The Newmarket, Nottingham

This is a hard to ignore building, and I can see why the previous reviewer mistook the tiles on the exterior for concrete. In fact they are faïence, or fine tin-glazed pottery, but being plain rather than decorated they are difficult to appreciate. The interior of this pub, rather than the outside, is more readily admired, and in fact I found myself questioning why it has not been selected by Camra for its inventory of historic pub interiors. The bar occupies almost the complete length of two sides of the pub, with a dark wood counter, brass footrails and hooks, and a fabulous bar back with etched mirrors. Exploring further I found a back room with pool table and a small enclosed yard with a few tables and seats. But try as I might, I couldn't find any real ale, though the Theakstons Mild that I went for was not bad at all. (Theakstons Bitter was also available, as was John Smiths Smooth.) I approved of the background music, which was Tamla Motown, too. This pub had not been on my list for my Nottingham trip, and I was only here because one that was had not opened when it should. I felt like I'd stumbled upon the discovery of the ages. I would recommend anyone interested in the glories of British pub interiors to get yourselves down here. Date of visit: 22nd June 2022

The Newmarket is a large grey concrete pub on the junction of the very busy Lower Parliament Street and Broad Street. Positioned in prime location next to Nottingham’s largest nightclub the Newmarket benefits from a lot of passing trade. For many years it was under the banner of a gay pub which restricted it popularity somewhat but in more recent times I think this has been dropped and it no longer openly advertises as a gay pub but the reputation still sticks and means some are still less inclined to visit. Once inside the pub surprised me as being a lot more traditional that I had originally anticipated. Lots of traditional wood panelling and bench seating, it felt like a proper town boozer. Still a bit worn and shabby round the edges there is an L shaped bar as you enter with seating along the right hand side and steps leading son the left hand side that has more of an open space that I believe acts as a dancefloor. There is more space/rooms down there but I did not venture and I believe a pool table is housed somewhere. I had seen a post a few months ago about real ale in the pub so I was intrigued to give it a try as this is not the sort of place you would expect to find a drop of the real stuff. However upon entering we were told that the ale pumps had been ripped out and Two large stupid looking frozen Heineken keg taps had been installed in their place but I can’t imagine anything good would have come from trying the ale here so no great loss I suppose, we had a Guinness for £3.40 which was very cold but drinkable. There is a slight rough edge to this place but nothing in comparison to some of the other rough pubs around the city centre and for the most part we were left in peace to enjoy our Guinness until some loud karaoke started blasting out and the strobe lights came on, yes it’s that sort of place. I have always said that with its position and now seeing the inside this would be a perfect to renovate into a proper pub as it has all the amenities you could want and in my mind would be a great success. Until the day that happens I’m afraid I probably will not be returning as there is nothing here for me and much better in close proximity. I really see it as an opportunity missed.