Sheffield retro: 39 photos showing popular 60s and 70s clubs during thrilling era for city's nightlife

The city boasted the largest nightclub in Europe, hosted a legendary early gig by the Beatles and played a key role in the new wave music explosion.

Sheffield was also home to many social clubs and working men’s clubs, both in the city centre and out in the suburbs, where people of all ages went to let their hair down and enjoy some top-notch entertainment.

These photos take you back to those days during the 60s and 70s, showing some of the most popular nightclubs, WMCs and social clubs of the time.

Among the famous venues pictured is the Fiesta, which was the biggest nightclub in Europe when it opened in 1970, with space for 1,300 people, and attracted stars including Stevie Wonder, the Beach Boys, the Jacksons and the Four Tops.

Also featured is the Azena Ballroom, in Gleadless, which in April 1963 hosted a legendary early gig by the Beatles, which was the first time John Lennon, Paul McCartney and co had played in the city.

Other popular 60s and 70s nightclubs pictured in this retro photo gallery include the German-themed Hofbrauhaus; Crazy Daisy, where The Human League’s Phil Oakey famously first met future band members Susan Ann Sulley and Joanne Catherall; Peter Stringfellow’s King Mojo Club; Tiffany’s, on London Road; the Penny Farthing; Josephine’s, along with many more much-missed night spots.

How many of these venues do you remember, and what do you think was the best club in Sheffield during the 60s or 70s?

If you’re after more 60s and 70s nostalgia, you might enjoy this retro photo gallery taking you on a tour of Sheffield’s suburbs as they looked back then.

The photos in this article are taken from The Star’s archives and from Picture Sheffield.