Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
Tucked beneath Nottingham Castle, this legendary pub claims to be England’s oldest inn, with cave-like rooms, centuries of history, and a famously cursed galleon.
Tucked beneath Nottingham Castle’s rocky outcrop, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is a legendary pub that claims to be England’s oldest inn, dating back to 1189. Built into the sandstone cliff, its cave-like rooms and historic cellars tell stories of crusaders, castle brewhouses, and centuries of local life. Inside, low-beamed ceilings, stone walls, and quirky relics create a uniquely atmospheric setting where history and hospitality blend. Whether stopping for a pint, a hearty meal, or simply soaking up the medieval ambience, visitors step into a living piece of Nottingham’s past.
A brief summary to Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
- Brewhouse Yard, 1, Nottingham, NG1 6AD, GB
- +441159473171
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-11 pm
- Friday 11 am-11 pm
- Saturday 11 am-11 pm
- Sunday 11 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Visit early in the day or on a weekday to avoid the busiest crowds, especially if you want a quiet corner in one of the cave-like rooms.
- Ask staff about the pub’s history and curiosities – they’re usually happy to point out the cursed galleon, the pregnancy chair, and the Gaoler’s Chair in the cellars.
- If you’re visiting Nottingham Castle, combine it with a drink or meal here; the pub is just a short walk from the castle entrance and makes a perfect historic pit stop.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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On foot from Nottingham city centre
From Nottingham city centre, walk uphill towards Nottingham Castle; the pub is located just below the castle grounds in Brewhouse Yard, about a 10–15 minute walk on paved, mostly level paths with some gentle slopes.
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From Nottingham railway station
From Nottingham station, follow signs towards the city centre and then uphill to Nottingham Castle; the walk takes about 15–20 minutes on well-maintained pavements, passing through the Old Market Square and up Castle Road.
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By local bus
Several local bus routes serve Nottingham city centre; from there, it’s a short uphill walk to the castle and the pub, suitable for most mobility levels but involving some incline.
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From nearby car parks
Public car parks in the city centre are about a 10–15 minute walk away; the route is pedestrianised in parts and well signposted, but includes some steps and slopes near the castle.
Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
England’s Oldest Inn?
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem proudly claims to have been established in 1189, the year Richard the Lionheart set off on the Third Crusade. While documentary proof of that exact date is lacking, the pub’s deep connection to Nottingham Castle’s medieval history is undeniable. The building rests against Castle Rock, and its rear rooms are carved directly into the soft sandstone cliff, originally serving as a brewhouse for the castle. These caves, along with the pub’s timber-framed structure, give it a genuinely ancient feel, even if the oldest surviving parts of the building date from the 17th century. The name itself is steeped in legend: ‘Trip’ refers to a stop on a journey, and the inn is said to have been a resting place for pilgrims and crusaders heading to Jerusalem. Locals often shorten it to ‘the Trip’, a nickname that’s been used for generations.A Pub That Feels Like a Museum
Walking into Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is like stepping into a cross between a traditional English pub and a small, eccentric museum. The interior is a maze of low-ceilinged bars, snug corners, and cave-like chambers, each filled with curiosities. Among the most famous is the ‘cursed galleon’, a model wooden ship said to bring misfortune to anyone who cleans it; it now sits protected behind glass. Another oddity is the ‘pregnancy chair’, an old seat once believed to increase a woman’s chances of conceiving. The walls are lined with historic artefacts, old photographs, and quirky memorabilia that reflect Nottingham’s long and sometimes bloody past. The atmosphere is warm and slightly mysterious, with flickering firelight, wooden beams, and the constant hum of conversation adding to the sense of stepping back in time.Beneath the Pub: Caves and Castle History
The real magic lies underground. Beneath the pub, a network of sandstone caves extends deep into the rock, once used to store ale and as part of the castle’s brewhouse. These cellars also housed part of the Castle Gaol, including a condemned cell with a very low ceiling and tiny air holes. Just outside, the ‘Gaoler’s Chair’ is carved directly from the rock, a silent witness to centuries of imprisonment. The caves are a reminder of Nottingham’s hidden underground world, where hundreds of man-made chambers once served everything from breweries to dungeons. At the Trip, these spaces are not just preserved but actively part of the pub’s character, with some areas still used for storage and others open for visitors to explore.A Place for Pints and Pilgrims
Today, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem remains a thriving pub, serving traditional ales, ciders, and hearty pub fare in a setting that’s hard to match. The Rock Bar is a popular spot for meals, while the various lounges and nooks offer cosy corners for a quiet drink. In warmer months, the large beer garden provides a more open space to enjoy the surroundings with views of the castle. The pub is also a starting point for several Nottingham walking tours, including the Original Nottingham Ghost Walk, which begins here on Saturday evenings. Whether you’re a history buff, a fan of old pubs, or simply looking for a memorable place to eat and drink, the Trip offers a uniquely atmospheric experience that captures the spirit of medieval Nottingham.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
St Nic's Church
0.2 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
0.3 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.4 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
The Tokenhouse
0.5 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Right Lion
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
Weekday Cross Monument
0.5 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
The Left Lion
0.5 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Citylife UK
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
Speakers' Corner
0.6 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Scale Space Nottingham
0.6 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
Cathedral Hall
0.6 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.7 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
King's Walk sign
0.7 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.7 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
0.0 km
Step into Nottingham’s haunted past with The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk, starting at the legendary Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem pub.
