Best Bar None is a national initiative supported by the Home Office and beverage industry that aims to improve standards in the evening and night-time economy.

Nottingham’s city centre business improvement district, It’s in Nottingham, has been running the Best Bar None accreditation scheme since 2010. Collaborating with both national chains and independent venues, the It’s in Nottingham team evaluates each establishment on their efforts to prevent crime, disorder, and public nuisance, protect children from harm, and enhance public safety. Additionally, venues are assessed on their commitment to safeguarding women and girls and reducing vulnerability as part of the Safe Space Pledge.

This year, a remarkable 105 venues spanning nine categories, including small bars, hotels, and restaurants, have earned accreditation, making Nottingham’s Best Bar None scheme the largest in the UK. To honor the dedication of the accredited venues, It’s in Nottingham hosts an annual award ceremony where the top venues in each category are announced, celebrating the hard work of partners and staff teams.

This year’s winners –

Best Club
Winner  – UNIT 13
Runner-up – The Cell
Highly Commended – NG-ONE

Best Restaurant
Winner – Son of Steak
Runner-up – TGI Fridays
Highly Commended – Wagamama

Best Hotel
Winner  – Crowne Plaza
Runner-up – Park Plaza
Highly Commended – St James Hotel

Best Live Music Venue
Winner  – The Bodega
Runner-up – Rescue Rooms
Highly Commended – Saltbox

Best Large Pub
Winner  – OZ:BAR
Runner-up – Ye Olde Salutation Inn
Highly Commended – Malt Cross

Best Small Pub
Winner  – Faradays
Runner-up – The Lord Roberts
Highly Commended – The Tap N Tumbler

Best Large Bar
Winner – Baa Bar
Runner-up – Das Kino
Highly Commended – Cosy Club

Best Small Bar
Winner  – The Hockley Arts Club
Runner-up – The Walrus
Highly Commended – The Whistle & Flute

Best Entertainment Venue
Winner  – Penny Lane
Runner-up – Peggy’s Skylight
Highly Commended – The Lost City Adventure Golf

In addition, workers within the industry got the opportunity to nominate a colleague for the  Absolute Legend award, which recognises and honours people in the hospitality industry who go above and beyond in their role. This was won on the night by Grace Bramley from Revolución de Cuba. Grace was recognised for her exceptional customer service, positive attitude, and motivation. She is a valuable team member who deserves recognition.

Commenting on picking up the award for Best Entertainment Venue for Penny Lane, Marketing Director of Fletchergate Industries, Phillip Roughan-Cook said:

“Winning this award means a lot to us. The team have been working hard to create a venue that is part of the Nottingham community and somewhere people can feel comfortable to be themselves and have a good time.

With the current challenges facing the hospitality industry it is even more important we come together and celebrate our successes with events like the Best Bar None awards.”

Alex Flint, CEO of It’s in Nottingham, said:

“Nottingham’s Best Bar None awards are an annual highlight for night-time economy venues in the city and recognise the effort and hard work they all put into the long assessment process. We congratulate all the venues who have worked with us again this year, and of course the shortlisted and winning venues. 

It’s a significant achievement for Nottingham that over 100 city centre leisure and hospitality venues have met and exceeded the standards this year. Visitors to accredited pubs, bars, clubs and hotels in Nottingham can feel assured that they have all set the bar high, to create a welcoming, safe and vibrant environment for everyone to enjoy.”