Pit & Pendulum
Descend into Nottingham's gothic abyss at Pit & Pendulum, where Poe-inspired chambers pulse with rock rhythms, sinful cocktails, and alt-crowd energy across three shadowy levels.
Nestled in a Grade II listed building on Nottingham's bustling Victoria Street, Pit & Pendulum immerses visitors in a gothic underworld of dimly lit chambers, medieval arches, and Edgar Allan Poe-inspired intrigue. Spanning three atmospheric levels, this pub serves wickedly good cocktails themed around the Seven Deadly Sins, Valhalla myths, and virtues, alongside cask ales from local breweries and hearty British pub classics like small plates of sticky BBQ pork meatballs, beer-battered onion rings, and katsu chips. Rock and alternative music pulses through hidden nooks, gargoyle-adorned corners, and dungeon-like basements, creating a haven for alternative crowds with live DJ sets, themed nights, and a lively vibe that peaks late into the night. Over 18s only, it blends vintage horror aesthetics with modern revelry in Nottingham's vibrant nightlife scene.
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 the pick-and-mix small plates board for shareable gothic pub fare under £12—perfect with a themed cocktail like one from the Seven Deadly Sins.
- Hunt for hidden features: toilets behind a bookcase, secret passages, and the swinging pendulum in the basement pit.
- Time visits for live DJs or themed nights; the jukebox overflows with rare emo and metal tracks for an authentic alt vibe.
- Students snag 10% off drinks and 20% off food—check Monday deals for a pint and pub classic at £7.99.
- Over-18s only; arrive early on weekends to claim prime spots in the multi-level layout before the 2am close.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
Pit & Pendulum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Pit & Pendulum
Gothic Realm Unveiled
Step into Pit & Pendulum and you're transported to a shadowy domain echoing Edgar Allan Poe's 1842 tale of torment under the Spanish Inquisition. Housed in a Grade II listed structure on Victoria Street, this pub masterfully recreates a medieval underworld across three levels: street-level bars with twisty woodwork and gothic windows, descending into cellar-like pits adorned with plastic stone arches, dragons, gargoyles, and alchemical motifs. Dim lighting casts eerie glows on dark-painted walls, while a namesake pendulum swings mysteriously, inviting exploration of secret passageways and hidden rooms that reward the curious with unexpected delights.Drinks Forged in Darkness
The bar crafts theatrical libations that match the venue's macabre charm. Signature cocktails draw from Seven Deadly Sins, Valhalla legends, and Contrary Virtues, blending creative mixes with premium spirits for sinfully tempting sips. Cask ales from Nottingham's local breweries flow alongside crisp lagers like Carlsberg Pilsner and keg classics. Pub deals enhance affordability, such as a 'pub fave' with a drink for £7.99 on Mondays, while inventive options like Humility cocktails pair perfectly with the rock-infused ambiance. Beers pour from multiple handpumps, ensuring variety for ale enthusiasts amid the thunderous soundtrack.Culinary Shadows and Small Plates
Food mirrors the venue's bold personality with British pub staples reimagined in gothic style. Small plates shine brightest—pick-and-mix boards feature sticky BBQ pork meatballs, beer-battered onion rings, katsu chips, and more for £11.99 or less, ideal for sharing amid the revelry. Hearty lunch and dinner menus from 12pm to 8pm offer gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian choices, sustaining late-night crowds with flavorful bites that complement the pulsing rock anthems. Festive set menus in winter bring seasonal twists, emphasizing comfort in this atmospheric hollow.Rock Pulse and Nightly Spectacles
Pit & Pendulum throbs with alternative and rock music, from death metal blasts to emo anthems on the jukebox, including rare Korn tracks that thrill dedicated fans. Live DJ sets, themed nights, and spontaneous performances transform the space into a vibrant stage, especially in the basement's 200-capacity semi-private area or Pelham side nooks. The crowd—goth, alt, and rock lovers—fuels an electric energy, with over-18s policy ensuring an adult-focused haven. Weekends extend to 2am, making it a nightlife cornerstone in Nottingham's core.Hidden Quirks and Immersive Touches
Discoveries abound: toilets concealed behind a bookcase wall, a pendulum pit in the depths, and outdoor spaces for vaping or fresh air amid the indoor intensity. Hammer Horror influences mix with Victorian salvaged elements, creating a playful yet authentic gothic tapestry. Student discounts—10% off drinks, 20% off food—welcome nearby scholars, while the venue's capacity swells to 360 standing, accommodating raucous gatherings without losing intimacy.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Flying Horse Walk
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Nottingham Council House
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Lace Market
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Victoria Centre
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Old Market Square
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The Lacehouse
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Old Mkt Sq
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City of Caves
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St Mary’s Church Nottingham
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National Justice Museum
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Essential places to dine
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Bar Iberico
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Fat Hippo Nottingham
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The Pelican Club
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baresca
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Everyday People
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Hopkinsons @ Cobden Place
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Bubble Vintage
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Mood Outfitters
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White Stuff Nottingham
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Void Clothing
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Stick & Ribbon
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pit & Pendulum
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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
