Rock City
Cocktail Bar | Nottingham | England | United Kingdom
The cocktail bar "Rock City" in Nottingham, England, is much more than just a bar - it is a legendary institution that has held a solid place in the British music and party scene since its opening in December 1980 as a music venue and nightclub. Originally founded as a concert venue, Rock City has evolved into one of the most renowned venues for alternative music in the United Kingdom and was awarded "Venue of the Year" by Kerrang! magazine for ten years. The building, which previously housed "Heart of the Midlands" variety acts and even the first World Professional Darts Championship in 1978, was taken over by Sammy Jackson and George Akins Snr., who transformed it into a stage for live music and club nights. The first performance of The Undertones with their hit "Teenage Kicks" marked the beginning of an impressive history that brought bands like David Bowie, Oasis, and R.E.M. to the stage.
The drink selection at Rock City is diverse and reflects the variety of its guests. The bar offers a range of cocktails, including classics like Mojito or Margarita as well as creative creations, with a focus on fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits. The offering is complemented by an impressive range of real ales and craft beers, which are particularly popular among music fans. For club nights, there are special offers such as "2-for-1" drinks, which lift the mood, especially at events like "Tuned." The six bars, spread across three rooms - the Main Hall, the Beta Room, and the Black Cherry Lounge - ensure that guests are served quickly, even at sold-out events with up to 2,000 attendees. Non-alcoholic options such as coffee or soft drinks are also available, making the bar accessible to various groups of visitors.
Culinarily, the focus is less on an extensive food menu, but rather on complementing the drinking experience. However, guests can expect snacks or light meals during certain events to round off the evening. The focus remains on the drinks and music that shape the experience. The Main Hall and the Beta Room are designed as standing areas for concerts, while the Black Cherry Lounge - formerly known as "The Rig" - offers a unique atmosphere with a separate bar operation. This division allows for hosting different events simultaneously, from intimate gigs of smaller bands to sold-out shows of big names.
The atmosphere at Rock City is characterized by a mix of raw energy and nostalgic charm. The spaces are functional, with a focus on acoustics and stage presence - a customized sound system and lighting system installed in 1982 highlight the quality of live performances. The weekly club nights cover various music genres: "Crisis" is an exclusive night for students of the University of Nottingham, "Tuned" focuses on R&B with affordable drinks, "Get Lucky" brings pop hits from the 90s, 2000s, and current charts, while "Rebel Rebel" provides singalong anthems for an euphoric mood. This diversity makes Rock City an attraction for a broad audience, from students to dedicated music fans.
The service is often described as friendly and efficient, with staff keeping track even in large crowds. The bar values safety and accessibility, with facilities such as a cloakroom, a first aid room, and accessible toilets. During the 2020 Corona pandemic, the outdoor area was transformed into a "Yard Bar" to maintain operations while adhering to social distancing rules - a sign of the venue's adaptability. Rock City is not without controversy: Between 2011 and 2012, 10% of all mobile phone thefts in Nottinghamshire were attributed to this venue, which was linked to organized gangs, and in 2021, there were reports of needle-stick incidents that raised safety concerns. Nevertheless, the reputation as "sweaty but truly indie" - as described by NME - remains unbroken.
Overall, Rock City is a place that brings together music, drinks, and community. It is a meeting point for alternative culture that has never forgotten its roots in the punk and indie scene while also adapting to modern trends. The combination of historical significance, a strong drink offering, and a distinctive atmosphere makes it an essential part of Nottingham's nightlife.
