Penny Black, Sheffield – 37 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 37 user ratings

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

πŸ’¬ What Students Say

Located in the heart of Sheffield, Penny Black is a popular student pub that perfectly blends traditional pub charm with a contemporary vibe. This Greene King establishment is well-known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for students looking to unwind after a long day or kick off a night out with friends. With a dog-friendly beer garden, delicious food options, and regular events, Penny Black promises a lively pub experience that caters to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.

The atmosphere at Penny Black is frequently described as convivial and relaxed, making it a great place to gather with friends or meet new people. Many students appreciate the chill vibe, which allows for easy conversations and laughter. Reviewers often mention that the crowd is friendly and laid-back, contributing to an enjoyable night out. Whether you're looking to enjoy a quiet drink or immerse yourself in the lively buzz of the pub, Penny Black has the right energy to suit your mood.

One of the standout features of Penny Black is its affordability. Students often praise the reasonable prices for drinks, making it a budget-friendly option for those looking to enjoy a night out without overspending. The pub offers a solid selection of drinks, from pints to cocktails, ensuring there's something for everyone. This affordability, combined with the lively atmosphere, makes Penny Black a go-to spot for students who want to have fun without breaking the bank.

The crowd at Penny Black is predominantly made up of students, which adds to the vibrant and youthful energy of the venue. Many reviews highlight the student buzz that permeates the pub, making it a great place to connect with peers or even make new friends. The venue tends to get busy during the evenings, particularly on weekends, when students flock to enjoy the lively atmosphere and music. It's a popular choice for those looking to kick back after a long week or celebrate the weekend with friends.

Penny Black stands out not just for its atmosphere and affordability but also for its regular events, including live music and quiz nights. These events add an extra layer of excitement to the pub experience, giving students something to look forward to throughout the week. Many reviewers express that these events enhance the overall vibe, making it more than just a place to grab a drink. The music selection is often noted as being spot on, with a mix of student anthems that gets everyone singing along and adds to the lively atmosphere.

While Penny Black has many positives, there are a few downsides to consider. Some students have mentioned that the queues can be a bit of a hassle, especially during peak times. Although many have had no issues with waiting, it's something to keep in mind if you're planning to visit on a busy night. Additionally, while the prices are generally affordable, some reviewers feel that it may not be the cheapest option in the area. However, the overall experience and atmosphere often outweigh these concerns for most students.

Penny Black is best suited for students who appreciate a relaxed and friendly environment where they can enjoy a good drink and great company. It's perfect for those who want to unwind after classes or celebrate with friends without the pressure of a more upscale venue. The pub's welcoming vibe makes it a great choice for anyone looking to have a laugh and enjoy a fun night out in a comfortable setting.

In summary, Penny Black is a vibrant student pub that offers an enjoyable atmosphere, affordable drinks, and a lively crowd. With its regular events and friendly vibe, it's no wonder that students keep coming back for more. Whether you're looking to catch up with friends over a pint or join in on a quiz night, Penny Black provides a satisfying and lively pub experience that caters to the needs of the student community in Sheffield.
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βœ… What Students Love

  • Warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends.
  • Affordable drink prices that cater to student budgets.
  • Lively crowd with a strong student presence, ideal for socializing.
  • Regular events like live music and quiz nights enhance the experience.
  • Dog-friendly beer garden for those who enjoy outdoor spaces.
  • Great music selection that keeps the vibe upbeat and fun.

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Queues can be a hassle during peak times.
  • Not the cheapest option in the area, though still affordable.
  • Can get crowded on weekends, so arrive early for the best experience.
  • Some reviews mention it’s not the fanciest place, but it’s comfortable.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a relaxed and friendly pub experience with affordable drinks.

πŸ’‘ Things to Know

  • Arrive early on weekends to avoid long queues.
  • Check the schedule for live music and quiz nights for added fun.
  • The beer garden is dog-friendly, perfect for pet owners.
  • Expect a lively atmosphere, especially during peak hours.
  • Great for making new friends or catching up with existing ones.

