A city of cobbled sidestreets, hidden drinking holes and atmospheric bars makes up Nottingham's nightlife offering. The true gem of the Midlands, here is a city of clubbing, dancing and expert mixology. We've rallied up our picks of the best bars in Nottingham so you can see the coolest, most secret and notorious places to drink.
On the bustling Carrington Street, just a stone's throw from Nottingham Train Station, Industry Bar is a go-to for big nights out and lively afternoons on the ale.
As well as all the beers, wines and spirits you want from a city centre bar, this place serves up top notch pub grub. We're talking wings, wraps, burgers, nachos, subs and salads.
Step aside, standard watering holes - NQ64 Nottingham is redefining the city's bar scene. With game-themed cocktails, fluorescent wall art, and a soundtrack that throws it back to the 90s and 00s, this arcade bar brings something totally different to Nottingham nightlife.
Whether you're sipping a Mad Max Zombie or watching your mate fail at Time Crisis II, there's no better place to drink, play, and relive the golden age of gaming.
Housed inside a gorgeous Victorian building in the heat of the city, Box is a lively sports bar that's always got something fun going on. Expect plenty of original features, like grand, high ceilings and golden pillars, paired with modern touches such as colourful neon signs and a disco ball.
Watch all the biggest sporting events on their 35 HD screens, or head to the stage for live music. They've also got shuffleboard tables, interactive dartboards and even private karaoke rooms available to book. Sip refreshing beers or cocktails from the bar, paired with tasty eats like spicy chicken burgers, American-style hotdogs and Neapolitan pizzas.
A bar in Nottingham that will make you feel like you're hitting the town in Havana? Revolución de Cuba brings the Latin energy and vibrancy of island life with colourful decor, killer Cuban food and the finest selection of rums in the world.
Order a selection of tapas plates for the table, including crispy pork belly and a range of tacos, and sip rum-based cocktails from mojitos to daiquiris and classics with a Cuban twist. Once you're full and quenched, make the most of the live music by showing off your salsa moves on the dance floor.
A quirky dive bar in the city centre, The Walrus is a great place to play beer pong in Nottingham. With a great selection of cocktails to get stuck into, alongside four full-size tennis tables and a dancefloor, it's one of the best party spots around.
Fancy unique watering holes in Nottingham? The Magic Garden is not only a stunning venue with gorgeous floral decor, but it also boasts a stellar menu to match. Enjoy kooky cocktails, alongside a menu filled with yummy tapas.
The ultimate Nottingham sports bar, HUDDL is perfect for all your live sporting action, thanks to cool booths with their own TVs. But that's not all, as there's also a load of interactive darts to have a go at too.
Browns Brasserie & Bar are bringing you the British snacks and amazing bevs for all your drinks bookings. Think a sophisticated setting alongside croquettes, teriyaki chicken skewers and toasties, all washed down by everything from cocktails to fizz.
When it comes to bars in Nottingham, it doesn't get better than The Beeston Social. The bar, kitchen and arcade have plenty to offer, from street food-inspired dishes to signature cocktails and fun retro games such as ski ball.
A casino and bar in the heart of Nottingham, Alea is perfect for those looking to try something fun on a night out in the city. From roulette and other table games to affordable drinks and late-night ventures, it makes for a roaring evening out.
Right in the heart of Nottingham, just moments from the station, The Shamrock Social is a super spot for nights out in the city. On the ground floor, you'll find a buzzing atmosphere, live music and a bar fully stocked with Irish spirits and over 40 taps.
Downstairs, the Clover Club bursts with colour. The green neons are replaced with vibrant pinks and the sound of popping bottles. Pop in for a pint, stay all night for the craic.
For something a little different? Situated in Lace Market, Penny Lane is quite the quirky bar. The venue fronts loads of fun arcade games, alongside a vintage ice cream machine, cracking cocktails on offer and yummy waffle pops.
A longtime favourite in Nottingham city centre, Neon recently gained attention going viral on TikTok. With its striking neon-lit interiors and buzzing atmosphere, it's made for big nights out.
This place serves up everything from live DJs and gigs to drags shows and theme nights. The cocktail list is a real crowd-pleaser too, packing in the indulgent Banoffee Martini and the zesty Lemon Meringue Pie Martini.
A lively Irish bar in the city centre, Katie O'Briens is relaxed by day, turning up the big energy by night. This place gets all the traditional pub essentials right.
We're talking perfectly‑poured Guinness, well-kept beers and an easy‑drinking selection of spirits. If you're after a no‑nonsense bar with plenty of craic, this is it.
