7 Stoney Street,
Lace Market,
Nottingham,
NG1 1LG
(0115) 947 6735
The ViewNottingham Review
One of the last true rock pubs left among an ever-growing population of exclusive bars. The Old Angel is somewhere to rock out and see some of the UK's best bands before they make the big time.
The Venue
Along with a few others, The Old Angel claims to be one of the city's oldest pubs, though why they bother with that bit of trivia is a bit of a mystery - they have plenty of other things to boast about.
Located in the trendy Hockley area, The Old Angel is a pillar of noise and rock tradition in Nottingham, and one of their claims to fame is that the Artic Monkeys played here before going on to bigger and better stages.
Most of the action takes place upstairs, where the live gigs are held. It's a tiny graffiti-daubed sweatbox that's perfect for moshing.
Downstairs, the walls are lined with posters and flyers for forthcoming nights and gigs, while the sound of heavy metal guitar resonates through the air from the fully stocked jukebox. This has everything from Black Sabbath to Rob Zombie.
The People
The bar staff look the part, with tattoos and piercing aplenty, and the service is pleasant and prompt, although this could change during busy periods. The smoking area is allocated outside in a yard-cum-beer garden.
As it's predominantly a rock pub you'll see a fair number of mohicans, piercings and tattoos. However, The Old Angel appeals to a variety of people and it still maintains a local feel.
Office workers, real-ale drinkers and other community-based people pop in to soak up its atmosphere.
The Food and Drink
They serve really cheap food with breakfasts costing £4.45, burgers around £4.25 and nachos for £3, but it's never going to be known for its food. Here, it's all about rock.
The bars, one in the centre of the building and one located upstairs in the live room (only open to public during gig nights), are fully stocked with an array of spirits, wines and beers and also guest ales, which change from time to time at reasonable prices. Tuesday is the day for bargains at The Old Angel with all shots at £1.50 from 6pm onwards.
The Last Word
The Angel is a homely place with the feel of a true pub in the heart of the city. You always get a warm welcome, while the live music nights really bring the pub and the regulars together like a big happy family.
The Old Angel has been reviewed by 1 users