Sheepfolds Stables - Worth A Visit Or Not?

Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland has been open for over a week now so here are our thoughts on whether the city’s latest new food, drink, and leisure venue lives up to the hype…

Energetic Atmosphere

The Grade II listed Sheepfolds Stables in Sunderland opened its doors to the general public on the 2nd of August 2024 with hundreds of visitors crossing the historic 1883 courtyard threshold on Friday evening into what can only be described as a vibrant and eclectic mix of restaurants and independent bars. The place certainly has a wonderful energetic atmosphere that embraces live entertainment coupled with various secluded pockets for those looking for a more conversational night out.

Ember at Sheepfolds Stables

We decided Saturday night would be a good time to visit and ventured out early evening on a mission to gain a seat in one of the restaurants in the scenic courtyard. Luckily, we gained a window spot overlooking the River Wear and its new footbridge in ‘Ember‘, which has an Asian look and feel with an a la carte menu, if you’re looking for that extra special dish. The staff, food and service were outstanding and we would most definitely go back.

Ember - Sheepfolds Stables — Sunday morning was relaxed for doughnuts and coffee

Other places within the courtyard:

I Scream for Pizza
The Calabash Tree
Vito’s Osteria
Ember
Deep North
Mother Mercy
Spey Snug
Taproom
Southpaw Dance Company
Back To The Pit
The Brewery

Deep North – Doughnuts & Coffee

As the weather was cracking and I’m a sucker for the odd coffee or three, we decided to pop down on a Sunday morning and try out the fresh artisan doughnuts from ‘Deep North’ including delicious made-from-scratch jams, custards and fillings, washed down with a fine bean coffee. Another great choice but, just as an aside, the girl serving on her own could have done with some help as she battled valiantly serving customers in the sunshine.

VAUX — Sunday morning for doughnuts and coffee

Sport In The Stables

The week ended well with Sunderland winning 2-0 at Cardiff and in case you’re wondering, yes ALL the SAFC matches are [along with other sporting events] being streamed/shown on the large screen in the courtyard. The owners have also said they will show Sky Sports EFL Championship.

Sunderland’s iconic VAUX brand is back with Sheepfolds Stables very own Pit Pony lager. Exclusive to Sheepfolds Stables and tank delivered from new VAUX premises less than half a mile away

Conclusion

Restored and reimagined by architecture and engineering firm, Building Design Northern Ltd (BDN), Sheepfolds Stables is a brave venture and one that hopefully will continue to prosper and succeed within an ever growing area on the North side of the River Wear.

While there has been criticism of the serving in the ‘Taprooms’ and seating outside, we have been twice in the first week, and there is without doubt a positive ‘vibe’ around the place and long may that continue. Like most, if not all new ventures, teething issues will always be present which will hopefully be resolved by the team. We have a table booked at Vito’s Osteria next weekend with some authentic Italian flavours accompanied by the odd glass of wine, so fingers crossed, another good night to be had…

VAUX Pit Pony

Sheepfolds Stables Opening Times

Regular opening times for Sheepfolds Stables after the inaugural launch weekend are Sunday-Thursday from 8.30am-11pm and Friday – Sunday from 8.30-1am.

Where is it?

Sheepfolds Stables,
Easington Street,
Sunderland,
Tyne & Wear
SR5 1BA