From Gowns to Good Times: Top Spots to Eat, Drink and Celebrate in Nottingham

Three years of hard work—done. The endless library sessions? Over. The bleary-eyed 9am lectures? A distant memory. The frantic countdowns to deadlines? Finally behind you. You’ve smashed your degree—and now it’s time to celebrate like you mean it with one last hurrah in the city that’s been your second home. Whether you’re clinking glasses with your uni crew or showing your family the best of Notts, you’ve earned a brilliant meal, a well-deserved drink, and a day (or night) to remember. So here it is—your guide to eating, drinking, and celebrating graduation in true Nottingham style.

Drinks:

Now it’s time to celebrate like a true Nottingham graduate—and there’s nowhere more fitting than The Alchemist.
Set in a magnificent, grand building at the top of King Street, The Alchemist offers an enchanting backdrop for your big day, with even more magical food and drinks to match. From theatrical cocktails to beautifully plated dishes, it’s the perfect spot to get whisked away in the celebration. And to make your final uni hurrah even more special, they’ve launched a graduation booking offer: reserve a table for your crew (up to 10 guests) and each person gets a free Cosmic Oyster on arrival—your choice of the Original, the Aperitivo Oyster, or the non-alcoholic Aperi-Zero.

Tucked in the heart of Hockley and housed in a stunning Grade II-listed building, The Hockley Arts Club isn’t just a bar—it’s a graduation party waiting to happen.
Known for having some of the best bartenders in Nottingham, they’re slinging cocktails, pouring wine, and keeping the vibes high all week long making it perfect to get the celebrations going/ Whether you're into bold, boozy mixes or want to keep it classy with a zero-proof spritz, their ever-evolving drinks menu has something to satisfy everyone.And the best part? Their bespoke house cocktails are crafted by bartenders who really know their stuff. Feeling adventurous? Let them surprise you. Craving a classic? They’ve got you covered—just say the word and let the magic happen.

Right in the Heart of Hockley’s Creative Quarter sits the Queen.
Celebrate your graduation at Queen of Hockley, a vibrant, stylish spot known for its colourful cocktails, bold global flavours, and lively atmosphere. Perfect for marking a special occasion, Queen of Hockley offers a relaxed yet chic setting with eclectic interiors, indulgent sharing plates, and rooftop vibes. Whether it’s a daytime toast or an evening celebration, it’s the ideal place to gather with friends and make your graduation one to remember.

Image: Alora

Food:

Winners of the Nottingham Post Best Indian Restaurant 2013 - MemSaab.
Celebrate graduation in style at MemSaab, one of Nottingham’s most acclaimed Indian restaurants. With awards from the Observer Food Monthly and recognition in the Michelin and Hardens Guides, MemSaab offers exceptional fine dining that’s both elegant and welcoming

Located in the Heart of Nottingham’s Waterside sits the elegant Cleaver & Wake.
Celebrate graduation in style at Cleaver & Wake, a stunning fine dining restaurant at The Island Quarter. Known for its elegant interiors, seasonal British menus, and impeccable service, Cleaver & Wake offers a truly memorable setting for special occasions. Whether you're toasting with friends or hosting a family celebration, enjoy expertly crafted dishes in a sophisticated riverside space that brings modern luxury to Nottingham’s historic canal side.

Celebrate in Style at The Old Vol.
Nestled in the picturesque village of Caythorpe, the Old Vol blends rustic charm with modern flair, making it a perfect spot to mark your graduation in style. With 2 AA Rosettes and a menu full of seasonal, locally sourced delights, this award-winning gastropub serves everything from elegant evening meals to comforting Sunday roasts. Add in Ibiza-style parties, tribute nights, and a vibrant atmosphere, and the Old Vol becomes more than just a meal out—it’s a celebration to remember.

Global Flavours and Fine Dining Flair at Alora.
Creative small plates and sushi in a relaxed, stylish space. Alora, led by Michelin-trained chef Henrik Horvath, offers bold global dishes and a curated sushi menu. With two AA Rosettes, an award-winning drinks list, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s a top choice for Nottingham dining. Fully accessible and family-friendly.

For a graduation feast with style, The Cosy Club in Nottingham is a must-visit.
Housed in a stunning vintage building, it’s the perfect spot to relax and indulge after your big day. Their menu is packed with delicious, shareable plates and hearty mains that’ll fuel your celebrations—whether you’re with family or uni mates. Great food, cozy vibes, and a celebratory atmosphere all in one.

Located in the heart of West Bridgford, Hemisphere offers tapas like you've never seen it.
Hemisphere offers bold flavours, warm hospitality, and an unforgettable dining experience. This independent restaurant is a fresh and exciting addition to Nottinghamshire’s vibrant culinary scene, blending the tastes of Australasia, Southeast Asia, and Modern Europe into a unique small-plate concept. This graduation season, celebrate this special milestone in style with a complimentary glass of Champagne for the graduate when booking. Choose from the delicious Arvo Bites menu, served 12–6pm, or explore the full range of Party Menus, available from 12 noon–9.30pm.

Image: Penny Lane 

Activities:

Take a swing into your next chapter with graduation celebrations at Golf Fang—the ultimate spot where epic mini-golf meets incredible drinks!
This isn’t your average night out. With neon-lit graffiti, a buzzing atmosphere, and expertly crafted cocktails flowing all night, Golf Fang turns your post-graduation party into an unforgettable experience. Rally your crew, challenge each other on the course, and toast your success with signature drinks that keep the good vibes flowing. Whether you’re celebrating with friends or family, Golf Fang knows how to bring the fun—and the flair—to your big day.

Level up your graduation party at Penny Lane—where great food, drinks, and arcade games come together for an epic celebration!
Nottingham’s coolest spot isn’t just about delicious food and cocktails—it’s also packed with classic arcade games that’ll bring out your inner child (and competitive streak). Challenge your mates to a game of air hockey or pinball, celebrate every victory with a cocktail in hand, and make your graduation one to remember with fun, food, and friendly competition all under one roof.

For even more places to drink, eat and play during your graduation peirod be sure to check out our Graduation Landing Page. 

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This blog was created by Georgina Richardson - Visit Nottingham Intern