Penny Lane: Nottingham’s Nostalgic Arcade Bar and Cocktail Haven
Step into Nottingham’s Penny Lane for nostalgic arcade fun, creative cocktails, and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of the Lace Market.
Penny Lane in Nottingham’s Lace Market is a vibrant arcade bar blending nostalgic seaside amusement with creative cocktails and classic comfort food. This lively venue offers vintage arcade games like skee ball and donkey derby, a quirky cocktail menu inspired by childhood treats, and a family-friendly atmosphere until 8pm. With its retro décor, neon-lit arcade, and welcoming vibe, Penny Lane is a unique destination for groups, families, and cocktail lovers seeking fun and nostalgia in the city centre.
A brief summary to Penny Lane
- 9 Fletcher Gate, Nottingham, NG1 1QQ, GB
- +441157860326
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-12 am
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-1 am
- Saturday 11:30 am-1 am
- Sunday 12 pm-12 am
Local tips
- Visit before 8pm if bringing children, as under-18s are welcome only when accompanied by adults until then.
- Purchase tokens for arcade games on-site using cash or card at the token exchange machines.
- Try the creative cocktails during happy hour for great value on inventive drinks.
- Book in advance for groups over 15 to secure your spot and pre-order food.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Penny Lane location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Penny Lane
A Tribute to British Seaside Amusement
Penny Lane was conceived as a love letter to the iconic British seaside arcades of Brighton, Blackpool, and Skegness. The venue recreates the charm and excitement of these classic holiday destinations by bringing a wide selection of vintage arcade games into the heart of Nottingham’s historic Lace Market. Visitors can enjoy games such as ski ball, air hockey, donkey derby, and the traditional 2p penny pushers, all token-operated to maintain the authentic arcade experience. This nostalgic focus is complemented by retro references throughout the bar, evoking a sense of childhood memories and seaside fun.Distinctive Ambience and Design
The venue’s interior offers a striking contrast between the front bar’s mid-century pastel hues and wood-panelled décor, reminiscent of a 1950s seaside lounge, and the back arcade area’s dark, neon-lit atmosphere. The kaleidoscopic glow of arcade machines creates an immersive environment that feels like stepping into a retro-futuristic playground, often compared to scenes from popular culture such as "Stranger Things." This blend of vintage and modern aesthetics makes Penny Lane visually unique and engaging, appealing to both nostalgic adults and younger visitors.Creative Cocktails and Classic Comfort Food
Penny Lane’s cocktail menu is inspired by British childhood favourites and seaside treats, featuring imaginative drinks like the "99 Problems But a Beach Ain’t One," garnished with seaside rock and inflatables, or the "Calippo" cocktail served with a whole Calippo ice lolly. The venue offers daily happy hour deals, making these inventive cocktails accessible to a broad audience. The food menu complements the theme with childhood classics such as burgers, hot dogs, halloumi fries, jalapeño poppers, and nachos, providing familiar comfort food to accompany the drinks and games.Welcoming and Family-Friendly Environment
Penny Lane prides itself on being inclusive and family-friendly, welcoming under-18s accompanied by adults until 8pm daily. The spacious layout ensures that despite its popularity, the venue never feels cramped, offering comfortable seating areas for groups, couples, and families alike. The presence of security staff contributes to a safe and relaxed atmosphere. The venue also caters to accessibility needs with wheelchair access and disabled toilets, ensuring a broad range of visitors can enjoy the experience.Practical Details and Booking Information
Located at 9 Fletcher Gate, Nottingham NG1 1QQ, Penny Lane operates seven days a week, opening from noon until midnight on weekdays and extending to 1am on Fridays and Saturdays. Bookings are accepted for food and drinks, with a £10 per person card authentication deposit for groups under 15, and pre-orders and deposits required for larger parties. The venue is cashless except for game tokens, which can be purchased via cash or card at token exchange machines. The bar’s lively vibe, combined with its nostalgic charm and innovative drinks, makes it a standout destination in Nottingham’s nightlife scene.A Unique Blend of Playfulness and Nostalgia
Penny Lane offers an experience that goes beyond a typical bar or arcade. It is a place where childhood memories are rekindled through games and décor, where cocktails tell stories of seaside holidays, and where the energy of the crowd creates an inviting and fun atmosphere. Whether you’re challenging friends to a game, enjoying a creatively garnished drink, or simply soaking in the vibrant surroundings, Penny Lane provides a memorable outing in Nottingham’s city centre.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Citylife UK
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The Hockley Arts Club
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Weekday Cross Monument
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Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
The Tokenhouse
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Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
16 Stoney Street
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Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
Watson Fothergill's Office
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Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
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A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Right Lion
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Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Left Lion
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Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Speakers' Corner
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Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Bunkers Hill
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Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
King's Walk sign
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A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
St Nic's Church
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Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
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A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
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A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Unmissable attractions to see
Lace Market
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Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
Nottingham Contemporary
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Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
Inspired
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Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
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Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
The Lacehouse
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Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
Flying Horse Walk
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Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
National Justice Museum
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Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
St Mary’s Church Nottingham
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Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
City of Caves
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Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
0.3 km
Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
Nottingham Council House
0.3 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Old Market Square
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Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Old Mkt Sq
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Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Victoria Centre
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Shop, dine, and unwind at Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, the city’s ultimate retail and leisure destination.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
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Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
Essential places to dine
Dino
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Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Cosy Club
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The Pelican Club
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baresca
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
Everyday People
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MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
Paste Contemporary Thai Cuisine
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Experience authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market.
