The Sportsman is a traditional British pub located in Sheffield's Crosspool area. It offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for gatherings, celebrations, or a quiet coffee. The pub boasts an extensive selection of beers, ciders, wines, and cocktails, including low and non-alcoholic options. Its spacious beer garden is dog-friendly and provides a pleasant retreat in all weather conditions. Free Wi-Fi is available for guests. The menu features classic British dishes made with award-winning ingredients, complemented by a range of cask ales and fine wines. The pub also hosts weekly quizzes and provides a comfortable setting for both casual and special occasions.
What each source says
- Google 4.2 1,042
- Tripadvisor 3.5 247
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-26.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Cozy and Welcoming Ambiance The pub is noted for its cozy atmosphere, especially during colder months, with features like open fires adding to the appeal. It's considered a great spot for both summer and winter visits.
- Dog-Friendly Atmosphere The pub welcomes dogs, with staff often providing treats and water. This makes it a popular choice for dog owners seeking a relaxed dining environment.
- Friendly and Attentive Staff Many reviewers highlight the welcoming and helpful nature of the staff, often singling out individuals by name. Their attentiveness contributes significantly to a positive dining experience.
- Good Food Quality and Variety Customers generally praise the quality and taste of the food, with many mentioning specific dishes they enjoyed. The menu offers a wide selection of options to cater to different tastes and dietary needs.
- Good Value and Reasonable Prices The Sportsman offers a varied menu at prices that many customers find to be reasonable and good value, especially highlighting the set menus and special offers.
Criticised
- Inconsistent Food Quality Some customers have experienced inconsistent food quality, with complaints about undercooked or lukewarm food, tough steak, or dishes not meeting expectations. This suggests a lack of consistent standards in the kitchen.
- Menu Item Availability Some customers have reported instances where menu items were unavailable, leading to disappointment and the need to choose alternative options. This can be frustrating for diners with specific preferences.
- Occasional Cleanliness Issues A reviewer mentioned arriving to a dirty table. While isolated, this negatively impacts the initial impression and overall dining experience.
- Parking Fine Issues Several reviewers reported receiving parking fines due to unclear signage or lack of communication about registration requirements. This can create a negative experience despite enjoying the meal.
- Slow or Inattentive Service Despite many positive comments about the staff, some reviewers have experienced slow or inattentive service, particularly during busy periods. This can lead to long waits for food and drinks.
The longer read
The Sportsman is a popular local pub known for its friendly and attentive staff, reasonable prices, and dog-friendly atmosphere. Many reviewers specifically praise staff members by name, highlighting their welcoming and helpful service. The pub is noted for being cozy in the winter, with open fires, and having outdoor seating for warmer months. Several reviewers appreciate the varied menu with options for different dietary needs. There are numerous compliments on the quality and portion sizes of the food, particularly the steak meals, Sunday lunch, and chicken wings. The breakfast and Christmas meals also receive positive mentions. The pub is considered a good value, especially when taking advantage of meal deals and wine offers. Many customers are repeat visitors, with some considering The Sportsman their favorite local pub. The pub is noted as a great place for family meals and gatherings. While most experiences are positive, some reviewers mention inconsistent food quality, such as undercooked vegetables or cold burger buns. A few reviewers had issues with slow service or meals not being available. Some customers have reported issues with parking fines due to unclear signage or staff not reminding them to register their vehicle. Occasional complaints mention dirty tables or average food quality, but these are outweighed by positive comments about the friendly service, good atmosphere, and tasty food.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 114 268 8011
- Website
- emberinns.co.uk/nationalsearch/yorkshireandthehumber/the-sportsman-sheffield?utm_source=google&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb-homepage
| Mon | 11:00 - 23:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Wed | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Thu | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Fri | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Sat | 11:00 - 23:00 |
| Sun | 11:00 - 23:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.1 against a median of 4.5 across the 4 places to eat we hold for Ranmoor, and the most-reviewed of them.
Still deciding?
- What are the most popular British dishes on The Sportsman's menu?
- Is the dog‑friendly beer garden at The Sportsman open year‑round and comfortable in all weather?
- What facilities does The Sportsman provide for families and children during a visit?
- What parking options and public transport links are available for reaching The Sportsman in Sheffield's Crosspool area?
- What is the typical price range for main courses and drinks at The Sportsman?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.