Monday, 11 November 2024
Nottingham has a rich history full of medieval English folklore making it an ideal place for any history fan to visit. As well as having historical hotspots, Nottingham has a thriving culture full of independent establishments and quirky attractions.
Of course, we have you covered when it comes to trains to Nottingham , but organising a trip away will look completely different depending on who you’re going with. Whether it’s whisking your partner away for the weekend, taking your family on a much-needed day out, exploring a new city with friends or planning a solo trip, we’ve got your back.
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Visit Nottingham by Train
“Ayup me duck” is more than likely the phrase that you’ll be met with when you step off the train at Nottingham. Its friendly people are one of the draws of the city, matched with its diverse nightlife and extensive list of places to visit.
We’ve compiled a list of the best things to do whilst visiting Nottingham all in one place, to make the process of planning your visit a little bit easier. Take a look at our handy guides below for ideas of the best places to visit, explore and, of course, eat and drink whilst visiting Nottingham.
- History of Nottingham
- Solo Travel Guide to Nottingham
- Couples Travel Guide to Nottingham
- Group Travel Guide to Nottingham
- Family Travel Guide to Nottingham
- Foodies Guide to Nottingham
- Accommodation Guide to Nottingham
The History of Nottingham
If Nottingham could be described by those that love it most, in just three words – it would be: Diverse, vibrant and buzzing. But how did Nottingham become the vibrant city we know and love today?
Nottingham is a city in the East Midlands region of England, with a rich and diverse history dating back to its founding as a settlement in the early medieval period. The city's strategic location on the River Trent made it an important centre for trade and commerce. Nottingham is perhaps best known for its association with the legend of Robin Hood, a folklore figure who is said to have lived in the nearby Sherwood Forest. Over the centuries, Nottingham has grown into a vibrant and culturally significant city, with a legacy that encompasses industries such as lace-making and coal mining. Today, Nottingham is a thriving urban centre with a mix of historic landmarks and modern developments, making it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts and visitors alike to hop on a train and explore!
Well-known as the birthplace of Robin Hood, Nottingham can also take accountability for football manager Brian Clough, fashion designer Paul Smith and actor Vicky McClure.
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Historical Places to Explore in Nottingham
Nottingham has a chain of historic green spaces carved out in the 19th century, and threading throughout the city, including the Forest Recreation Ground, Robin Hood Chase, and the Arboretum, and the incomparable St Ann's Allotments.
Nottingham Castle
Its history spans far and wide, and Nottingham Castle was cited as one of the best places to visit to learn more. Visit a historic landmark that holds a wealth of stories within its walls; Nottingham Castle is situated on a commanding position in the city, offering a fascinating glimpse into Nottingham's past and boasts stunning views of the surrounding area. With its rich history, beautiful gardens, and intriguing exhibitions, Nottingham Castle is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travellers alike.
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The City of Caves
The City of Caves are extremely popular, inviting visitors to go underground and see what lies underneath the city. Nottingham has the UK’s largest network of caves, and over 800 are hidden beneath its streets.
Nottingham, often referred to as the "City of Caves," is renowned for its fascinating underground network of caves. These caves have served various purposes throughout history, from providing shelter to being used as hidden passageways. Exploring the City of Caves offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into Nottingham's subterranean history and gain insight into the city's past. With guided tours and captivating exhibits, the City of Caves is a captivating destination for those intrigued by underground exploration and historical significance.
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Galleries of Justice
The Galleries of Justice are brilliant excuse to hop on the train to Nottingham and a popular way to spend a few hours. The Galleries of Justice in Nottingham is a fascinating and immersive museum that offers visitors a unique insight into the history of crime and punishment in the city. Housed in a historic courthouse and gaol, the museum provides a compelling journey through Nottingham's legal past. From the original dungeons to the impressive Victorian courtrooms, the Galleries of Justice offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
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Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
Nottingham is home to the oldest pub in the country, dating back to the 12th century. This historic pub is a gem for anyone who is interested in exploring Nottingham’s history whilst enjoying a delicious pub lunch. Legend has it that King Richard the Lionheart gathered his army at this location before commencing their journey to Jerusalem in 1189AD and, likewise, Robin Hood was said to once be a local at the establishment. Order yourself a drink and discover the ghosts that are said to haunt Nottingham – if you are lucky enough, you might even get to see “Yorkey” the old pub landlord who is reported to haunt the cellar caves.
If you don’t feel any ghostly presences at the old pub, don’t worry – you can join Nottingham’s ghost hunters on a ghost walk that conveniently leaves from the pub’s doorstep every Saturday at 7pm. Book a table at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem .
Solo Travel Guide to Nottingham
Solo trips can be daunting; however, Nottingham is a great city to explore at your own pace. Here is a list of some of the must-see things to do on your solo trip to Nottingham.
