Guide to the unique venues of Nottingham
“Oh yes, Nottingham, the city of Robin Hood ”. "Isn't that where one of the most prestigious universities in the UK is?" Most of the promotion of this English city is based on the legend of a man in green tights with an anarchist heart. It also appears to lack the tourist popularity of other British university towns such as cambridge or oxford . But we can assure you that, beyond the icon of a medieval hero and a renowned university, there is much to discover in Nottingham.
** YE OLD TRIP TO JERUSALEM **
Let's start with the most particular and representative of the city, and even of the country, since this pub is in operation from the year 1189 and proudly announces itself as the oldest public house in england . Built on the caves of Nottingham Castle itself, Ye Olde Trip presents a structure of nooks and crannies that preserve the traditional decor and that musty smell mix of beer, cavernous humidity and old woods . Brewers or history buffs can book a tour of the cellar, located in the basement caves.
If it's Robin Hood you're looking for, almost daily and mid-afternoon, the local guide dressed as this character drops by this tavern in a very smart outfit . When his tour group disperses and you're left drinking alone until his nose turns red, it's the best time to ask him to take a bragging selfie of you. In addition, how could it be otherwise in this type of historic premises, Ye Olde Trip keeps its own legend : in one of the rooms is the replica of a wooden galleon which, apparently, has caused a mysterious death to anyone who has dared to clean it. The owners of the premises have prohibited its cleaning for years, which explains the thick layer of dust that covers the ship. In case the flies and some clueless tourist decides to stand up for neatness, the miniature is currently protected by a glass case.
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
THE MALT CROSS
Continuing with another local historical heritage, this time from the victorian era , we meet this faithful music hall situated in a restored and listed building dating back to 1760. The Malt Cross is a social enterprise hosting a café-bar, an exhibition space, arts and crafts workshops, live music events and a wide cultural agenda . In addition, it offers illustrative tours about its interesting history and hosts a charity, in which volunteers strive to help the local community. On its walls, the style mural art street art paradoxically fits well with the period structure, in which the wrought iron columns and the glass vault stand out. Culinary recommendation: they prepare a delicious Sunday Roast (the typical English roast beef and vegetables served on Sundays) .
The Malt Cross
THE HOCKLEY ARTS CLUB
Is cocktail bar-restaurant will deceive those who value eclectic venues full of details . Located in the heart of lacemarket, Nottingham's most creative neighborhood, The Hockley is so popular that it doesn't need to announce its entrance through a narrow alleyway that goes unnoticed. The space is articulated in three different rooms with a modern and careful interior design, each one more unique. Between neon lights and vintage lamps, you can taste their creative cocktails, some even decorated with a polaroid photo taken at the time. Ingenious idea to take, literally, a good memory.
The cocktail bar-restaurant that will fool you
THE CANAL HOUSE
Not many pubs can boast be literally traversed by a channel inside, even to have room for a couple of moored boats . The Canalhouse also has a beautiful terrace full of colorful flower pots that directly overlook the canal (this time outside), ideal for summer afternoons. As if this were not enough, this original pub is proud to offer one of the largest ranges of continental beers in Nottingham.
The Canal House
PITCHER & PIANO
We continue with places that surprise for their location: this time, in a church . Not every day you have the opportunity to feel like a transgressor leaning on the bar, trying to order a mixed drink, where once there was a bench for the parishioners. Great effort to renovate the space and formal clientele.
Pitcher & Piano
CAFE.BAR.CONTEMPORARY
A few meters from Pitcher & Piano we find the Contemporary -Nottingham's Museum of Contemporary Art- and its designer bar/cafeteria. Open floor plan, spacious, good coffee and regular free performances on weekends. What more can you ask for from a museum?
Cafe.Bar.Contemporary
BROADWAY CAFE/BAR
From an artistic institution like the previous one, we moved on to another: nottingham independent cinema which also has its own restaurant area. Meeting point for fans of the seventh art who are passing through the city (or with the intention of staying). Friendly and busy environment.
JAM COFFEE
Right next to the Broadway cinema is this small café by day/bar-restaurant by night, reminiscent of a humble Parisian jazz bar. Local committed to local musicians -promotes the open-mic- and frequented by young bohemians.
Inside Nottingham Independent Cinema
THE PIT & PENDULUM
What would a university town be without its gothic pub? This peculiar place, which takes its name from a story of Edgar Allan Poe , pays homage with its gloomy atmosphere to the most sinister stories. The medieval-style throne chairs in the basement deserve a separate mention. Expect to find regular students for cheap cocktails.
ASPA
Recently opened in 2015, this Thai restaurant stands out for its striking and surprising decoration , which recreates the colorful streets of Thailand. Even the cooks are located in the middle of the place as if they were working in a street food stall. A very successful setting.
An ode to organic consumption
THE ALLEY COFFEE BAR
Creative vegetarian and vegan dishes in an alternative, relaxed and eco-conscious environment organic consumption . They organize interesting artistic and cultural events.
LUDORATI COFFEE BAR
We end this route of the most original places in Nottingham with a playful recommendation: a bar/cafe dedicated to board games, with more than 750 different ones to choose from. If such an amount overwhelms you and you doubt where to start, its friendly owner will not hesitate to advise you or explain the rules of any game. Have fun!
You will never get bored in Ludorati