Address : 16 Alfreton Road, Nottingham, NG7 3NG.
In the days when employers like Players and Raleigh ruled this district, the Running Horse was the place for live music. Long before Rock City was dreamt of, this place would be rammed to the rafters with some of the biggest stars of the era.
Sadly, it’s impossible to recreate the glory days, but the current owner has taken it upon himself to preserve this space as it was intended – for good, quality live performances. On the bar you’ll generally find two real ales, along with a selection of craft beers and ciders in bottles and cans.
Even if there’s no music on stage, the Running Horse has the true feel of a dive bar in the American South – which is entirely a good thing. At any given moment, you fully expect someone to walk through the doors in a Stetson. But the real atmosphere comes when a band is playing – which could be anything from blues to country, or skiffle to acoustic.
Regular opening days are Thursday to Saturday from 5pm, with occasional Sunday gigs.
Music? Absolutely. The emphasis is on Americana, be it blues, country or skiffle. Check the weekly posters outside to see who’s on.
Food? Bar snacks only – there are countless nearby takeaways if you want to eat.
People? A collection of true music lovers, passers by making an unexpected discovery and locals propping the bar up.
Opinion? This venue is run as a labour of love, and that shows in the care taken to try to preserve a truly legendary Nottingham institution.
Getting here : Trent Barton Rainbow One, Twos, Indigo or i4 services, NCT Turquoise or Orange Lines, all to Canning Circus. (Note : there are three stops at Canning Circus – look for the big road junction if you can’t see the pub!)
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