The Pit & Pendulum: Nottingham's quirky gothic bar where disembodied voices echo through the bathroom

The Pit & Pendulum is known for its devilishly good food The Pit & Pendulum is known for its devilishly good food
The Pit & Pendulum is known for its devilishly good food | Instagram / Pit & Pendulum
"It's got wickedly good drinks, sinfully tempting food and an atmosphere to die for..."

Nottingham is home to a wide variety of cool and quirky watering holes. From ancient pubs to a bar inside a church, we are truly spoiled when it comes to making memories on a night out.

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And without a doubt, one of our favourite places for a night out in the city is The Pit & Pendulum. A quirky gothic bar boasting a great range of cocktails and some seriously spooky décor.

The bar describes itself on Instagram as "a devilishly dark and mysterious world, a hollow in the belly of Notts. Wickedly good drinks, sinfully tempting food and an atmosphere to die for..."

The unique venue gets its name from a short story written by Edgar Allen Poe. Without spoiling the plot too much the tale takes place during the Spanish Inquisition and has strong themes of death and horror.

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Located on Victoria Street, in a Grade II listed building, The Pit & Pendulum is a firm favourite among locals. Spread across three floors it blends themes of alchemy, medieval, and dungeons, making it an ideal location for anyone who wants to let their spooky side run free.

What's on the menu?

A devilishly good (and incredibly extensive) menu attracts people from across the city to The Pit & Pendulum. Food highlights include steaks, light bites (no sacrificial virgins), and tempting puds. The bar stocks a range of real ales and spirits (both alcoholic and paranormal).

'Not just for goths'

Midnight J wrote on TripAdvisor: "It's amazing. Love all the décor and staff are amazing. I just want to know.. in the girl's bathroom behind the bookcase.

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"Do you have a speaker in there of a girl's voice saying 'I'm watching you' 'Come and find me' and then some wind noises? 'Cause at first it spooked me but I had a good giggle afterwards. Thank you for a very memorable experience."

David W said: "Don't be fooled by the basic looking outside. The ground floor has nice décor but go downstairs for a gothic horror look, even if you're not a goth.

"The décor is truly amazing, alcoves with seating in and "hidden" area for the toilets. The plaques and pictures on the wall are brilliant. Some weird and amazing cocktails and shots add to the ambiance, the furniture reminded me of Interview With a Vampire." The venue also hosts a range of events including smartphone quizzes, DJ nights and its popular Sex, Jugs and Rock 'N' Roll, 2-4-1 pitcher nights. Find out more online.

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