Penny Black, Sheffield – 35 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Penny Black -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking

Based on 35 user ratings

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Pond Hill, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2BG, United Kingdom

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Tuesday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Wednesday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Thursday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Friday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Saturday: 10:30 AM – 11:00 PM, Sunday: 10:30 AM – 10:30 PM

💬 What Students Say

Located in the heart of Sheffield, Penny Black is a vibrant pub that seamlessly blends traditional charm with a contemporary feel. This Greene King establishment is well-loved by students from the University of Sheffield, offering a welcoming atmosphere that encourages both relaxation and fun. Whether you're looking to unwind after a long week or kick off a night out with friends, Penny Black is an ideal choice. The venue features a dog-friendly beer garden, making it a great spot for pet owners, and offers a menu that caters to a variety of tastes, including hearty pub classics like steak and chips. With a strong focus on community and camaraderie, this pub is perfect for gathering with friends or meeting new people.

Students frequently mention the relaxed vibe of Penny Black, which sets it apart from other nightlife venues. The atmosphere is consistently described as friendly and inviting, with patrons enjoying themselves without any pressure to be anything other than themselves. Many reviews highlight the enjoyable energy of the crowd, making it a great place for socializing and having a good laugh. The music at Penny Black is another strong point, with a well-curated mix of student anthems that gets everyone moving and singing along. Whether it’s a lively quiz night or a laid-back evening with friends, the pub’s events contribute to its vibrant and dynamic atmosphere.

When it comes to drinks, students appreciate the affordability and quality offered at Penny Black. While some reviews note that it may not be the cheapest option in town, the overall value is considered good given the enjoyable experience provided. The drinks menu is diverse, allowing patrons to find something that suits their taste without breaking the bank. Many students have praised the solid drink options and the lively crowd, which enhances the overall experience of a night out.

One of the standout features of Penny Black is its efficient queue and entry experience. Students consistently report that the queue is quick, allowing them to get inside and start enjoying their night without unnecessary delays. This positive entry experience contributes to the overall enjoyment of the venue, as students can focus on having fun rather than waiting in line. The staff are also mentioned positively, with many reviews noting their friendliness and professionalism, which adds to the welcoming atmosphere of the pub.

However, while Penny Black has many strengths, there are a few caveats to consider. Some students have indicated that the venue may not be the fanciest spot in town, which could be a drawback for those seeking a more upscale night out. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally lively and enjoyable, it can occasionally feel a bit crowded, especially on popular nights. This might not suit everyone, particularly those who prefer a quieter environment.

Overall, Penny Black is highly rated for its value, atmosphere, and music, making it a top choice for students looking for a casual yet vibrant night out. The venue's charm lies in its ability to cater to a wide range of student needs—from those looking for a chill place to hang out to those wanting to dance and enjoy the night. It’s a place where the student buzz is palpable, and where creating memories with friends is easy.

In terms of who this venue suits best, Penny Black is ideal for students who appreciate a relaxed atmosphere and want to enjoy a night out without the fuss. It’s a great spot for those who prefer a more laid-back vibe where they can connect with friends and meet new people. Whether you're looking to catch up over drinks or dance the night away, Penny Black has something to offer.

As for practical tips, here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your visit to Penny Black: First, the dress code is casual, so feel free to come as you are. Second, arriving early can help you avoid any potential queues, especially on busy nights. Third, while drinks are reasonably priced, it’s always a good idea to check the menu beforehand to plan your budget. Fourth, the music style is primarily student anthems and popular hits, so be prepared for a lively atmosphere. Lastly, don’t hesitate to join in the events like quiz nights and live music, as they often enhance the overall experience and provide a great way to engage with the community.

Penny Black is open daily, with hours extending until late, making it a convenient option for students looking to enjoy a night out any day of the week. With its welcoming vibe, solid drink offerings, and lively atmosphere, Penny Black stands out as a must-visit venue in Sheffield for students seeking a great night out.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding with friends
  • Affordable drinks with good value for students
  • Quick queue and entry experience, minimizing wait times
  • Lively music that keeps the energy up and gets people dancing
  • Dog-friendly beer garden, making it a great spot for pet owners
  • Friendly staff who contribute to a welcoming environment
  • Regular events such as quiz nights and live music enhance the experience

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Not the fanciest venue, which may not suit everyone
  • Can feel crowded on busy nights, possibly detracting from the experience
  • Some students mention it’s not the cheapest option around
  • Limited upscale offerings for those seeking a more luxurious night out
  • Occasional noise levels can be high, depending on the crowd
  • Not all nights have the same vibe, which may vary based on events

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a chill and friendly pub atmosphere to enjoy a night out with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Casual dress code, so come as you are.
  • Arrive early to avoid queues, especially on busy nights.
  • Check the drink menu beforehand for budget planning.
  • Expect lively music with a mix of student anthems and popular hits.
  • Participate in events like quiz nights for an enhanced experience.
  • The venue is dog-friendly, so feel free to bring your pet along.

