Saturday night and Sunday morning … Nottingham’s Jam Café is a legendary late-night venue
Nottingham is a city that doesn't boast about itself. From its iconic clubs like Kool Kat, Venus, and the Bomb to its status as a UNESCO City of Literature, Nottingham doesn't seek fame or validation. It remains true to itself. This is a city that has given birth to influential figures like Alan Sillitoe, Shane Meadows, and Sleaford Mods. As the radical bookshop Five Leaves declares, Nottingham sees itself as a 'rebel city.'
The DIY energy of Nottingham's music scene is unparalleled. While it may not always be in the spotlight, the city is home to a tight-knit, collaborative, and multicultural community of talented musicians and creatives. Beyond well-known venues like Stealth and Rock City, there are hidden gems like Wigflex, I'm Not From London, Mimm, Truth & Lies, Gringo, and Hello Thor. These organizations are not just event organizers, but also DJs, musicians, and record labels, constantly pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Nottingham's arts scene is similarly self-reliant. The city boasts a high number of artist-led collectives, small galleries, and studios that attract talent from across the East Midlands. Despite the slow progress in the food and drink scene, Nottingham has seen a wave of younger entrepreneurs bringing fresh ideas to the table, particularly in hip Hockley. From Oscar & Rosie to 200 Degrees, Junkyard, and Annie's Burger Shack, these independent operators are helping the city carve its own path. Nottingham may not always shout about it, but it's definitely happening.
Stay
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MUSIC
JT Soar
JT Soar is a 60-capacity venue housed in a former vegetable warehouse. Known for its DIY spirit, gig-goers even bring their own booze. It's a raw-edged space that attracts music lovers. Miles Clark of I'm Not From London says, "Phil Booth, who runs it, is brilliant." Kyle Hougham, manager at Rough Trade, describes it as a good venue with great character.
The Brickworks
Lurking in the industrial units of Sneinton, Brickworks is a basement warehouse space where clubbers can sweat, not pose. It's a bare-bones venue with a powerful sound system. Look out for parties by Wigflex and Shut The Front Door. Nottingham Irish Centre also hosts reggae and jungle nights, alongside events organized by Mimm. The Lofthouse is another notable venue, known for its combination of gigs, club nights, video art, and craft markets.
The Chameleon
The Chameleon is a tiny music room located within an arts cafe. It is renowned for its experimental music and impressive sound system. The Maze is another intimate venue where up-and-coming Nottingham guitar bands showcase their talent.
Bar Eleven
Bar Eleven is a vibrant late bar and club where great parties happen. Saturday's Rapture brings together funk, old school hip-hop, and disco. Phlexx Records nights focus on UK Funky and garage, while Monthly Dutty explores genres ranging from grime to deep techno.
Jam Café
During the day, this place is a cozy cafe-bar, but when night falls, it transforms into a vibrant music venue. It's a local legend in Nottingham and always packed with people. You can enjoy everything from acoustic acts to the heaviest music you can imagine. Clark, a fan of the venue, says, "It's small, always rammed and one of our favorites." Hougham agrees, describing it as a great late-night venue with an eclectic DJ lineup, a tight dancefloor, and a nice creative scene. Visit their website for more details or to make a reservation for an unforgettable night out!
DRINK
Kean's Head
If you're a fan of craft beer, Kean's Head is the place to go. It's a pub in Nottingham where Castle Rock brews their traditional real ales, but they've also embraced the craft beer movement. Matthew Hinton, owner of Brew Cavern bottle shop, says, "It gets really interesting stuff in." You'll find a wide selection of craft beers here, including those from Buxton Brewery. Drop by for a pint and enjoy the cool atmosphere of this pub. Visit their website for more information and to plan your visit.
The Boilermaker
Hidden behind an unmarked door that looks like a boiler showroom, The Boilermaker is a unique neo-speakeasy in Nottingham. Wayne Asher, distiller of Redsmith gin, praises the staff for their ingenious cocktail creations that you won't find anywhere else. Make sure to try the Creole Slim Shady. The bar has an intriguing atmosphere and is known for its wide selection of drinks. Enjoy a cocktail or two at this hidden gem. For more information, including their address and contact details, visit their website.
Rough Trade
Rough Trade is not just a record shop; it's also a popular bar-venue in Nottingham. From film screenings and live gigs to themed music nights, there's always something exciting happening here. The bar offers a great selection of beers, including draught beers from London's Crate and a tight selection from Beavertown and Brooklyn. If you're a music lover, this place is a must-visit. Check out their website for upcoming events and more information.
Junkyard
Junkyard is known for its delicious dude-ish food and extensive range of craft beers. They have their own house beers made by Black Iris brewery and host a monthly event called Piss Up In The Brewery. It's a day of great beer and noisy bands! If you're a craft beer enthusiast or just looking for a good bite to eat, this place is worth a visit. Check their website for more details and plan your outing today!
