Independent bars and pubs are thriving in Sneinton – so much so that the area has the potential to become the “Covent Garden of Nottingham”, businesses have said.
Traders say the popular suburb has ‘gone from strength to strength’ and shoppers are enjoying its independent renaissance with Sneinton Market the focal point of the area
It’s also said to have fun ‘London style’.
At least that’s what Piers Wheatcroft Baker seems to be thinking as he toasts a pint with friend Ollie Perrid at the chic Bath Inn pub on Bar Lane.
He has previously spoken about why the suburb has the potential to become “Nottingham’s Covent Garden”.
Located in London’s West End, Covent Garden is known for its luxury fashion and beauty shops, as well as award-winning restaurants and theatres.
Mr Wheatcroft Baker, 56, a rose grower from the famous Wheatcroft family who re-opened the Bath Inn, said: “Sneinton has the potential to attract a lot of investors as it has gone from strength to strength.
“It has everything you need – and now it has a luxury pub in the heart of the community.”
The pub’s outlook is nothing short of luxurious — with huge chandeliers hanging from the ceiling and color-coordinated furniture.
“I live in Sneinton and absolutely love it – the neighbors are lucky to have everything they need on their doorstep, including a luxury London-style pub,” added Mr Wheatcroft Baker.
“It’s moving in the right direction.”
His friend Ollie Perrid, 53, who works in real estate development, agreed, saying: “It’s like walking right in Berkeley Square.”
Descending to Sneinton Market there is a range of quirky independent shops and the rustic Café Blend.
While the suburb is quite crowded with shoppers during the day, especially when the market stalls are set up on certain weekends, the area becomes a real city hotspot at night.
William Hughes, 31, at the Watered Garden in Sneinton Market.
(Image: Olimpia Zagnat)
William Hughes, who works at the Watered Garden in Sneinton Market added: “I was pleasantly surprised to hear so many people saying they would like to buy units at the market.
“Usually it’s the people who started their online business during the pandemic, it was going well but they missed the face-to-face interaction with customers.
“Therefore, it is very encouraging that many see Sneinton as an area that is well attended and see it as an investment opportunity.”
Encouraging progress has also been made at the multi-million dollar Island Quarter project located nearby.
Off the A60 London Road, this development comprises an impressive canalside pavilion with a restaurant and rooftop terrace. Former Masterchef winner Laurence Henry has been named Patron of Chefs at Canal Turn.
Mr Hughes, 31, added: “It’s the independent shops, lively nightlife and everything else that makes Sneinton what it is now.”
Danny Semak, manager at Castle Rock pub The Fox and Grapes, agreed with the London settlement.
The 32-year-old said: “It might as well be in London – who really knows?
“All I know is I’ve been here for the last four or five years and it’s interesting to see how it’s completely changed from the run down area it used to be.
“They have so many good pubs and shops that make this area really great.
“I love being here and a lot of people do too – so there might be a good reason why we all love it so much.”
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