6 quirky Nottingham bars with Instagram-worthy interiors

Nottingham is known for its great nightlife as it has a variety of options for those who want to go clubbing, enjoy the comfort of a local pub or socialise at a bar.

Many pubs and bars tend to stray away from the traditional atmosphere created by the ‘pint and a packet of crisps’ style venues. Now, it’s all about creative cocktails and a unique decor that helps to bring a modern, vibrant and relaxed venue to life.

Here are six of the quirkiest pubs and bars that you need to explore on your next night out in Nottingham.

400 Rabbits

15-16 Hurts Yard, Nottingham, NG1 6J

The Church of the 400 Rabbits is Nottingham’s only dedicated tequila and cocktails den. It is designed to be colourful, rustic and authentically Mexican - with its Day of the Dead style decor.

The venue is situated in Hurts Yard, just off Long Row, and is the perfect destination whether it’s for a date or a night out with friends. The quirky tequila bar is praised for its fascinating interiors that make you feel like you’re really in a bar in Mexico.

The Blind Rabbit

9 Weekday Cross, Nottingham NG1 2GB

The Blind Rabbit is set across two floors in a beautiful Grade-II listed building in Nottingham’s Lace Market. Inspired by downtown New York, it is a good old-fashioned neighbourhood bar that serves delicious cocktails, cold beers and tasty food.

With its leather upholstered dining booths and dark wood wall-panelling, the venue just radiates American style. The walls are also adorned with American retro signs and advertisements referencing the states.

Pit & Pendulum

17 Victoria St, Nottingham, NG1 2EW

Pit & Pendulum, is a quirky, gothic themed pub in the heart of Nottingham city centre. The exterior of the pub may not seem anything out of the ordinary if you were to walk past on the street. However, once you walk through the doors you’ll instantly be captured by the dark, mysterious and gothic interior.

The walls are painted in dark shades of purple and brown, whilst gothic arches adorn the walls alongside eerie portraits and gargoyle statues. There’s a staircase that looks like it belongs in a haunted house and rustic brickwork, which brings the gothic aesthetic together.

The venue would serve as an excellent location at Halloween, and those who appreciate the rock music/horror movie genre - would feel at home here.

Lost Caves

5- 7 Carlton St, Hockley, Nottingham NG1 1NL

Lost Caves is situated within Nottingham’s network of caves and serves as a dimly-lit speakeasy, which is very atmospheric as it is deep underground in a cave 26 ft below Nottingham’s oldest hotel, Mercure.

The venue is known to be one of Nottingham’s hidden gems as it can be very hard to find. It is situated below a very well hidden bar, called Lost Property, and even once you’ve spotted the entrance, it’s still not clear how you can get inside.

This subterranean drinking den is made even more relaxing by the bright lights reflected off the cave walls, and the cosy throws and candles help to make it a chilled out place to go and unwind.

The Botanist

40 Bridgford Road, West Bridgford, NG2 6AP

The Botanist is a stylish Gastropub experience, known for being a great place to brunch and enjoy botanical cocktails, whilst taking in the striking botanical interior.

Dining here is like sitting within a stunning botanical garden, as there are palm trees and intricately placed greenery draped above the dark upholstered seating and decadent lighting.

The decor is rustic, yet elegant, and would be the perfect location to enjoy some light and fruity cocktails on a brunch date with friends or even a romantic date night.

The Magic Garden 

24-26 Low Pavement, Nottingham, NG1 7DL

The Magic Garden is hidden just off the cobbled streets of Nottingham’s Lace Market, and once you pass through the floral arch you’ll be welcomed by a beautiful pub. This hidden spot is known for its delicious food and delectable cocktails - all in the most stunning surroundings.

There are multiple floors and rooms to discover in this grand Georgian townhouse, from the botanical decor floor, and 80s vibrant neon room, to the floor devoted to all things vintage.

The weather won’t depend on your visit as there are canopies and heaters, so you can still enjoy The Magic Garden as you sit surrounded by a colourful mix of artificial and real greenery and flowers.