Museum of Nottingham Life
0.0 km
Explore 300 years of Nottingham’s social history beneath historic 17th-century cottages and intriguing sandstone caves.
Mortimer’s hole
0.1 km
Explore Mortimer’s Hole, a secret medieval tunnel beneath Nottingham Castle steeped in history and mystery.
Robin Hood Statue
0.1 km
Iconic bronze statue of Robin Hood beside Nottingham Castle, celebrating the legendary outlaw and Nottingham’s rich folklore heritage.
Nottingham Castle
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham Castle’s rich history, underground caves, and vibrant museums atop a scenic hill overlooking Nottingham’s cityscape.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.2 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
0.2 km
A dramatic sandstone cliff crowned by castle ruins, offering panoramic city views and a journey into Nottingham’s medieval and rebellious past.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.4 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
Flying Horse Walk
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
Bell Inn
0.5 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub where 15th-century beams, historic caves, and traditional ales create an unforgettable medieval atmosphere in the city’s heart.
City of Caves
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
Inspired
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Hopkinson
0.5 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
Old Mkt Sq
0.5 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Old Market Square
0.5 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Essential places to dine
Fothergills
0.2 km
Historic bistro with local flavors and castle views in Nottingham’s architectural gem, welcoming all including dog lovers.
World Service Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant Modern European dining in Nottingham’s historic Newdigate House, blending ambitious cuisine with warm, attentive service.
The Castle - Pub and Kitchen
0.2 km
Historic Nottingham gastropub offering hearty British dishes, craft ales, and a warm atmosphere next to Nottingham Castle.
The Cumin Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Punjabi cuisine with bold flavors and warm hospitality in Nottingham’s family-run gem.
The Roundhouse Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
Historic charm meets casual dining with local craft beers and hearty pub classics in Nottingham’s city centre.
No.Twelve
0.4 km
Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
0.4 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
Chino Latino
0.4 km
Savor vibrant Pan-Asian and Latino fusion dishes in a sleek, metropolitan setting at Nottingham’s award-winning Chino Latino.
MemSaab
0.4 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
Calcutta Club
0.4 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
Zaap Thai Street Food
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.
Browns Nottingham
0.5 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Restaurant Bar Gigi
0.5 km
Elegant Italian dining and cocktails in a historic Nottingham setting, perfect for intimate evenings and sharing inspired plates.
Everyday People
0.5 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
baresca
0.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Common Choice
0.2 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
ChicChoiceHub
0.2 km
Discover Eastern elegance on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill at ChicChoiceHub, where oriental treasures meet Civil War legacy in a treasure trove of Asian artistry and crafts.
Shop Zero
0.3 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
OH DUCK IT
0.4 km
Dive into duck-tastic humor and Nottingham dialect delights at this cheeky gift shop, where quirky souvenirs and local crafts quack up the city's shopping scene.
Garms Nottingham
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Vivienne Westwood
0.4 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Lulu Brandy Vintage
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Lulu Brandy Vintage, Nottingham’s premier vintage clothing boutique.
Stick & Ribbon
0.5 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.5 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.5 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.5 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.5 km
A vibrant independent bead and craft shop in Nottingham’s historic Market Street, offering expert workshops and a vast range of jewellery-making supplies.
Tutu urban boutique
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Primark
0.6 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
0.2 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
Crafty Crow
0.2 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Canalhouse
0.3 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.4 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Malt Cross
0.4 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
0.4 km
Lively Irish pub in Nottingham's Market Square: pub grub, live sports, DJ nights, and pints in a buzzing city-centre spot that parties till late.
Pepper Rocks
0.4 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
The Blind Rabbit
0.5 km
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.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
0.5 km
Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
0.5 km
Experience vibrant social life in a stunning Gothic church setting with creative cocktails and hearty British classics in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Cucamara
0.5 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
All Bar One Nottingham
0.5 km
Sophisticated wine bar in Nottingham's Weekday Cross, perfect for after-work unwinds, bottomless brunches, and vibrant evenings with global wines and sharing plates.
Brass Monkey
0.5 km
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
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
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Business Friendly
