Pit & Pendulum
Nottingham's Gothic pub labyrinth: Poe-inspired decor, killer cocktails, rock vibes, and late-night alt energy in a Grade II gem.
Step into Nottingham's most atmospheric pub, where Gothic grandeur meets Edgar Allan Poe's chilling tale. This Grade II listed venue on Victoria Street sprawls over three levels of dimly lit chambers, gargoyles, and medieval-inspired decor. Enjoy cask ales from local breweries, themed cocktails like the Seven Deadly Sins, and pub classics amid rock and alternative tunes. Open late on weekends, it's a haven for alternative crowds seeking immersive nightlife.
A brief summary to Pit & Pendulum
- 17 Victoria St, Nottingham, NG1 2EW, GB
- +441159506383
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 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
- Opt for themed cocktails like Seven Deadly Sins for the full immersive experience—bold flavors match the decor.
- Explore all three levels; lower bars offer quieter nooks away from the main buzz.
- Check the jukebox for rare emo and metal tracks—it's a treasure trove for alt fans.
- Arrive early on weekends to snag seating before live events and DJ sets fill the space.
- Hunt for hidden features like secret passages and quirky toilets for added adventure.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Pit & Pendulum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Pit & Pendulum
Gothic Heart of Nottingham
Nestled on bustling Victoria Street in Nottingham's city center, Pit & Pendulum occupies a Grade II listed building transformed into a labyrinth of shadowy allure. Drawing its name from Edgar Allan Poe's 1842 short story of Inquisition torment, the pub evokes a sense of macabre mystery from the moment you cross the threshold. Dark arches, twisty wooden carvings, and faux stone elements create an otherworldly escape amid urban energy. Spanning three floors, each level reveals unique nooks: the street-level bar buzzes with activity, while lower areas descend into dungeon-like intimacy. Gargoyles peer from corners, gothic windows frame secluded spots, and alchemical motifs hint at medieval intrigue. This isn't just a pub—it's a theatrical realm where history and fantasy collide.Drinks with a Dark Twist
The bar boasts an impressive lineup of cask ales, many from Nottingham's local breweries, alongside keg favorites and an array of spirits. Signature cocktails steal the show, themed around Valhalla, the Seven Deadly Sins, or Contrary Virtues—each a potion-like blend served in atmospheric style. Expect creative mixes that balance bold flavors with theatrical presentation, perfect for sipping in candlelit alcoves. Pub classics dominate the menu, from sticky BBQ pork meatballs and beer-battered onion rings to katsu chips on pick-and-mix boards. Daily deals keep things accessible, blending hearty bites with the venue's quirky vibe. Gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options ensure broad appeal without compromising the Gothic feast.Live Pulse of Alternative Nights
Rock, metal, emo, and alternative tracks pulse through the speakers, fueling the venue's lively spirit. The jukebox overflows with rare finds, from Korn classics to goth anthems, drawing crowds that embrace the alt scene. Weekends ramp up with DJ sets, live music, and themed events, turning the space into a nocturnal playground. Hidden passageways and surprise elements—like the notorious toilets—add playful discovery. An outdoor smoking area and beer garden provide breathers, while the multi-level layout accommodates surges without losing intimacy. It's a spot where conversations flow as freely as the drinks.Legacy of Eccentric Hospitality
Since its inception, Pit & Pendulum has carved a niche as Nottingham's premier alternative haunt, blending heritage architecture with modern revelry. The Grade II status preserves its structural bones, now adorned with Hammer Horror flair and Victorian salvages. Over two decades, it has hosted countless nights of music-fueled camaraderie. Frequent events—from festive Christmas menus to New Year's Eve bashes—keep the calendar dynamic. Students snag discounts on food and drinks, embedding the pub in local lore. Whether for a quiet cocktail or a raucous evening, it delivers consistent immersion in its signature darkness.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Hockley Arts Club
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Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
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.
Citylife UK
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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.
Weekday Cross Monument
0.2 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
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
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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.
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.
Speakers' Corner
0.3 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection 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.
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.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.5 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
St Nic's Church
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Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.6 km
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)
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
Inspired
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
Flying Horse Walk
0.2 km
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
0.3 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
The Lacehouse
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
Old Mkt Sq
0.3 km
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
0.3 km
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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Historic charm meets eclectic British dining and vibrant bar culture in the heart of Nottingham 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.
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
0.1 km
Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Yamas Meze & Tapas
0.1 km
Authentic Greek and Cypriot mezze in Nottingham's vibrant city centre—sharing plates, Mediterranean flavors, exceptional value.
Paste Contemporary Thai Cuisine
0.1 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market.
Bar Iberico
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
Juicy, stacked burgers and quirky sides in Nottingham’s creative Hockley district, with vegan and gluten-free options for all appetites.
Botti di Mamma
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian tapas with handmade pasta and wood-fired delights in Nottingham’s welcoming Broad Street eatery.
The Pelican Club
0.1 km
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
0.2 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Kerala’s coast with award-winning South Indian cuisine in the heart of Nottingham.
Mowgli Street Food Nottingham
0.2 km
Authentic Indian street food in a vibrant, eclectic setting with fresh flavors and a cozy atmosphere in Nottingham city centre.
Everyday People
0.2 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cow
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Mood Outfitters
0.1 km
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
0.1 km
Discover Nottingham’s premier alternative fashion destination blending music culture, unique styles, and local creativity on Carlton Street.
Your Unique Day
0.1 km
Letterbox magic on Goose Gate: bespoke cakes that deliver joy through your mailbox in Nottingham's creative heart.
Tutu urban boutique
0.2 km
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
0.2 km
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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Discover timeless vintage fashion treasures at Wild Clothing, Nottingham’s iconic destination for unique, sustainable style since 1983.
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
Primark
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Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
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.
Stick & Ribbon
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Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
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.
Be At One - Nottingham
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Discover Nottingham’s vibrant cocktail scene with over 100 expertly crafted drinks and a lively late-night atmosphere at Be At One.
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.
MOJO
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MOJO Bar Nottingham: Where rock ’n’ roll meets expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, no-pretence late-night hotspot.
Tilt
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Discover Nottingham’s cozy cocktail retreat, where expertly crafted drinks meet intimate candle-lit ambiance and soulful blues.
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.
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.
Penny Lane
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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.
Lost Property
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A secretive cocktail bar in the sandstone caves beneath Carlton Street — intimate, theatrical drinks in a subterranean setting.
Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
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Dive into Hockley's nightlife heartbeat at Revolution, where masterful cocktails, fresh bites, and non-stop party vibes flow from noon till the early hours.
BrewDog Nottingham
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Craft beer paradise in a historic lace factory: 28 taps, sourdough pizzas, dog-friendly vibes, and Lace Market energy await in Nottingham's ultimate brew hub.
Wax Bar
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Nottingham's cocktail pulse: artisanal drinks, Caribbean bites, and DJ rhythms fueling epic weekend nights on Broad Street.
All Bar One Nottingham
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Sophisticated wine bar in Nottingham's Weekday Cross, perfect for after-work unwinds, bottomless brunches, and vibrant evenings with global wines and sharing plates.
Bunk
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Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Bodega Nottingham
0.0 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.
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 Cell
0.1 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.
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
0.2 km
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
0.3 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
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.
ICON
0.4 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
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.
Stealth
0.6 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
0.6 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Rock City
0.6 km
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
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- LGBT Friendly
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly