Clocking Off: After Work Ideas That Don’t Require a Reservation

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Sometimes you shut your laptop at 5:30 PM and realise you just want to get out of the apartment for a bit. You haven't organised anything, there is no plan in the group chat, and you definitely don't want to spend time booking a table somewhere. You just want a simple change of scenery and a bit of atmosphere.

One of the best things about the Jewellery Quarter is that you don't need a plan to have a good evening. If you are looking to have an evening out without any planning, here are a few simple ways to spend the night.

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The Communal Taproom 

If you want to step straight into a lively place without needing a booking, head straight to the Indian Brewery Taproom on Mary Ann Street.

It is in a massive converted factory, this huge open plan beer hall is the ultimate 'just turn up' venue. With long communal benches, their own craft beers brewing in the building, and a menu putting an Indian twist on pub classics (think butter chicken pizzas and masala fries).

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The Classic Local 

Sometimes you don't want loud music or a bustling street food crowd, you just want a classic pub where you can sit at the bar.

For that, The Jewellers Arms on Hockley Street is an ideal place. It is a traditional local pub with fires in the winter and a great selection of ales. It’s the kind of place where you can walk in solo with a book or sit at the bar and naturally end up chatting to whoever is sitting next to you. It is a great way to meet the locals who have lived and worked in the area for years.

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A Quick, Casual Bite 

If your main goal is just to grab some food but without the formality of a three course sit down meal, the Quarter has plenty of fast, high quality options.

The Wolf on Water Street is a brilliant spot for a casual midweek evening. Known for its craft beer selection, it also serves up pies and cheese boards in a very laid back, welcoming environment. Similarly, Otto on Caroline Street is ideal for walk ins looking for a fuss free wood fired pizza.

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Just wander 

Ultimately, the easiest after work plan in the Quarter is to just step outside. The neighbourhood is small enough that you can simply walk down the surrounding streets or around St Paul’s Square and see which venue matches your mood.