The Alley Café
The Alley Café is a beloved spot in Nottingham, adored for its veggie/vegan food, organic beers, and grassroots music program. Whether you're into dub sessions or emerging talent nights, this place has something for everyone. It's a favorite among locals, and many events here are free. Enjoy a pint of their organic beer while soaking up the atmosphere. Visit their website for more information.
FOOD
The Cod's Scallops (branches in Sherwood and Wollaton)
If you're craving some delicious fish and chips, look no further than The Cod's Scallops. This award-winning chippy offers a modish menu of cod and chips, oysters, and dressed crab. You'll find that their dedication to quality and taste is unmatched. The fish is cooked in beef dripping, but they also offer steamed or baked options. Don't miss out on this place—it's always packed for a reason. Check their website for more details.
The Pudding Pantry
The Pudding Pantry is famous for its mouthwatering desserts like cheesecakes, tarts, and salted caramel pancakes. But this place offers more than just sweets. Their homemade sausage rolls and gussied-up sandwiches are also worth trying. Jordan Cox, a local food geek and former Great British Bake Off contestant, praises their skill and variety of cakes. Start with a savory dish and end with a delectable treat. Visit their website for more information.
Edin's Kitchen
Edin's Kitchen is a unique cafe-restaurant packed with bric-a-brac. Their scratch-cooked food is excellent value, with a two-course lunch priced at £7.50. From lamb tagine to a fig and stilton toastie, their menu is diverse and defies the norms of high-street chains. If you're looking for a cozy and affordable spot with delicious food, give Edin's Kitchen a try. Visit their website for more details and their full menu.
200 Degrees
If you're in the mood for top-notch coffee, look no further than 200 Degrees. Not only does this indie coffee shop serve delicious flat whites, cold brews, and nitro coffees (yes, coffee infused with nitrogen), but it blows the usual chain coffee out of the water. Sat Bains, renowned chef, can't get enough of it and says there's no comparison. And it's not just about the coffee - 200 Degrees also offers a tasty selection of upmarket salads, soups, and sandwiches. For example, you can try their roast lamb with a flavorful dill, orange, and pink peppercorn pesto. If you're looking for a delightful coffee experience along with a satisfying meal, make sure to visit 200 Degrees.
Nottingham Doughnut Co
"They're bringing the American craze of delicious overloaded deep-fried dough balls to Nottingham," says food columnist Jordan Cox. This tiny takeaway-cafe might not have much seating, but it's overflowing with 16 varieties of mouthwatering handmade ring and filled doughnuts daily. Keep an eye out for their crème caramel custard doughnut topped with burnt sugar - it's a real treat. So, if you're craving something sweet and indulgent, head over to Nottingham Doughnut Co for a doughnut experience you won't forget.
Culture
Primary
Check out the amazing art scene at Primary, an artist-run studio complex housed in a historic Victorian school building. They have fascinating exhibitions that are open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays. It's not just about looking at art - you can also participate in various events where artists share, experiment, and teach the public about visual art. Primary is home to several galleries, each with its own unique offerings. Don't miss TG's ambitious program, Bruce Asbestos' Trade, or Small Food bakery-cafe, where you can indulge in delicious pastries made with natural leavening and slow fermentation. Trust us, the pain au chocolat is simply divine.
Five Leaves
If you love reading and writing, you're in for a treat in Nottingham. Stephanie Sirr, chief executive of Nottingham Playhouse, praises the city's rich literary culture. Among the many gems, make sure to visit Page 45, a hub for graphic novels, and Five Leaves, a publishing house and book shop that strongly supports Nottingham's vibrant literary scene. Whether you're looking for a new book to dive into or want to attend exciting literary events, Five Leaves has got you covered.
Backlit
Take a trip to Backlit, an independent gallery that provides affordable space for local artists. Their exhibitions, artist-led workshops, and debates have a global reach, making it a hub for artistic expression. This month, they're hosting a range of drop-in events, including sewing, drawing, and ceramics workshops. Don't miss their digital project, Dancing Girl Emoji, where international artists will present work inspired by online communication. Backlit is a must-visit for art enthusiasts seeking new perspectives and thought-provoking exhibitions.
Film clubs
If you're a movie lover, Nottingham has plenty of options to satisfy your cinematic cravings. Reel Equality, a film club with a mission to love films while fighting sexism, and Watergate Cinematek, a creative pop-up screening host, are just a couple of the energetic film clubs in the city. For horror and sci-fi fans, the annual Mayhem Festival at Broadway cinema is a must-attend event. Every October, they curate a thrilling program that includes special screenings and even visits from renowned directors. If you want to experience the magic of cinema in a unique way, check out these exciting film clubs in Nottingham.
Union Chambers
If you're interested in the arts scene, don't miss Union Chambers. While the Syson Gallery, known for promoting exciting young artists, might be the most well-known part of the building, there's so much more to explore. Nottingham Contemporary director, Sam Thorne, highlights the independent publisher Landfill Editions and the lovely ceramics at Dohm Shop as two great initiatives within Union Chambers. Immerse yourself in Nottingham's thriving arts community by visiting Union Chambers.
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