places to visit close to nottingham

12 Incredible Day Trips from Nottingham

Visiting nottingham and looking for things to do from historic castles and beautiful nature reserves, to interesting museums, these are the best day trips from nottingham.

Nottingham is a gorgeous city with a ton to see and explore. If you’re plotting out an England itinerary , you should definitely add in a stop in this historic city.

Since it’s surrounded by the stunning Nottinghamshire countryside, if you’re visiting the city, you should definitely look at day trips to some beautiful places nearby. The surrounding areas are full of castles, nature reserves, parks and country walks, all within an hour’s drive.

While the city provides plenty to see, you’ll find there are even more exciting day trips from Nottingham. From seeing 900-year-old castles, visiting the home of Robin Hood, spectacular countryside in the Peak District , and romantic stately homes belonging to former poets, there are plenty of Nottingham day trips to keep you entertained.

Whether you’ve got a passion for nature or love nothing more than sitting in tea rooms and relaxing, these Nottingham day trips are suitable for any type of traveller or budget. So, let’s get exploring!

The Best Day Trips from Nottingham

Castleton, peak district national park.

One of the best day trips from Nottingham is to the Peak District National Park. In fact, there is so much to do in the Peak District you might want to consider a weekend trip!

The national park is all about nature. You can take a scenic walk through the forest or hit the cycle routes. If you don’t like exercise much, don’t worry! There are plenty of beautiful villages that are ideal for a leisurely stroll.

But if you’re a thrill-seeker with a thirst for adventure, you’ll 100% want to head to Castleton. This is where you can see impressive rock formations, such as Mam Tor . It’s most famous for its underground caverns and cave systems.

In fact, the caves in Castleton are amongst the biggest and best cave networks in the country. Make sure to visit Blue John Cavern, the only cave in the UK that has the rare mineral, Blue John. Peak Cavern, Speedwell Cavern , and Treak Cliff Cavern are also worth a visit.

If you’re looking for one of the best walks in the Peak District, take a read of our guide to the Mam Tor walk . Alternatively, we’ve recommended a few of our favourite places to visit in the Peak District .

Sherwood Forest

No trip to Nottingham would be complete without taking a day trip to the home of Robin Hood! We all know the story of the man who stole from the rich and gave to the poor. Legend has it that Sherwood Forest was the home, hunting ground, and hiding place of Robin Hood and his merry men.

Today, this is a protected ancient forest and nature reserve. It’s home to several native plants and fauna, including oak trees that have survived for more than 500 years. One oak tree has made legendary status, the Major Oak, which is estimated to be around 1,000 years old.

Visiting Sherwood Forest is a leisurely day out for anyone who ventures here. Whether you’re a family looking for a pleasant afternoon walk, or you’re feeling like taking on the cycle trails with a bunch of friends, you’ll love this part of Nottinghamshire.

Our top tip – visit during bluebell season for some extra special views!

Chatsworth House

One of the top places to visit near Nottingham is Chatsworth House, a stately home that belongs to the Devon family. This gorgeous mansion has been with the family for 16 generations. That’s a lot of family heirlooms you can see here too!

Visitors can admire the vast collection of artworks, some of which are more than 4,000 years old. There are also statues from ancient Roman and Egyptian times, as well as works from famous artists including Rembrandt, Veronese, Lucian Freud, Edmund de Waal and David Nash, to name a few. You might even say the whole house is an art gallery!

The highlight of this house though is definitely the painted hall. This iconic room features a black and white checkered floor, a marble staircase with golden railings and a ceiling covered in detailed paintings. WOW!

You might want to put on your best outfit too, as this is an amazing place to snap some cute photos!

Colwick Country Park

If you’re looking for day trips from Nottingham that provide a real escape yet are not too far away from the city centre, then Colwick Country Park is an ideal choice. The park features two huge lakes, plus walking, running and cycling routes.

It’s also possible to fish in the lakes. One of the greatest things about Colwick is that it’s dog-friendly. It’s the perfect day trip from Nottingham for travellers with dogs.

The great thing about Nottingham is that it’s not far away from other great cities. Birmingham , Warwick, and Leamington Spa are all under an hour’s drive away.

If you’re not sure which of these cities to visit, Warwick is a really great choice. Located just outside Birmingham, it has all the fun of Brum but without the crowds or heavy traffic. Perfect!

As well as exploring the old town and the castle, be sure to check out the British Motor Museum .

The UK is all about cars. Western European countries were some of the first to adopt motor vehicles, and you can bet the UK’s motor history goes back a very long way.

The British Motor Museum showcases over 400 years of the motor vehicle. The museum has the largest collection of historic British cars and there are even exhibits that show you how they were manufactured.

The British Motor Museum is the perfect rainy day trip from Nottingham, especially for car fanatics. It’s best to book tickets in advance, which you can do below.

Click here to check prices and book tickets to the British Motor Museum

Newstead Abbey

Newstead Abbey is an 800-year-old manor house and abbey in Ravenshead, Nottinghamshire. This beautiful complex has around 300 acres of grounds to explore, plus a lake, and a Japanese walled garden.

The house was founded by Henry II as a small monastery for the Augustinians. When Henry VIII abolished the monasteries, it was turned into a residential home.

Not only does it retain a wealth of history, but it’s still home to lots of historical artworks and artefacts from its former owners. It’s also in a serene location, with woodland all around that is perfect for a relaxing walk with your family.

If you’re visiting in the summer, you must check out the open theatre , which takes place in the grounds. Since the house belonged to former romantic poet, Lord Byron, the performing arts are a huge part of the house’s history.

From adaptations of acclaimed books to Shakespeare productions, there’s always something going on in the summer evenings here!

Kenilworth Castle

Another of the best day trips from Nottingham is Kenilworth Castle in Warwickshire. It’s only an hour’s drive out of Nottingham city centre making for the perfect half-day activity.

The castle is known for being the royal home of Tudor queen, Elizabeth I, and then later to Robert Dudley, Earl of Leicester. It was Robert Dudley who transformed the castle into the stunning masterpiece you see today.

Over the past 900 years, little has changed about the house, including its contents. If you’re travelling with kids, they will love dressing up in period clothes. There’s also the opportunity to learn about the castle’s troublesome past, including how it defended its keep during the War of the Roses civil war.

Click here to check prices and book tickets to Kenilworth Castle

Attenborough Nature Reserve

One of the best day trips from Nottingham for nature lovers is the Attenborough Nature Reserve. It was opened in 1966 by national treasure, Sir David Attenborough, as a space for the general public to escape city life and enjoy nature.

It is said there are over 250 species of bird recorded at the reserve, plus hundreds more varieties of plants and insects. It’s also one of the best places in the UK to see kingfishers and otters in their natural habitats.

You’re welcome to bring your doggie too, as long as it’s kept on a lead. If you want a cheap day out, this is it. It’s free to enter the nature reserve, so your only cost will be parking your car.

Bolsover Castle

Bolsover Castle is an English Heritage site that overlooks the incredible Derbyshire countryside. Although it’s a small castle (sometimes even called Little Castle), it has a huge story to tell.

This 11th-century wonder was built by William Peveril, a knight of William the Conqueror. It was left in ruins in the 14th century, before being brought back to life by Sir Charles Cavendish before the English civil war.

Sadly, Charles Cavendish died before the Little Castle was completed, and it was instead finished by his son William.

William was a poet and well-known playboy (if he were alive today, he’d definitely be on Made in Chelsea!) as well as the 1st Duke of Newcastle. He designed the house to be a place of entertainment. Much of that entertainment value can be seen in its artwork and classic furniture pieces.

Visitors are free to roam the house, gardens and grounds. There’s also a tearoom where you can get light refreshments and yummy cakes.

If you’re non-UK resident and thinking of visiting a few English Heritage sites, I’d recommend picking up a pass like this one that gives you entry to over 100 sites. It’s great value too.

Sheffield Winter Gardens

If you’re looking for places to visit near Nottingham that are under an hour away, then the Sheffield Winter Gardens are the ideal choice.

