Malt Cross, Nottingham – 39 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Malt Cross — student bar photo

Malt Cross -

Cleanliness
Music
Price
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Smoking

Based on 39 user ratings

16 St James's St, Nottingham NG1 6FG

💬 What Students Say

Malt Cross is a unique café-bar and event venue situated close to Nottingham's Old Market Square, making it a popular hangout for students from Nottingham Trent University. This venue stands out due to its impressive Victorian architecture, which adds charm and character to your night out. Operated by the YMCA Robin Hood Group, Malt Cross is not just about the drinks; it’s about creating a welcoming environment where students can relax and enjoy themselves after a long day of lectures. The atmosphere here is often described as lively and buzzing, providing the perfect backdrop for socializing with friends or meeting new people.

Students frequently mention the enjoyable vibe at Malt Cross, which is a significant draw for many. The energy is often lively, making it an ideal place for those looking to unwind and have a good time. Reviewers have noted that while it can get busy, especially during peak hours, the experience is generally positive, with many appreciating the friendly crowd and the sense of community. This venue is not just about having drinks; it’s about the entire experience, with students enjoying the chance to connect with others in a relaxed setting.

One of the highlights of Malt Cross is its impressive selection of craft beers, which students rave about in their reviews. The bar showcases a variety of renowned breweries, including local favorites and national leaders, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Students appreciate that the drinks are reasonably priced, making it an affordable option for a night out. The mention of specific beers like the refreshing Veloria sour radler indicates that the venue caters to a diverse palate, appealing to both beer aficionados and casual drinkers alike. This attention to quality and value is a significant aspect that students enjoy, contributing to the venue's reputation as a good spot for a night out.

When it comes to the crowd, Malt Cross attracts a good mix of students and locals, creating a friendly and inclusive atmosphere. Many reviews highlight the positive energy that permeates the venue, making it a great place for students to meet up after classes or during the weekend. The venue’s layout and design enhance the social experience, allowing for easy conversations and interactions. While it can get a bit loud at times, especially when the music is pumping, the overall vibe is generally considered to be welcoming and enjoyable.

However, like any venue, Malt Cross does have its downsides. Some students have noted that it can be hit or miss, with experiences varying depending on the night and the crowd. While many enjoy the lively atmosphere, others have mentioned that it can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re looking for a quieter place to relax. Additionally, there have been mentions of queues during busier times, which can be a hassle if you're eager to get in and enjoy your night. It’s worth considering these factors if you’re planning a visit, as timing can play a significant role in your experience.

Another aspect to note is that while the venue is generally safe and friendly, some students have expressed a desire for a more laid-back atmosphere. Although Malt Cross offers a vibrant setting, it may not be the best fit for those seeking a quieter or more intimate night out. It’s essential to keep this in mind when deciding whether this venue aligns with your mood and expectations for the evening.

In summary, Malt Cross is a vibrant café-bar that successfully blends a lively atmosphere with a solid selection of craft beers, making it a favored choice among students. Its unique architectural charm and friendly crowd create an inviting environment for socializing, while the reasonable drink prices add to its appeal. If you’re looking for a place that embodies the spirit of student life and offers a good time with friends, Malt Cross is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for the occasional queue and the lively energy that comes with popular student hangouts.

Overall, Malt Cross stands out as a solid option for students who enjoy a lively atmosphere, good drinks, and the chance to meet new people. Whether you’re looking to unwind after classes or kick off your weekend, this venue offers a memorable experience that captures the essence of student nightlife in Nottingham.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Lively and buzzing atmosphere, perfect for socializing.
  • Great selection of craft beers from renowned breweries.
  • Reasonably priced drinks, making it a budget-friendly option.
  • Friendly crowd with a positive energy, fostering connections.
  • Unique Victorian architecture adds charm to the venue.

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively place to unwind and socialize after classes.

💡 Things to Know

  • Arrive early during weekends to avoid long queues.
  • Check out the craft beer selection for unique local brews.
  • The venue can get loud, so it may not be ideal for quiet conversations.
  • Keep an eye on the event schedule for special happenings.

