Venue History
The Forest Tavern has a long history dating back well over 100 years! In the 1850’s World Boxing Champion William Bendigo Thompson is believed to have used the pub and building as his gym and the venue held regular bare knuckle fights with boxers from around the world!
Over the years the building has had many face lifts and in 1997 it was bought by Nottingham’s most renowned pub chain Tynemill (Castle Rock Brewery) who created space inside for a music venue called The Maze.
Over the next 7 years it would play host to such artists as Bad Manners and Ryan Adams, as well as holding regular sessions for the best of Nottingham’s local music talent.
In 2004 however The Maze closed and looked doomed to be converted into student flats!
Just when it looked like The Forest Tavern and The Maze had had its day, Tynemill Director, Chris Holmes got an unexpected offer for the business from Northern Monkey Ben Brettell, and in November 2005 The Maze reopened its doors!
Since this time The Maze has gone from strength to strength, with Ben employing a host of fine local promoters and music lovers and re-inventing The Maze’s image to fit a perfect niche within the Nottingham scene.
Since it’s re-launch The Maze has hosted such talent as Neville Staples (The Specials), Bonobo (Ninja Tunes), Easy Star All Stars, Jim Jefferies (Comedian), Newton Faulkener, Laura Veirs, Chas ‘n’ Dave, Vula Malinga (Basement Jaxx), Andy Mckee, The King Blues, Mark Watson (Comedian), Nick Harper, Sonic Boom 6, Rhod Gilbert (Comedian), Spiers and Boden (Bellowhead), James McMurtry, The Insprial Carpets, Dead Meadow and Zion Train to name but a few!
You can now find entertainment at The Maze virtually every night of the week. With the best local and underground acts playing along side some legendary bands and artists, plus weird and wonderful comedy, burlesque and cult DJ nights.
The Maze has never been such a hub of activity or talent and who knows what the future holds for this, Nottingham’s most eclectic music venue.
Why not take a look at our Gig Listings?