This place is best known for its architectural glass greenhouse. It’s a thing of beauty! The greenhouse is seriously impressive too. In fact, it’s one of the biggest temperate glasshouses in the United Kingdom.

The gardens feature over 2,500 plants from all corners of the world. Inside the greenhouse, there are a further 5,000 domestic species of plants.

With curved roofs lined with glass and exposed beams, it’s one of the most striking displays of modern architecture in the UK. And best of all, it’s free!

Occasionally, Sheffield Winter Gardens have a schedule of performing arts events, so it’s a good idea to check online before visiting to see what’s on.

Haddon Hall, Bakewell

Just an hour’s drive outside of Nottingham you’ll find Haddon Hall near the River Wye. The setting of this country home is one of the most stunning in the UK. 

This 900-year-old manor house is said to be one of the most complete houses of its period. Inside, visitors can see the large collection of tapestries and artwork. The house also claims to have some of the best collections of early English furniture in the UK. If you enjoy getting up close to nature, don’t miss a wander around the gorgeous Elizabethan Walled Gardens.

There’s also a restaurant serving tasty dishes that feature locally sourced produce. If you’re looking for a romantic place to visit outside Nottingham for a date, this is a great option.

National Space Station, Leicester

Leicester is another great East Midlands city that’s worth checking out on a day trip from Nottingham. It’s just a 45-minute car journey, or a quick trip on the train.

If you’re not sure what to do in Leicester, then how about a trip to the National Space Station . In 1961, the University of Leicester was involved in the creation of the Skylark sounding rocket project. This rocket was used to launch scientific instruments into space. Since then, Leicester has been known as one of the best places in the UK to learn about space and our solar system.

The museum features six halls containing interactive exhibits about space travel, life in space, astronomy and space science. Its displays are engaging and immersive. If you’re travelling with children, they will absolutely love it too!.

So there you have it, 12 exciting day trips from Nottingham! I hope you’ve found these travel tips useful! This region of England offers so much in the way of nature, adventure and history. While Nottingham is a fantastic city with so much charm, you simply have to get out of the city centre to really enjoy Nottinghamshire.

If you’re looking for more travel tips and recommendations, check out this guide to the Peak District , these day trips from Leeds , the best Michelin starred restaurants in Birmingham , and this amazing itinerary for travelling around England .

Enjoyed reading this post? Pin it for later…

Leave a comment Cancel reply

16 Top Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit in Nottingham

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Nottingham, county town of Nottinghamshire, is built on a number of hills on the north bank of the River Trent. The city has a long tradition as a trading hub and manufacturing center and is known for its fine lace.

More recently, it has become a popular cultural destination boasting numerous attractions, including two large theaters and several art galleries. It also hosts many great festivals and events, one of the most popular being the annual Nottingham Goose Fair .

Known as the "Queen of the Midlands" on account of its broad streets and picturesque parks, such as the Arboretum, Embankment, and Colwick Park, Nottingham is a great base from which to explore nearby Sherwood Forest , legendary home of Robin Hood. In fact, the image of this most famous of English folk heroes is everywhere around the city, and although his once enormous woodland hangout is now considerably reduced, it lends the city a truly unique atmosphere.

To learn more about what is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in England, read our list of the top attractions and things to do in Nottingham.

See also: Where to Stay in Nottingham

1. Old Market Square

2. the lace market, 3. nottingham castle, 4. the city of caves, 5. national justice museum, 6. theatre royal & royal concert hall, 7. highfields park, 8. green's windmill and science centre, 9. d. h. lawrence birthplace museum, 10. the great central railway, 11. robin hood way and sherwood forest, 12. papplewick pumping station, 13. wollaton hall, 14. newstead abbey, 15. southwell minster, 16. framework knitters' museum, where to stay in nottingham for sightseeing.

Nottingham's old city center boasts several important tourist attractions. It's here that you'll find Old Market Square, the largest such public space in England and home to the Nottingham Tourism Centre , an important first stop before exploring the city. On the east side of the square is the Neoclassical Council House, crowned by an imposing dome.

While strolling through the city's historic center, be sure to head over to the Nottingham Playhouse for a look at the remarkable Sky Mirror . Created by sculptor Anish Kapoor, this 19-foot-wide stainless steel dish points upwards and provides a unique look at the sky above.

Also of interest here is Nottingham Speaker's Corner, the first such public speaking venue outside London. The impressive Guildhall is also close by.

Location: Smithy Row, Nottingham

Just a short walk away from the Old Market Square is the historic Lace Market. Once the heart of Britain's lace industry, this charming area is now protected as one of the city's most important heritage zones. Today, these former red brick warehouses and display rooms house numerous shops, restaurants, boutique accommodations - and yes, lace makers.

In addition to these fun things to do, the neighborhood is also home to some of the city's top sightseeing opportunities, including a visit to the former courthouse that now serves as the National Justice Museum. Great walking tours of the Lace Market are available and can be booked at the Nottingham Tourist Centre.

Nottingham Castle affords excellent views of the town and is notable for its bronze statues of Robin Hood and his merry men by Nottingham-born sculptor James Woodford. Destroyed in 1651 by Parliamentary forces, the original castle was replaced by an Italian-style palace belonging to the Duke of Newcastle.

Today, it's home to two great collections: the Sherwood Foresters Regimental Museum, with its impressive collection of medals and regimental uniforms; and the Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery . Among the latter's treasures are beautiful 6th-century Anglo-Saxon brooches, medieval ceramics and alabaster carvings, and stoneware from the 17th and 18th centuries.

There's also an ethnographic gallery (including jade jewelry from New Zealand, Burmese bronze statues, and Indo-Persian steelware). The picture collection in the Long Gallery includes works by Charles le Brun, Richard Wilson, William Dyce, Marcus Stone, and Ben Nicholson.

The Museum of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard , just a few yards away, is also worth a visit. This collection of 17th-century cottages houses displays portraying the history of the people of Nottingham.

Address: Lenton Road, Nottingham

Official site: www.nottinghamcastle.org.uk/

Numerous caves exist in the sandstone underneath Nottingham, including the spectacular 322-foot-long Mortimer's Hole directly below the castle. Part of the excellent City of Caves attraction, this particular formation takes its name from Roger Mortimer, lover of Queen Isabella, wife of Edward II (legend has it Mortimer once hid here from the jealous king).

In all, more than 450 caves lie beneath Nottingham, the largest known grouping of caves in the country, and have been used for centuries for storage and defense. Accessed from Garner's Hill, fascinating public tours of the caves are available.

Location: Garner's Hill, Nottingham

Official site: www.nationaljusticemuseum.org.uk/venue/city-of-caves/

A must-see attraction in the Lace Market is the popular National Justice Museum . It's located in the city's former court and jailhouse, a building that has been in use since 1780.

Highlights of the museum include its courtrooms and a jail that dates from the 14th century. There are also fascinating exhibits relating to matters of crime and punishment. Be sure to check out the displays about Robin Hood.

Other nearby attractions worth visiting include Nottingham Contemporary , a modern art gallery, and the National Ice Centre , one of the country's largest ice-skating rink facilities.

Address: High Pavement, Nottingham

Official site: www.nationaljusticemuseum.org.uk

Since it opened in 1865, Nottingham's Theatre Royal has been a focal point of the city's social and entertainment life. Since then, this landmark building has expanded in size and function, and is now the centerpiece of a cultural facility that includes the more modern Royal Concert Hall.

In addition to theatrical productions including everything from musicals to murder mysteries and Shakespearian tragedies, locals and visitors alike are also treated to touring ballet performances and concerts. If you're traveling through Nottingham with kids in the Christmas period, be sure to check out their always popular pantomime, a tradition that's been running since 1971.

Address: Theatre Square, Nottingham

Official site: https://trch.co.uk

Part of the University of Nottingham, Highfields Park is a splendid 52-acre green space full of exotic plants and trees. Fun things to do here include boating, walking, picnicking, lawn bowls, croquet, and putting. Children can burn off steam in the play area, and the Lakeside Arts Centre stages special events.

