Nottingham, England: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that beneath Nottingham’s streets lies the UK’s largest network of man-made caves, with over 800 underground chambers dating back to medieval times? This hidden subterranean world is just one of the many surprises awaiting visitors to this historic English city. Beyond the legendary tales of Robin Hood and Sherwood Forest, Nottingham offers a fascinating blend of ancient history, cultural attractions, and vibrant modern entertainment that makes it one of central England’s most rewarding destinations.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

Nottingham is conveniently located in the East Midlands of England, making it easily accessible by various transportation methods. The city is well-connected to major UK destinations and international locations.

By Air

East Midlands Airport is the closest airport, located just 24 km (15 miles) from Nottingham city center. The Skylink bus service runs every 20 minutes, providing direct connections to the city. Birmingham Airport, approximately 77 km (48 miles) away, offers more international connections and is linked to Nottingham by direct train services.

By Train

Nottingham Railway Station is a major hub with excellent connections to London (journey time approximately 1 hour 45 minutes), Birmingham, Manchester, and other major cities. The station is centrally located, just a 10-minute walk from the city center.

By Coach

National Express and Megabus operate regular coach services to Nottingham from various UK cities, often at budget-friendly prices. The main bus station is located at Broadmarsh, in the southern part of the city center.

Best Time to Visit Nottingham & Weather Tips

Nottingham experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild temperatures year-round, though the weather can be changeable. Each season offers different advantages for visitors.

Recommended Times to Visit

• Late Spring (May-June): Mild temperatures averaging 15-20°C (59-68°F), blooming parks, and fewer tourists make this an ideal time to explore.
• Summer (July-August): The warmest months with temperatures typically between 19-22°C (66-72°F). Perfect for outdoor activities, though this is peak tourist season.
• Early Autumn (September-October): Pleasant temperatures around 14-18°C (57-64°F) with beautiful fall colors in Sherwood Forest and city parks. The annual Goose Fair in early October is a major attraction.

Times to Avoid

• Winter (December-February): Temperatures can drop to 1-7°C (34-45°F) with occasional snow. Shorter daylight hours limit sightseeing time, though Christmas markets add festive charm.
• University Term Start (Late September/Early October): Accommodation prices may increase as students return to the city’s two universities.

Getting Around Locally

Nottingham is a compact city with an excellent public transportation network, making it easy to navigate without a car.

Tram Network

The Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram system is one of the UK’s best, with lines connecting the city center to major attractions, suburbs, and park-and-ride facilities. Trams run every 7-10 minutes during the day, and a day ticket costs around £4.50.

Buses

Nottingham City Transport operates an extensive bus network covering the entire city and surrounding areas. The Robin Hood Network integrates buses and trams, offering convenient day passes (approximately £5.50) for unlimited travel.

Walking

Many of Nottingham’s main attractions are within walking distance of each other in the city center. The compact nature of the central area makes exploring on foot both practical and enjoyable.

Cycling

Nottingham is increasingly bicycle-friendly, with dedicated cycle lanes and bike hire schemes available throughout the city. The Big Track is a 16 km (10 mile) traffic-free cycle route that follows the River Trent and canal paths.

Where to Stay in Nottingham

Nottingham offers accommodation options for every budget and preference, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here’s a breakdown of the best areas to stay:

City Center

Staying in Nottingham’s city center puts you within walking distance of major attractions like Old Market Square, Nottingham Castle, and the Lace Market. This area offers the widest range of hotels, from international chains to boutique options.

Lace Market & Hockley

This trendy district northeast of the city center is known for its creative scene, independent shops, and vibrant nightlife. You’ll find stylish boutique hotels and apartments in converted historic buildings, perfect for those seeking a more characterful stay.

The Park

This affluent residential area near Nottingham Castle offers upscale accommodation options in elegant Victorian buildings. It’s quieter than the city center but still within easy walking distance of main attractions.

West Bridgford

Located south of the city center across the River Trent, this suburban area is ideal for sports enthusiasts, being close to Trent Bridge Cricket Ground and Nottingham Forest’s City Ground. It offers a good selection of mid-range hotels and B&Bs.

Dining & Local Cuisine

Nottingham’s food scene blends traditional English fare with diverse international influences, offering options for every palate and budget.

Local Specialties

• Stilton Cheese: Produced in neighboring counties but strongly associated with Nottingham, this famous blue cheese is a must-try.
• Bramley Apples: Originating in Southwell, Nottinghamshire, these cooking apples feature in many local desserts.
• Mushy Peas: A traditional side dish often served at Goose Fair, typically with mint sauce.
• Nottingham Ale: The city has a strong brewing tradition, with several local breweries producing distinctive ales.

Where to Eat

Nottingham offers diverse dining districts, each with its own character:

Food Experiences

For a taste of local food culture, consider these experiences:

• Take a tour of Castle Rock Brewery to learn about the city’s brewing heritage.
• Visit Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, claimed to be England’s oldest inn (dating from 1189), for traditional pub fare in a historic setting.
• Explore the street food options at Sneinton Market on weekends.

Attractions, Sightseeing & Activities

Nottingham offers a fascinating mix of historical sites, cultural attractions, and unique experiences that reflect its rich heritage.

Nottingham Castle

Recently reopened after a £30 million renovation, Nottingham Castle sits atop a sandstone cliff overlooking the city. While the medieval castle was largely destroyed in the 17th century, the current ducal mansion houses engaging exhibitions on the city’s history, including the legend of Robin Hood and the history of rebellion. Don’t miss the network of caves beneath the castle and the panoramic views from the terrace.

City of Caves

Explore Nottingham’s underground world with a tour of the City of Caves, part of the network of over 800 caves beneath the streets. These man-made sandstone caves have served as homes, workplaces, air raid shelters, and even a pub over the centuries. The guided tour offers fascinating insights into how these spaces were used throughout history.

