Best bars in Nottingham: The secret 'cave bar' that's hidden beneath a city centre hotel

If you’re Nottingham-born and bred, then chances are you’ll know all about the network of caves underneath the city. 

The caves are thought to date back to the 12th century and have had all kinds of uses over the past 800 years. 

In the 19th century, the caves at Drury Hill had become one of the worst slums in the UK, with thousands of poor families eating, sleeping, and living in cramped conditions. 

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During the Second World War, the caves were used as air raid shelters as residents sought refuge from Luftwaffe bombs. 

It’s estimated that at least 800 caves lie beneath the city, although many of them are simply abandoned reminders of eras gone by. 

Some, however, have been adapted to become quirky attractions. 

The City of Caves allows visitors to experience the cave network for themselves while learning about its previous uses along the way. 

The Lost Caves

But if you’re after a bit more of a unique experience, look no further than The Lost Caves. 

Located 26ft below the Mercure Hotel, The Lost Caves is a trendy cocktail bar unlike any other that you’ve visited before. 

The bar, which opened in 2018, specialises in gin and rum and even hosts party nights. 

The dimly-lit venue oozes character and is arguably the city’s most atmospheric bar.

Your challenge, however, is actually finding The Lost Caves!

We don’t want to spoil the fun, so your only clue is that your journey begins in an alleyway off Carlton Street. 

A secret bar called Lost Property is located within The Lost Caves, but again we’ll leave it up to you to find out more! 

The Lost Caves is open from 5pm on Fridays and Saturdays and, while there is no need to book, it’s probably best to turn up early because the bar has a maximum capacity. 

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