One of the most beautiful bars in Nottingham, Slug and Lettuce can be found in the bustling Market Square. Following a refurb, the beautiful venue is decked out with neon lights, low-hanging flowers and an impressive vaulted ceiling.
If you're after a sleek venue that oozes charm, then head to The Alchemist on King Street. This dark, sultry cocktail bar is perfect for date night, featuring comfy booth seating and low lighting.
They're known for their unique, theatrical cocktails, from The Colour Changing One to a Cherry Poppins. They also offer boozy brunches, and an international menu that features the likes of tempura cauliflower bites, buttermilk chicken burgers and lobster mac 'n' cheese.
This classy boozer located beneath a former Unitarian Church is one of best bars in Nottingham. With cocktails for days, and some mean plates of food to boot, it's a must-visit for anyone looking for a relaxed but stylish night out.
If you're looking for a top-notch drinking den in West Bridgford, then head along to The Botanist. Step inside, where you'll be met with swoon-worthy interiors, including floral displays and rustic wood features, alongside a crackin' menu to boot.
A New York-inspired haunt, The Blind Rabbit is a brilliant bar to book in Nottingham and for many reasons. Head here for the latest sports game whether that be curling, football or golf. Plus, the cocktail range includes classics such as pina coladas and espresso martinis.
The certified cool hangout and social bar known for its ping pong gaming rep, Das Kino is a top boozer for drinking and dancing. Showing off rustic interiors lit with neons, this place has all the makings of a need-to-know basement dive with cocktails and pizza as the dream combination.
On top of their enviable Trent Bridge location, more than 50 craft beers and a delicious food menu; Brewhouse & Kitchen is a unique hangout also offering expert brewing masterclasses - making for the perfect gift for any brew lover in your life.
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Heralded for its happy hours and boasting some of the most unique cocktails, Be At One in Nottingham is a name for you to remember. Perfect for fun-filled nights out where the volume is up and the prices are reasonably low, head on over for a late one in the city.
If you love a good pint and a little sports action, then O'Neills is your boozer. While catching the latest game of golf, rugby or football on HD screens, you and your mates can wolf down delish burgers, fries and yummy pizza slices.
Located on Queen Street in the city centre, Manahatta is a cool cocktail bar that's inspired by New York City. It flaunts glamourous golden decor, colourful seating and exposed brick walls, putting a modern twist on the 1920s speakeasy era.
Whether you're after a wild night out or just a few after-work drinks, there's something for everyone here. Think two-for-one cocktails, bottomless brunches and tasty dishes like fried chicken and waffles, hot dogs or plant-based burgers.
Looking to dabble in one of the most unique bars in Nottingham? Join The Hockley Arts Club not only for a stunning roster of seasonal plates and dishes, their vintage interiors and cocktail collection are sure to impress both, any and all.
City centre destination Bustler is found inside Sneinton Market on Freckingham Street, promising an array of street food traders. 'Eats and beats' is the name of the game here, as live DJs and entertainment pair with organic wines, rotating craft beers and cocktails within a charming industrial unit that also boasts outdoor space.
Junkyard takes on the outfit of a neighbourhood bar with minimalist design and quite a collection of craft beers. Boasting 15 taps of American, British and European labels, you can fill your boots on hops and even gobble down some of their lip-smacking dishes like hot wings and fish tacos.
When it comes to the best bars in Nottingham, Raglan Road Irish Bar stands out as a top choice. Located in the heart of the city, this lively Irish pub offers a fantastic selection of drinks, from classic pints of Guinness to expertly crafted cocktails.
Whether you're after a relaxed pint with friends or a night of dancing to live music, Raglan Road has something for everyone. The welcoming, vibrant atmosphere and friendly staff make it a must-visit spot for any night out.
When it comes to bars in Nottingham city centre, The Rescue Rooms have seen the likes of artists like The Libertines to London Grammer, Calvin Harris and Pearl Jam take to their stage, cementing them as a city favourite for live music venues.
Once you've unearthed the House of Coco Tang, drinking will never be the same. Writing the book on quirky bars, Coco Tang is a lair shrouded in mystery, expert mixology and bustling nights as you enjoy the world of this speakeasy-inspired haunt.
A charming hangout to add to Nottingham's bars roster, The Bodega Social Club is the place where all eager revellers head for after work drinks that turn into late nights. Hosting frequent gig nights, the venue has a bit of a reputation for showcasing hot emerging talent before they blow up.
