Life Behind Bars: with Craig Pennington-Hayes, Owner of The Lord Roberts

Saturday 18 July 2026
reading time: min, words

Craig Pennington-Hayes, wwner of Hockley's Lord Roberts pub, talks community spaces, famous guests and dogs called Robert.

Lbb

Tell us something interesting about your pub/bar…
We are the only pub in Nottingham City centre which has a dog called Robert on our sign.

What's the best thing about your job?
I think the best thing about my job is giving the LGBTQ+ community a safe space to be themselves.

What's the worst?
The worst thing is paying the ridiculous taxes that this government has introduced.

What's your best selling drink?
Cruzcampo, followed very closely by Guinness.

What's your most expensive drink?
The most expensive drink is Grey Goose.

Describe your bar in three words…
Warm. Inviting. Inclusive

What's your personal favourite tipple?
My personal favourite is an Aperol Spritz.

Who's the most famous person you've had drinking in your place?
That’s a difficult one, as we’ve had so many… ermmmm…. Craig Revel Horwood.

What's the best thing a customer has ever said to you?
The best thing is when customers say that this is the best pub in Nottingham. I know that it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, so it's always nice to hear.

How would you persuade someone who's never visited your bar to entice them in?
By telling them that the only rule in the Lord Roberts is – don’t be a dick! It’s full of lovely friendly people, so you’ll fit in!


Find The Lord Roberts at 24 Broad St, Nottingham NG1 3AN.

@thelordrobertspub

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