Photography: Ben Hargreaves
In recent years, Kelham Island Museum’s hospitality offering has been revolutionised by a crack team of independent operators, and if you’re anything like us, you’ve probably already sunk a few pints in the former museum-exhibit-cum-pub The Millowners Arms. What might have passed you by though, is that the same operators have also transformed the next door café, creating Island, a hidden gem in the heart of Kelham. We caught up with Operations Manager Amy Hagues to find out what’s on offer.
So, nice, easy place to start: give us the lowdown on Island?
You can find Island on the grounds of Kelham Island Museum, next to our pals at The Millowners Arms.
“We’re lucky enough that we have a large outdoor courtyard we share with The Millowners Arms which was brimming with brunchers once the first lockdown was lifted, regardless of the weather.”
We’re a fully licensed cafe serving up breakfast, brunch and lunch, but it’s not your typical museum grub! Think wild mushroom benedict, washed down with a speciality coffee and a blood orange spritz.
Sounds delicious! So, is it just the food that makes Island different to other museum cafes?
It’s not just the food. When you think of a museum cafe, you’re not excited by it – it’s just a practical option. But we wanted to challenge that with our cosy interior, contemporary menu and attention to detail.
Island is a bit of a hidden gem, then. What has the reaction been like from museum goers when they discover the café?
It’s been great! It’s always fun to hear the delight as they walk in and realise that it’s not a typical museum cafe. We get a lot of compliments on the food and coffee, not only because it’s amazing, but also because they’re just so surprised.
What other things does the café offer that people might not be aware of?
Cafe by day, events venue by night! It seemed like a shame that our beautiful venue was sitting empty every night, especially as we already have an extensive bar menu including draught beer taps, so we now offer private hire for the space in the evenings. So far, we’ve hosted wedding receptions, milestone birthdays and corporate socials. Also, parking! That’s quite a rarity in Kelham but we have a car park which we share with the museum so it’s easy to visit us.
Island opened just before the pandemic. How did you adapt through the various lockdowns?
We’re lucky enough that we have a large outdoor courtyard that we share with The Millowners Arms and it was brimming with brunchers once the first lockdown was lifted, regardless of the weather. It was really nice to have that local support.
How do things feel in the café now that restrictions have been lifted?
It’s really exciting as we feel like we’re beginning to establish ourselves as more than just Kelham Island Museum’s cafe. We have lots of lovely regulars and welcome people from all walks of life. It’s a large space so people feel comfortable here.
What else can we expect in the future?
Lots of things! We’re putting together our Afternoon Tea menu which I think will be a great addition to our usual service and will be perfect for celebrations like baby showers and birthdays. You can also expect a new Spritz menu which runs alongside our Bottomless Brunch offer.
Discover Island in Kelham Island Museum, Alma Street, Sheffield S3 8RY
For more information: @islandkelham