National Justice Museum

Housed in Nottingham’s former courthouse and jail, the National Justice Museum provides an immersive journey through the history of crime and punishment. Experience a Victorian courtroom drama, explore the historic prison cells, and learn about famous cases that shaped British justice. Interactive exhibits make this engaging for visitors of all ages.

Robin Hood Statue & Legacy

The legendary outlaw’s statue stands outside Nottingham Castle, making it a popular photo spot. For those interested in the Robin Hood legend, themed walking tours of the city reveal locations connected to the stories, led by guides in period costume who bring the tales to life.

Museums, Cultural Spots & Festivals

Nottingham’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, with world-class museums, galleries, and festivals throughout the year.

Museums & Galleries

• Nottingham Contemporary: One of the UK’s largest contemporary art spaces, hosting changing exhibitions by international artists in a striking building decorated with a lace pattern, honoring the city’s textile heritage.
• Wollaton Hall & Deer Park: This stunning Elizabethan mansion houses a natural history museum and is surrounded by 500 acres of parkland home to a herd of deer. Film fans may recognize it as Wayne Manor from “The Dark Knight Rises.”
• Green’s Windmill: A restored 19th-century windmill that was once home to mathematical physicist George Green, now featuring interactive science exhibits.
• Nottingham Industrial Museum: Showcasing the city’s industrial heritage with exhibits on textiles, transport, and communication.

Theaters & Performance Venues

Nottingham boasts several excellent performance venues:

• Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall: Hosting everything from West End shows to classical concerts.
• Nottingham Playhouse: Known for its innovative productions and striking architecture.
• Motorpoint Arena: The city’s largest venue for concerts and sporting events.

Annual Festivals & Events

Sports, Nature & Outdoor Experiences

From legendary forests to world-class sporting venues, Nottingham offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors.

Sherwood Forest

The legendary home of Robin Hood is about 32 km (20 miles) north of Nottingham. This ancient woodland is now a National Nature Reserve, home to hundreds of species and over 1,000 veteran oak trees, including the famous Major Oak, estimated to be 800-1,100 years old. Walking trails range from short, accessible paths to longer hikes, and the visitor center provides context on both the natural and cultural significance of the forest.

Parks & Green Spaces

• Wollaton Park: 500 acres of parkland surrounding Wollaton Hall, home to red and fallow deer.
• Attenborough Nature Reserve: A beautiful wetland reserve with lakes, meadows, and abundant wildlife, perfect for bird watching.
• Arboretum: Nottingham’s oldest public park, featuring a collection of over 800 trees, a bandstand, and ornamental gardens.
• Colwick Country Park: 250 acres of parkland, woodland, and lakes offering fishing, sailing, and walking trails.

Sporting Venues & Activities

Nottingham has a rich sporting heritage and excellent facilities:

Safety, Etiquette & Local Customs

Nottingham is generally a safe city for visitors, though standard urban precautions apply. Here’s what you should know about safety and local customs:

Safety Tips

• The city center is well-policed and generally safe, especially in busy areas like Old Market Square and the Lace Market.
• As in any city, be cautious in quieter areas after dark, particularly around St Ann’s and parts of Radford.
• Nottingham has a significant student population, making the city lively at night, especially during term time.
• The tram system is safe and well-monitored, with security staff and CCTV.

Local Etiquette

Understanding a few local customs will help you blend in:

• Queuing (standing in line) is taken seriously throughout the UK – always join the end of any queue you see.
• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10-15% is standard for good service, while in pubs, it’s common to offer to buy the bartender a drink.
• When using public transport, allow passengers to exit before boarding and offer seats to elderly or pregnant passengers.
• The local dialect includes phrases like “ay-up me duck” (hello/greetings) – don’t be surprised if you hear this friendly greeting.

Visitor Comments About Nottingham

Practical Travel Tips

Make your trip to Nottingham smoother with these practical tips:

Money & Payments

• The currency is the British Pound (£). ATMs are widely available throughout the city.
• Credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, including contactless payments.
• It’s still useful to carry some cash for small purchases and in case of technical issues.

Transportation Passes

• The Robin Hood Card offers integrated travel on trams and buses across the city. Available as a pay-as-you-go card or with day/week passes.
• Group Day Tickets offer good value if traveling with family or friends.
• Consider the Nottingham City Transport Easyrider app for mobile ticketing options.

Internet & Connectivity

• Free Wi-Fi is available in many cafes, restaurants, and public spaces including Old Market Square and Victoria Centre.
• The city center has good 4G/5G coverage from all major UK networks.

Opening Hours

• Most shops open 9:00-17:30 Monday to Saturday, with reduced hours (typically 11:00-16:00) on Sundays.
• Museums and attractions generally open 10:00-17:00, but always check specific opening times in advance.
• Pubs typically open 11:00-23:00, with some city center venues open later, especially on weekends.

Ready to Explore Nottingham?

From exploring the mysterious underground caves to walking in the footsteps of Robin Hood, Nottingham offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modern attractions. This compact city packs in world-class museums, beautiful green spaces, and a vibrant food and drink scene that will surprise and delight visitors.

Whether you’re drawn by the legends of Sherwood Forest, the city’s sporting heritage, or its rich industrial past, Nottingham rewards those who take the time to discover its many layers. With excellent transport connections, a walkable city center, and attractions to suit all ages and interests, it makes for an ideal weekend break or a base from which to explore the wider East Midlands region.

So lace up your walking shoes (a nod to the city’s famous textile heritage), charge your camera, and prepare to be charmed by this historic yet forward-looking English city. Nottingham’s unique character and warm welcome await!