Pub of the Month: The Organ Grinder

the-organ-ginder-pub-canning-circus-nottingham
The Organ Grinder has won praise since being taken over by Blue Monkey. (Photo: Notts Night)

NottsNight is all about great places to drink for grown ups. They love a good pint of real ale, attentive service and no silly gimmicks. Here every month, you’ll find one of their hand-picked reviews, including the unique Notts Trumps, giving you essential information about each venue. Explore more on the Notts Night website and follow them on Twitter.


The Organ Grinder, Canning Circus

Address : 21 Alfreton Road, NG7 3JE

If you’re old enough, you may recall the rough and ready, sticky-carpeted Red Lion in Alfreton Road. Thankfully, the Blue Monkey Brewery saved it from closure – and further refreshed the venue with a Spring 2019 makeover.

You’ll still find a wide selection of primate-punned real ales, stouts and craft beers from Blue Monkey itself, and a couple of guest beers, together with a good selection of ciders on the bar.

The management have removed some of the old, large tables from the main bar – creating more space for smaller groups to drink – while the excellent rooftop terrace provides a great sun trap – though beware, it can get very busy.

Music? Live music some weekends, especially on Bank Holidays.

Food? Sausage rolls and pork pies (try the excellent Stilton-topped one).

Customers? A real mix of locals – as befits this part of town – students, professionals with nowhere better to go to, and old men who still think they’re in the Red Lion.

Opinion? This place has become a favourite on the Canning Circus scene for those who like no nonsense tradition. As a tap bar, it’s entitled to stock its own brews, but a bit more choice – in terms of brewery – would add value. Handy for a cheeky kebab or dirty fried chicken on the way home.

© NottsNight 2019