All the very best of Sheffield’s cosiest pubs to visit this winter

Unfortunately, it’s time to say goodbye to pub gardens and hello to the cosy indoors


As the air gets colder and the sky gets darker, pubs are the perfect places to hang out with friends and get away from the stress of university work, especially with deadline season fast approaching. Although a pub garden is perfect in the summer, during these cold months what you really want is a cosy pub to enjoy a well earned drink after a week of camping out in the IC for hours on end. Here’s a list of pubs to visit as a student in Sheffield, recommended by a certified cosy-pub lover.

The Francis Newton

Now it wouldn’t be a student list without including a budget-friendly option, so of course it has to be The Francis Newton. For students, this Wetherspoons is the holy-grail, especially since it is within walking distance of West Street, making it the perfect place for pres before you hit the clubs. Like most Wetherspoons, The Francis Newton has low lights and a homely feel, making it the perfect place to enjoy a drink, especially without breaking the bank.

The Grapes

Now this might be a rogue choice for students that haven’t heard of it, but this hidden gem is one of the cosiest pubs I have ever been to, so I had to put you all onto it. For older students who have retired from going out three times a week but still want to socialise, The Grapes is perfect, providing a traditional pub vibe whilst having live music on six nights a week- the Arctic Monkeys even performed there back in the day.

Katie O’Brien’s

Although this Irish bar is relatively new to Sheffield, it has quickly become popular amongst students as it can be very cosy and relaxing on quieter nights but also turns a bit more active on weekends. With a current discount of 25 per cent off all drinks for students, this is a great place to visit if you want to enjoy the atmosphere of an old rsish pub mixed with the liveliness that students bring to a location.

Nottingham House

Well known for its delicious food, Nottingham House is a much-loved pub by students and locals alike. With comfy seating areas and a pool table, this pub has created a cosy atmosphere that can be enjoyed alongside a pint and their infamous pie and chips. If you’re also looking for a bit of fun, their karaoke on Friday nights is a great laugh with the whole pub enjoying the music, even if most of the singing is questionable.

Springvale Tavern

As a shared favourite amongst students who live in the Crookes area, there are few nights where the Springvale Tavern is not somewhat busy. Although it can be quite lively on Wednesdays and Fridays, there is still a cosy element to it that makes it a hotspot for students to unwind in the evenings. Kitted out with a pool table and dart boards, this pub has it all, making it one that you must visit during your time in Sheffield. The pub garden is also legendary with a big projector screen and a big seating area, however, enter at your own risk during these cold months.

Fox and Duck

Finally, the Fox and Duck is located in the heart of Broomhill, making it the perfect distance for first year students living in Endcliffe and Ranmoor. This pub is known for its cosy atmosphere, with homely furniture and candle lights dotted around the bar. Like many of the pubs on this list, it tends to get busy on Wednesday nights as they have discounts for students, but this only improves the atmosphere. As if it couldn’t get any better, they also serve great food during the day to have along with your pint.