- typical visit
- 15 min
United Kingdom
Nottingham
Nestled in the heart of England, Nottingham is affectionately dubbed the 'Queen of the Midlands.' This vibrant city is steeped in history and legend, most famously as the hometown of Robin Hood's notorious Sheriff of Nottingham. Whether you're exploring its medieval roots or soaking up its lively modern scene, Nottingham offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and local charm.
Image: Wikimedia Commons
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Things to do
Wondering what to do in Nottingham? Start with the stories that make the city famous. Nottingham Castle sits above Castle Rock, while the underground City of Caves reveals the sandstone tunnels beneath the streets. Nearby, the National Justice Museum explores crime and punishment in historic courtrooms and gaols, and Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem—said to be England’s oldest inn—is a memorable stop for local ales and traditional atmosphere. Robin Hood remains central to Nottingham’s identity, and the surrounding region offers opportunities to explore the legendary outlaw’s landscapes, including Sherwood Forest. For what to do in Nottingham city centre, the compact, largely pedestrianised centre is easy to explore on foot. Combine the Old Market Square and independent shops with the historic Lace Market, then visit Nottingham Contemporary for free modern art or browse the city’s cafés, restaurants and food markets. Theatres, Broadway Cinema, Motorpoint Arena and live-music venues provide plenty of evening entertainment, while the Malt Cross and other distinctive bars offer a taste of Nottingham’s nightlife. Nottingham is also known for its sporting culture. Depending on the season, visitors can watch Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, Notts County at Meadow Lane, cricket at Trent Bridge or ice hockey at the National Ice Centre. For a slower pace, Nottingham Arboretum, Wollaton Hall and Park, and the University of Nottingham campus provide green spaces for walks, picnics and wildlife spotting. Families and active travellers can also look for climbing, skating, boating and other organised outdoor activities. Weekend activities in Nottingham work well for a flexible city break: spend the day combining heritage attractions, galleries and shopping, then choose from theatre, comedy, concerts, independent cinema or late-night music. The city’s what's-on calendar regularly includes festivals, exhibitions, markets, sport and family events, so it is worth checking current listings before travelling. With its blend of Robin Hood folklore, caves, culture, sport, green spaces, food and nightlife, Nottingham offers enough variety for both a first visit and a return weekend.
Things to do
Wondering what to do in Nottingham? Start with the stories that make the city famous. Nottingham Castle sits above Castle Rock, while the underground City of Caves reveals the sandstone tunnels beneath the streets. Nearby, the National Justice Museum explores crime and punishment in historic courtrooms and gaols, and Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem—said to be England’s oldest inn—is a memorable stop for local ales and traditional atmosphere. Robin Hood remains central to Nottingham’s identity, and the surrounding region offers opportunities to explore the legendary outlaw’s landscapes, including Sherwood Forest. For what to do in Nottingham city centre, the compact, largely pedestrianised centre is easy to explore on foot. Combine the Old Market Square and independent shops with the historic Lace Market, then visit Nottingham Contemporary for free modern art or browse the city’s cafés, restaurants and food markets. Theatres, Broadway Cinema, Motorpoint Arena and live-music venues provide plenty of evening entertainment, while the Malt Cross and other distinctive bars offer a taste of Nottingham’s nightlife. Nottingham is also known for its sporting culture. Depending on the season, visitors can watch Nottingham Forest at the City Ground, Notts County at Meadow Lane, cricket at Trent Bridge or ice hockey at the National Ice Centre. For a slower pace, Nottingham Arboretum, Wollaton Hall and Park, and the University of Nottingham campus provide green spaces for walks, picnics and wildlife spotting. Families and active travellers can also look for climbing, skating, boating and other organised outdoor activities. Weekend activities in Nottingham work well for a flexible city break: spend the day combining heritage attractions, galleries and shopping, then choose from theatre, comedy, concerts, independent cinema or late-night music. The city’s what's-on calendar regularly includes festivals, exhibitions, markets, sport and family events, so it is worth checking current listings before travelling. With its blend of Robin Hood folklore, caves, culture, sport, green spaces, food and nightlife, Nottingham offers enough variety for both a first visit and a return weekend.
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