Ship Inn presented with National Design Award
The Ship Inn in Kelham Island was presented with its 2017 CAMRA Design Award on 31 May. Impressively, the pub has become only the fourth pub in Sheffield to receive one of these awards in almost forty years.
The Ship has been nationally recognised for its iconic 19th century features and eccentric décor, and was one of only four pubs in the UK to win the accolade last year. The award itself was handed over to landlords Dean and Sally Smith and Lorraine Hakes (representing pub owners, Hawthorn Leisure) by our own Pub Heritage Officer, Dave Pickersgill, who had previously travelled to London on the pub’s behalf to collect the prize.
Numerous Sheffield & District CAMRA members made the trip down to Kelham Island for the presentation, and they were treated to celebratory drinks and food, all of which was much appreciated!
The pub’s design itself is an intriguing mixture of old and new. Concept Design, the company who masterminded the Ship’s aesthetic refurbishment, have blended contemporary design with carefully restored original features discovered by builders as they chipped away through the old paint and plaster. As for the atmosphere, Dean and Sally have turned the Ship into a welcoming and tranquil environment. Candlelit tables and subtle background music, combined with the excellent selection of real ales and food available, create a unique ambience that is not to be missed.
“The Ship Inn is proof that change can be a positive thing. From a pub that at one time was a part off-licence with no ladies, to become a shining light for Kelham Island speaks for itself,” said Dean. Promising more to come, Dean disclosed future plans to add even more hand pulled beer and development of an outside space using shipping containers, to ensure the ongoing growth of the pub.
“Everyone in this area pulls together to make it the special island it has become,” added Dave. “CAMRA are delighted with the entire effort in this small yet impactful community. Awarding the understated Ship Inn this prestige offers a representation of the area making it all that more appealing.”