Another park worth visiting is the Arboretum , home to lovely gardens and some of the city's most popular festivals. Close by is the Church of St. Mary the Virgin, the city's oldest church, known for its 19th-century glasswork. It's also the city's second largest religious center after the Roman Catholic Cathedral Church of St. Barnabas.

Address: University Boulevard, Lenton, Nottingham

Official site: www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/HighfieldsPark

Lovely Green's Mill, once home of mathematical physicist George Green (1793-1841), was built in 1807 only to be rebuilt in the 1980s after a devastating fire in 1947. Today, the amazing inner workings of Green's Windmill can be seen over four floors, each of them providing an insight into the flour-making process (you can even buy some to take home with you).

The science center itself is aimed at youngsters and includes a discovery zone with fun interactive displays. Exhibits focus on light, magnetism, and electricity.

Address: Windmill Lane, Sneinton, Nottingham

Official site: www.greensmill.org.uk

The D. H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum in the Eastwood area of Nottingham combines three unique attractions focusing on the famous English author. The Blue Line Trail, a self-guided walking tour modeled on the Freedom Trail in Boston, links the Heritage Centre and the Birthplace Museum.

The museum is home to a fascinating exhibition on the social history of Eastwood during the writer's lifetime, including recreations of a Victorian schoolroom, a grocery shop, and a mock-up of a mine that visitors can crawl through. There's also an art gallery, bistro, and conference area.

Also of interest are displays about family life in the mining community that shaped Lawrence's formative years, as well as a chance to view the rooms where the family lived. Personal items and some of Lawrence's original watercolors are also on display.

Address: 8a Victoria Street, Eastwood, Nottingham

Official site: www.lleisure.co.uk/d-h-lawrence-birthplace-museum/

Chugging along some 10 miles of track between Ruddington Fields station to East Leake and Loughborough, the Great Central Railway (GCRN) makes an excellent excursion when visiting Nottingham. Highlights of this heritage railway include a number of fully restored steam and diesel train engines and rolling stock, as well as fully functioning workshops, vintage buses, a café, and shops.

Model train enthusiasts will want to check out the attraction's large miniature railway layout. Those traveling with kids should plan ahead and try to catch fun events like the special Santa and Christmas trains.

Address: Mere Way, Ruddington, Nottinghamshire

Official site: www.gcrn.co.uk

Stretching all the way from Nottingham Castle to Sherwood Forest, the 104-mile-long Robin Hood Way passes many attractions associated with the legendary Robin Hood. The trail also goes through the Clumber Country Park and past Rufford Abbey, as well as Robin Hood Hills, Thieves Wood, and Fountain Dale.

The highlight, of course, is spending time within famous Sherwood Forest, the most important area landmark associated with Robin Hood. Today, this famous woodland encompasses more than 1,000 acres surrounding the village of Edwinstowe, including the 450-acre Sherwood Forest Country Park .

Visitors come each year to enjoy events such as the week-long Robin Hood Festival . Highlights include its recreation of medieval times and characters, including knights and court jesters.

Other big draws include the Sherwood Forest Art and Craft Centre and the 1,000-year-old Major Oak . You can also visit Thynghowe, a medieval meeting place where people came to resolve disputes.

Address: Mansfield Road, Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire

Widely considered one of the finest examples of Victorian industrial design in Britain, the Papplewick Pumping Station is a superb example of 19th century craftsmanship. It boasts a range of original features including an ornamental cooling pond and a Boiler House complete with six Lancashire Boilers, all set amidst formal landscaped grounds.

The ornate Engine House is home to the original twin beam engines, built by James Watt in 1884. Here visitors find a combination of Victorian engineering and artistic design, including beautiful stained glass windows, elaborately decorated columns and polished mahogany and brass.

Another feat of engineering can be seen at Bestwood Country Park . The park is home to the Winding Engine House , the last remaining vestige of the large colliery that once dominated the landscape.

Address: Rigg Lane, Ravenshead, Nottingham

Official site: www.papplewickpumpingstation.org.uk

Located near the university, spectacular Wollaton Hall is an Elizabethan mansion set amid a 500-acre deer park. Built around 1580 by a local coal mine owner, this attractive mansion now houses the Nottingham City Museums and Galleries' Natural History Collection, as well as the superb Nottingham Industrial Museum (the latter is housed in the estate's former stables).

Highlights include Nottingham's oldest pipe organ, plus the chance to explore the six galleries of the natural history museum. Admission is free, though a fee is attached to the excellent tours on offer here. There are also two on-site cafés, along with a gift shop.

Address: Wollaton Hall, Nottingham

Official site: https://wollatonhall.org.uk

An easy 20-minute drive north of Nottingham is Newstead Abbey. This delightful attraction is the former family home of poet Lord Byron, whose tomb is in Newstead parish church. It was originally an Augustinian abbey founded in 1170 by Henry II, and many of the original structures can still be seen, including the west front of the church, the refectory, the chapterhouse (now a chapel), and the cloisters.

Byron's rooms have been preserved as they were in his lifetime, with many of his mementos on display. Be sure to also explore the lovely garden, with its many old and rare trees, as well as the Japanese, formal, and tropical gardens, and lakes and streams in the abbey grounds.

Location: Ravenshead, Nottinghamshire

Official site: www.newsteadabbey.org.uk

About 15 miles northeast of Nottingham, Southwell is a small market town that makes a good base for the exploration of Robin Hood country. Charles I stayed in the Saracen's Head before giving himself up to the Scots in 1646, thus beginning a long period of imprisonment ending with his execution.

Other historic buildings of note include the heritage houses lining Church Street and Westgate. The old Methodist Church is also worth seeing.

Of particular interest is 12th-century Southwell Minster (the nave and transepts of this period have been preserved, as have its three Norman towers). The most exquisite part of the minster is undoubtedly the 13th-century chapterhouse, with its wonderful doorway, a profusion of beautiful naturalistic leaves and flowers, vines, grapes, animals, and human figures.

Address: Church Street, Southwell, Nottinghamshire

Official site: www.southwellminster.org

Here's one for traveling knitters: the Framework Knitters' Museum. Set up as a "living museum" in the small village of Ruddington just a few minutes south of Nottingham, this fascinating museum celebrates a craft that's been a staple of the region for over 400 years.

As you stroll around the museum's collection of historic cottages and workshops, you'll see knitters at work, keeping things very much alive with displays and techniques that have been around for generations. A great tearoom is located on-site, along with a well-stocked shop.

Address: Chapel Street, Ruddington, Nottingham

Official site: https://frameworkknittersmuseum.org.uk

If you're visiting Nottingham for the first time, the city center makes a great base. Here, you'll find attractions such as Old Market Square, Nottingham Castle, and Mortimer's Hole, as well as plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Below are some highly rated hotels in this convenient and central location:

Luxury Hotels:

• On a quiet cul-de-sac, a short stroll from the city center, the pet-friendly, boutique Hart's Hotel , with compact, contemporary rooms and a popular restaurant next door, lies a six-minute stroll from Nottingham Castle.
• Less than 10 minutes on foot to Old Market Square and the castle, Crowne Plaza Hotel Nottingham has an indoor pool, fitness center, and comfortable guest rooms, while the contemporary Park Plaza Nottingham is even closer to the castle, near fabulous shops and restaurants.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• A mere five-minute walk from the city center and steps from the popular Rock City music venue, Roomzzz Nottingham City offers fresh modern apartments with full kitchens. Breakfast is included in the rates.
• Nearby, the glass-encased Premier Inn Nottingham City Centre Hotel has comfy, modern rooms in a quiet location.
• A little closer to the city center, a short stroll from Old Market Square and the castle, Best Western Plus Nottingham City Centre is popular for its handy location, comfortable beds, and reasonable rates.

Budget Hotels:

• In a fantastic location, steps from Nottingham Castle and Mortimer's Hole, the pet-friendly Travelodge Nottingham Central , with basic modern rooms, offers excellent value, as does the nearby Ibis Nottingham Centre , a little farther east.
• Although a little farther from the city center, the Travelodge Nottingham Riverside Hotel is also worth considering and offers no-frills rooms and free parking.

More on England

• Route planner

The Top 20 Attractions around Nottingham

Plan. Save. Navigate. Your best adventures await.

Start today with a free komoot account.

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} St. Peters Church

Hiking Highlight

St Peter's is one of the three mediaeval parish churches in Nottingham, the others being St Mary's and St Nicholas. The parish of St. James' Church, Standard Hill, founded in … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Wollaton Hall

A marvellous 16th-century Elizabethan country house, the striking symmetrical architecture of Wollaton Hall now houses a natural history museum. The park that surrounds the hall is a lovely place for … read more

Sign Up To Discover Places Like This

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} The Theatre Royal

Built in 1865 the theatre has had several owners of varying success over the years. In 1969 the council bought the theatre and have run it ever since. The current program can be found at trch.co.uk

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Robin Hood Statue

No visit to Nottingham is complete without a photo at the Robin Hood statue, which is located right outside the Nottingham Castle entrance. You can take your photo next to … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Bulwell Hall

Built in 1770 by John Newton, Bulwell Hall is today in ruin and is surrounded by pleasant parkland boasting twin lakes and an 18-hole golf course. Two small areas of … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} The Embankment

Road Cycling Highlight ( Segment )

A nice road along the River Trent. Option to ride on the road or on the wide joint cycle/pedestrian path. Pretty view and a generally good riding surfaces with minimal traffic.

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Highfields Park

Highfields Park was part of an estate built and landscaped in the late 18th and early 19th century. In 1920 Sir J Boot bought the estate and used it as … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} Colwick Country Park

Part of Colwick Country Park, the stretch of land between the lakes and the River Trent is an interesting place to walk. You can see the boast in the mariners and the peaceful lake.

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} The Left Lion

Beloved by locals as a famous ‘meeting place’, Nottingham’s Left Lion is one of two stone lions situated either side of the steps leading to the front entrance of the … read more

html.ReactModal__Html--open{overflow:hidden;}html.ReactModal__Html--open:not(.fullsize){scrollbar-gutter:stable;}html.ReactModal__Html--open.ReactModal__Html--panel #pageMountNode:before{content:'';position:fixed;width:100%;height:100%;} University Park Lakeside Arts Centre

Running Highlight

Lakeside cafe and arts centre on the edge of the lake on the University of Nottingham's university park campus. Perfect spot to stop for a coffee with a view of … read more

Popular around Nottingham

Explore the most popular Tours around Nottingham

Hiking around Nottingham

Easy hikes around Nottingham

Road Cycling Routes around Nottingham

Running Trails around Nottingham

Cycling around Nottingham

Gravel biking around Nottingham

MTB Trails around Nottingham

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

• Castle Donington
• Long Whatton And Diseworth
• Lockington-Hemington
• Leicestershire
• Isley Cum Langley
• Breedon On The Hill
• Nottinghamshire
• Bagworth & Thornton
• Worthington
• Ashby-De-La-Zouch
• Staunton Harold
• Swannington
• Hugglescote And Donington Le Heath
• Ashby Woulds
• Ravenstone With Snibstone
• Ellistown And Battleflat
• Stanton-Under-Bardon
• Normanton Le Heath
• Oakthorpe And Donisthorpe
• North West Leicestershire
• Shackerstone
• Newbold Verdon
• Appleby Magna
• Stretton En Le Field
• Northamptonshire
• Lincolnshire
• Sutton Cheney
• Market Bosworth
• Earl Shilton
• Stoke Golding
• Higham On The Hill
• Hinckley And Bosworth

• New Zealand
• Czech Republic
• The Netherlands
• Northern Ireland
• Adrenaline Activities
• City Activities
• Coworking Spaces
• Eco-Friendly Travel
• Free Things to Do
• Itineraries
• Travel Tips
• Walks and Hikes
• Afternoon Tea
• Bottomless Brunch
• Cocktail Bars
• Gluten-Free
• Restaurants
• Rooftop Bars
• Shepherds Huts
• Privacy Policy
• Work With Me

25 Most Beautiful Airbnbs in the Lake District [2024]

5 Best Thames Dinner Cruises in London [2024]

Glamping Somerset: 25 Amazing Places to Stay At [2024]

The Loft at Goytre Hall: Brecon Beacons Stay [2024 Review]

Date Ideas Bristol: 25 Fun, Quirky & Romantic Dates [2024]

Peak District Glamping Pods: 15 Best Pods to Stay In [2024]

25 Best Cafes to Work in London [Laptop Friendly Cafes 2024]

Glamping Devon with Hot Tub: 25 Amazing Places to Stay [2024]

The Dairy: Holiday Cottage in the Yorkshire Dales [2024 Review]

Glamping North Wales: 25 Amazing Places to Stay [2024]

Sleepy Owl Devon: Luxury Treehouses and Cowshed with Hot Tubs

Rooftop Bars New Orleans: 15 Best Bars with Great Views [2024]

Bottomless Brunch Brisbane: 25 Best Brunches to Try [2024]

Bottomless Brunch Melbourne: 25 Best Brunches to Try [2024]

Bottomless Brunch Perth: 25 Best Brunches You Need to Try [2024]

Bottomless Brunch Sydney: 25 Best Brunches to Try [2024]

Bottomless Mimosas Denver: 19 Best Brunches You Need to Try [2024]

Bottomless Mimosas Nashville: 11 Best Brunches You Need to Try [2024]

13 amazing places to visit in nottingham for a great day out [2024].

I think it comes as no surprise to anyone that I love Nottingham.

It’s such a great city, and there are so many unique things to do there.

However, it probably isn’t the first city that jumps to people’s minds when they’re considering a UK city break .

But that needs to change because I can guarantee that anyone who visits Nottingham will have a fab time there!

In this post, I’ve rounded up some of the very best places to visit in Nottingham.

So read on and start planning your weekend away.

1. Attenborough Nature Reserve

Address: Barton Lane, Attenborough, Nottingham NG9 6DY

Phone number: 0115 972 1777

Yes, this nature reserve is named after our beloved Sir David Attenborough.

This automatically makes it one of the best places to visit in Nottingham, right?

In fact, he opened the park himself in 1966!

Best known for being home to a number of bird species, Attenborough Nature Reserve provides many rarely sighted birds with a home.

The reserve covers an enormous 350 acres and is located on the site of what was once a former gravel pit.

It has since been converted into a hub for flora and fauna.

The reserve is run by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust who do fantastic work to help preserve the wonderful wildlife in Nottinghamshire.

Located less than 4.5 miles away from Nottingham city centre, it’s one of the best places to visit in Nottingham for those able to travel a little bit out.

2. Old Market Square

Address: Old Market Square, Nottingham NG1 2DT

Phone number: 0115 841 5554

This lovely square is the largest public space in the UK after London’s famous Trafalgar Square.

And it’s fair to say it rivals it in terms of beauty!

Front and centre of the square is the impressive Council House.

Crowned by a dome, it’s the focal point of this part of the city.

The square hosts events such as the city’s Winter Wonderland and a number of farmers’ markets throughout the year.

It seems there is always something happening in this beating heart of Nottingham.

The square is filled with shops, bars, coffee shops and more, making it is the perfect place to start your day in Nottingham.

Make sure you try out one of the best bottomless brunches in Nottingham or vegan restaurants in Nottingham before you leave.

The Tourism Centre is also located by the square, just in case you need any additional info during your time here!

3. Wollaton Hall & Deer Park

Address: Wollaton Hall & Deer Park. Nottingham NG8 2AE

Phone number: 0115 876 3100

Wollaton Hall is a spectacular Elizabethan mansion set on extensive grounds where deer can be found roaming freely.

The Hall was the setting for Wayne Manor in the Batman film The Dark Knight Rises .

And with all its grandeur it’s not hard to see why.

The Hall is also home to Nottingham’s Natural History Museum, which has been located here since 1926.

It also houses the Nottingham Industrial Museum, meaning there’s plenty of history to explore inside the walls of this stunning building!

Daily tours of the Hall are available to visitors, and while wandering through the rooms of the Hall, you’ll feel like you’re living in your very own period drama. Trust me!

Wollaton Hall also has its very own walled botanical garden, which is situated by the stable block and is maintained by volunteers.

4. The Lace Market

The Lace Market area of Nottingham was once the centre of the lace industry in Britain.

These days, it is one of Nottingham’s most important heritage zones, and the beautiful red-brick buildings are home to some of the city’s best shops and restaurants.

As well as lace-makers, of course!

Along with Hockley, the Lace Market is the oldest area of Nottingham city, having over one thousand years of history coursing through its streets.

You can book a walking tour of the streets at the Tourism Centre if you so wish.

But it’s equally fun to roam the pretty district of your own accord, keeping an eye out for one of the many hidden gems.

Hockley is Nottingham’s bohemian hotspot, and its Victorian buildings house everything from tattoo parlours and record stores to second-hand bookstores and vintage clothing stores.

Some of the most amazing places to visit in Nottingham are tucked away in the streets of Hockley.

So it should certainly be on your list of places to visit while you’re in Nottingham.

One such gem can be found in the shape of Broadway Cinema , which is a cultural leader for independent cinema, arts and technology in the Midlands.

Hockley hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, including the popular multi-venue music festival Hockley Hustle .

The district is also brought to life during the city’s Pride event each year.

6. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

Address: Brewhouse Yard, 1, Nottingham NG1 6AD

Phone number:  0115 947 3171

No trip to Nottingham would be complete without paying a visit to the oldest inn in Britain, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem .

One of the best indoor activities in Nottingham , you can tie it in with a trip to Nottingham Castle, as it’s nestled below the castle, tucked into the towering sandstone cliffs.

There are loads of cosy nooks and crannies in this lovely little venue that take you back in time.

When you visit, you really feel as though you can feel the history of the place seeping out of the walls.

It’s quite fun to think you could be sat in the same seat as a famous knight once sat before heading off to battle!

History aside, it’s just an all-round nice pub.

So if you’re craving a good pint after a long day of seeing the sights, then make your way down here and relax.

7. Nottingham Castle

Address: Nottingham Castle Trust, Lenton Road, Nottingham NG1 6EL

Phone number: 0115 876 1450

The striking Nottingham Castle sits atop Castle Rock and has 40-metre-high cliffs to its eastern and western sides.

It has been around in some format or another since 1067, so if you want to walk through a piece of living history, then this is the place to do it.

The castle has staged many a historical event in its time, including the final showdown in the legends of Robin Hood.

Fine art from across Europe can be seen in the Long Gallery of the Castle, and the display includes some fantastic works created by artists from Nottinghamshire itself.

The castle has also been used as a royal residence from time to time in the past.

So if you want to follow in the footsteps of royalty, then make your way to Nottingham Castle for a dose of royal life.

8. The Arboretum

Address: Nottingham Arboretum, Waverley Street, Nottingham NG7 4HF

This beautiful Victorian park was opened by the Sheriff of Nottingham in 1852, and it has a certain magical quality about it.

It is Nottingham’s oldest public park and has remained largely unchanged since it was designed over a century and a half ago.

The park is home to over 800 trees from sixty different species.

And as you wander through the trees you will come across small lagoons and cannons from times gone by.

There’s also a stunning pagoda-style war memorial in the park’s centre which houses a bell, said to be looted from a Cantonese temple.

J.M. Barrie, the author of Peter Pan, lived and worked in Nottingham in the 1880s, and it’s widely believed that the beautiful Arboretum inspired Barrie’s fictional setting of Neverland.

What could be closer to a real-life fairy tale than that?

9. Sneinton Dragon

Photo Credit: Black and White

Address: Sneinton Hermitage, Nottingham NG2 4BT

This striking 7-foot-tall stainless-steel creation is a sculpture by Nottingham born artist, Robert Stubley.

The impressive dragon has a 15-foot wingspan, and it is perched on the corner of Manvers Street and Sneinton Hermitage.

The sculpture was commissioned in 2006 during an urban regeneration project in the city.

During the project, local residents were asked what piece of street art they would like to represent the vibrant community of Sneinton, to which they naturally responded that they wanted a dragon.

There is some discussion that the dragon is meant to be representative of a metaphorical monster called “Slum”.

This monster was dreamed up in the Edwardian period as a symbol of the high mortality rates and poverty rates in the area.

During this time, overcrowding had become an issue after the village had been absorbed into the city of Nottingham.

Whether it’s a representation of that monster or the locals just liked the idea of having a dragon on the corner is up to you to decide.

10. Nottingham’s Caves

Address: 18 Angel Row, Nottingham NG1 6HL

Phone number: 0115 947 5241

Nottingham has an extensive network of underground caves below its streets.

One of the known entrances into the gloomy underground world of the caves is through The Bell Inn , a pub that has stood at the edge of the city’s Old Market Square for nearly 600 years.

The pub is rumoured to be haunted.

And it’s no wonder that such rumours about it have circulated given the spooky atmosphere you feel when you descend into the depths of the caves below it.

Nottingham has the highest number of man-made caves in all of Europe.

And while the Bell Inn Caves are lesser known than some of Nottingham’s other caves, they are equally as mysterious and well worth the trip for anyone who wants to take a peek into the city’s history.

The caves were used for various reasons including as dormitories for monks and for brewing and storing ale.

A relatively large portion of the network is well-preserved to this day.

To access the Bell Inn Caves, you need to go through a storeroom which is next to the men’s toilets in the pub.

From here, follow the stairs to sink deep into the caverns, and slip through the trap door if you dare go still further.

“At your own risk” tours can be taken of this spooky maze.

Enquire at the bar during quieter hours or at the Nottingham Tourism Centre.

11. Green’s Windmill

Address: Windmill Ln, Sneinton, Nottingham NG2 4QB

Phone number: 0115 915 6878

Green’s Windmill can be found in Sneinton.

It was built by the father of notable scientist and mathematician, George Green, in 1807.

And over 200 years later it is still a thing of great beauty and public interest.

In 1947, the mill suffered bad fire damage, and it was not restored until the 1980s.

In 1986, the windmill became a working mill again, and to this day it can be seen at work.

As well as making a pretty picture, the mill is also a museum and science centre which teaches new generations about the work of George Green.

It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Nottingham for families!

12. Clumber Park

Address: Worksop, Nottinghamshire S80 3AZ

Phone number: 01909 476592

This beautiful National Trust property is open throughout the year to visitors.

With over 3800 acres of parkland, farmland and woodland for you to roam through, Clumber Park is easily one of the most beautiful places to visit in Nottingham.

Much of the original Clumber Park estate has survived, including some beautiful 19th-century glasshouses, despite the mansion being demolished in 1938.

Ticket prices are £4 for adults and £2 for children.

And if you don’t fancy exploring on foot, you can hire bikes to cycle across this beautiful park.

Prices start at £8 for two hours.

13. University Park Campus and Highfields Park

Address: University Park Campus, Nottingham NG7 2RD

The University of Nottingham has one of the most beautiful campuses in England if I do say so myself!

Highfields Park is the crowning jewel of the campus, with a huge lake that is delightful to walk around.

On summer days, you can take a rowing boat out onto the lake. It’s the perfect way to see more of this gorgeous park.

The stunning Trent Building looks out over the park.

And there are ample opportunities for a good Instagram photo in this beautiful part of Nottingham.

Be sure to spot the small waterfall and stepping stones you can use to cross the lake!

As you can see, there are so many fantastic places to visit in Nottingham.

Whether you’re a tourist spending the weekend there or you’ve lived there all your life but haven’t got out to explore much of the city and its surroundings, I hope this list prompts you to go and see what this lovely city has to offer!