❓ Common Questions

What is Malt Cross like?

Malt Cross is a vibrant café-bar known for its lively atmosphere and impressive selection of craft beers.

Is it good value?

Yes, students find the drinks reasonably priced, making it a great option for a night out.

When do students go to Malt Cross?

Students typically visit Malt Cross after classes and on weekends for a lively social experience.

What type of crowd can I expect?

You can expect a friendly mix of students and locals, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Are there any downsides?

It can get busy and loud, and queues may occur during peak times.

Malt Cross — student bar photo
Reviews
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The portions are generous and the drinks are affordably priced.
By user540338 (NTU) on Aug 13th 2026
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love how big portions are
By user643380 (NTU) on Jul 30th 2026
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friendly place good fun
By user830702 (NTU) on Jul 20th 2026
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pork belly was pretty good 🍻
By user533675 (NTU) on Jul 10th 2026
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Foods were tastier than i thoght it'd be!
By user765380 (NTU) on Jun 29th 2026
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decent place for drinks
By user302174 (NTU) on Jun 21st 2026
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Really enjoyed the live music set.
By user158402 (NTU) on Jun 12th 2026
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drink nights are sound here.
By user498715 (NTU) on May 28th 2026
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pub quiz was mint
By user131796 (NTU) on May 17th 2026
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grab food downstairs, it's cosier
By user579126 (NTU) on May 11th 2026
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perfectly chilled drinks and good food👌
By user335297 (NTU) on Apr 27th 2026
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warm food and chunky tables
By user627023 (NTU) on Apr 20th 2026
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devoured that meal after a long day
By user874029 (NTU) on Apr 5th 2026
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roast was very good
By user331090 (NTU) on Mar 30th 2026
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food here is mega tasty 😍
By user173022 (NTU) on Mar 21st 2026
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cozy nights with hearty meals 😍
By user455448 (NTU) on Mar 17th 2026
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cosy place good food
By user313909 (NTU) on Mar 12th 2026
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sharing food with friends was awesome last week
By user643086 (NTU) on Mar 10th 2026
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quite busy but was fun.
By user520149 (NTU) on Mar 8th 2026
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loved the food, really tasty.
By user779939 (NTU) on Mar 4th 2026
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we sat in a corner booth all afternoon, listening to live music while diving into tasty food which made the rainy day outside feel miles away
By user144253 (NTU) on Feb 10th 2026
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amazing atmosphere here
By user393724 (NTU) on Jan 29th 2026
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Nicely done up venue
By user493344 (NTU) on Jan 19th 2026
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try the sunday roast, it's huge
By user403231 (NTU) on Jan 11th 2026
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food's decent and filling
By user257459 (NTU) on Jan 3rd 2026
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definitely a great meal
By user455462 (NTU) on Dec 25th 2025
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i really like the space
By user247957 (NTU) on Dec 17th 2025
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staff made us feel so wecome and the service was lovely.
By user180621 (NTU) on Dec 5th 2025
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Tasty chicken roast dinner
By user362998 (NTU) on Nov 26th 2025
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nice roast and live music
By user898619 (NTU) on Nov 15th 2025
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tasty pub quiz night
By user991365 (NTU) on Oct 31st 2025
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love their live music nights
By user175317 (NTU) on Oct 25th 2025
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proper nice roast dinner
By user872382 (NTU) on Oct 22nd 2025
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warm and inviting place
By user142096 (NTU) on Oct 19th 2025
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Quality portions and sides for roast.
By user155153 (NTU) on Oct 15th 2025
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wicked pub quiz nights on here! 🍻
By user937810 (NTU) on Oct 12th 2025
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proper good roast dinner
By user210771 (NTU) on Oct 7th 2025
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the staff were very nice.
By user538235 (NTU) on Oct 2nd 2025
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live music is great
By user818387 (NTU) on Sep 26th 2025
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loads of good food and tunes on sunday afternoons
By user545202 (NTU) on Sep 21st 2025