10 Best Nightlife in Nottingham

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem has an illustrious history of its own. King Richard the Lionheart was said to have tarried here while on the way to Jerusalem in AD 1189, hence the name of this historic inn. It's situated at the foot of the cliff where the Nottingham Castle stands.

Have a pint of their ale that’s been stored in their cave cellars, which also house an old cockfighting pit and part of the Castle Gaol. Or have a hearty helping of their delicious victuals as you warm yourself by the fire while taking in Nottingham’s history on the walls.

The Barrel Drop is a hidden gem not far from the Nottingham market square, nestled in a tiny alleyway called Hurts Yard. A haven for beer lovers, you can find a vast selection of beers in kegs, casks, bottles, and cans from various breweries.

They also have ciders, wines, spirits, and fizzy drinks for those who want alternatives to ale. Frequented by locals, this pub is a great place to meet and get to know them.

Rescue Rooms is a renowned bar located at the heart of the City Centre that’s featured many famous musicians in its live music scene. Every night offers fun nightlife experiences: Mondays with fresh local talents, Tuesday student nights, karaoke on Wednesdays, Thursday quiz nights, and Friday club nights. 

But it’s the Saturdays with the Stealth vs Rescued club night experience that’s the most anticipated as you can party in any of the 5 music rooms, 6 bars, and 2 patios. The music policy is very diverse, ranging from disco to indie.

One of Nottingham’s best worst-kept secrets is the Boilermaker bar, which hides under the guise of a nondescript boiler shop along Carlton Street. Open only in the evenings, this trendy bar follows the tradition of secrecy of the speakeasies. 

You’d have to go through the boiler salesman – who’s really a bouncer –and then you have to find the door in the secret red room. But once you get through, you can choose from their renowned cocktail concoctions, or wines and beers if you want to keep things simple. 

Pitcher & Piano Nottingham is at the heart of the Nottingham Lace Market. While the bar itself is a fairly common chain around the UK, this one stands out because it’s housed inside a historic 19th-century deconsecrated church.

The exposed brick archways and stained glass windows provide a magnificent backdrop as you enjoy their wide selection of cocktails, wines, and beers. They also serve an all-day menu for those looking for a bite to eat.

Carlton Street is home to one of Nottingham’s favourite bars, the Hockley Arts Club. Formerly a Victorian silk merchant’s house, this place has transformed itself into a creative space for social dining and drinking, with each floor uniquely designed.

Enjoy a drink at the Scandinavian-inspired bar on the ground floor, full table service in the Blue Rooms, and a private garden rooftop experience in the Electric Garden.

With a name inspired by an Edgar Allan Poe story, Pit & Pendulum is a Nottingham pub with all the trappings of a Gothic horror tale. This quirky venue is a member of the Eerie Pubs group, which provides a themed experience for those seeking something spooky.

With a good selection of food and drinks, guests can safely indulge in their fantasies of mystery and the macabre while enjoying a plate of prawn cocktail or a pint of their finest cask ale.

The Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall in Nottingham are the UK’s most successful touring venues. They’ve hosted performances ranging from orchestras, dance companies, West End musicals, operas, stand-up comedies, and contemporary music concerts. Check their upcoming events beforehand and enjoy a night at the theatre.

The classical buildings have fully licensed bars and restaurants where you can enjoy dinner before the performance. There are plenty of other dining and drinking options within a short walk, too.

Metronome’s main auditorium has been the site for a variety of cross-media programmes, from music gigs and comedy nights to live broadcasts and expos. A music and events complex at the heart of Nottingham, its state-of-the-art lighting and acoustics ensure that any event held here leaves a lasting impression.

The main auditorium can hold up to 400 people or 228 if seated. There’s a bar in the next room, along with more bars and restaurants over the road from Metronome.