The Left Lion: Nottingham's Iconic Stone Sentinel
Meet Nottingham’s beloved Left Lion, a historic stone guardian and iconic social landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
The Left Lion is a beloved stone statue situated at the front steps of Nottingham's Council House in Old Market Square. Sculpted by Joseph Else, it stands as a historic and cultural landmark, serving as a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike. Known affectionately as 'Leo,' this lion has become a symbol of Nottingham’s civic pride and social life, etched deeply into the city's identity.
A brief summary to The Left Lion
- Council House, Nottingham, NG1 2DT, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the statue’s detailed craftsmanship and the vibrant atmosphere of Old Market Square.
- Use the Left Lion as a convenient and recognizable meeting point when exploring Nottingham city center.
- Combine your visit with a stroll around Old Market Square to experience Nottingham’s historic and cultural heart.
- Capture photos of the Left Lion with the Council House backdrop for iconic Nottingham cityscape shots.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tram
Take the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram to the Old Market Square stop, located within a 5-minute walk of the Left Lion. Trams run frequently every 7-15 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from £1.80 to £3.50 depending on zones and time of day.
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Bus
Multiple Nottingham City Transport bus routes serve stops near Old Market Square, including routes 35, 36, and 39. Buses run every 10-20 minutes, with single fares around £2.40. Note that city center traffic may affect journey times.
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Walking
If you are staying nearby in Nottingham city center, walking to the Left Lion is easy and pleasant. Expect a 10-20 minute walk on mostly flat, paved streets with good pedestrian access.
The Left Lion 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
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Left Lion
A Symbol of Nottingham’s Civic Heart
The Left Lion stands proudly on the left side of the grand staircase leading up to Nottingham’s Council House, a central feature of Old Market Square. Created by Joseph Else, principal of the Nottingham School of Art, the statue was installed alongside its twin, the Right Lion, as part of the Council House’s completion in 1929. Over the decades, the Left Lion has transcended its role as mere decoration to become an emblematic meeting place and a fixture in Nottingham’s urban landscape.A Storied Meeting Place and Local Landmark
Locals fondly refer to the Left Lion as 'Leo,' a nickname that reflects the statue’s warm place in community life. It is common for residents to use Leo as a rendezvous point, whether for casual meetups, social dates, or as a landmark during city events. Many Nottingham natives have memories of climbing on the lion as children, while adults continue to gather around it, underscoring its enduring social significance.Artistic Craftsmanship and Design
The lion’s sculptor, Joseph Else, was renowned for his artistic contributions to Nottingham’s cultural heritage. The statues’ detailed craftsmanship captures the regal and protective spirit of the lion, symbolizing strength and guardianship over the city. The stone lions complement the Council House’s classical architecture, enhancing the grandeur of the civic building and contributing to the historic atmosphere of Old Market Square.Integration into Nottingham’s Cultural Fabric
Beyond its physical presence, the Left Lion has inspired local culture, lending its name to Nottingham’s arts and culture magazine, LeftLion, which celebrates the city’s creative scene. The statue’s prominence in the city center makes it a frequent backdrop for cultural events, street performances, and public gatherings, reinforcing its role as a cultural touchstone.Atmosphere and Visitor Experience
Visitors to the Left Lion can soak in the lively energy of Old Market Square, surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and cafes. The statue’s location offers a scenic urban vista and a palpable sense of Nottingham’s community spirit. Whether basking in the bustle of a busy day or enjoying quieter moments, the Left Lion invites reflection on the city’s rich history and vibrant present.Preservation and Legacy
Maintained as part of Nottingham’s heritage, the Left Lion continues to be cherished by the city and its people. It stands not only as a piece of public art but as a living symbol of Nottingham’s identity, resilience, and communal pride, ensuring its legacy will endure for generations to come.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
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.
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.
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.
The Tokenhouse
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Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence 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.
Citylife UK
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Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
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.
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.
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.
St Nic's Church
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Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Scale Space Nottingham
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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.
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.
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.
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
Nottingham Tourism Centre
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Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Bell Inn
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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.
The Turf Tavern
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Experience the rich history and local flavors at The Turf Tavern, Nottingham's iconic pub steeped in tradition and charm.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
0.2 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.
Axed Nottingham Axe Throwing
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Experience the thrill of interactive axe throwing with expert coaching in Nottingham’s vibrant urban playground.
The Cornerhouse
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A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.
Victoria Centre
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Shop, dine, and unwind at Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, the city’s ultimate retail and leisure destination.
Lace Market Square
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Historic heart of Nottingham’s lace industry, blending Victorian charm with vibrant cultural life and creative energy.
Trinity Square
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Modern student living at Trinity Square, Nottingham’s vibrant city centre residence, steps from university and cultural hotspots.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Bar Gigi
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Elegant Italian dining and cocktails in a historic Nottingham setting, perfect for intimate evenings and sharing inspired plates.
Bill's Nottingham Restaurant
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Cozy British dining with hearty classics and lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
George's Great British Kitchen
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A vibrant Nottingham eatery serving classic British fish and chips with a modern twist in a lively, nostalgic setting.
The Soulville Steakhouse
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Experience Nottingham’s vibrant soul-themed steakhouse with expertly cooked steaks and a lively 60s Motown atmosphere.
French Living
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Experience authentic French cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting at Nottingham’s long-standing French Living restaurant.
Gusto Italian
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively dining in Nottingham’s city centre with Gusto Italian’s open kitchen and private dining options.
No.Twelve
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Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
Yamas Meze & Tapas
0.2 km
Authentic Greek and Cypriot mezze in Nottingham's vibrant city centre—sharing plates, Mediterranean flavors, exceptional value.
The Loxley
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant pub culture at The Loxley – where great food meets friendly faces in a cozy atmosphere.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant Nottingham
0.2 km
Authentic Italian dining in Nottingham’s city centre, offering classic pasta, pizza, and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
Cosy Club
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Historic charm meets eclectic British dining and vibrant bar culture in the heart of Nottingham city centre.
Kushi-ya
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Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
Bistrot Pierre
0.2 km
Authentic French bistro dining with seasonal menus and a cozy private room in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
baresca
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
Tamatanga
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Authentic Indian flavors served fresh in a lively, family-friendly Nottingham hotspot with great value and welcoming vibes.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White Rose Nottingham WR6
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Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
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.
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.
Vivienne Westwood
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Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
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.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.2 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.
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
0.2 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.2 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Handmade Nottingham
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Discover unique handmade treasures from UK designers in Nottingham’s vibrant gift shop at 8 King's Walk.
Parallel Universe
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Discover Nottingham’s vibrant retro collectibles shop filled with vintage games, toys, comics, and nostalgic treasures in a quirky, welcoming setting.
OH DUCK IT
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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.
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.
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.
Urban Outfitters
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Eclectic fashion, vintage finds, and creative homewares in Nottingham's vibrant shopping heart.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist Nottingham
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O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
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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.
Tilt
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Discover Nottingham’s cozy cocktail retreat, where expertly crafted drinks meet intimate candle-lit ambiance and soulful blues.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
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Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
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.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
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Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
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MOJO
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MOJO Bar Nottingham: Where rock ’n’ roll meets expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, no-pretence late-night hotspot.
Nottingham Secret Garden
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Discover Nottingham's lush cocktail hideaway: tropical vibes, craft drinks, and electric nights in a secret beer garden oasis.
Pepper Rocks
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A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
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.
Malt Cross
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Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
400 Rabbits
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Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Cucamara
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Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Nottingham
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A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.2 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
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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.
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.
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
0.3 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
The Cell
0.3 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.
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.
CRISIS
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Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
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.
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
