The Hockley Arts Club is located in a converted old lace factory and features three floors, each offering a distinct atmosphere. One can enjoy a classy cocktail bar vibe on the top floor, a relaxed and chilled atmosphere with table service on the middle floor, and a nightclub-style bar on the ground floor. The bar offers a diverse selection of drinks and is known for its attentive service. Some reviewers noted the inventive cocktails and recommend ordering off-menu items. In addition to the drinks, bottomless afternoon tea is available.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Attentive Service Many reviewers praised the attentive and friendly staff, who provide excellent table service and are accommodating to dietary needs and preferences. Staff members like Alice, Tom and Cass are frequently mentioned for their exceptional service and knowledge.
- Excellent Cocktails The bar is known for its well-crafted and delicious cocktails, including both classic and inventive options. Skilled bartenders can create off-menu items tailored to your preferences, ensuring a personalized and enjoyable drinking experience.
- Hidden Gem Location Tucked away in a narrow alleyway, the location adds to the exclusivity and speakeasy feel of the bar. This hidden gem offers a sense of discovery and escape from the main city streets.
- Unique Atmosphere The Hockley Arts Club offers a distinctive and stylish setting, featuring multiple floors each with its own unique vibe, from a classy cocktail bar to a relaxed, chilled atmosphere. The decor includes vintage elements, soft lighting, and comfortable seating, contributing to a memorable and sophisticated experience.
- Versatile Venue With three floors offering different atmospheres, The Hockley Arts Club caters to a variety of preferences, whether you're looking for a relaxed chat, a night of dancing, or a cozy cocktail experience. This makes it suitable for various occasions and group sizes.
Criticised
- Can Be Crowded Due to its popularity and intimate setting, the bar can get very busy, especially on weekends, making it difficult to find a table. This can lead to a less comfortable and more crowded environment.
- Inconsistent Menu Some reviewers found the standard menu offerings to be uninspired, noting a preference for the more classic or off-menu options. This suggests that the quality of drinks may vary depending on your order.
- Potentially Pricey Some reviewers noted that the drinks are a little pricey compared to other bars in the area. While many feel the quality and atmosphere justify the cost, it may not be the best option for budget-conscious patrons.
- Slow Service On occasion, drink service can be slow, particularly during busy periods. Some customers have reported waiting up to half an hour for their cocktails, which can detract from the overall experience.
- Tricky to Find The tucked-away location, while adding to its charm, can also make the bar difficult to find for first-time visitors. Navigating through the alleyway entrance may be a challenge for some.
The longer read
The Hockley Arts Club in Nottingham is a highly recommended spot known for its unique atmosphere, crafted cocktails, and attentive service. Many reviewers describe it as a hidden gem, tucked away in a discreet alleyway, contributing to its speakeasy-style charm. The interior design is a standout feature, characterized by a dark, grunge, and moody aesthetic that distinguishes it from typical bars. The venue spans multiple floors, each offering a distinct vibe; from the classy cocktail bar atmosphere on the top floor to the more relaxed and cozy Blue Rooms, and the nature-oriented Electric Gardens. This versatility ensures something for everyone.
Reviewers consistently praise the cocktails, noting their quality and unique flavors. The bartenders are knowledgeable and can create both classic and off-menu drinks, catering to individual preferences and dietary needs. The service is frequently described as impeccable, with staff members like Alice, Tom, and Cass receiving specific mentions for their attentiveness and accommodation. Table service is provided, enhancing the overall experience.
The ambiance is a major draw, with soft, golden lighting, vintage décor, and comfortable seating creating a relaxed and sophisticated environment. The club is suitable for various occasions, from casual drinks to birthday celebrations and bottomless afternoon tea. The availability of different floors with different characteristics adds to its appeal, allowing patrons to choose the setting that best suits their mood. While some reviewers note that the prices are a bit higher than other bars, they generally agree that the quality of the drinks, service, and atmosphere make it worth the cost. The location, though slightly hidden, is considered part of its charm, contributing to the feeling of discovering a special and exclusive spot in Nottingham's city center.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 115 786 0293
- Website
- thehockleyartsclub.com
| Mon | Closed |
|---|---|
| Tue | Closed |
| Wed | 17:00 - 23:30 |
| Thu | 17:00 - 23:00 |
| Fri | 17:00 - 0:00 |
| Sat | 12:00 - 1:00 |
| Sun | Closed |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 4.4 against a median of 4.5 across the 32 venues we hold for Nottingham, where the most-reviewed is Bell Inn.
Still deciding?
- Which floor at The Hockley Arts Club offers the most lively dancefloor experience?
- What dress code should visitors follow when entering the different floors of The Hockley Arts Club?
- What is the reservation process for securing a table or private room at The Hockley Arts Club?
- What is the historical significance of the Grade II listed building that houses The Hockley Arts Club?
- What signature cocktails or drink selections are highlighted on each floor of The Hockley Arts Club?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.