❓ Common Questions

What is Penny Black like?

Penny Black is a relaxed pub with a friendly atmosphere, perfect for hanging out with friends and enjoying a lively night out.

How long is the queue?

The queue is generally quick, with students reporting minimal wait times for entry.

Is it good value?

Yes, students find the drinks reasonably priced and the overall experience provides good value for money.

What music does Penny Black play?

The music features a mix of student anthems and popular hits, creating an energetic atmosphere.

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

infoImage credit: Photo via Google Maps

Reviews
Overall
Cleanliness
Music
Price
Queue
Smoking
Penny black is always a chilled spot for a night out. never had issues with the queue and the entry prices are reasonable. the music is usually right on point and the vibe is relaxed, making it easy to enjoy the night. great place to hang with friends without breaking the bank.
By user797918 on Mar 27th 2026
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The crowd's always cool and the drinks are solid, no drama here. just a chill place to hang out.
By user853580 on Mar 24th 2026
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A proper place to kick back and enjoy the night. makes a difference to how the whole evening goes.
By user617089 on Mar 19th 2026
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Always end up having a great laugh here with friends.
By user746063 on Mar 13th 2026
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Music was really good and the atmosphere was something else.
By user134069 on Mar 3rd 2026
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Each night has its own feel but it's always a good time
By user661026 on Feb 9th 2026
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People were smiling and the atmosphere felt nice. it was a pleasant place to be.
By user861110 on Feb 3rd 2026
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Place's just right for kicking back after a long week without feeling overcrowded. it's nice to have that escape.
By user682406 on Jan 28th 2026
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Crowd was chill and the drinks were solid without any hassle. little things that make a night out more enjoyable.
By user470816 on Jan 23rd 2026
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Atmosphere is something else — you just won’t find that anywhere else.
By user949563 on Jan 18th 2026
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Not the cheapest place but the atmosphere makes it worth it. it's more than just another night out.
By user335812 on Jan 14th 2026
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The staff were cool and the tunes were always good. made it easy to enjoy the nights out.
By user958316 on Jan 10th 2026
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Music was a proper mix of student anthems. it really got everyone moving and singing along.
By user783337 on Jan 6th 2026
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Not the fanciest spot but it's good for a quick catch-up that can stretch into a night out. comfy enough to stay for a while.
By user689539 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Atmosphere's pretty chill and everyone's just there to enjoy themselves, not putting on a show. it's a cool place to hang out.
By user257098 on Dec 29th 2025
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Penny black's got a good energy. it's all about having a laugh and not worrying about anything else.
By user946219 on Dec 23rd 2025
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Felt lively and safe, really enjoyed the atmosphere without worrying about anything.
By user568567 on Dec 19th 2025
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It's such a chill spot to hang out with mates. that’s all you really need, right?
By user827363 on Dec 15th 2025
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Met loads of new people here, really easy to strike up a convo. it's a chill spot for making friends.
By user621521 on Dec 10th 2025
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Smiles all night, felt like everyone was having a blast
By user626189 on Dec 3rd 2025
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The place just has that student buzz about it. ⚡️
By user902315 on Nov 28th 2025
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The atmosphere was lively and made it easy to get into the night. that's what you want, really.
By user885009 on Nov 23rd 2025
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The end of a long week is way better when it includes penny black. this place has that right energy.
By user309148 on Nov 17th 2025
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Great night out, music was spot on and the vibe was brilliant.
By user840980 on Nov 9th 2025
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Drinks were priced right and the crowd was wild, had a blast.
By user827662 on Nov 2nd 2025
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Great place to hang out and dance with mates. it really hits the spot for a good night out
By user617240 on Oct 27th 2025
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Good value drinks and a lively crowd, perfect for students.
By user963254 on Oct 24th 2025
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Always end up having a great laugh here with friends.
By user183478 on Oct 20th 2025
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Such a good laugh, everyone was just there for a good time!
By user663237 on Oct 16th 2025
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Queue was quick and the staff were chill. no complaints there
By user142891 on Oct 13th 2025
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The place is perfect for a night out with mates. you can dance and kick back without any hassle.
By user369440 on Oct 9th 2025
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Music was better than most student nights, really enjoyed it. the crowd was a lot more fun than i thought it would be.
By user219093 on Oct 3rd 2025
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One of the best places to go out with friends from uni.
By user380059 on Sep 29th 2025
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Met loads of different people here which made it easy to fit in. always felt like part of the scene.
By user593467 on Sep 24th 2025
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Atmosphere is always buzzing, exactly what you want on a night out.
By user239173 on Sep 15th 2025
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The place is really cozy and feels intimate, makes for a chill night with mates.
By user958891 on Dec 4th 2024