National Justice Museum
Nottingham has a very rich history and is jam-packed with things to explore and discover. Whether you are a true crime fanatic, or simply just want to learn something new, you must visit the National Justice Museum – a museum dedicated exclusively to crime, punishment and social justice. Housed in a former Victorian prison, police station and court room, the National Justice Museum allows you to discover the history of crime and punishment like never before through immersive stories of the past.
Interact with historical figures by watching court re-enactments as characters plead their cases and try to escape the hangman’s noose.
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Nottingham Caves
Unknown to some, Nottingham city centre is home to a huge network of man-made caves that snake below the streets of Nottingham. Download the Nottingham Caves App , and go on a fascinating journey into the past.
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Green’s Windmill and Science Centre
At Nottingham Green's Windmill and Science Centre, you'll embark on a captivating journey through the fascinating history of the windmill and immerse yourself in interactive scientific exhibits designed to ignite your curiosity and inspire a love for learning. It's an experience you won't want to miss!
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Nottingham Playhouse
If you’re visiting Nottingham, the Nottingham Playhouse is a local theatre with a strong national reputation that’s not to be missed. The Playhouse produces a brilliant range of new and classic plays and musicals, plus comedy, spoken word poetry, dance and family shows.
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Wollaton Park
If you’re visiting Nottingham, the Nottingham Playhouse is a local theatre with a strong national reputation that’s not to be missed. The Playhouse produces a brilliant range of new and classic plays and musicals, plus comedy, spoken word poetry, dance and family shows.
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Attenborough Nature Reserve
This is a beautiful countryside area where you can walk and watch birds. The nature reserve, named after the local area, is fascinating. You can spend time in one of the hides or get up close to feed the wildlife.
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Couples Travel Guide to Nottingham
However you choose to spend your time as a couple in Nottingham, there’s no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city. We’ve grouped together things to do or see as a couple when visiting Nottingham.
Broadway Cinema
Take a trip to one of Nottingham’s independent cinemas and be transported to the wonderful world of film. Broadway cinema is a nationally recognised cultural leader in independent cinema, arts and technology. Relax and enjoy a range of refreshments in Broadway’s Café Bar before and after your screening, or grab a bite to eat at Broadway’s Mezzanine Bar and relax in the original cinema seats designed by world famous designer Paul Smith.
Hockley, or the Creative Quarter
Nicknamed “the Soho of Nottingham”, Hockley is a hub for Nottingham’s culture. Home to some of the best bars and restaurants in the city, it is the perfect neighbourhood to explore. Wander the streets of the Creative Quarter and discover the murals of the rainbow streets. With some of the best vintage shops in Nottingham, Hockley is an ideal place for couples to explore in Nottingham.
Daytime Cruise River Trent
If you’re looking for an activity in Nottingham, a daytime cruise on the River Trent came in highly recommended. These cruises are year-round, thanks to the centrally heated vessels, and allow passengers to enjoy a relaxing cruise as they take in the sights of the city. All cruises have a full catering service, too - so you can even grab a bite to eat onboard.
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Lace Market District
Located in the heart of Nottingham, the Lace Market is a historic and vibrant district renowned for its stunning architecture, bustling markets, and thriving cultural scene. With its rich heritage as the centre of the world's lace industry, this area is now a hub of creativity, featuring an array of independent shops, trendy restaurants, and lively bars. Whether you're an architecture buff, a foodie, or a fan of arts and culture, the Lace Market has something special to offer.
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Hockley Arts Club
Located in Hockley, Hockley Arts Club is a creative space for social eating and drinking. Divided across three stories, each floor has its own theme and feels like its own world. The first-floor level houses ‘Stockholm’, an independent bar inspired by mid-century Scandinavian décor.
Stockholm is open late, offers exclusive cocktails and is the perfect location to relax after a busy day of sightseeing in Nottingham. Go up a level and you will be greeted with ‘Blue Rooms’, the beating heart of the arts club. Acting as both a restaurant and bar, Blue Rooms is the perfect location for a date. The final floor is arguably the most glamorous, and where you will find the ‘Electric Garden’. The Electric Garden is a cocktail bar like no other, enabling you to relax in style with a range of bespoke cocktails. Book a table at Hockley Arts Club .
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Group Travel Guide to Nottingham
Nottingham is a great city to visit when travelling with a group of friends. There are plenty of things to do and see for different group sizes. We’ve collated a few of these options below!
Escape Rooms – Escapologic
Discover the legend of Robin Hood like never before in Nottingham’s Robin Hood-themed escape room, “Robin of Lockskey”. Can you find the golden arrow, save the sheriff, and protect the legend of Robin Hood? If not, don’t worry – Escapologic has 7 other themed escape rooms that you can try and crack. Book Escape Rooms.
