Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is a historic drinking saloon with fascinating cellars and caves carved into the rocky outcrop upon which Nottingham Castle stands. Chat to locals and staff to learn about the history in and around the pub and sip a pint in the atmospheric lounge.
The iconic pub claims to date back to 1189, which, if true, would make it one of the oldest in the country. Although evidence suggests the caves below the pub could date back at least as far as the 12th century, the oldest parts of the current building can be traced to around 1650. By the 18th century, it was operating as an inn known as the Pilgrim. Find out intriguing facts about the pub, which was a stopping point for pilgrims on their way to Jerusalem.
Join a guided cellar tour around the labyrinthine network of tunnels beneath the pub. The passageways stretch far into Nottingham City Centre and provide a route up to Nottingham Castle too.
Inspect the ingenious speaking tube that allowed castle inhabitants to order drinks direct from the pub and pour your own pint from the multitude of barrels kept in the cellars. The walls and ceiling of the cellars retain a rough, natural look.
Relax with a beer and peruse the antique trinkets and centuries-old objects on display. Another bar area, Rock Lounge, stands at the top of a short flight of stairs. Ask staff to explain why pub workers refuse to clean the cursed sailing ship model here.
In summer, soak up the sun in the garden and courtyard. An open fire provides a warm and cozy atmosphere on colder winter days. Hungry patrons can choose from a wide range of dishes from the menu, including squid, steak, burgers and fish and chips.
Book your cellar tour in advance at the pub or online. The pub is open daily. Find Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem just to the north of the Nottingham Canal, right beside Nottingham Castle.