Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem: Nottingham’s Historic Cave-Embraced Pub
Step into England’s oldest pub, carved into Nottingham’s castle caves, where medieval history and legends flow alongside hearty ales and warm hospitality.
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem in Nottingham claims to be England’s oldest pub, dating back to 1189. Built into sandstone caves beneath Nottingham Castle, it blends medieval brewhouse origins with centuries of history, legends, and cozy pub atmosphere. Visitors explore ancient cellars, low-ceilinged rooms, and relics while enjoying hearty ales and traditional fare in a unique setting that connects the past with the present.
A brief summary to Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
- Brewhouse Yard, 1, Nottingham, NG1 6AD, GB
- +441159473171
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-11 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-11 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-11 pm
- Thursday 11 am-11 pm
- Friday 11 am-11 pm
- Saturday 11 am-11 pm
- Sunday 11 am-11 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early on Sundays to secure a table for the popular Sunday roast, which often sells out before midday.
- Prepare for low ceilings and narrow, uneven passages in the cave areas; wear comfortable shoes and mind your head.
- Ask staff about the pub’s unique artefacts, such as the ‘pregnancy chair’ and the ‘cursed galleon’ model ship.
- Enjoy the pub’s own ‘Olde Trip’ ale, a strong, dark brew with a rich flavor, brewed specially for the venue.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
Origins Carved in Stone and Legend
Nestled against Castle Rock beneath Nottingham Castle, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is famously built into a network of sandstone caves and cellars that date back to the medieval period. While the pub claims an establishment date of 1189—the year Richard the Lionheart became king and launched the Third Crusade—documentary evidence for this exact founding year is lacking. What is certain is that the caves served as a brewhouse for Nottingham Castle, providing a safe, sterile beverage in an era when water was often unsafe to drink. These subterranean chambers, cool and damp, were ideal for brewing and storing ale, with remnants of medieval brewhouse features still visible today.A Pub Steeped in Historical Mystique
The earliest known reference to the pub’s current name dates from 1799, though it was previously known as The Pilgrim in the mid-18th century. The name ‘Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem’ is believed to refer to a stopping point on the journey to the Holy Land, reflecting the tradition of crusaders and pilgrims pausing here en route to Jerusalem. Local lore holds that King Richard the Lionheart and his men gathered here before departing for the Crusades. The pub’s unique location and name evoke centuries of pilgrimage, warfare, and medieval life, weaving fact and legend into its identity.Architectural Evolution and Unique Setting
Though the caves date back many centuries, the oldest surviving parts of the current building are from the 17th century, with extensive remodeling in the 18th and 19th centuries. The timber-framed structure juts out from the cliff face, creating an atmospheric contrast with the ancient rock cellars beneath. Inside, visitors encounter a labyrinth of low-ceilinged rooms, snug lounges, and winding staircases, all carved into and built around the natural sandstone formations. The pub also houses curious artefacts such as the ‘pregnancy chair’ and a model wooden ship known as the ‘cursed galleon’, adding to its quirky and mysterious charm.A Living Museum and Social Hub
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem functions as both a historic site and a vibrant pub. Its multiple bars and cosy nooks offer a warm refuge where patrons can enjoy traditional ales—including its own ‘Olde Trip’ brew—and hearty pub meals like Sunday roasts. The ambience is enriched by the palpable sense of history, with stone walls and cave ceilings creating an immersive atmosphere. The pub also connects to Nottingham’s broader heritage, with tunnels beneath linking to the castle and stories of outlaw Robin Hood’s hideouts nearby.Community and Cultural Significance
As a Grade II listed building and one of Nottingham’s most iconic landmarks, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem attracts visitors interested in England’s medieval past and folklore. It serves as a starting point for guided tours and ghost walks, embedding itself in the cultural fabric of the city. The pub’s blend of history, legend, and hospitality makes it a treasured destination for locals and travelers alike, offering a unique window into centuries of English life.Enduring Appeal and Visitor Experience
Today, the Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem continues to enchant with its distinctive cave interiors and historic character. Visitors navigate its narrow passages and low ceilings, feeling the weight of time in every stone. The combination of ancient architecture, intriguing stories, and quality food and drink creates an unforgettable experience. Whether pausing for a pint or exploring the depths of its cellars, guests step back through centuries of history in one of England’s most storied pubs.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
St Nic's Church
0.2 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
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.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.4 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
The Tokenhouse
0.5 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Right Lion
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
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.