Places to visit in Nottinghamshire

Looking for things to do in Nottinghamshire? You’ll find deep forests steeped in folklore, bustling modern shopping centres, and a type of museum unique to Nottingham. Delve into the Robin Hood legend as you explore his home of Sherwood Forest. The forest and its surrounding landscape and park abbeys inspired local writers DH Lawrence and Lord Byron, and they’ve lost none of their lustre over the years. Modern-day Nottingham is a bustling hive of activity, where you can shop ‘til you drop and dine out in style. You can also take in the Galleries of Justice, a museum dedicated to the history of crime and punishment.

61 Experience Results

View results as:

• Nottingham (41) Apply Nottingham filter
• Accessible breaks and places to stay (1) Apply Accessible breaks and places to stay filter
• Countryside pursuits (1) Apply Countryside pursuits filter
• Cycling (1) Apply Cycling filter
• Going underground (2) Apply Going underground filter
• Tours and trails (8) Apply Tours and trails filter
• Walking and hiking (1) Apply Walking and hiking filter
• Watersports (2) Apply Watersports filter
• Autumn Break Ideas (1) Apply Autumn Break Ideas filter
• Free (2) Apply Free filter
• Low cost (1) Apply Low cost filter
• City parks (1) Apply City parks filter
• Markets (1) Apply Markets filter
• Neighbourhoods (2) Apply Neighbourhoods filter
• Forests and woodlands (11) Apply Forests and woodlands filter
• Gardens and Parks (4) Apply Gardens and Parks filter
• Wildlife and Nature Reserves (1) Apply Wildlife and Nature Reserves filter
• Arts and cultural events (1) Apply Arts and cultural events filter
• Festivals and carnivals (5) Apply Festivals and carnivals filter
• Literature, film and TV (4) Apply Literature, film and TV filter
• Museums galleries and libraries (3) Apply Museums galleries and libraries filter
• Seasonal celebrations (1) Apply Seasonal celebrations filter
• December events (1) Apply December events filter
• May events (1) Apply May events filter
• October events (2) Apply October events filter
• Attractions (3) Apply Attractions filter
• Outdoor Activities (3) Apply Outdoor Activities filter
• Playtime (2) Apply Playtime filter
• Toddler Friendly Holidays (2) Apply Toddler Friendly Holidays filter
• Zoos wildlife and safari parks (1) Apply Zoos wildlife and safari parks filter
• Breweries and distilleries (2) Apply Breweries and distilleries filter
• Cookery courses (1) Apply Cookery courses filter
• Eating out (1) Apply Eating out filter
• Pubs and cocktail bars (1) Apply Pubs and cocktail bars filter
• Regional specialities (4) Apply Regional specialities filter
• Abbeys cathedrals and sacred places (1) Apply Abbeys cathedrals and sacred places filter
• Archaeological sites (1) Apply Archaeological sites filter
• Castles and Historic Properties (5) Apply Castles and Historic Properties filter
• Military history (2) Apply Military history filter
• Myths Legends and Tales (5) Apply Myths Legends and Tales filter
• Courses Learning and Self Improvement (2) Apply Courses Learning and Self Improvement filter
• Luxury and indulgence (1) Apply Luxury and indulgence filter
• Spa Breaks (2) Apply Spa Breaks filter
• Rural and Coastal Escapes (4) Apply Rural and Coastal Escapes filter
• Unique Experiences (1) Apply Unique Experiences filter
• Sporting Events (1) Apply Sporting Events filter
• Autumn (24) Apply Autumn filter
• Spring (5) Apply Spring filter
• Summer (15) Apply Summer filter
• Winter (13) Apply Winter filter

Try your hand at archery in Sherwood Forest

Get merry with your gang with an experience Robin Hood himself would have approved of, right in the heart of Nottingham’s famous Sherwood Forest.

Location: Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire

Discover hidden Ice Age art at Creswell Crags

Hidden in a beautiful limestone gorge you'll find some of Britain's only known Ice Age art.

Location: Creswell, Nottinghamshire

New Ways to see Sherwood Pines Forest

Discover Sherwood Pines Forest on two wheels, with Go Ape’s Segway tours through Robin Hood country.

Head off-road on two wheels in Sherwood Forest

From family cycle trails to extreme mountain biking, Sherwood Pines Forest offers the best when it comes to getting active on two wheels.

Spring into action on a family adventure break near Nottingham

From picnics to paddles, Nottinghamshire is ideal for a springtime family adventure break, with an abundance of things to do and places to explore.

Location: Nottingham, Nottinghamshire

Swing through the treetops in Sherwood Forest

Connect with your inner monkey as you swing through the trees at Go Ape in Sherwood Forest.

Get stuck in on a working holiday at Clumber Park

Immerse yourself in daily life at Clumber Park in Worksop, near Nottingham, with a rewarding working holiday.

Location: Worksop, Nottinghamshire

Get back to nature at Attenborough Nature Reserve

The tranquil waters of the beautiful Attenborough Nature Reserve in Nottingham set the landscape for discovering and watching wildlife at its best.

Wig wam your way to Clumber Park

Camping in tents is so last year – why not try sleeping in a yurt or wigwam in the beautiful surrounds of Clumber Park?

Enjoy a camping weekend at the National Water Sports Centre

Take advantage of a budget break in Nottingham with a camping weekend at the National Water Sports centre, just 10 minutes from the heart of the city.

Unlace Nottingham’s lacemaking heritage

Nottinghamshire was once the heart of the world’s lace making industry, and it has a proud industrial heritage still strong today.

Find yourself on a farm in the heart of Nottingham

Stonebridge City Farm is a slice of the countryside in the heart of a city centre.

Stay in a secret chalet in rural Nottinghamshire

Enjoy a romantic stay in a beautiful chalet in the grounds of Langar Hall, and explore the surrounding area including country walks and walled gardens.

Visit the home of stinky cheese at Colston Bassett Dairy

If you’re a cheese connoisseur then a trip to Colston Bassett is a must when you are in Nottinghamshire.

Location: Colston Bassett, Nottinghamshire

Taste ice cream straight from the farm

Savour the delights of ice cream straight from the farm, in the pretty rural Nottinghamshire countryside.

Location: Southwell, Nottinghamshire

Find your inner zen on a detox break in Nottinghamshire

Purify the mind, body and soul with pure Japanese meditation then indulge in an oasis of relaxation at a detox retreat near Newark.

Location: Newark, Nottinghamshire

Immerse yourself in Byron's Nottinghamshire

Discover why notorious romantic poet Lord Byron was 'mad, bad and dangerous to know', with a sumptuous stay at his former home.

Discover DH Lawrence country

Discover DH Lawrence country on the edge of Nottingham and follow in the footsteps of the county's most controversial literary hero.

Location: Eastwood, Nottinghamshire

Find Byron's Nottinghamshire on the Byron Trail

Lord Byron was famous during his lifetime as a figure who could inspire love, romance, political change and liberation through his powerful works.

Lose yourself in Neverland at Nottingham Arboretum

The Arboretum just outside Nottingham’s city centre is said to be the inspiration behind J.M. Barrie’s classic children’s tale ‘Peter Pan’.

October events: Get giddy at the Nottingham Goose Fair

The Goose Fair is one of Europe’s largest travelling fairs and is one of Nottingham’s oldest traditions, dating back more than 700 years.

• See more results

Related Items

Nearby places to visit.

South Yorkshire

You'll find jaw-dropping scenery, cities steeped in industrial heritage and hidden market towns in equal measures in South Yorkshire. Discover glasshouse gardens, art galleries and cathedral chapels.

Lincolnshire

Looking for things to do in Lincolnshire? There are bracing North Sea beaches, undulating glacier-carved landscapes, and cathedral cities, all for you to explore.

We've something we want to share

Want to receive travel tips and ideas by email?

VisitEngland would like to invite you to take part in a short survey about our website, it should take no more than a couple of minutes.

Go to the survey

To add items to favourites …

… you need to be logged in.

If you already have an account, log in.

Or register a new account

Access your account

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to do
• Restaurants
• Los Angeles

The 12 best things to do in Nottingham

From cracking nightlife venues to impressive contemporary art collections, here are the best things to do in Nottingham

The city of Nottingham is undoubtedly most famous for its links to the legend of Robin Hood and his merry men, given its proximity to the actual Sherwood Forest, but did you know it also happens to be the birthplace of Ibuprofen, traffic lights and HP sauce? 

