Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is the Nottingham pub people tell stories about. Hugging the sandstone of Castle Rock, its rooms are literally carved into the cliff—arched cave ceilings, rough-hewn walls, snug booths, and little nooks that feel more like a labyrinth than a lounge. The building’s age is part of the mystique: it’s widely known as England’s oldest inn, with lore stretching back to the 12th century and the days of crusaders departing from Nottingham Castle above. Inside, each room has character. The Rock Lounge glows with warm wood and leather banquettes; the “Haunted Snug” is compact and atmospheric; and you’ll spot curios dotted around—including the famously “cursed” ship model that tradition says no one should clean. Despite the folklore, the vibe is friendly and down-to-earth: a proper British pub where you can tuck into classic fare and sample cask ales after exploring the castle or city centre. It’s bigger than it first appears from the white-washed exterior. Stairways and passages wind through several levels, linking cosy bars to a small terrace and beer garden outside—the perfect perch on a sunny day to admire the rock face and the quirky roofline. Dog-friendly and welcoming to visitors, the Trip is as much a slice of living history as it is a place for a pint. Whether you come for the legends, the caves, or a hearty plate and a well-kept ale, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve stepped through a doorway in time.