectors.
"Recognition from Michelin is the ultimate sign that what we're building resonates beyond our own walls," said Lawson. "It's quite a quick turnaround, but we're only just getting started."
While the Michelin recognition highlights the quality of the cuisine, Lawson attributes much of the success to his team. Before the doors even opened, the staff participated in a full day of team development focused on working together rather than just the mechanics of service.
"When we started, the first thing we did was a whole day around team development, which seems completely backwards," Lawson explained. "We still have a lot of the opening team, and that breeds into the new people that join us - they're just focused on hospitality."
This focus on service extends across the entire operation. Whether guests are visiting for the fine-dining tasting menu, enjoying light bites in the bar, or having brunch, the goal remains a five-star experience across the board.
The Psalter is positioning itself as a versatile hub for both leisure and business. With 20 boutique hotel rooms upstairs, the venue caters to a wide demographic, from corporate groups to parents visiting local students.
Adding to its list of accolades, The Psalter recently secured a marriage licence. This makes it the only Michelin-listed restaurant-hotel in Sheffield where couples can host their wedding ceremony and celebration in one location while enjoying world-class food.
By combining intimate hospitality with a high-end dining experience and boutique accommodation, The Psalter is firmly cementing its place as a cornerstone of the Sheffield dining and hospitality scene.
Former Pub Back On The Market Again
A former Sheffield pub in Darnall has been put back on the market after a previous sale fell through.
The Ball Inn, which stands on the corner of Darnall Road and Basford Road, was a well-known local pub for generations but has been closed for decades. Nearly three years ago, the building was sold at auction, but the deal later collapsed due to funding issues.
The property is now being offered for sale again, with an asking price of more than £325,000. The current owner hopes it will be taken on for community use.
The Ball Inn dates back to 1904, when it was rebuilt. The red brick building is Grade II-listed and includes a number of notable architectural features.
Phil Williams, director of Yopa Property, which is marketing the building, said the owner was keen to see it used in a way that benefits the local area.
"The owner would love to see it sold to someone for a community use," he said.
He added that there has already been interest from a range of parties, including charities, but stressed that the future use would ultimately be up to the buyer. He said the building could also potentially be used as a restaurant.
In its listing, the estate agent describes the former pub as "an imposing building of considerable character and architectural interest dating from the early 1900s".
The marketing details also note that full planning permission was granted in 2004 for alterations to convert the building into a restaurant on the cellar and ground floors, with residential accommodation on the first and second floors and offices in the roof space.
However, prospective buyers are being advised to make their own enquiries with Sheffield City Council's planning department regarding any future plans for the building.
Decision Awaited For Ye Olde Harrow Development
A planning decision is still awaited on proposals to redevelop the former Ye Olde Harrow pub site in Sheffield city centre into residential accommodation.
The application relates to the site of the former pub on Broad Street, close to the Park Square roundabout. Plans submitted to Sheffield City Council propose the construction of a new residential building containing 39 apartments and studio flats.
Ye Olde Harrow closed in 2008. The building remained vacant for several years and suffered fire damage in 2019. According to planning documents, the structure is now derelict and in "a very poor condition". The proposals state that the existing building would be demolished to allow for the new development.
Under the revised plans, the scheme would consist of 37 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom flats. The applicant has reduced the overall scale of the development compared with earlier proposals for the site.
The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that the land already had prior planning consent for a seven-storey building comprising 57 residential apartments. However, the current application lowers the number of units and alters the design. Planning documents say these changes were made to meet required standards and updated fire safety regulations.
The proposed development would be entirely residential. No commercial or community space is included in the plans.
Planning officers at Sheffield City Council had previously indicated that a decision was expected by 9th December 2025. However, as of early January 2026, the council's planning portal still lists the application as awaiting a decision.
The site sits on a prominent route into the city centre and has remained unused for many years following the pub's closure and subsequent damage. The outcome of the application will determine whether redevelopment can move forward or whether further changes are required before approval is granted.
Sportsman Inn To Close For Refurbishment
The Sportsman Inn at Crosspool is set to close temporarily later this month for a refurbishment, according to an announcement from the venue.
The popular Sheffield neighbourhood pub, which sits on the corner of Manchester Road and Benty Lane, will shut its doors from 12th January until 27th January. The closure is expected to last around two weeks while work is carried out at the venue, which is well known locally with both diners and evening drinkers.
In a post on its Facebook page, the pub said it was now in its final week of trading before the closure begins. Managers warned customers that some food and drink options may be unavailable during this period as the pub runs down its stock ahead of the refurbishment.
The post said: "While it's an exciting time for us, it does mean we're running down our stock before we shut, so some of your favourite food and drinks may not be available this week. We're really sorry for any disappointment this may cause. The good news? When we reopen at the end of January, you can expect a fully stocked bar and kitchen, along with a fresh new look that we can't wait to share with you."
The Sportsman Inn added that it would still be pleased to welcome customers in before closing for the refresh and thanked them for their understanding ahead of the temporary shutdown.
New Gleadless Townend Micropub Faces Opposition
A proposal to open a new micropub in Gleadless Townend is facing opposition from Sheffield City Council's environmental protection service.
Jordan Jeonney has applied for a licence to open the micropub at 177 White Lane. The application sets out proposed opening hours of 11am to 11pm, seven days a week, and includes permission for live and recorded music.
The original application also refers to later opening hours, including opening until 1am on bank holiday weekends. However, documents show that a later agreement was reached with South Yorkshire Police. In that agreement, the applicant confirmed a willingness to accept a midnight closing time, with a 30-minute dispersal period, on all days except New Year's Eve.
Despite this, the application has drawn an objection from the council's environmental protection service. The objection relates to concerns about documentation, particularly around electrical certification of the premises. This includes certification for equipment that would be used for music.
If the issues raised by environmental protection are not resolved, the application will not be granted under delegated powers. Instead, it will be referred to a hearing of the council's licensing sub-committee.
That hearing is scheduled to take place at Sheffield Town Hall at 10am on Monday 12th January, where councillors will consider the application and the outstanding objection before making a decision.
At this stage, no outcome has been decided, and the future of the proposed micropub depends on whether the concerns raised can be addressed before the matter reaches the committee.
Turner's Craft Beer Bottle Shop Closes
Turner's Craft Beer Bottle Shop on Abbeydale Road has closed suddenly, bringing an end to a well-known independent business on one of Sheffield's busiest streets.
The shop had been operating for close to a decade, serving a wide range of craft beers to take home alongside its tap room bar, which featured eight rotating draught beers. Over the years, it built a loyal following among local residents and beer enthusiasts.
The closure was announced on 5th January in a post shared on Facebook. In the statement, the management team said their decision came "with heavy hearts," marking the end of seven years at the Abbeydale Road location. They reflected on the friendships made, the challenges of navigating the pandemic, and their role as a small part of customers' lives.
The post explained that a "combination of factors" led to the decision to close. The team confirmed they will be selling off remaining stock and equipment over the coming weeks and said they are willing to introduce interested parties to the landlord for anyone looking to take on the unit. They ended the message by thanking customers for their support, saying they "couldn't have asked to meet a nicer bunch of folks."