The Pit & Pendulum: Nottingham’s Gothic Pub Experience
Step into Nottingham’s gothic heart at The Pit & Pendulum, a unique pub blending dark medieval charm with vibrant alternative nightlife.
Nestled in Nottingham’s city centre on Victoria Street, The Pit & Pendulum is a uniquely gothic-themed pub offering a dark, atmospheric setting inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s tales. Spread over multiple floors with medieval-style décor, it combines a vibrant alternative nightlife with a menu of British pub classics, inventive cocktails, and local ales. Known for its theatrical ambiance and lively events, this venue is a magnet for lovers of the macabre and gothic culture.
A brief summary to Pit & Pendulum
- 17 Victoria St, Nottingham, NG1 2EW, GB
- +441159506383
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 pm-11 pm
- Tuesday 12 pm-12 am
- Wednesday 12 pm-12 am
- Thursday 12 pm-12 am
- Friday 12 pm-2 am
- Saturday 12 pm-2 am
- Sunday 12 pm-11 pm
Local tips
- Try the themed cocktails like the Seven Deadly Sins for a theatrical drinking experience.
- Explore the hidden rooms and secret passageways scattered throughout the venue.
- Visit during themed nights or live music events to experience the pub’s lively atmosphere.
- The pub is strictly 18+ due to adult-themed content, so bring valid ID for entry.
- Look out for daily food and drink deals, including student discounts.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Pit & Pendulum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pit & Pendulum
A Gothic Haven in the Heart of Nottingham
The Pit & Pendulum stands out as one of Nottingham’s most distinctive pubs, located at 17 Victoria Street. Its name references Edgar Allan Poe’s 1842 short story, evoking a mysterious and eerie atmosphere that permeates the venue. The pub occupies a Grade II listed building, its interior a captivating blend of gothic and medieval influences. Visitors encounter dark wood, stone arches, gargoyles, and ornate furnishings that create an immersive setting reminiscent of dungeons and alchemical chambers.Atmosphere and Design That Transports You
Spread over two to three levels, The Pit & Pendulum features multiple bars and secluded alcoves, perfect for intimate conversations or lively gatherings. The décor is intentionally theatrical, with dim lighting and vintage gothic elements that appeal to alternative and goth subcultures. The pub’s ambiance is enhanced by a soundtrack of rock, metal, and alternative music, contributing to a vibrant, edgy nightlife experience.Culinary Offerings and Themed Drinks
The menu focuses on British pub classics with a twist, including small plates ideal for sharing such as sticky BBQ pork meatballs, beer-battered onion rings, and katsu chips. The pub also offers daily deals and student discounts, making it accessible for a range of visitors. Drink options are extensive, featuring a variety of local cask ales alongside themed cocktails inspired by concepts like the Seven Deadly Sins and Valhalla, adding a playful and theatrical element to the drinking experience.Events and Social Scene
The Pit & Pendulum frequently hosts themed nights, live music performances, and DJ sets, making it a lively venue for nightlife enthusiasts. Its alternative vibe attracts a welcoming crowd, often described as a safe haven for goth and alt communities. The venue’s festive events during the Christmas season and New Year’s Eve celebrations add seasonal charm, with special menus and a buzzing atmosphere.Unique Features and Visitor Experience
Beyond its décor and drinks, the pub offers hidden rooms and secret passageways, inviting visitors to explore and discover surprises within its walls. The combination of gothic aesthetics, theatrical drinks, and a dynamic social calendar makes The Pit & Pendulum a memorable destination for those seeking something beyond the typical pub experience.Accessibility and Practical Information
Open daily from noon, with extended hours on weekends until 2am, The Pit & Pendulum caters to both early diners and late-night revelers. While there is no on-site parking, the central location in Nottingham city centre ensures good public transport links. The pub is strictly over 18 due to adult-themed video content, making it an exclusively adult venue. Its business casual dress code and moderate pricing make it approachable yet distinctive.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Hockley Arts Club
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Watson Fothergill's Office
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Citylife UK
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The Tokenhouse
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16 Stoney Street
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Weekday Cross Monument
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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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St Peter's Church, Nottingham
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Speakers' Corner
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King's Walk sign
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Bunkers Hill
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Victoria Station Clock Tower
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St Nic's Church
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The Belgrave Rooms
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Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Unmissable attractions to see
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.
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.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
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Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
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.
Nottingham Council House
0.2 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Lace Market
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
Victoria Centre
0.3 km
Shop, dine, and unwind at Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, the city’s ultimate retail and leisure destination.
Old Market Square
0.3 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
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.
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.
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.
City of Caves
0.3 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
St Mary’s Church Nottingham
0.3 km
Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
National Justice Museum
0.3 km
Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
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
Cosy Club
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The Loxley
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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.
Dino
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Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Yamas Meze & Tapas
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Authentic Greek and Cypriot mezze in Nottingham's vibrant city centre—sharing plates, Mediterranean flavors, exceptional value.
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.
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.
Dolce Restaurant
0.1 km
Affordable Italian classics served in a friendly, casual setting in Nottingham’s bustling Broad Street.
Fat Hippo Nottingham
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Juicy, stacked burgers and quirky sides in Nottingham’s creative Hockley district, with vegan and gluten-free options for all appetites.
Botti di Mamma
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The Pelican Club
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Experience authentic Umbrian Italian cuisine, live jazz, and crafted cocktails in Nottingham’s elegant and intimate Pelican Club.
baresca
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
Kayal
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Experience the authentic flavors of Kerala’s coast with award-winning South Indian cuisine in the heart of Nottingham.
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.
Everyday People
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MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Hopkinsons @ Cobden Place
0.1 km
Vintage emporium with bar and café flair in Nottingham's creative Hockley—hunt treasures, sip pints, savor cakes in a restored lace factory gem.
Bubble Vintage
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Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
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.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.1 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
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.
Tutu urban boutique
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Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
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.
Wild Clothing
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Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
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Primark
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Relic x Hooked Nottingham
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18montrose
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Stick & Ribbon
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pit & Pendulum
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TIER Nottingham
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Be At One - Nottingham
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BOX Nottingham
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MOJO
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Tilt
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Six Barrel Drafthouse
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The Curious Tavern
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Penny Lane
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Lost Property
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Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
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BrewDog Nottingham
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Wax Bar
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All Bar One Nottingham
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Bunk
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bodega Nottingham
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Tantra Night Clubs
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The Cell
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Popworld - Nottingham
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Eleven
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NG-One
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Unit 13
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Love zoo
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ICON
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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.
Tunnel Club
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Ocean Nightclub
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Stealth
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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
- Quirky
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Retro Vibes
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
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly