Nottingham Pub History Walk

A 2-hour evening tour visiting Nottingham's oldest and most significant pubs, with expert commentary on brewing history, architecture, and local culture. This social walk includes one drink (usually ale or cider) at the starting venue and stops at 3-4 historic pubs, including the Trip to Jerusalem (claimed as England's oldest, 1189). Evening departures on Fridays and Saturdays make this a relaxed, social experience. Best for pub enthusiasts and social groups. This is a easy activity lasting 2 hours. Group size: 2-16. You meet at Ye Olde Salutation Inn. Key highlights: Ye Olde Salutation Inn (1609) with included first drink, Trip to Jerusalem, allegedly England's oldest pub (1189), Medieval architecture carved into sandstone rock.

Price: £18

Duration: 2 hours

Difficulty: easy

Group size: 2-16

Minimum age: 18+

Best for: pub enthusiasts and social groups

Best time: Friday and Saturday evenings (19:00 or 20:00 start). Best May-October when summer weather suits evening walking. Avoid early January when pubs are quietest and cold.

Meeting point: Ye Olde Salutation Inn

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

19:00 or 20:00 Meet at Ye Olde Salutation Inn - Guide introduces the pub's history (opened 1609) and the evening's itinerary; first drink included.

19:20 Explore Salutation interior and architecture - Learn about timber-frame construction, historical clientele, and brewing methods of the 1600s.

19:50 Walk to Trip to Jerusalem - Visit England's oldest pub (1189), carved into castle rock; hear its medieval origins and famous patrons.

20:20 Optional second drink and local history stories - Pubs sell beverages at normal prices (£4-6 per pint); guide shares anecdotes of brewery politics and Nottingham ale tradition.

20:50 Final pub visits and closing remarks - Visit 1-2 more historic pubs (e.g., Peacock, Bell Inn); guide discusses modern brewing and pub culture changes.

The whole experience takes 2 hours. Difficulty: easy. You meet at Ye Olde Salutation Inn.

• Ye Olde Salutation Inn (1609) with included first drink
• Trip to Jerusalem, allegedly England's oldest pub (1189)
• Medieval architecture carved into sandstone rock
• Stories of famous drinkers and historical events
• Nottingham's brewing heritage and modern ale culture
• Accessibility: Pubs have varying accessibility; Trip to Jerusalem has steps and uneven floors. Ground-floor bar access at Salutation. Some pubs have toilets accessible to wheelchair users. Ask guide for specific details on your mobility needs.

What is included: 2-hour guided walk, One drink (ale, cider, or soft drink) at Ye Olde Salutation, Expert guide, Entry to multiple pubs.

Not included: Additional drinks beyond the first (pay per pint at pubs), Food (no meals included), Transport. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Cash or card for additional drinks (£4-6 per pint), ID if you look under 25 (legal requirement), Comfortable walking shoes, Light jacket (evening chill). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: Friday and Saturday evenings (19:00 or 20:00 start). Best May-October when summer weather suits evening walking. Avoid early January when pubs are quietest and cold..

Tip: Includes one drink

Tip: Evening tours available Friday-Saturday

Accessibility: Pubs have varying accessibility; Trip to Jerusalem has steps and uneven floors. Ground-floor bar access at Salutation. Some pubs have toilets accessible to wheelchair users. Ask guide for specific details on your mobility needs..

Operator: Ale Trail Tours

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Nottingham Castle (5 min walk)
• The Caves of Nottingham (8 min walk)
• Lace Market (10 min walk)

This activity is run by Ale Trail Tours.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 48 hours before; non-refundable within 48 hours..

Accessibility: Pubs have varying accessibility; Trip to Jerusalem has steps and uneven floors. Ground-floor bar access at Salutation. Some pubs have toilets accessible to wheelchair users. Ask guide for specific details on your mobility needs..

Best time to go: Friday and Saturday evenings (19:00 or 20:00 start). Best May-October when summer weather suits evening walking. Avoid early January when pubs are quietest and cold..

What type of drink is included, and can I choose non-alcoholic?

The included drink is typically a local ale, cider, or craft beer. Most operators offer non-alcoholic alternatives (soft drinks, juice) if you request in advance or have dietary restrictions. Confirm at booking or with the guide when you arrive.

How many pubs do we visit?

Tours visit 3-4 pubs depending on how long you spend at each. Ye Olde Salutation (start), Trip to Jerusalem (main stop), and 1-2 additional historic pubs. The first drink is at Salutation; you buy additional drinks at other pubs.

Is this only for beer experts?

No. The tour focuses on pub history, architecture, and local culture rather than ale tasting expertise. Casual drinkers and history buffs enjoy it equally. Guides explain brewing history in accessible terms; no specialist knowledge required.