Malt Cross: Nottingham's Historic Victorian Music Hall Pub
Historic Victorian music hall and vibrant pub in Nottingham city centre, blending heritage charm with live music, arts, and quality ales.
Malt Cross is a Grade II listed Victorian music hall and pub located in the heart of Nottingham city centre. Known for its stunning architecture and vibrant community atmosphere, it offers quality food, award-winning ales, live music, and cultural events in a beautifully restored heritage setting. The venue also features art galleries, craft workshops, and tours of its historic caves, making it a unique cultural hub for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Malt Cross
- 16 St James's St, Nottingham, NG1 6FG, GB
- +441159411048
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-9 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-11 pm
- Friday 11 am-12 am
- Saturday 11 am-12 am
- Sunday 11 am-9 pm
Local tips
- Order at the counter after finding a table to enjoy the casual, relaxed service style.
- Check the live music schedule in advance to catch performances on the central stage, especially on Tuesdays.
- Try the famous cream and crushed Maltesers hot chocolate for a unique treat.
- Be aware that upstairs seating areas can get warm, so dress accordingly if sensitive to heat.
- Explore the basement caves tours and art gallery for a deeper cultural experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Malt Cross location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Malt Cross
A Living Victorian Music Hall in Nottingham
Malt Cross stands as one of Nottingham's most iconic cultural landmarks, housed in a Grade II listed building originally constructed in 1877. It is celebrated as the only Victorian music hall in the country still operating in its original design and purpose. The building’s architectural features include a laminated wood barrel vault ceiling with glazed panels and ornate cast-iron columns and balustrades, which create a grand and atmospheric interior. The venue underwent careful restoration in 1997 and further extensive renovations in 2014 with Heritage Lottery funding, preserving its historic charm while adapting it for modern use.A Hub for Community, Arts, and Live Music
More than just a pub, Malt Cross is a vibrant community centre and arts venue. It hosts live music events regularly, especially on Tuesdays, featuring a variety of genres that complement the venue’s lively atmosphere. The basement caves have been opened for tours, providing visitors a glimpse into Nottingham’s subterranean history. The venue also houses an art gallery, craft workshops for schools, and rehearsal studios, fostering local creativity and cultural engagement. This multi-functional space serves as a meeting point for locals and visitors who appreciate quality food, drinks, and entertainment.Culinary and Beverage Offerings
Malt Cross offers a diverse menu of homemade food and beverages, including their own blend of coffee, loose-leaf teas, and a famously indulgent cream and crushed Maltesers hot chocolate. The pub features an enviable range of continental lagers, wines, single malt whiskies, and a rotating selection of six real ales and ciders. The venue is known for its commitment to quality and variety, catering to different tastes including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Its casual counter-service style encourages a relaxed and social dining experience.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The venue is fully accessible, welcoming visitors of all abilities. It is dog-friendly and family-friendly, with facilities including free Wi-Fi, highchairs, and wheelchair access. Seating is available across multiple levels, though upstairs areas can get warm. The venue’s historic ambiance combined with modern amenities makes it suitable for casual visits, special events, and private functions. Malt Cross also offers wedding packages in its atmospheric setting, providing a unique alternative venue for celebrations.Location and Cultural Significance
Situated just off Nottingham’s Old Market Square at 16 St James’s Street, Malt Cross occupies a central location easily accessible by public transport and close to Nottingham Railway Station and the metro. It is a cherished landmark that connects Nottingham’s rich Victorian heritage with contemporary cultural life. The venue’s commitment to community and the arts has earned it recognition and nominations for local awards, reinforcing its status as a must-visit destination for those seeking an authentic and engaging experience in Nottingham.Events and Atmosphere
Malt Cross is known for its lively events calendar, including live DJ nights, music festivals, and charity events. The atmosphere is a blend of historic grandeur and casual conviviality, making it ideal for both quiet afternoons and vibrant evenings. The venue’s unique combination of heritage architecture, cultural programming, and quality hospitality creates a memorable environment that celebrates Nottingham’s past and present.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Right Lion
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Speakers' Corner
0.2 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
0.3 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.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.3 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
St Nic's Church
0.3 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
King's Walk sign
0.3 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
The Tokenhouse
0.3 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
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.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.4 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.4 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Cathedral Hall
0.4 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.4 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Citylife UK
0.4 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
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.
