Public houses research guide

For centuries, pubs or public houses (also referred to as hotels, inns, taverns, etc) have operated at the heart of social and community life in Sheffield. In earlier times, as coaching inns, they served as important transport hubs too. Over several hundred years, Sheffield’s pubs have provided opportunities for people to have a drink and socialise. They have also played host to singing, dancing, theatrical performances, public meetings, public auctions and even coroner’s inquests. Pubs were also the birthplace of many local friendly societies, clubs and unions.

This guide directs researchers to the main sources relating to Sheffield’s pubs held at Sheffield City Archives and Local Studies Library.

Contact us on archives@sheffield.gov.uk to find out more, book in advance or order archival materials.