❓ Common Questions

What is Penny Black like?

Penny Black is a lively student pub known for its relaxed atmosphere, affordable drinks, and regular events like live music.

Is it good value?

Yes, Penny Black offers reasonable prices for drinks, making it a budget-friendly choice for students.

When do students go to Penny Black?

Students typically visit Penny Black in the evenings, especially on weekends, when the atmosphere is lively.

What type of events does Penny Black host?

Penny Black hosts regular events including live music and quiz nights, adding excitement to the pub experience.

Is there outdoor seating at Penny Black?

Yes, Penny Black features a dog-friendly beer garden, perfect for enjoying drinks outdoors.

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
1 of 38
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Would definitely go back for the relaxed atmosphere and friendly faces around.
By user474047 on Apr 20th 2026
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Staff were on it with keeping everything tidy, which made a massive difference.
By user485686 on Apr 14th 2026
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Sat on those comfy leather sofas at penny black, i realized how much i missed my mates.
By user797918 on Mar 27th 2026
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Place is perfect for unwinding with mates after an exhausting day of lectures. it's always bustling with students, and the atmosphere just keeps things light and fun.
By user853580 on Mar 24th 2026
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Didn't expect such a warm and lively crowd on a weeknight. it's refreshing to find a place that feels both relaxed and buzzing at the same time, making it a perfect spot to unwind after drowning in those endless law readings.
By user617089 on Mar 19th 2026
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Easiest spot to chat because it's not too loud compared to other places in sheffield. staff actually remember people, which is nice when everywhere else feels a bit anonymous. feels more personal here.
By user746063 on Mar 13th 2026
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Penny Black's crowd is way livelier compared to most nearby pubs.
By user134069 on Mar 3rd 2026
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Felt this sense of comfort wash over me as soon as I walked into Penny Black; the warm lighting and friendly hum have that effect.
By user661026 on Feb 9th 2026
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Staff are down to earth and keep things relaxed even when it gets busy. you can't help but feel at ease and that's exactly what you need sometimes 😊
By user861110 on Feb 3rd 2026
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Music's a bit too loud on some nights, making it difficult to chat with mates over a pint. while the atmosphere's usually great, it's a bit of a shouting match when you just want to relax and catch up 😬
By user682406 on Jan 28th 2026
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At first i wasn't sure about penny black being my go-to, but it quickly grew on me with its easygoing atmosphere and friendly crowd that makes you feel like a regular. the balance between classic pub charm and a newer vibe keeps things interesting without trying too hard.
By user470816 on Jan 23rd 2026
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Penny Black's blend of classic and modern beats the standard pub scene I’ve come across elsewhere.
By user949563 on Jan 18th 2026
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Find myself popping into penny black each week for a chilled vibe and a pint after classes. it’s just the right spot to unwind and people-watch 🍺😊
By user335812 on Jan 14th 2026
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Didn't expect to find such a chill vibe here with a bunch of students just laid-back and enjoying themselves. i ended up having a great chat with some strangers at the bar which was a pleasant surprise.
By user958316 on Jan 10th 2026
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A lively mix of students and locals fills the place, making for a great social atmosphere. conversations flowed easily between tables, and everyone seemed like they were just there to have a good time. you might even end up chatting with someone new over a pint.
By user783337 on Jan 6th 2026
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Tried a few pubs around town, but penny black's got that laid-back charm that's hard to find elsewhere. the regulars mixed with students create this friendly buzz, but it can get a bit packed if you're unlucky with seating.
By user689539 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Always find the music a bit too loud for chatting, especially on weekends, which can be a pain when you're trying to catch up with mates. staff are decent, but could be quicker during the rush.
By user257098 on Dec 29th 2025
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Seemed like everyone there was just having a laugh and letting loose, which was exactly what i needed after lectures. it's got this laid-back crowd that's just so easygoing. nobody's putting on airs, just good vibes and decent chats all around.
By user946219 on Dec 23rd 2025