Hatchet Harry’s
Test out your aim at Nottingham’s urban axe throwing facility, Hatchet Harry’s. Learn how to throw axes from the experts and show off your skills by competing against the members of your party and discover who has the best aim. Book Hatchet Harry's.
Image © Hatchet Harry’s
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Bunk
Bunk is one of the coolest bars in Nottingham, and rightly so – it’s underground. Offering a range of cocktails made to order, Bunk is the perfect place to visit with friends or your partner when visiting Nottingham. As well as cocktails, Bunk offers a selection of wings, burgers and hot dogs that can be ordered at the bar, with vegan and vegetarian options also available for specific items.
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Families Guide to Visiting Nottingham
When travelling to Nottingham as a family, you’ll be looking for child friendly activities and one thing is for sure, you won’t be disappointed with the options!
The Robin Hood Experience
If you’re hoping to go back in time and fully immerse yourself in Robin Hood’s world, you won’t be disappointed by The Robin Hood Experience , located in the heart of Nottingham’s city centre. Your family will travel back in time and hear tales of Robin Hood’s daring heroism, all with the help of a fantastic audio-visual experience that is sure to capture your little one’s imagination.
There’s no need to book this attraction, simply turn up during opening hours!
Si5 Spy Missions
On your visit to Nottingham, your children have the opportunity to play out their own spy adventures at Si5 Spy Missions. The mission is to infiltrate the ship and stop the missiles being launched without being caught, which is sure to give your children an adrenaline filled day out. This attraction is suitable for ages 6+ and is a must for any little ones who are hoping to the next super spy. Book Si5 Spy Missions.
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Foodies Guide to Nottingham
Nottingham has lots of independent establishments that you need to try when visiting the city. Whether you are eating alone, on a date or eating as a group, here is a list of some of our favourite places you need to tick off your eatery list when visiting Nottingham.
Fat Hippo
If you love burgers, you need to visit one of the best burger joints in Nottingham, Fat Hippo. Located on Broad Street, Fat Hippo promises visitors some of the best burgers Nottingham has to offer. From classic American-style burgers to vegan burgers, Fat Hippo caters for everyone. If burgers are not all you fancy, don’t worry – Fat Hippo offers a range of starters and sides too. Book a table at Fat Hippo.
ZAAP
Located just minutes away from Nottingham Castle, ZAAP is a walk-in restaurant that has brought Thai street food to Nottingham. It offers a bustling, family-friendly atmosphere with an open kitchen and a climbable tuk-tuk that can keep your children busy whilst they wait. With an affordable and creative menu, ZAAP is a perfect place to visit whilst in Nottingham for anybody who loves Thai street food. Find out more about ZAAP.
Image © ZAAP
200 Degrees Coffee
Refuel yourself by visiting one of the best coffee shops Nottingham has to offer. With 2 locations across the city, and with one conveniently located just a few metres from Nottingham Station, 200 Degrees is the perfect place to visit before a busy day of exploring. Whether you are grabbing a snack to go or planning your adventures for the day, 200 Degrees has you covered – offering a range of hot beverages, fresh food and pastries, with a wide variety of vegan and vegetarian options too.
Alchemilla
Experience fine dining at Alchemilla , that is known for its emphasis on seasonal ingredients and serves exquisite dishes with layers of original flavour combinations.
The Racing Room at The Dragon
Looking for a fun party venue? The Racing Room at The Dragon is a pub with a giant Scalextric track that you can book for any kind of party. You and your friends can have a great time racing small cars around the track. You can also pre-book food for your group. It's a great place to have a lot of fun with your friends.
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Places to Stay in Nottingham
Park Plaza Hotel
The Park Plaza Hotel is perfect for anyone travelling to Nottingham from couples looking for a romantic getaway to families travelling with children of all ages. Located in the midst of Nottingham city centre, this hotel offers visitors luxury surroundings at affordable prices. Book Park Plaza Hotel.
Roomzzz Aparthotel Nottingham
If you are looking for a budget friendly option staying in the city centre, then Roomzzz Aparthotel is a perfect option. Close to all of the major attractions and Nottingham train station, you’re perfectly placed to enjoy everything the city has to offer in absolute comfort and style. Book Roomzzz Aparthotel Nottingham.
Hart’s Hotel
Want to stay in luxury during your trip to Nottingham? Look no further than Hart’s Hotel, this luxury hotel is just a short walk from Nottingham’s main attractions and is reasonably priced for the luxury amenities that it offers. This hotel boasts a well renowned eatery on site, so you won’t even need to worry about where you’re going to eat during your stay either. Book Hart’s Hotel.
Don’t just take our word for it – visit Nottingham for yourself and explore some of the hidden gems of the city.