Unmissable attractions to see
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.1 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
Old Mkt Sq
0.1 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Old Market Square
0.2 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
0.2 km
Immersive escape rooms with innovative puzzles and theatrical game masters in Nottingham's city centre.
Nottingham Council House
0.2 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
0.3 km
Nottingham’s historic Theatre Royal and modern Royal Concert Hall host West End musicals, concerts, comedy and more in the heart of the city.
Flying Horse Walk
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
The Turf Tavern
0.3 km
Experience the rich history and local flavors at The Turf Tavern, Nottingham's iconic pub steeped in tradition and charm.
Inspired
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Nottingham Playhouse
0.3 km
Bold, thrilling theatre in a modernist landmark—where regional excellence meets West End ambition.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
Public Art - Sky Mirror
0.3 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic Sky Mirror, a captivating stainless steel sculpture reflecting the sky and cityscape in ever-changing optical illusions.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.3 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Robin Hood Statue
0.3 km
Iconic bronze statue of Robin Hood beside Nottingham Castle, celebrating the legendary outlaw and Nottingham’s rich folklore heritage.
Essential places to dine
Chino Latino
0.1 km
Savor vibrant Pan-Asian and Latino fusion dishes in a sleek, metropolitan setting at Nottingham’s award-winning Chino Latino.
Zaap Thai Street Food
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.
Kushi-ya
0.1 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
Calcutta Club
0.1 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
MemSaab
0.1 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
No.Twelve
0.2 km
Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
Las Iguanas - Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in Nottingham’s lively Chapel Quarter at Las Iguanas.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Nottingham
0.2 km
Modern steakhouse in Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter serving expertly cooked steaks and classic British grill fare in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Bill's Nottingham Restaurant
0.2 km
Cozy British dining with hearty classics and lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
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.
George's Great British Kitchen
0.2 km
A vibrant Nottingham eatery serving classic British fish and chips with a modern twist in a lively, nostalgic setting.
Casa Italian & Seafood Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in Nottingham’s city centre with warm service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Browns Nottingham
0.2 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
The Roundhouse Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Historic charm meets casual dining with local craft beers and hearty pub classics in Nottingham’s city centre.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Nottingham
0.2 km
Elegant steakhouse in Nottingham offering expertly cooked steaks, jazz ambiance, and attentive service for memorable dining experiences.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
OH DUCK IT
0.0 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.
Shop Zero
0.1 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.1 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.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.2 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
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.
Vivienne Westwood
0.3 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Tutu urban boutique
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Primark
0.3 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Handmade Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover unique handmade treasures from UK designers in Nottingham’s vibrant gift shop at 8 King's Walk.
Bubble Vintage
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.3 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
Parallel Universe
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant retro collectibles shop filled with vintage games, toys, comics, and nostalgic treasures in a quirky, welcoming setting.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.4 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Malt Cross
0.0 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
0.1 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.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.1 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.1 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
Cucamara
0.1 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
400 Rabbits
0.1 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Six Richmond House
0.2 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
0.2 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
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.
The Alchemist Nottingham
0.2 km
Ignite your senses in Nottingham's alchemical lair, where molecular cocktails erupt in spectacle and inventive dishes fuel unforgettable nights on King Street.
Tap & Tumbler
0.2 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Bunk
0.2 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Pepper Rocks
0.3 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
ICON
0.0 km
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
0.0 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.3 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
Unit 13
0.4 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.4 km
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.
CRISIS
0.4 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Rescue Rooms
0.4 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Rock City
0.4 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Stealth
0.4 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
The Cell
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
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.
Eleven
0.6 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Entertaining
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
