Turtle Bay, Nottingham – 19 Verified Student Reviews 🍻

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Turtle Bay -

Cleanliness
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Smoking

Based on 19 user ratings

The Cornerhouse, 12 Trinity Sq, Nottingham NG1 4DB, United Kingdom

🕐 Opening Hours

Monday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM, Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM, Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM, Thursday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM, Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM, Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM, Sunday: 10:00 AM – 10:30 PM

💬 What Students Say

Turtle Bay is a lively Caribbean restaurant and bar located right in the heart of Nottingham, making it a popular choice for students from Nottingham Trent University and beyond. This venue offers an inviting tropical atmosphere that transports you to the islands without ever leaving the city. With its vibrant decor and upbeat vibe, Turtle Bay is not just a place to grab a bite; it’s a social hub where students can unwind, catch up with friends, and enjoy some of the best Caribbean cuisine and cocktails around. The restaurant is particularly known for its jerk dishes and tropical cocktails, which are a hit among the student crowd. The overall ambiance is described as friendly and relaxed, making it an ideal spot for a laid-back night out or a casual weekend brunch with mates.

One of the standout features of Turtle Bay is its affordability, especially for students. Many reviews highlight the excellent value for money, particularly during Happy Hour when you can enjoy 2-for-1 cocktails. This makes it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a night out without breaking the bank. Students frequently mention that the drinks are reasonably priced, allowing them to enjoy a fun evening while staying within budget. The Bottomless Brunch is also a popular option, giving students the chance to indulge in a feast of Caribbean flavors while sipping on unlimited cocktails or soft drinks for a set period.

The atmosphere at Turtle Bay is often described as buzzing and energetic, with a good crowd that adds to the overall experience. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly vibe, noting that the crowd is usually full of welcoming people, which contributes to a laid-back social environment. The music selection is also a highlight, with students enjoying a mix of upbeat tracks that enhance the lively atmosphere. Whether you’re there for a casual catch-up or a more lively night out, the music and vibe create a setting that feels both exciting and comfortable.

Turtle Bay tends to attract a diverse student crowd, particularly during the evenings and weekends. Many students enjoy visiting after classes or on weekend nights, when the venue is at its busiest. The relaxed yet vibrant environment makes it a popular choice for those looking to socialize in a fun and safe setting. Students appreciate that the venue doesn’t feel overwhelming or stressful, which can often be the case in other nightlife spots. Instead, Turtle Bay offers a chill experience, allowing you to enjoy your time without the usual pressures associated with a night out.

While there are plenty of positives to highlight about Turtle Bay, it’s also important to note some potential downsides. A few students have mentioned that while it’s affordable compared to other venues, it may not be the cheapest option available. Therefore, if you're looking for the absolute lowest prices, you might want to explore other bars in the area. Additionally, while the atmosphere is generally friendly, it can get quite busy during peak times, which may lead to a more crowded experience than some prefer.

Another aspect to consider is the venue's location. While being centrally located is a plus, it can also mean that it’s a popular spot for students from various universities, which might make it feel less exclusive. Some students might prefer a more intimate setting where they can interact with a smaller group of friends rather than navigating through larger crowds. Despite these minor drawbacks, many students still find Turtle Bay to be a standout venue that offers a unique and enjoyable experience.

Overall, Turtle Bay is best suited for students who are looking for a fun, relaxed atmosphere where they can enjoy good food and drinks with friends. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a lively vibe without the stress often associated with nightlife. Whether you’re planning a casual dinner, a fun brunch, or a night out with friends, Turtle Bay delivers on all fronts, making it a must-visit spot in Nottingham.

In conclusion, Turtle Bay offers a delightful blend of Caribbean cuisine and a vibrant bar experience that resonates well with the student community. The combination of good value, a friendly atmosphere, and enjoyable music makes it a top choice for students looking to unwind after a long day or celebrate the weekend. With its welcoming vibe and great drink deals, Turtle Bay is a venue that many students return to time and time again.
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✅ What Students Love

  • Vibrant atmosphere with a Caribbean theme
  • Affordable drinks, especially during Happy Hour
  • Friendly and welcoming crowd
  • Good music that enhances the social experience
  • Great value for money, particularly for students
  • Relaxed vibe perfect for casual hangouts

⚠️ Things to Note

  • Can get crowded during peak times
  • Not the cheapest option compared to some other venues
  • Location may feel less exclusive due to popularity
  • Some students prefer quieter settings

🎯 Best For

Students looking for a lively yet relaxed environment to enjoy good food and drinks with friends.

💡 Things to Know

  • Check out their Happy Hour for 2-for-1 cocktails.
  • Consider visiting during the week for a less crowded experience.
  • The Bottomless Brunch is a popular option for weekend gatherings.
  • Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, as it can fill up quickly.
  • The menu features a variety of Caribbean dishes worth trying.

