Pub of the Week: The Crown Inn, Sheffield

The theatrical showman Andre Charlot was famous for his glittering productions, and for the glamour of his statuesque showgirls. There was, however, one infamous opening night, when the incoming audience all had broad grins on their faces. The vast illuminated billboard above the marquee proclaimed “Charlot’s Revue of 1932!” But all the electric bulbs in the letter “C” had failed. The message was somewhat altered.
Thus it is with this revived pub in the heart of the steel city. When it first opened, back in the mellow mists of yesteryear, it was called The Crown. But there was a problem. Several other pubs nearby had the same name. Mail went astray, and, even worse, bar supplies often turned up in the wrong place.
When the current owners took on the pub they simply crossed out the final “N”. The regal touch has disappeared, and we now celebrate our friend the common carrion crow. The two small bars have several posters of birds on their walls, many of them very fine reproductions of Audubon prints. There’s also an elegant little beer garden, and there are en-suite rooms to be had on floors above.
The seating is banquette-form on three sides of each bar, with stools and tables. It is all cosy, comfortable, clean and welcoming. There are no less than eight guest ales, plus five regulars, and a pint of Ghost in the Machine was superb. Then you have a list of gins, and an eye-watering selection of good whiskies. The folk in charge know their beers, ciders, wines and spirits, and it shows.
The Crow Inn, 33 Scotland Street, Sheffield S3 7BS. 0114 2010096.

About The Author

Phil Penfold

A journalist for over half century, Phil writes over a broad range of subjects, including food and drink. He has been a long-term CAMRA member and is a keen supporter of Yorkshire's many and varied markets and independent retailers.

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