Hockley: Nottingham's Bohemian Gem

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Welcome to Hockley, Nottingham’s vibrant and bohemian neighborhood brimming with eclectic charm. Nestled in the heart of the city, Hockley is a cultural hotspot that seamlessly blends history with modern flair. Its cobbled streets are lined with independent boutiques, quirky cafes, and a plethora of vintage shops, making it a paradise for those who love unique finds and artisanal products. Hockley is also renowned for its dynamic arts scene. The area is home to several art galleries, theaters, and live music venues, offering a rich tapestry of cultural experiences. The Broadway Cinema, an independent cinema and arts venue, is a must-visit for film buffs, while the Nottingham Arts Theatre provides a stage for local talent to shine. Foodies will delight in Hockley’s diverse culinary offerings. From cozy bistros serving up gourmet delights to trendy street food vendors, there is something to tantalize every palate. Be sure to visit the local farmer’s market for fresh produce and handmade delicacies. The neighborhood’s nightlife is equally enticing, with a variety of pubs, cocktail bars, and live music venues that come alive as the sun sets. Whether you're looking to enjoy a quiet drink or dance the night away, Hockley has something for everyone. With its artistic vibe, rich history, and bustling atmosphere, Hockley is a must-see destination for any visitor to Nottingham.

Local tips in Hockley

Visit in the evening to experience Hockley's buzzing nightlife and live music scene.
Check out the Broadway Cinema for an eclectic mix of independent films and arts events.
Wander through the vintage shops for unique clothing and accessories.
Try a meal at one of the local bistros or street food vendors for an authentic taste of Hockley.
Explore the art galleries and theaters to soak in the local culture and creativity.

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Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Nottingham Castle

Discover Nottingham Castle, a historical landmark blending art, culture, and breathtaking views in the heart of England.

City of Caves

Uncover the hidden history of Nottingham at the City of Caves, a unique tourist attraction blending adventure with deep-rooted heritage.

Robin Hood Statue

Stand with Nottingham’s legendary outlaw at the iconic Robin Hood Statue, a timeless symbol of rebellion and folklore outside Nottingham Castle.

National Justice Museum

Explore the rich history of law and justice at the National Justice Museum in Nottingham, where education meets engagement in a captivating setting.

Nottingham Contemporary

Discover contemporary art and culture at Nottingham Contemporary, a vibrant hub for exhibitions, events, and socializing in Nottingham.

The Hockley Arts Club

Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.

Old Market Square

Nottingham’s historic and vibrant city centre square, blending rich heritage with lively events and iconic architecture.

Bunkers Hill

Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.

Old Trent Bridge

A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.

The Left Lion

Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.

Curious brick tower

Discover the Curious Brick Tower, a stunning architectural marvel in Nottingham that offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and charm.

Essential places to dine

Bar Iberico

Sizzling Spanish tapas in Nottingham's vibrant heart: share bold plates, soak up the buzz, and savor Iberia's soul at this foodie favorite.

Fat Hippo Nottingham

Juicy, stacked burgers and quirky sides in Nottingham’s creative Hockley district, with vegan and gluten-free options for all appetites.

Kayal

Experience the authentic flavors of Kerala’s coast with award-winning South Indian cuisine in the heart of Nottingham.

Sexy Mamma Love Spaghetti

Authentic handmade Italian pasta with daily specials in a cozy Nottingham city centre setting, blending rustic charm with vibrant flavors.

Paste Contemporary Thai Cuisine

Experience authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market.

Dolce Restaurant

Affordable Italian classics served in a friendly, casual setting in Nottingham’s bustling Broad Street.

Vi-Va Indian Tapas

Experience vibrant Indian street food culture in cozy Nottingham with Vi-Va’s flavorful tapas-style dining and warm, inviting atmosphere.

Mesa

Innovative small plates and a celebrated cheeseburger in Nottingham’s creative Hockley district, Mesa offers a lively dining experience with a modern twist.

Botti di Mamma

Experience authentic Italian tapas with handmade pasta and wood-fired delights in Nottingham’s welcoming Broad Street eatery.

