Pit & Pendulum: Nottingham’s Gothic Haven for Alternative Nightlife
Step into Nottingham’s gothic gem, where medieval charm meets vibrant nightlife and theatrical cocktails in a hauntingly unique setting.
Nestled in a Grade II listed building on Victoria Street, Nottingham, Pit & Pendulum offers a unique gothic pub experience with medieval-inspired décor, inventive cocktails, and a lively alternative music scene. Spread over three levels, this venue blends vintage charm with theatrical ambiance, hosting themed nights, live music, and an extensive drinks menu featuring local ales and signature cocktails.
A brief summary to Pit & Pendulum
- 17 Victoria St, Nottingham, NG1 2EW, GB
- +441159506383
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 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
- Try one of the themed cocktails like the Seven Deadly Sins for a theatrical drinking experience.
- Explore the hidden rooms and secret passageways scattered throughout the pub for a fun adventure.
- Visit on Monday for the pub classic and drink deal at £7.99 to enjoy great value.
- Check out live music and DJ nights to fully experience the alternative and gothic vibe.
- Students can benefit from 10% off drinks and 20% off food by signing up with the pub.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Pit & Pendulum location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Pit & Pendulum
A Gothic Sanctuary in the Heart of Nottingham
Set within a historic Grade II listed building, Pit & Pendulum stands out as a captivating gothic-themed pub on Victoria Street. Its design draws heavily from medieval architecture and alchemical motifs, creating an immersive atmosphere filled with dark wood, plastic stone arches, gargoyles, and dimly lit alcoves. The venue’s name is inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s 1842 short story, evoking a sense of eerie intrigue and mystery throughout its three floors.Architectural Layers and Theatrical Ambiance
The pub’s layout spans three distinct levels, including a basement bar known as “the pit” and an upper floor with gothic windows and twisty woodwork. The décor incorporates elements reminiscent of dungeons and medieval chambers, with secret passageways and hidden rooms adding to the venue’s allure. Ornate furnishings and vintage-style accents complement the dark color palette, making it a favored haunt for those drawn to alternative and gothic subcultures.A Menu of Classics and Themed Cocktails
Pit & Pendulum serves up traditional British pub classics alongside a creative menu of small plates, such as sticky BBQ pork meatballs, beer-battered onion rings, and katsu chips. The drinks list is extensive, featuring a wide selection of cask ales sourced from local breweries and theatrical cocktails themed around concepts like the Seven Deadly Sins and Valhalla. Daily deals and student discounts enhance the value, encouraging visitors to sample both food and drink in this unique setting.Vibrant Nights and Live Entertainment
The venue is known for its lively nightlife, regularly hosting themed events, live music performances, and DJ sets that cater to fans of rock, death metal, and alternative genres. The music complements the gothic vibe, creating an energetic yet intimate environment. The pub’s crowd is diverse but often includes goth and alt scene enthusiasts, making it a safe haven for those seeking a distinctive night out.Seasonal Festivities and Community Spirit
During the festive season, Pit & Pendulum transforms with twinkling lights and special menus, providing a perfect backdrop for Christmas parties and New Year’s celebrations. The pub’s welcoming atmosphere encourages gatherings of friends, family, and colleagues, blending holiday cheer with its signature dark charm. Its location in Nottingham city center makes it accessible for locals and visitors alike looking for a memorable seasonal experience.Service and Practical Considerations
Staff at Pit & Pendulum are generally praised for their friendliness and attentiveness, contributing to the inviting ambiance. The venue operates with an 18+ age policy due to its content and atmosphere. While parking is limited in the area, the pub’s central location offers easy access via public transport. Business casual dress is recommended, aligning with the venue’s blend of casual dining and theatrical flair.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Hockley Arts Club
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Watson Fothergill's Office
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Citylife UK
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The Tokenhouse
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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
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Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
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.
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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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.
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
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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
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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
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
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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.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
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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
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Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
The Lacehouse
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Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
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.
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
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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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The Loxley
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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
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Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Yamas Meze & Tapas
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Authentic Greek and Cypriot meze and tapas in Nottingham, offering generous portions, warm hospitality, and a vibrant Mediterranean atmosphere.
Paste Contemporary Thai Cuisine
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Experience authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market.
Bar Iberico
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Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere at Bar Iberico, Nottingham’s lively hotspot for traditional and vegan-friendly small plates.
Dolce Restaurant
0.1 km
Affordable Italian classics served in a friendly, casual setting in Nottingham’s bustling Broad Street.
Fat Hippo Nottingham
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Juicy, stacked burgers and quirky sides in Nottingham’s creative Hockley district, with vegan and gluten-free options for all appetites.
Botti di Mamma
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Experience authentic Italian tapas with handmade pasta and wood-fired delights in Nottingham’s welcoming Broad Street eatery.
The Pelican Club
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Experience authentic Umbrian Italian cuisine, live jazz, and crafted cocktails in Nottingham’s elegant and intimate Pelican Club.
baresca
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Catalan tapas and lively Spanish spirit in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market at Baresca.
Kayal
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Experience the authentic flavors of Kerala’s coast with award-winning South Indian cuisine in the heart of Nottingham.
Mowgli Street Food Nottingham
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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
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Discover timeless threads in Nottingham's coolest vintage haven—Cow curates retro gems with style and soul on Carlton Street.
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.
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.
Mood Outfitters
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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
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Discover Nottingham’s premier alternative fashion destination blending music culture, unique styles, and local creativity on Carlton Street.
Your Unique Day
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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
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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
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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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Relic x Hooked Nottingham
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18montrose
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Stick & Ribbon
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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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Be At One - Nottingham
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BOX 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.
Tilt
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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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Penny Lane
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Lost Property
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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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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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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
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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.
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
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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
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NG-One
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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.
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
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
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Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
Ocean Nightclub
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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
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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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Lively
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Festival / Event Nearby
- Nightlife
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Adults Only
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- LGBT Friendly