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With the nights growing darker and the weather growing colder, there’s nothing quite like snuggling up in some cosy armchair with a pint of real ale next to a roaring log fire to truly warm your cockles. Whether you’ve just finished a frenzied afternoon of Christmas shopping or you need a bite to eat after a bracing winter walk, there’s something for everyone in our round-up of homely hideaways for you to visit this festive season.
A cosy pub steeped in history… The Angel Microbrewery
Located on Stoney Street in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, The Angel is one of the city’s most beloved landmark pubs. Having opened its doors in the 1700s, this ‘proper pub’ combines centuries of character and a charming interior with its own on-site microbrewery. Tuck into hearty pub classics and Sunday roasts with one of their craft ales on the side, while enjoying an intimate gig as you meetup with friends and family.
True historic character… Fothergills
Just a stone’s throw from Nottingham Castle, Fothergills combines historic character with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Housed in a striking building, designed by the legendary Watson Fothergill, this award-winning pub and restaurant offers a blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Whether you’re enjoying a locally brewed ale, a hearty Sunday roast made with seasonal and locally sourced ingredients or simply taking in the castle views and and the famous Robin Hood statue from the terrace, Fothergills offers the perfect blend of comfort, charm, and Nottingham heritage.
Pint-sized and intimate… The Kean’s Head
Situated opposite the picturesque St Mary’s church is the multi award-winning Kean’s Head, well-established as one of Nottingham’s finest hidden gems. This cosy and inviting one-room pub is small but perfectly formed; a great place to escape the Christmas market crowds on a frosty evening. Enjoy one of the traditional cask ales, real ciders or draught keg products alongside fresh and flavourful homecooked fayre.
Cosy nooks and crannies… Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
Nestled beneath the cliff upon which Nottingham Castle stands, the oldest inn in England has many a spine-chilling story to tell - but thankfully there’s plenty here to warm you up, too. From the roaring log fire to a wealth of cosy nooks and crannies and snug lounges to curl up in, this ancient inn was a cosy pit-stop for many a weary traveller in years gone by and we can see why visitors still follow in their footsteps today.
Enjo a cosy atmosphere at… The Lincolnshire Poacher
The Lincolnshire Poacher is one of Mansfield Road’s gems and a firm favourite in Nottingham’s real ale drinking scene. Offering up to a dozen cask ales at any time and a menu of delicious fresh food, it’s a great venue in which to while away a cosy evening, especially if there's a spot of live music on! Those who aren’t afraid of a bit of fresh air can even huddle up beneath the heaters in the large, high-walled beer garden at the rear.
This blog was written by Sophie Milne, Communications Executive at Visit Nottinghamshire. Updated in 2026.
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The Kean’s Head is situated in Nottingham’s historical and vibrant Lace Market. It is a charming and cosy single-room pub, nestled opposite the picturesque St. Mary’s Church.
Situated at the foot of Nottingham Castle and nestled in the sandstone cliff rock, Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem is England's oldest inn and a landmark of Nottingham history.
The Lincolnshire Poacher opened as a Castle Rock pub in the late 1980s, rising from the shell of the Old Grey Nags Head. The Poacher quickly earned a steadfast reputation for quality and choice of cask beer – a distinction it has never lost.
A legendary landmark pub, eatery, microbrewery and live music venue hosting events throughout the whole week.
Just steps from Nottingham Castle, Fothergills is an award-winning bar and restaurant set in a striking building designed by legendary architect Watson Fothergill...
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