Much-loved music pub in Sheffield city centre announces its reopening date

A Sheffield pub popular with the city’s music community has confirmed its reopening date.
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The Washington, on the corner of Fitzwilliam Street and Wellington Street in the city centre, did not return immediately when lockdown restrictions were eased on July 4 – however, the pub’s bosses have now announced that it will reopen on Friday, August 28, in time for the Bank Holiday weekend.

“Although we all wish that we could go back to normal, we have worked hard to get ourselves ready to welcome back our customers as safely as possible,” they said.

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“In order for us to do this, here is what you can expect from us: table service only; socially distanced tables and seating; one way systems around the pub where possible; DJs Wednesday to Saturday but with reduced music volume and no dancefloor; a text messaging system to make DJ requests without leaving your table; additional cleaning methods to ensure excellent hygiene.”

There will be no need to book in advance, and The Washington will be open until 2am Monday to Wednesday, and 3am on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

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“We can't wait to see you all again,” they added.

The announcement was met with excitement by the pub’s supporters on social media.

The Washington pub on Fitzwilliam Street, Sheffield. Picture: Scott Merrylees.The Washington pub on Fitzwilliam Street, Sheffield. Picture: Scott Merrylees.
The Washington pub on Fitzwilliam Street, Sheffield. Picture: Scott Merrylees.

"Fantastic news,” said Andy Simons on Facebook, while Francis Turner-Berry wrote: “There is still hope in this world.”

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Dorian Cox, the former guitarist of Sheffield band The Long Blondes, simply commented: “Wahey!”

The Washington – linked to the Washington Works cutlery factory that was demolished in the 1970s – describes itself as ‘the spiritual home of Sheffield’s music scene’, frequented by the likes of Pulp whose drummer, Nick Banks, once co-owned the venue. It hosts live bands and DJ sets, and also has a beer garden where events can be held.

The reopening follows that of another city centre pub, Fagan’s, which is also known for its music clientele as well as the 30ft mural painted on its gable end by the Sheffield artist Pete McKee.

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