As we head into another bank holiday weekend, it can be hard to know where to go in the city for a good pint, tasty food or a sunny beer garden. After all, it can be tricky to get a seat when the night really gets going.
So to take the hassle out of making a decision we've taken a look at reviews on Tripadvisor to find five of the bars in Nottingham. There were some surprises on the list and some fan favourites.
Be at One
20A Victoria Street
Be at One bar is one of the UK's most successful cocktail chains and it shows. The bar has more than 100 different cocktails for visitors to choose from including classics like a mojito and house options such as the Irish Disco Biscuit. The more unusual ingredients don't faze the bar staff and can include gunpowder-proof rum, chilli and Cazcabel honey tequila.
The bar also offers cocktail classes that need to be booked in advance. The venue also holds a late license so the party doesn't need to end early. Visitors are huge fans of the atmosphere, the cocktail selection and in particular the Havana Good Time cocktail. Happy Hour runs from 4:30pm until 8pm where drinks are two for the price of one.
One customer wrote: "Amazing cocktails! Great music and atmosphere. Came here after watching a gig and was a great end to a perfect evening."
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
1 Brewhouse Yard Castle Road
A classic Nottingham pub thanks to its original cave walls, spooky legends of haunted ships and its very decent pints. The pub is thought to be one of the oldest in the UK, too, as it is estimated to have been opened in the 12th Century.
The pub is well suited to anyone seeking a cosy venue and something a little bit different on a night out. It somehow manages to be a great starting point for a wild weekend or a great spot for a quiet drink all at once. It also offers a full bar menu including favourites like toasties and soup.
It has something for those into the supernatural too with its haunted galleon ship. The cursed galleon is rumoured to have caused the death of all those who clean or touch it which is why it has been moved to a safe location behind glass upstairs.
A customer shared: "Great wholesome well-cooked food, lovely atmosphere, good staff, an amazing place to eat and visit! All the food was delicious, with good portion sizing and well cooked. Loved the atmosphere here-well worth a visit for a meal and drinks."
Lost City Adventure
The Cornerhouse, Burton St
Lost Adventure is a little less like a bar and more of an experience. The pub has an 18-hole-golf course that challenges friends to 'putt' their skills to the test over a pint or two in an Indiana Jones-themed rainforest. Located in the middle of the city centre at Cornerhouse, it's really easy to find.
An unusual option but perfect for those looking for a date night idea or a bit of bank holiday fun. The courses have also been designed with wheelchair users in mind, so everyone can join in the game. There is also a tiki-themed bar to order some Caribbean cocktails as you play - although that may 'putt' you off your game.
Fans of the bar recommended pre-booking in advance. Prices range from £5 for kids to £50 for family packages that include pizza parties. The pub offers different discounts and early-bird options if you book online.
A customer wrote: "Great crazy golf course and will definitely go back. Did an early bird on a Monday morning and was absolutely value for money. All four of us thoroughly enjoyed it and found the course to be a lot of fun."
Boilermaker
36b Carlton St
You would be forgiven for never noticing Boilermaker in Hockley as it's hidden behind a room that looks like an empty shop. But if you do stray off the beaten path then you'll be treated to a collection of truly unique cocktails.
The website claims they can't help you with your central heating but they can help you to waste time in the most efficient way ever. Once you enter, things can take a surreal twist with famous cocktails such as the Rum QMC which donates 50p of each sale to Nottingham Children's Hospital. The drink arrives in a sharps bucket with a syringe in it.
One fan said: "Visited whilst in Nottingham. The drinks were really tasty and quirky. The staff were really friendly. Loved the open bar area so you could see in to the cocktails. Really cool would return."
Another wrote: "This cocktail bar is much more spacious than it appears from the outside. I enjoyed a couple of the good selections of cocktails. My partner enjoyed Duvel beer. The service was excellent, we really enjoyed the evening, it made a perfect end to our stay in Nottingham."
The Organ Grinder
21 Alfreton Rd, Radford
Organ Grinder is one of those hidden gems that Nottingham is famous for. It's located at the top of Derby road which means you will need to battle the hill to get there but it's worth a trip or two.
The pub has built up a loyal fan base over the years and it's easy to see why thanks to its real ale selection and sunny smoking area. It's a great spot for soaking up the sun over a spirit or two. Their upstairs function room has become home to amazing pieces of art from lots of artists including Nottingham Trent students.
One fan wrote: "What a pub! The staff are very friendly. Great atmosphere on weekends. The pub quiz is always a good turnout. Will always hold a special place in my heart this pub."
Another agreed: "The best pub in Nottingham easily - been here for three years wouldn’t go elsewhere. please come and support."
