What’s Notts Got?

NottsRocks is delighted to welcome Mark Sutton to the team (that drummer guy from 94 Gunships).

In his first piece for us (OK, we were testing to see if he could read and write), Mark shares a few of his favourite places in Nottingham to grab a drink, from late-night hideaways and rooftop secrets to the spots the locals swear by.

Whether you're new to Nottingham or just haven't been paying attention, there's a lot this city has to offer. But you don't want to be told about the usual stuff. You want to know where the hidden gems are, where the locals go and where the best vibe is. So let me give you the inside scoop on some of the best places to grab a drink.

Ned's Cavern
Just off the Market Square and tucked beneath its own beer garden, Ned's Cavern is a favourite with industry folk looking for a drink after their shift, as it stays open until 3am. It has (unintrusive) TVs showing all the latest sport, a decent selection of drinks and a free pool table.

NQ64
If pairing your pint with retro gaming is your thing, NQ64 is the bar for you. With signature game-themed cocktails and everything from Mario Kart to House of the Dead, this might be the only bar where you can challenge your mates to a dance-off, a round of Guitar Hero or some old-school basketball dunks.

The Lord Roberts
At the heart of Hockley's new Rainbow Quarter is The Lord Roberts, a pub that switches between its two brilliant personalities with ease. At times it's a friendly, cosy venue with fairy lights and a beer garden; at others it's as funny as it is filthy, with drag bingo, karaoke and quizzes.

The Lincolnshire Poacher
Just a stone's throw from the city centre on Mansfield Road sits the Lincolnshire Poacher, a pub with one of the most impressive whisky collections going. As a Castle Rock venue, it also has a great selection of cask ales. Add a brilliant all-weather garden (think booths and heaters) and live music most Sundays and Tuesdays, and it's no wonder the regulars treat it as a home from home. There's an app too, so you can collect points on every round.

Yarn
Sticking with Castle Rock, Yarn is part of the Theatre Royal & Concert Hall, so its opening hours can revolve around shows. But its hidden roof terrace is a little-known gem that can make you forget you're in the city while you quaff one of its excellent ales. (And don't forget your points.)

Foreman's
A couple of hundred yards from Yarn, you'll find one of the friendliest bars in the city. Tiny but mighty, Foreman's has the best rock playlist around and boasts outdoor speakers for the smokers. If you arrive not knowing anyone, you're bound to by the time you leave, and the outdoor seating is great for a sneaky bit of people-watching.

That's just half a dozen to get you started, but there are plenty more where they came from. With new venues opening all the time, I'll endeavour to keep you posted.