Goose in Boots in Nottingham's Hockley is very much a local. This is evident to those from the area immediately, who will no doubt smile when they see the words 'Ayup' decorating this plub's (more on that later) facade - a typical greeting of the area.
The name, too, is rooted in its surroundings, nodding to not only its location on Goose Gate, but Nottingham's long-held association with geese, dating back to the 1300s when the first Goose Fair happened. Back then, the geese were fattened as a Michaelmas treat, but today, its an autumnal funfair still happily attended by locals every year.
Anyone can enjoy this plub, though. Self-proclaimed as the city's first half pub, half club, it serves as a normal boozer in the day and early evening, getting rowdier over the weekend nights when the resident DJ plays downstairs in the club space and upstairs, tables and chairs are pushed back for dancing. It has a homegrown, fun-filled feel that anyone and everyone is welcome to get involved in.
The building has a bit of a story: Boots, the famous pharmacy, started in Nottingham and this was the original retail site built in 1849. Inside, the decor is rustic but artfully so. Exposed brick, wooden beams, leftover paint works, wonky corners all make up this unique bolthole that feels purposefully half done. The lighting is atmospheric and the vibe is intimate, which is all the better for dancing.
Throughout the week, Goose in Boots is open for a casual pint and particularly the well-loved pub quiz which happens every week. Double check the day and details on the venue's Instagram page.