Malt Cross
Nottingham's rare Victorian music hall pub: real ales, live tunes, and heritage vibes in a Grade II gem supporting local community causes.
Step into Nottingham's Malt Cross, a Grade II listed Victorian music hall transformed into a vibrant pub and community hub. Built in 1877, this rare surviving venue features original barrel-vaulted ceilings, cast-iron galleries, and atmospheric caves. Enjoy award-winning real ales, homemade food, live music Tuesdays, and events in a historic setting just off Old Market Square. Operated by Nottinghamshire YMCA as a not-for-profit space supporting local arts and charity.
A brief summary to Malt Cross
- 16 St James's St, Nottingham, NG1 6FG, GB
- +441159411048
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 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
- Catch live music every Tuesday evening for an authentic music hall vibe with contemporary bands.
- Book tables in advance via phone for groups up to six, especially on weekends when walk-ins may fill up.
- Explore the basement caves on guided tours to uncover hidden layers of Nottingham's subterranean history.
- Opt for a mini-keg of local ale for takeout, featuring rotating brews from independent Nottinghamshire producers.
- Visit during daytime for a quieter atmosphere ideal for coffee, teas, or the signature Maltesers hot chocolate.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
Malt Cross location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Malt Cross
Victorian Splendor Preserved
The Malt Cross stands as one of Britain's few surviving Victorian music halls, originally constructed in 1877 on St James's Street in Nottingham's bustling city center. This Grade II listed gem retains its major architectural features, including a striking laminated wood barrel vault ceiling with tie rods and ornate plaster panels. A central light well pierces through multiple floors, while three-sided galleries supported by cast-iron columns with elaborate foliage capitals overlook the main space. Restored meticulously in 1997 and again in 2014 with Heritage Lottery Funding, the venue now spans six levels, blending heritage preservation with modern functionality.Rich Layers of History
Once alive with vaudeville performances and rowdy crowds, the Malt Cross evolved over decades. Its basement caves, now accessible for tours, whisper tales of Nottingham's underbelly, while upper spaces once housed a curry house before transformation into art studios and rehearsal rooms. Operated by Nottinghamshire YMCA, it serves as a not-for-profit hub, channeling proceeds to community causes. Nominated for Pub of the Year at the Nottinghamshire Tourism Awards, it embodies the city's cultural heartbeat without commercial excess.Atmospheric Interiors and Expanses
Descending into the Malt Cross feels like time travel. The ground floor bar buzzes under the vast vaulted ceiling, with light filtering through historic glazing. Galleries offer elevated views, perfect for soaking in the lively scene below. The 2014 expansions unveiled a craft workshop for school groups, a sound recording room, and an art gallery, expanding the venue's role as a creative nexus. Basement caves add a subterranean thrill, their cool stone walls evoking forgotten eras.Culinary and Libation Delights
Savor homemade dishes alongside the venue's signature blend of coffee, loose-leaf teas, and indulgent hot chocolate topped with cream and crushed Maltesers. Six changing real ales from local breweries rotate seasonally, complemented by continental lagers, wines, and single malt whiskies. Though food service varies, the emphasis remains on quality drinks and casual bites in a laid-back vibe. Mini-kegs from independent producers offer takeout options for home enjoyment.Music and Community Pulse
Live bands ignite the stage every Tuesday, echoing the music hall's vaunted past with contemporary flair. Occasional DJ sets, quizzes, and traditional pub games foster camaraderie. As a charity-driven space, it hosts events, weddings, and gatherings, making lives better through arts and connection. Dog-friendly and family-oriented during daytime, it shifts to lively evenings, drawing locals and visitors alike.Legacy in Nottingham's Fabric
Nestled near Old Market Square, the Malt Cross anchors Nottingham's heritage scene. Its survival as a functioning music hall sets it apart, praised by The Guardian as architecturally stunning and The Telegraph as a national novelty. Fully accessible with wheelchair provisions, it invites all to experience Victorian grandeur amid modern revelry.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
- Entertaining
- Quirky
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
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
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
