Nightlife in Nottingham: The Best Spots for University Students

When it comes to student life in Nottingham, at our accommodation for students in nottingham there’s one thing you can’t ignore: the nightlife. Whether you're new to Nottingham student accommodation or a seasoned local, there’s always a new spot to discover. From wild nights out at Ocean to classy cocktails at Penny Lane, Nottingham’s nightlife will make you feel like your student loan might just last forever (well, until the next day anyway).

Let’s kick things off with some legendary spots. If you’re staying at Crown Place, IQ Newland House, or Nottingham Square and want to hit the town, here’s a guide to get the party started:

1. Ocean – Fancy Dress Galore

Every Wednesday, Ocean transforms into a sea of fancy-dressed students—think superheroes, pirates, and yes, maybe the odd banana. It’s a rite of passage for anyone at Nottingham Trent University, with themed nights and drink deals that are light on your student accommodation cost. Ocean isn’t just a night out, it’s an experience—perfect for both freshers and final-years.

2. Rock City – Where Legends Are Made

A mix of live gigs and insane club nights, Rock City is a true Nottingham institution. Known for its Tuned night on Thursdays, this is where you can dance until dawn, chug 2-for-1 drinks, and lose your voice singing along to indie bangers. For those in student halls like IQ Newtown House or Nottingham Trent, this iconic venue is within stumbling distance from the city centre.

3. Bierkeller – Dancing on Tables is Encouraged

If you’re looking for a fun way to blow off some steam and don’t mind dancing on tables (yes, it’s actually encouraged here!), then Bierkeller is your spot. Located near Nottingham Castle, this Bavarian-themed bar serves up hefty steins of beer in true Oktoberfest fashion, and let’s be honest, nothing says “perfect student accommodation” like easy access to Bierkeller. There’s even a “Biergarten” where you can sip your drinks in the sun—if the British weather ever allows it!

Bierkeller isn’t just about the beer, though. It’s also a fantastic venue to watch live sports, with a massive projector screen and multiple TVs showing all the big games. And when you're not singing along to the cheesy tunes, there's plenty of opportunity for some friendly competition with bar games like darts and pool. If you’re staying in student housing nearby, this is a great mid-week or weekend stop-off before hitting the clubs.

4. Das Kino – Ping Pong and Pizza

Fancy some ping pong with your pint? Well, at Das Kino, you can do just that, and trust me, the vibe is perfect for students who want a break from the typical night out. Das Kino sits in a stunning Grade II listed building right in the city centre and serves pizza that rivals any restaurant in Nottingham. And let's not forget, every student’s favourite sport—table tennis. There's nothing like smashing some ping pong balls while DJs spin fresh tracks in the background.

On Sundays, you can take advantage of their all-you-can-eat wings for £9.95. Imagine starting off with a pizza, then flexing your competitive muscles with a round of ping pong before finishing it all off with some live music. For students living at Crown Place or around Nottingham Square, this is a brilliant place to unwind without committing to a full-on night out.

5. Unit 13 – The New Kid on the Block

A relative newcomer to Nottingham’s nightlife scene, Unit 13 has already earned a loyal following. Opened during the pandemic, this multi-room club offers everything from house and techno to hip-hop and R&B, making it a perfect fit for students with eclectic tastes. Whether you're living in Nottingham student accommodation or in IQ Newland House, this club is worth the trek, especially for the experience of their famed Dirty Mondays, when you can enjoy world-class DJs like Gorgon City and Chase & Status.

If you love the idea of dancing until sunrise, Unit 13 has got you covered. The venue is split into two rooms, each catering to different musical tastes. Whether you’re into house beats or prefer something heavier like drum and bass, this club keeps the party going all week. Unit 13 is quickly becoming a go-to for international students and locals alike.

6. Penny Lane – Arcade Vibes and Cocktails

Who doesn’t love a bit of nostalgia? Penny Lane’s arcade games, paired with classic cocktails, make it a top choice for students living in Nottingham student housing. Located in the Lace Market, this quirky bar is the perfect way to mix up your weekend plans.

Whether you're based in student accommodation in Nottingham Square, IQ Newland House, or one of the other buzzing student areas, Nottingham's nightlife has something for every taste. Just make sure to pace yourself—there's always another night out waiting around the corner!

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for student deals and drink specials. That way, you can make the most of your night without breaking the bank. And for our accommodation for students in nottingham, why not take a look at our wide range of student rooms.