The Shakespeare, a proper old-style coaching inn in the industrial quarter of Sheffield, has recently been taken over by the former owner of top Sheffield independent record shop Forever Changes. It retains its slightly shabby, unpretentious look, but has a new quirkiness which makes it one of the best real ale pubs in Sheffield.
As you'd expect given its owner, the place puts on some cracking gigs in the upstairs room (and in the summer, hosts a contemporary folk festival Splayd, upstairs and in the large beer garden). Music nights are lovingly curated, and you're likely to see some really good local, national and sometimes international talent before they hit the big time. Be warned though: the pub's not very big, and it can get rammed on these nights.
The owners clearly love a bit of quality booze, and you can get real ales (including local award-winners from the Kelham Island brewery), an extensive fine wine list plus quality spirits, all at pretty good prices. They're happy to offer advice as well.
A pool table, a darts board, board games and reading material make it a great place to spend a wet weekend, but if you need to venture outside then they also have a sort of an honesty bucket by the door where you can borrow & drop-off umbrellas. All-in-all, it's a great little boozer with a generous spirit and a friendly, mixed crowd. read more