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Music was just too loud for a chat with friends without feeling like you're yelling across the table.
By user568567 on Dec 19th 2025
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Staff are genuinely welcoming and it's great that they keep the atmosphere so laid-back. compared to some places where you feel rushed, it's refreshing to have a chat and relax without any pressure
By user827363 on Dec 15th 2025
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People here are either chilling in groups or striking up conversations with strangers. it's easy to get pulled into a friendly chat and walk away having made a new acquaintance.
By user621521 on Dec 10th 2025
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Impressed by how relaxed and easygoing the staff were, even on a busy evening. it's like they already knew what we needed, making the night feel less like a pub visit and more like hanging out in a mate's living room. you don't get that kind of authentic vibe just anywhere.
By user626189 on Dec 3rd 2025
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Quieter times would be nice, especially when trying to chat with friends over a meal. felt like every other table had their own party going on, which made it a bit hard to hear myself think. friendly vibes overall, but maybe tone down the music just a touch.
By user902315 on Nov 28th 2025
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Visit to Penny Black is a part of my weekly ritual, where my flatmates and I just wind down from all the lectures. sort of like our mid-week reset. always comforting to know there’s a place where we can just chill and catch up amidst the lively chatter that's always echoing around.
By user885009 on Nov 23rd 2025
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Stayed for ages just chatting with random folks, which turned into one of those unexpectedly brilliant nights. had one too many, but the friendly crowd and relaxed vibe totally made it worth it.
By user309148 on Nov 17th 2025
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Sitting in Penny Black on a weekend, you really feel its lively energy, especially with everyone singing along to the DJ's throwbacks.
By user840980 on Nov 9th 2025
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Grab a pint and chat with mates here every tuesday, it's like a mini tradition now πŸ˜…
By user827662 on Nov 2nd 2025
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Swing by Penny Black every Friday evening for a cheeky pint before heading out with mates πŸ˜… kind of started feeling like our little end-of-week ritual, combining a bit of planning and pure chill time
By user617240 on Oct 27th 2025
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Music's always a bit too loud in penny black, but it means you can dance away with mates without feeling embarrassed. drinks are cheap enough to keep the night going too
By user963254 on Oct 24th 2025
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Bartenders chat with you like you’ve known them ages and it’s such a relief.
By user183478 on Oct 20th 2025
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Didn't expect much more than a standard student pub, but it was way more welcoming than i thought it would be. the overall atmosphere was friendly and relaxed, which took me by surprise. i left feeling like i'd made a great choice for a chill night out.
By user663237 on Oct 16th 2025
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Ended up at Penny Black after a day of mind-numbing lectures and honestly, it lifted my mood. staff were on it, making sure everyone was sorted out quickly, which is a lifesaver when you're hangry πŸ˜…. atmosphere was just right for chilling with mates without feeling like you're back in the library or anything too formal.
By user142891 on Oct 13th 2025
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Really easygoing place to catch up with friends. it's chill enough to unwind but lively enough to feel like you're actually out. always a good mix of people too
By user369440 on Oct 9th 2025
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Noticed there's always a pair of punters playing chess at the corner table. cracks me up how they seem to be regular fixtures more than anything else. gives the place a quirky charm you don't find everywhere.
By user219093 on Oct 3rd 2025
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Mostly students hanging out at penny black, which gives it such a laid-back and friendly vibe. you instantly feel like you fit in even if you're still figuring things out at uni.
By user380059 on Sep 29th 2025
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Usually end up at Penny Black for a pint or two when lectures finish. it just seems like everyone shows up there to decompress and catch up.
By user593467 on Sep 24th 2025
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Getting used to the place now, and it grows on you over time. weekdays are surprisingly the best, with a more laid-back crowd that feels just right after labs. maybe it's the mellow vibe or just seeing familiar faces 😊
By user239173 on Sep 15th 2025
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Everyone seemed to be having a laugh and the place buzzed with student chatter.
By user958891 on Dec 4th 2024