Whether those really, really niche topics interest you or not, this midlands city is well worth visiting. From impressive contemporary art collections and gardens which have inspired iconic works of literature to cracking nightlife venues and some really outstanding food , Nottingham is a well-rounded place to spend your weekend. Here’s a roundup of our favourite things to do.

RECOMMENDED: 🍝The best restaurants in Nottingham 🎭The best things to do in the UK 🌤️The best road trips in the UK

At Time Out, all of our   travel guides   are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our   editorial guidelines .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top things to do in Nottingham

1.  city of caves.

What is it? An underground network of 500 sandstone caves concealed under the streets of Nottingham.

Why go? Get away from the bustle of the city centre and immerse yourself in a vast network of caves owned by the National Justice Museum. Visitors can take a tour   and learn about their fascinating history. At one point they served as a medieval tannery and also as an air raid shelter during WWII. 

2.  Nottingham Arboretum

What is it? The city’s oldest public park and gardens which inspired Neverland. 

Why go? Most cities have a standout park, a lovely patch of green which offers a bit of nature amidst all the buzz, but Nottingham’s Arboretum has gotta be one of the loveliest. Designed under the same eyes as east London’s Victoria Park by botanist Samual Curtis, the space is renowned for its 800-large collection of trees and gorgeously maintained gardens. It’s even thought to have inspired Neverland in J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan.

3.  Nottingham Contemporary

What is it? A contemporary art gallery in the city’s Lace Market area where you can browse exhibitions or watch films.

Why go? The Nottingham Contemporary opened in 2009 and is one of those venues people should visit for the building alone. Built on a very, very old site, building’s exterior decorated in a traditional Nottingham lace pattern. Inside, the same attention to detail remains, with a changing programme of exhibitions, plus screenings of classic and art house films.

4.  Broadway Cinema

What is it? Independent cinema in Hockley that’s loved by the locals and has been recognised as one of the best cinemas in the world.

Why go? Adding a cinema trip into your sightseeing holiday might sound counterproductive, but Nottingham’s Broadway Cinema  is such a gem of a venue you’d be genuinely sorry to miss it. Book tickets and arrive early for a stone-baked pizza and a beer in their café-bar.

5.  The Bodega

What is it? Nottingham locals’ go-to for a boogie

Why go? Whether you’re after just a drink, a couple of drinks, or a long, boogie-filled evening of dancing, the Bodega  is widely considered Nottingham’s best spot for a party. It operates as a bar, a nightclub and a gig venue, so head to the website and see what’s on while you’re in town. 

6.  Nottingham Playhouse

What is it? Local theatre with a strong national reputation programming and producing quality shows.

Why go? If you’ve lived in Nottingham any time at all, but have not checked out the excellent venue right on your doorstep, then now is your chance. The Playhouse produces a brilliant range of new and classic plays and musicals, plus comedy, spoken word poetry, dance and family shows.

7.  Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

What is it? Well, it’s only England’s oldest inn. 

Why go? The UK is absolutely packed full of historic pubs, but Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem , as is proudly painted on the pub’s exterior, is the oldest one in England. What better spot could there be to sit back, get comfy, and nurse a pint? Whether it’s sunny enough to enjoy the scenic beer garden, or chilly enough to snuggle into a cosy corner, this pub is well worth a visit.

8.  The Racing Room at The Dragon

What is it? A giant Scalextric track in the backroom of a pub that you can book in advance for parties of any kind. Making car noises throughout the evening is almost certainly compulsory.

Why go? Your head tells you to book somewhere ‘classy’ for cocktails, but your heart says: no, I’d rather race a very small car around a huge Scalextric track. Book into The Racing Room at The Dragon and have a ridiculous amount of fun competing with your mates. You can also book in advance to get food prepared for the hungry racers.

9.  Kitty Café

What is it? A cat café where you can get your paws on a slice of purr-fect cake while thinking up better puns than that one.

Why go? If you like your cappuccino served with a kitten on the side, then a trip to Nottingham’s Kitty Café should be on your list. Along with giving you the chance to get stroking some lovely kitties, they also do a cat-themed mocktail menu. Anyone for another Catty McCatface?

10.  Attenborough Nature Reserve

What is it? A beautiful area of countryside where you can head out on a brisk walk and look out for birds.

Why go? You might think bird watching sounds like a bit of rubbish way to pass the weekend, but like the programmes made by David Attenborough himself, the nature reserve sharing his name (but actually named after the local area) is fascinating. Lock yourself away in one of the hides, or get up close feeding wildlife. Either way, you’ll leave feeling recharged and better equipped to deal with any office-based stress.

11.  Restaurant Sat Bains

What is it? A stylish, two-Michelin starred restaurant on Lenton Lane.

Why go? Outstanding food, of course. This restaurant prides itself on sustainability and makes use of its own garden and greenhouse to grow ingredients, as well as making an effort to source produce locally. All dishes have a modern European kinda vibe, and rumour has it the food tastes as good as it looks.

12.  Ludorati

What is it? A board game and escape room café that caters to the needs of serious gamers and the more casual Cluedo fan.

Why go? You’ve already been to The Racing Room and, frankly, there’s unfinished business between you and the people you went with. So what do you do? Shake hands and make nice? Or book into the Ludorati and feed the dragon of competitive fury. Ludorati takes games seriously and, most likely, so will you after a trip here.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising
• Time Out Market

Home » Travel Guides » United Kingdom » England » 15 Best Things to Do in Nottingham (Nottinghamshire, England)

15 Best Things to Do in Nottingham (Nottinghamshire, England)

A youthful city with two universities, Nottingham is known around the world for the Robin Hood legend.

In 2015 it was named a City of Literature, and giants of the English language, Lord Byron and D. H. Lawrence lived or grew up in the city in the 19th century.

The big-hitting monument in the city is Wollaton Hall, a stupendous 16th-century Elizabethan house, while Nottingham Castle, the source of the Robin Hood tales, is atop a sandstone ridge burrowed with caves.

For centuries Nottingham was associated with its lace-making and bicycle trades, and you can uncover this past at the Industrial Museum, also at Wollaton Hall.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Nottingham :

1. Wollaton Hall

This marvellous Tudor house created a big stir when it was built in the 1580s.

Commissioned by Sir Francis Willoughby, Wollaton Hall was a “prodigy house” in a bold Elizabethan/Jacobean style, influencing English architecture for the decades that followed.

The house is composed of Ancaster stone, limestone quarried in Lincolnshire, and its exterior carved with exuberant strapwork and ornamentation.

The house is on a natural rise not far west of Nottingham and is wrapped in 500 acres of parkland, roamed by deer and with an Industrial Museum in the stables and outbuildings.

The house’s interior has been updated a few times since the 16th century, but the three-storey hall has beautiful mouldings preserved in their Elizabethan style.

Inside you can peruse the Nottingham Natural History Museum, first opened in 1926.

2. The Arboretum

Close to the Nottingham Trent University campus, The Arboretum is the oldest park in the city, opened in 1852. The eminent Victorian botanist Samuel Curtis oversaw the Arboretum’s design , and some of the 800 trees growing here now go back to the year the park was established.

The Arboretum has Grade II status, while the bandstand and Circular Aviary are also listed monuments.

In summer you can breeze around the flowerbeds and pause for a moment next to the ornamental lake.

The Arboretum is also the scene of Nottinghamshire Pride, which brings stalls and entertainment to the park at the end of July.

3. National Justice Museum

Newly refurbished and rebranded, the National Justice Museum is set in a former courthouse dating back to the 14th century.

Down the years the courtroom and gaol were enlarged, and the most recent changes were made in the 1870s following a fire.

Nottingham Civil and Criminal Court was located here until the 1980s, while there was a police station that closed at the same time.

The museum is a sharply presented interactive attraction, with characters like judges and jailers dressed up in period costume and telling you about their jobs.