Spice Cay Restaurant & Bar
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Discover bold Caribbean flavors and vibrant vibes at Spice Cay, Nottingham’s premier tapas-style restaurant and bar on Pelham Street.
Piccolino Nottingham
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Elegant Italian dining with classic flavors, a vibrant cocktail bar, and alfresco terrace in Nottingham’s city centre.
The Loxley
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Discover Nottingham's vibrant pub culture at The Loxley – where great food meets friendly faces in a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Iberico
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Sizzling Spanish tapas in Nottingham's vibrant heart: share bold plates, soak up the buzz, and savor Iberia's soul at this foodie favorite.
Mowgli Street Food Nottingham
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Authentic Indian street food in a vibrant, eclectic setting with fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere in Nottingham city centre.
Pizzamisú
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Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian charm in Nottingham’s historic High Pavement at Pizzamisú.
Yamas Meze & Tapas
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Authentic Greek and Cypriot mezze in Nottingham's vibrant city centre—sharing plates, Mediterranean flavors, exceptional value.
Vi-Va Indian Tapas
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Experience vibrant Indian street food culture in cozy Nottingham with Vi-Va’s flavorful tapas-style dining and warm, inviting atmosphere.
Kayal
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mood Outfitters
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Discover Nottingham's boldest independent fashion at Mood Outfitters, where local designers craft unique, wearable art in the heart of Hockley's creative scene.
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
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Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
White Stuff Nottingham
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A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Cow
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Discover timeless threads in Nottingham's coolest vintage haven—Cow curates retro gems with style and soul on Carlton Street.
Stick & Ribbon
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Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
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Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
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Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
Void Clothing
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Discover Nottingham’s premier alternative fashion destination blending music culture, unique styles, and local creativity on Carlton Street.
Your Unique Day
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Letterbox magic on Goose Gate: bespoke cakes that deliver joy through your mailbox in Nottingham's creative heart.
Garms Nottingham
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Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Hopkinsons @ Cobden Place
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Vintage emporium with bar and café flair in Nottingham's creative Hockley—hunt treasures, sip pints, savor cakes in a restored lace factory gem.
White Rose Hockley WR2
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Discover handpicked vintage treasures and sustainable style at this Hockley charity shop, where retro fashion supports noble causes in Nottingham's creative heart.
Bubble Vintage
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Wild Clothing
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Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at Wild Clothing, Nottingham’s iconic destination for unique, sustainable style since 1983.
Tutu urban boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Penny Lane
0.0 km
Step into Nottingham’s Penny Lane for nostalgic arcade fun, creative cocktails, and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of the Lace Market.
Be At One - Nottingham
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All Bar One Nottingham
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Pit & Pendulum
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Descend into Poe-inspired gothic splendor at Nottingham's most haunting pub, where shadowy decor, themed cocktails, and rock anthems craft unforgettable nights.
Six Barrel Drafthouse
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Hockley’s friendly craft-beer pub — six rotating taps, large bottle fridge and a relaxed, dog-welcoming atmosphere.
TIER Nottingham
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A lively Nottingham cocktail bar with quirky décor, creative drinks, and popular Happy Hours in the heart of the city.
The Curious Tavern
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Discover shadowy nooks, bold ales, inventive cocktails, and live tunes in Nottingham's quirkiest Hockley bar—where curiosity meets comfort late into the night.
The Blind Rabbit
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New York-inspired Nottingham bar blending juicy burgers, wild cocktails, live sports on mega screens, arcade games, and casual vibes in a historic Lace Market gem.
Lost Property
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A secretive cocktail bar in the sandstone caves beneath Carlton Street — intimate, theatrical drinks in a subterranean setting.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
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Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
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Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
BOX Nottingham
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Experience Nottingham’s premier sports bar in a stunning historic building with live sport, games, music, and great food under one roof.
Tilt
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Discover Nottingham’s cozy cocktail retreat, where expertly crafted drinks meet intimate candle-lit ambiance and soulful blues.
Bunk
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Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.
Brass Monkey
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Late‑night Lace Market cocktail bar with a big rum selection, polished service and warm, low‑lit interiors — ideal for cocktails into the small hours.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Cell
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Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Tantra Night Clubs
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Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
The Bodega Nottingham
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Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
Popworld - Nottingham
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A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
Eleven
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A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
NG-One
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A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
Ocean Nightclub
0.5 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
ICON
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A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Tunnel Club
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Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
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Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Unit 13
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Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
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Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
Stealth
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Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
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Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Rock City
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Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly