Best Bars In Nottingham City Centre

Right, let’s cut to the chase. Nottingham city centre’s bar scene is ridiculously good—like, “why-did-I-ever-leave-the-house” good. I’ve done the hard work of sipping my way through the cobbles, so you don’t have to. Grab a pal (or just your phone charger—no judgment), and let’s find your new favourite spot.

First up: The Lost Property. Tucked away near the Market Square, this place is a whimsical maze of mismatched furniture and secret nooks. The cocktails? They’re served in teacups and birdcages, and they taste like a hug from a very stylish grandma. Honestly, ordering the “Pink Gin Fizz” here feels like you’ve stumbled into a wonderful, tipsy Alice in Wonderland. Pro tip: try to find the “whisper room” for a date. Or hide from your Tinder match. Your call.

For something a bit more old-school cool, head to Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. Yes, it’s the oldest inn in England, and yes, it’s carved right into the castle rock. The ghost stories are free, the ale is proper, and the atmosphere is so thick with history you could spread it on toast. Don’t be scared if a pint glass moves on its own—that’s just the resident spirit, Roger. He’s a terrible tipper, but he knows his beer.

Fancy a modern, Insta-worthy vibe? Annie’s Burger Shack is technically a burger joint, but their bar is a revelation. Think neon lights, a killer rum selection, and cocktails that arrive with edible glitter. It’s loud, it’s fun, and by your second “Zombie” you’ll be best friends with the bartender. “One more round?”—yes, Annie, absolutely.

If you’re after craft beer wizardry, you absolutely must visit The Canal House. Set right on the water, it’s got a sun-trap terrace that’s basically a magnet for good weather and good vibes. Their tap list changes weekly, so you can pretend to be a beer connoisseur while secretly loving the one with the fruity name. I recommend the “Cloudwater IPA”—it’s so hoppy it might just high-five your taste buds.

One of Nottingham's busiest bars reopening after six-figure revamp

And for a final flourish—literally the spot if you love a rooftop—Coco Tang on Carlton Street. It’s a Vietnamese canteen that moonlights as a legendary cocktail den. The vibe is tropical, the music is loud, and their “Fig & Rye” cocktail is basically dessert in a glass. Go at golden hour, snap a selfie with the neon sign, and pretend you’re in aCool film. No one will check your ID for being too cool—I promise.

So there you have it, mate. Nottingham’s bars are like a glittering treasure chest—each one holds a different story, a different buzz, and a different reason to smile. Whether you’re hiding in a historic cave or sipping glitter under neon lights, remember: the city’s heart beats in its pubs, and you’re always welcome. Now go—order a drink, laugh too loudly, and make a gorgeous mess of the night. Cheers to you, you magnificent creature. 🍻