The Left Lion
0.5 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Citylife UK
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
Speakers' Corner
0.6 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
0.6 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.
Cathedral Hall
0.6 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.7 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
King's Walk sign
0.7 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.7 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
0.0 km
Step into Nottingham’s haunted past with The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk, starting at the legendary Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem pub.
Museum of Nottingham Life
0.0 km
Explore 300 years of Nottingham’s social history beneath historic 17th-century cottages and intriguing sandstone caves.
Mortimer’s hole
0.1 km
Explore Mortimer’s Hole, a secret medieval tunnel beneath Nottingham Castle steeped in history and mystery.
Robin Hood Statue
0.1 km
Iconic bronze statue of Robin Hood beside Nottingham Castle, celebrating the legendary outlaw and Nottingham’s rich folklore heritage.
Nottingham Castle
0.1 km
Explore Nottingham Castle’s rich history, underground caves, and vibrant museums atop a scenic hill overlooking Nottingham’s cityscape.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.2 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
0.2 km
A dramatic sandstone cliff crowned by castle ruins, offering panoramic city views and a journey into Nottingham’s medieval and rebellious past.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.4 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
Flying Horse Walk
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
Bell Inn
0.5 km
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.
Inspired
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
City of Caves
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
Old Mkt Sq
0.5 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Hopkinson
0.5 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
Old Market Square
0.5 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Essential places to dine
Fothergills
0.2 km
Historic bistro with local flavors and castle views in Nottingham’s architectural gem, welcoming all including dog lovers.
World Service Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant Modern European dining in Nottingham’s historic Newdigate House, blending ambitious cuisine with warm, attentive service.
The Castle - Pub and Kitchen
0.2 km
Historic Nottingham gastropub offering hearty British dishes, craft ales, and a warm atmosphere next to Nottingham Castle.
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.
The Roundhouse Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
Historic charm meets casual dining with local craft beers and hearty pub classics in Nottingham’s city centre.
No.Twelve
0.4 km
Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
0.4 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
Chino Latino
0.4 km
Savor vibrant Pan-Asian and Latino fusion dishes in a sleek, metropolitan setting at Nottingham’s award-winning Chino Latino.
MemSaab
0.4 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
Calcutta Club
0.4 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
Zaap Thai Street Food
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.
Browns Nottingham
0.5 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Restaurant Bar Gigi
0.5 km
Elegant Italian dining and cocktails in a historic Nottingham setting, perfect for intimate evenings and sharing inspired plates.
Everyday People
0.5 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
baresca
0.5 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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.
Shop Zero
0.3 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
OH DUCK IT
0.4 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.
Garms Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Vivienne Westwood
0.5 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Lulu Brandy Vintage
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Lulu Brandy Vintage, Nottingham’s premier vintage clothing boutique.
Stick & Ribbon
0.5 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.5 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.5 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.5 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.5 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.
Tutu urban boutique
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Primark
0.6 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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.
Canalhouse
0.3 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.4 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Malt Cross
0.4 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
0.4 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.
Pepper Rocks
0.4 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
The Blind Rabbit
0.5 km
New York-inspired Nottingham bar blending juicy burgers, wild cocktails, live sports on mega screens, arcade games, and casual vibes in a historic Lace Market gem.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
0.5 km
Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
0.5 km
Experience vibrant social life in a stunning Gothic church setting with creative cocktails and hearty British classics in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Cucamara
0.5 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
All Bar One Nottingham
0.5 km
Sophisticated wine bar in Nottingham's Weekday Cross, perfect for after-work unwinds, bottomless brunches, and vibrant evenings with global wines and sharing plates.
400 Rabbits
0.5 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ocean Nightclub
0.2 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
ICON
0.4 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
0.4 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.5 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Cell
0.5 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.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.6 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.6 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
0.7 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.
CRISIS
0.8 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Rock City
0.8 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Unit 13
0.8 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.8 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.
Rescue Rooms
0.8 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Stealth
0.8 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
0.8 km
Discover the lively Revolution Nottingham - Hockley, where craft cocktails and delicious food create unforgettable moments in a chic atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Quirky
- Relaxing
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Weekend Getaway
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
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
