A Craft Lovers Guide to the Best Pubs in Nottingham

The East Midlands is one of the brewing capitals of the UK, making Nottingham one of the best places to grab a craft beer or two. It’s not just about the drink though, as the city’s brewing heritage paved the way for plenty of great venues. Some of the best pubs in Nottingham have been standing for hundreds of years, serving punters since the time of the Crusades.

Whether you’re just settling into your new home in Nottingham, or have been here a while, a drop at one of these places will have you smitten with this crafty city.

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem: The Living Legend

An establishment that claims to be the oldest pub in England, it’s carved into the sandstone caves underneath Nottingham Castle. Step inside the fabled Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. Part pub, part tourist attraction, this place has served everyone from Richard the Lionheart’s men to Green Day.

Low ceilings, crooked rooms, and even a haunted ship in a bottle, this historic taphouse invites you to explore some of Nottingham’s history alongside your pint.

The beer selection leans towards your average boozer, however this doesn’t detract from the experience. The story and design points alone make this an unmissable first stop on your Nottingham pub tour.

The Crafty Crow: Cask Ale Kings

Just outside Nottingham Castle’s gates stands the Crafty Crow, a modern taproom with rustic appeal. Ran by a local brewery, the pub showcases a brilliant array of rotating cask ales and IPA’s. One night you might sample a tangy sour from a regional brewery, the next a rich stout from Ireland.

There’s also a sociable feel to the layout, that surrounds the huge bar area. Locals watch live sport and play pool alongside students enjoying a catch up after a long day of lectures. The relaxed atmosphere and lack of pretence invites everyone inside, and if craft beers aren’t your thing, there’s a great choice of spirits available too.

The Lion at Basford: Live Music and Community Spirt

Hop on a tram north of the city centre and you soon arrive outside The Lion at Basford. A friendly neighbourhood pub that’s appeal stretches far beyond the housing estate it’s located in.

A hidden gem that pairs traditional pub grub and locally brewed beers with a regular calendar of live music (including some of the best tribute acts in the city). The atmosphere here is more local than many in the centre of town, however their is no animosity towards students making the journey.

Cider is taken just as seriously as its hoppier counterpart here too. The selection is just as large and is updated often.

The Trent Bridge Inn: Wetherspoon’s Finest

Popular with students at both Nottingham Trent University and the University of Nottingham, The Trent Bridge Inn is found under the shadow of the famous cricket ground of the same name. It’s also just across the road from the City Ground, home of Nottingham Forest FC.

While this place may well be a Wetherspoon’s, it’s a huge pub that offers wide choice when it comes to craft ale. On matchday’s this place is one of the busiest in the city, and when the cricket’s on you can hear the action if you missed out on tickets.

Like all branches of the student favourite pub, the food is good value and there are regular deals for those using it as a staging post on their way into town for the night.

Six Barrels Hockley: Casual and Cosy

On the corner of the creative quarter in Hockley, Six Barrels offers a relaxed tavern experience with a craft focussed selection. It’s the perfect place to go for a quiet afternoon out with friends that aren’t interested in the bright lights and deep baselines of Nottingham’s clubs.

The bar rotates its draft options regularly, so there’s usually something new to try whenever your drop in. It’s laid back atmosphere makes it a popular spot among locals and mature students too.

The Taphouse: Self Serve Perfection

Found on one of Nottingham’s numerous small city centre street’s is The Taphouse. A relatively new establishment that’s quickly built a reputation for being one of most enjoyable beer drinking experiences in the city. It’s appeal comes from the fact you serve the drinks yourself, spending only what you want to on each sample.

Featuring a constantly rotating selection, you can try 10 different beers for the same price as a few pints elsewhere.

The venue itself is intimate, with a modern but welcoming atmosphere. Staff are enthusiastic about their recommendations, making it a great choice if you want to broaden your palate or simply enjoy something novel.

Navigating Nottingham’s Pub Scene

In a single evening, you could move from a centuries old public house to a modern taproom. Whether you’re the type who loves to compare tasting notes, or someone who just wants a quiet pint after a lecture, the city delivers.

If you want to dive even deeper into the scene, the Good Beer Guide is a handy resource with trusted recommendations across the UK. Check it out here: Good Beer Guide.

Where are Some More Pubs in Nottingham?

• Near Campus: Try the Admiral Rodney (UoN) or The Horn in Hand (NTU) for a quick meal and drink near to campus.
• In Hockley: Head to The Curious Tavern for cosy interiors and chilled atmosphere’s.
• The City Centre: Pit and Pendulum, The Ned Ludd, and the Bierkeller are all popular among students in the city.
• Further afield: Try venturing out to nearby Derby or Leicester for more great pubs.

Last Sip

Nottingham isn’t a city short on places to enjoy a great afternoon with your pals. For craft lovers in particular, it’s a haven of great beer where every afternoon out can help you find new favourites and classic tipples alike.

If you’re settling into life here and want to make the most of the city, take a look at our Nottingham city page for more inspiration.

Cheers to finding your new favourite spot.

Read on for more information on how to make the most of your time in Nottingham.