Nottingham Area Guide: Hockley and the Lace Market

Posted by Phil Ashford

These two city-centre districts make up a large part of Nottingham’s creative quarter and attract plenty of student and young professional renters. They retain plenty of charm as some of Nottingham's most important historic areas.

Once the home of Nottingham’s world-renowned lace industry, you will now find the picturesque streets full of upmarket bars and restaurants, vintage boutiques and creative businesses. Beautiful architecture abounds in the form of grand red brick warehouses and ex-lace factories.

Shops: A true pick and mix! The area is famously the home of Nottingham’s fashion industry, dating all the way back to its lace-making heritage, through to Paul Smith opening his first boutique in the 70s. Now, you’ll find the city’s best charity shops, vintage clothing stores, craft, bookshops and more. Wander around the charming streets and you'll find plenty of unique hidden gems, such as Debbie Bryan which not only offers a beautiful range of gifts but is home to one of the best afternoon tea spots in the city and plays host to a variety of creative workshops.

Eating Out: With bars and restaurants at every turn you’ll find something to suit all tastes. The area is becoming well known as the home of the city’s upmarket bar and restaurant scene and it’s easy to see why! Some Comfort team favourites include The Larder on Goosegate, Iberico, Annie’s Burger Shack, Oscar and Rosie’s, Baresca and Hockley Arts Club.

View from St. Mary's Gate looking down Broadway

Schools: This city centre area is more the stomping ground of students and young professionals than children and families. Within walking distance of Nottingham Trent University and Nottingham College, there are plenty of educational opportunities for older teens and young adults. That being said, there are a couple of good schools and nurseries nearby and the area is particularly good for specialist education centres and language schools.

Transport Links: You’ll be lucky to find an apartment in this area which comes with parking, but this shouldn't be a problem as you’re well connected to a variety of public transport links. Hop on a tram at Lace Market tram stop which will take you straight in to Nottingham station in minutes (or walk in 10).

Community Events: You’ll find plenty of quirky and interesting events on offer in the area. Broadway cinema, one of the country’s leading independent cinemas, hosts regular film events. You’ll find an excellent mix of traditional and contemporary theatre on offer at The Lace Market Theatre. Hockley Hustle is a popular annual event which sees music, food, art and performers bring the streets and venues around Hockley to life to raise money for local charities.