Spice Cay Restaurant & Bar

Discover bold Caribbean flavors and vibrant vibes at Spice Cay, Nottingham’s premier tapas-style restaurant and bar on Pelham Street.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Void Clothing

A compact, independent shop on Carlton Street specialising in metal, punk and alternative streetwear with collectible drops and focused staff service.

White Rose Hockley WR4

A hands‑on vintage shop in Nottingham’s Hockley where curated pre‑loved fashion and everyday treasures wait to be discovered.

Cow

A tidy, design-led vintage boutique in Nottingham offering curated mid-century and later wardrobe finds presented with boutique-style calm and clarity.

That Weird Shop

Dive into Nottingham's quirkiest emporium: vinyl, retro toys, alt fashion, and a haunted basement brimming with eerie artifacts and spectral whispers.

Wild Clothing

Forty years of vintage magic in Nottingham's Hockley: unearth timeless threads at Wild Clothing, where retro meets sustainable chic in the Lace Market heart.

White Rose Hockley WR2

Discover handpicked vintage treasures and sustainable style at this Hockley charity shop, where retro fashion supports noble causes in Nottingham's creative heart.

Cow Thrift

Dive into Hockley's affordable vintage paradise at COW Thrift, where color-coded bargains and sustainable scores await in a spacious haven of retro prints and one-off gems.

Your Unique Day

Letterbox magic on Goose Gate: bespoke cakes that deliver joy through your mailbox in Nottingham's creative heart.

Hopkinsons @ Cobden Place

Vintage emporium with bar and café flair in Nottingham's creative Hockley—hunt treasures, sip pints, savor cakes in a restored lace factory gem.

Catori's Gift Shop

Uncover handcrafted treasures and local artisan magic at Catori's Gift Shop, Nottingham's gem for unique souvenirs in the historic Lace Market.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Pit & Pendulum

Descend into Poe-inspired gothic splendor at Nottingham's most haunting pub, where shadowy decor, themed cocktails, and rock anthems craft unforgettable nights.

BrewDog Nottingham

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.

Six Barrel Drafthouse

Hockley’s friendly craft-beer pub — six rotating taps, large bottle fridge and a relaxed, dog-welcoming atmosphere.

The Hockley Arts Club

Discover Nottingham's hidden cocktail haven in a grade-II listed lace showroom, where themed floors blend award-winning drinks, artisan boards, and electric atmospheres for unforgettable nights.

Revolution Nottingham - Hockley

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.

Bunkers Hill

Nottingham's Hockley cornerstone: craft ales, loaded burgers, and screens blazing with sports action in a modern, memorabilia-packed pub near the arena.

The Curious Tavern

Discover shadowy nooks, bold ales, inventive cocktails, and live tunes in Nottingham's quirkiest Hockley bar—where curiosity meets comfort late into the night.

31K

NYC loft-style bar on Nottingham's Goose Gate, mastering cocktails, meatballs, and fusion street food in Hockley's creative heart.

Lost Property

A secretive cocktail bar in the sandstone caves beneath Carlton Street — intimate, theatrical drinks in a subterranean setting.

Wax Bar

Nottingham's cocktail pulse: artisanal drinks, Caribbean bites, and DJ rhythms fueling epic weekend nights on Broad Street.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to Hockley

Discover Hockley with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloAlright
  [al-right]
- GoodbyeTa-ra
  [ta-ra]
- YesAye
  [eye]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomeCheers
  [cheers]
- Thank youTa
  [ta]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [soh-ree]
- How are you?How's it goin'?
  [hows it goin']
- Fine. And you?Alright. You?
  [al-right. you?]
- Do you speak English?D'ya speak English?
  [dya speak ing-glish]
- I don't understandI ain't got a scooby
  [I aint got a scooby]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I 'ave a gander at the menu, please
  [can I ave a gan-der at the menu, please]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [I don't do meat]
- Cheers!Chin chin!
  [chin chin]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I settle up, please
  [can I settle up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Sod off!
  [sod off]
- Call the Police!Ring the Old Bill!
  [ring the old bill]
- Call a doctor!Get a quack!
  [get a quack]
- I'm lostI'm all over the shop
  [I'm all over the shop]
- I'm illI'm poorly
  [I'm poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I fancy buyin'...
  [I fancy buyin']
- I'm just lookingJust 'avin a butcher's
  [just avin a butchers]
- How much is it?How much is that?
  [how much is that]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit dear
  [that's a bit dear]
- Can you lower the price?Can you do it cheaper?
  [can you do it cheaper]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [it's one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [tomorrow]
- 1One
  [one]
- 2Two
  [two]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [can you show me on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Hockley

