Some of the city’s pubs are hundreds of years old, with one dating back to 1475, and there are tales of ghosts, royal connections and even a secret tunnel. The stories behind how the pubs got their names also reveal much about Sheffield’s history.
Below are nine of the city’s oldest pubs, all of which have listed status due to the history of the buildings.
9. The Sheaf House Hotel
The Sheaf House Hotel, on Bramall Lane, Sheffield, is a Grade II-listed building, which, according to Historic England dates back to around 1800 and was probably built as a house for John Younge, who operated a rolling mill on an adjoining site. The pub is believed to have been named after the Sheaf House sports ground, which used to be behind the pub and predates the Bramall Lane football ground. Photo: Barry Richardson
10. The Old Queens Head
The Old Queen's Head on Pond Street near Sheffield bus station is the city's oldest residential building, dating back to 1475. The impressive timber-framed building is Grade II-listed and, according to Historic England, was formerly known as Hall i' th' Ponds. A former hunting lodge for the Earl of Shrewsbury, it first became an inn in the 1600s. It takes its name from Mary Queen of Scots, who was held captive in Sheffield for 14 years before her execution. Legend has it that a secret tunnel once stretched beneath the hill to Manor Lodge and was used by the royal prisoner to sneak out for a drink at what is now the Old Queens Head pub. The building is reputed to be haunted by a number of ghosts, including a Civil War soldier who stands in front of the fireplace and has been spotted numerous times by drinkers. Photo: Dean Atkins