Last month, independent Sheffield hospitality group True North, announced they had acquired the historic and Grade II listed Abbeydale Picture House. True North released a statement stating its aims to restore the iconic building as a vibrant entertainment venue, taking over the Picture House Social bar and breathing new life into the much-loved landmark.
Exposed spoke to Kane Yeardley, owner of True North, to get a clearer picture of the company’s plans for the venue.
What inspired True North to take on the restoration of the Abbeydale Picture House?
I’ve passed through for years and always thought it’s such a beautiful building. It was quite sad to see how it was deteriorating. It’s such a massive project. We’ve done a lot of pubs, and some big ones, but I thought we could never deal with something on this scale. Then I heard a larger group – well known for selling heavily discounted drinks – was interested in buying it. I believe that wherever they open, they destroy small businesses around them.
I love that Abbeydale Road has been building up with smaller independents, and people are starting to discover it from other parts of Sheffield. I didn’t want to see that go. It felt like a chance to do something that made a difference. When we renovated pubs like the Punch Bowl or the Broadfield, it was about saving them from being turned into flats. It’s about the community.
What sort of events do you envision for the space?
The building has so many great spaces. A smaller room could host 50 people, the ballroom could hold 200,and the larger space upstairs could fit 500. I want to see comedy, music, theatre, art and exhibitions there. We can run food and drink events in the massive car park space outside.
It’s a huge undertaking. How do you plan to tackle it?
We’re doing it in stages. First, we’ll refresh the Picture House Social space – new air conditioning, layout, sound systems, improved lighting – and hopefully finish that by around May. But working with listed buildings takes time, as planners and heritage teams check every step. We want to do it right, one thing at a time.
One of the building’s standout features is the plasterwork. Restoring the ceiling and some walls will cost a lot, but we’re working with an amazing local heritage plasterer based in Penistone. I always prefer keeping work local. We’re already working with local builders and architects who know our style and standards. The goal is not just about restoration; it’s about the legacy – creating a vibrant space that supports other small businesses nearby.
What does success look like for you when it comes to this project?
Again, it’s the legacy. If I can see 500 people coming in and enjoying that space – maybe having drinks three or four times a week there and in the surrounding area – and it gives the small local businesses a boost to kick on, that’s what I’d want to leave behind.
It is a bit scary, though – people tell you it’s a challenge, and it really is. However, I’m a believer in moving forward when opportunities are there. We’ll have some exciting updates for you over the next few months!
@truenorthbrewco