❓ Common Questions

What is Turtle Bay like?

Turtle Bay is a vibrant Caribbean restaurant and bar known for its lively atmosphere and affordable drinks.

Is it good value?

Yes, many students find it offers great value, especially during Happy Hour and the Bottomless Brunch.

When do students go to Turtle Bay?

Students typically visit during evenings and weekends, especially for Happy Hour.

What type of food do they serve?

Turtle Bay specializes in Caribbean cuisine, with popular dishes like jerk chicken.

Is it a good place for groups?

Yes, it's perfect for groups looking to enjoy a relaxed night out together.

Reviews
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Surprisingly, the staff were way more attentive than I'd hoped, but the space got a bit cramped as the night went on.
By user949237 on Apr 19th 2026
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Staff here are super chill, always up for a chat, and make you feel like you're on a little holiday with their vibes. plus, they're quick and keep the drinks flowing, which keeps everyone in a good mood. 🎶
By user336464 on Apr 6th 2026
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Stumbled into turtle bay thinking it was just another restaurant, but honestly, the music hit differently than expected, setting this surprisingly chill yet vibrant tone 😮. prices didn't hurt either, so it's easily a go-to for nights out.
By user793613 on Apr 5th 2026
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Everything about turtle bay just feels sunny, if that makes sense. the music, the laughter, and the general buzz are infectious. it's like a brief escape from the gray days outside, and as someone who cycles through rainy nottingham streets often, that's a huge plus.
By user546374 on Mar 27th 2026
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Grab a jerk chicken wrap to spice up the midweek study sessions in town.
By user217373 on Mar 21st 2026
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Always love the tropical vibes at turtle bay, makes you feel like you're miles away from nottingham. the music is always upbeat, and it's impossible not to move a little. thursdays seem to draw the best crowd, feels like everyone is on the same wavelength.
By user660186 on Mar 16th 2026
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Popping by Turtle Bay for lunch between lectures has become part of my weekly escape from the books. it's a perfect spot to unwind amid the endless study sessions.
By user363242 on Mar 11th 2026
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Walking into turtle bay, you're greeted with such a vibrant energy that's hard to find elsewhere. so many places in nottingham try to capture that tropical vibe, but this one nails it without feeling over the top. i loved being able to just relax with my friends and soak up the atmosphere , it's like a mini island escape in the city.
By user949277 on Mar 4th 2026
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Started coming to turtle bay mostly for the music and the vibe, but over time it's the laid-back feel that keeps me here. it's a short escape when uni life feels a bit too real.
By user578815 on Feb 9th 2026
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Never been to a place where the music and atmosphere actually match what they advertise. most places promise a vibe and it's just noise, but here you're genuinely transported to a beach bar without all the tackiness.
By user100929 on Jan 28th 2026
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Music was a bit too loud for chatting, had to lean in to hear my mates. drinks were pretty decent though, especially for the price.
By user994699 on Jan 19th 2026
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Headed to Turtle Bay last night and it felt like a mini vacation. a mate mentioned the place before and i'm glad i finally checked it out. think i'll be going back next time we're up for some Caribbean vibes.
By user492958 on Jan 11th 2026
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Walking in, i was immediately surprised by how the energy of the place hit me. it felt like i'd stepped straight into a caribbean carnival, with infectious rhythms reverberating through the space. didn't expect that vibe in notts, made it hard to believe i was still in the uk.
By user518967 on Jan 2nd 2026
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Hits just right when you need to unwind after studio work. the lively atmosphere pulls you in, and it’s easy to lose track of time with friends here. you'd think you’ve been transported to a Caribbean island, which makes it a favourite unwinding spot in our weekly schedule.
By user169154 on Dec 24th 2025
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Noticed a cheeky sign near the bar asking folks to "lime responsibly".
By user930537 on Dec 16th 2025
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Staff at turtle bay bring such a warm and friendly energy that it's like chatting with old friends. they somehow manage to keep the tropical vibes flowing, no matter how busy it gets
By user792811 on Dec 5th 2025
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Felt like a mini escape from the usual uni grind. you'll catch the Caribbean vibe the moment you step in, thanks to the lively beats and friendly crowd 😅. perfect spot for when you're missing sunshine without leaving Nottingham at all.
By user950046 on Nov 26th 2025
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Expected a standard chain vibe, but Turtle Bay actually surprised me with its genuinely friendly staff and upbeat energy 😮. plus, that reggae playlist made me want to stay all night,felt like a mini holiday!
By user266010 on Nov 14th 2025
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Turtle bay's atmosphere just pulls you in with its Caribbean flair which you don't typically find in other spots around Nottingham. the buzzing energy and laid-back vibe make it feel like a mini-vacation, which is exactly what you need during a stressful term.
By user665064 on Oct 30th 2025