Hockley, a vibrant district in Nottingham, has its roots in the medieval period, with its name deriving from the Old English 'Hoc' meaning 'a hill' and 'ley' meaning 'clearing' or 'meadow'. Historically, it was an area of open fields and woodlands, eventually developing into a residential and commercial hub as Nottingham grew in the 19th century.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Hockley became known for its artisan workshops and trades, particularly in textiles and shoe manufacturing. This period saw an influx of skilled artisans who established a thriving economy, contributing to Nottingham's reputation as a center for craftsmanship and industry.
The Industrial Revolution brought significant changes to Hockley, with factories and workshops springing up to meet the demands of a growing population. The area became a bustling center for commerce and industry, with notable developments such as the establishment of the Nottingham Lace Market nearby, which had a profound impact on the local economy and culture.
By the mid-20th century, Hockley experienced a cultural renaissance as artists, musicians, and creatives began to inhabit the area. This led to the establishment of various galleries, music venues, and independent shops that helped to shape Hockley’s identity as a cultural hotspot within Nottingham.
Today, Hockley is celebrated for its eclectic mix of independent boutiques, cafés, and artistic venues. The area hosts various cultural events, including the Nottingham Comedy Festival and the Nottingham Arts Festival, reflecting its ongoing commitment to fostering creativity and community engagement. Hockley remains a testament to Nottingham's rich heritage and dynamic cultural landscape.

Hockley Essentials

Hockley is centrally located in Nottingham and can be easily accessed from various neighborhoods. If you're coming from Nottingham Station, take the tram (NET Tram) towards Clifton South and get off at the Nottingham Trent University stop, which is a short walk to Hockley. Alternatively, local buses connect Hockley with neighborhoods like The Meadows and Lenton, with routes operated by Nottingham City Transport. From the city center, it's a pleasant 10-minute walk to Hockley.
Hockley is a compact neighborhood, making it ideal for exploring on foot. Public transport options include the Nottingham tram and bus services, which are frequent and reliable. For those who prefer cycling, bike rentals are available, and there are several bike lanes throughout the area. Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are also widely available for longer journeys.
Hockley is generally a safe area for tourists, but it’s always wise to exercise caution, especially at night. Areas to be cautious of include the outskirts of the city center where petty crime may occur. Keep personal belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables in crowded places. Be aware of your surroundings and try to stay in well-lit areas after dark.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The local hospitals, such as Nottingham City Hospital, provide comprehensive services. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. If you need assistance, local police are available in the area, and many shops and cafes will help you contact emergency services.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably, as Hockley has a vibrant arts scene where casual attire is acceptable. Don’t wear overly formal clothing unless dining at upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect religious sites and practices if you visit local churches. Public Transport: Do be courteous on public transport; offer your seat to the elderly. Don’t eat or drink on buses and trams. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile or nod; a handshake is common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local pubs and eateries. Don’t litter in public spaces or bring outside food into restaurants.
To experience Hockley like a local, explore the independent shops and galleries that line the streets. Visit the Hockley Arts Club for a unique dining experience or check out the Nottingham Contemporary for contemporary art exhibitions. Engage with local baristas and shop owners, as they often share the best-kept secrets of the area. Attend local events or festivals when possible to immerse yourself in the community vibe.

Hockley: Nottingham's Bohemian Gem

Local tips in Hockley