You can visit the underground jail and old gallows, get locked into the stocks and pick up snippets about crime and justice in Nottingham.

One exhibit to look out for is the dock from London’s Bow Street Magistrates Court, which closed in 2004.

4. Nottingham Castle

Once spoken of in the same terms as the Tower of London and Windsor Castle, Nottingham Castle looks over the city from its high sandstone crag known as Castle Rock.

As with many strongholds in England the castle was torn down in the wake of the English Civil War to prevent it being re-used.

Afterwards Henry Cavendish, the 2nd Duke of Newcastle, built the Baroque Ducal Mansion on the remains and in 1878 the Nottingham Castle Museum opened in this building.

In the collection are pieces of Wedgwood jasperware pottery, watercolours by Paul Sandby and Richard Bonnington and Nottingham alabaster carvings going back to the 15th century.

In the Long Gallery there’s an exhibition of 19th and 20th-century fine art British by the likes of Henry Dawson, Rochard Bonnington, Tristram Hillier and Stanley Spencer.

5. Old Market Square

Nottingham has the largest remaining market square in the UK, almost 5.5 acres in size and still a congregating point for the city.

Given its integral role the square is at the very centre of Nottingham, and has one of the city’s main landmarks on its eastern boundary.

The neo-Baroque Council House dates to 1929 and has a striking 61-metre dome above its portico.

In the Middle Ages, the Old Market Square was the midway point between the Norman settlement of Nottingham, and the older Anglo-Saxon town around the Lace Market area where you’ll find St Mary’s Church, which we’ll talk about below.

The square is where everybody gathers on New Years’ Eve, and has a German-style “Weihnachtsmarkt” and fair in December.

6. City of Caves

Nottingham is built on a soft sandstone ridge that has been hollowed out with caves for hundreds of years.

Before the city was founded, the Celtic name for Nottingham translated to “Place of Caves”, and at the top level of the Broadmarsh Shopping Centre you can embark on an underground journey through more than a thousand years of history.

You’ll step into England’s only known underground tannery, first cut in the 13th century and then used for tanning from the start of the 16th century.

The Drury Hill slums are also down here, dating back to Victorian times and once one of the most deprived quarters in the UK. Later, the system was used as an air raid shelter during the Nottingham Blitz in May 1941, and you’ll hear accounts of the attack.

7. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

Built into the castle’s sandstone crag, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is a pub believed to have been founded in 1189. This would make it the oldest public house in England, but unfortunately there’s no documentation to back up the claim.

What can’t be denied is that the pub is exceptionally old and has a character all of its own for its passages and caves cut from the sandstone.

Hidden in these cellars is a pit used for cockfighting, along with cells that are claimed to have belonged to the castle gaol.

The pub’s unusual name comes from the notion that Richard the Lionheart (1157-1199) and his men stopped here on their way to Third Crusade.

8. Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery

In 2009, the city opened one of Britain’s largest contemporary art centres.

This is set in the Lave Market area, and there’s a small homage to Nottingham’s lace-making heritage in the traditional lace pattern on the facade.

The gallery is free to enter and puts on up to five contemporary art exhibitions each year.

When this post was written there was a retrospective for the British photomontage and graphic artist Linder Sterling, and over the past decade there have been shows for established or upcoming talent like Lara Favaretto, Marguerite Humeau, David Hockney and Frances Stark.

Every weekend the gallery puts on free family workshops, and also organises film screenings, “spot talks” by gallery attendants, discussion groups and courses in skills like printmaking.

9. Highfields Park

Just south of the campus for the University of Nottingham, Highfields Park is a 121-acre green space that has just been spruced up in 2018. Up to 1920 this all belonged to the Highfields Estate, but was bought for the university in 1920 by the founder of the famous English high street chain, Boots.

The loveliest part of the Highfields is the esplanade beside the boating lake, with a balustrade and view across to the university’s Trent Building.

Just here are two stone lions that were presented to the university by city of Ninbo, China.

Just behind is a flower garden, covered with pergolas and planted with azaleas.

The lake itself has an island that you can reach along stepping stones.

The park is also in the Tottle Brook valley, at the foot of a sandstone outcrop riddled with little caves.

10. D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum

Nottinghamshire and its turn-of-the-century mining communities will forever be associated with the writer D. H. Lawrence.

You can see the house where he was born in 1885, in the former mining town of Eastwood.

This humble dwelling has been returned to how it looked in the 1880s, and has contemporary furniture along with a few possessions belonging to the Lawrence family.

The house also paints a picture of family life in a mining community as you tour the kitchen, communal yard, parents’ bedroom, children’s bedroom, washhouse, kitchen, and attic.

Younger visitors will be kept entertained with a children’s trail and Victorian-style toys.

11. Green’s Windmill

The father of George Green, one of 19th-century England’s most noted mathematical physicists, built this windmill in Nottingham’s Sneinton suburb in 1807. After the elder Green passed away, George Green was in charge of the mill until he died in 1841. The mill was almost lost to a fire in 1947 but was restored to working condition by Nottingham City Council in the 1980s and from some distance around Nottingham you can see its huge white sails turning.

Families come down Wednesday to Sunday to check out the functioning grinding mechanism and hoists, and to visit the hands-on science centre in honour of George Green, shining a light on magnetism, electricity and the visible spectrum.

12. St Mary’s Church

There has been a church at this plot in the Lace Market area since Saxon times.

Today’s Grade I listed building was constructed across the 14th and 15th centuries and is the largest medieval monument in Nottingham.

In the Perpendicular Gothic style, the oldest section of the church is the south wall of the nave, going back to 1370. From around this time is the oldest door in Nottingham, leading to the former chantry room (now a toilet for wheelchair users). The door has its original 14th-century locking mechanism and has survived for so long because the room has rarely been used.

The stained glass windows were produced by some of Victorian England’s leading glassmakers, while the imposing bronze doors on the south porch are from 1904 and depict the Life of Our Lord in the tympanum and on the doors’ 20 panels.

13. Nottingham Industrial Museum

On weekends you can catch up on Nottingham’s long industrial history at this museum in the stables at Wollaton Hall.

There are pieces from the local textile trade, which has been around since the invention of the stocking frame, producing stocking hoses from the end of the 16th century.

You can view a handful of these machines, as well as a bobbinet, knitting machine from 1910, and Leavers and Barmen lace-making machines from Nottingham’s once thriving lace industry.

Nottingham is also synonymous with Raleigh bicycles and there’s a range of models, as well as the personal bicycle owned by Thomas Humber, the inventor of the early alternative to high wheel bikes, the “safety bicycle”. The Steam Gallery has series of pumps and ploughing engines from the 19th century, while there’s a large wooden horse gin from a colliery in Pinxton outside.

14. Stonebridge City Farm

Close to the centre of the city in Nottingham’s St Anns area is a place where youngsters can come into contact with domestic animals like rare breed pigs, cows, sheep, goats, ducks, donkeys and Shetland ponies.

This space was a former slum, cleared in the middle of the 20th century to make way for school that was never built.

The attraction has animal handling sessions when children can pet and handle smaller creatures like guinea pigs and rabbits, while you can also buy animal feed from the shop for the larger animals.

The farm’s cafe has home-baked cakes, while the Trading Post sells produce like fruit, herbs and eggs fresh from the farm.

15. Newstead Abbey

If you need some inspiration for a day out, the ancestral home of the poet Lord Byron is 10 miles north of Nottingham.

The 12th-century Augustinian abbey was dissolved during the Reformation in the 16th century and turned into a country house right after.

The estate was inherited by Lord Byron at the end of the 18th century and he would live here on and off before selling it on in 1818. The Gothic facade of the abbey church is adjoined to the Tudor-style house which has been preserved as it was in the 19th century, showing off the poet’s private apartments and a variety of memorabilia.

Outside there are 300 acres, with Gothic Revival follies, lakes, waterfalls, peacocks, rhododendrons and exotic trees like maples.

15 Best Things to Do in Nottingham (Nottinghamshire, England):

• Wollaton Hall
• The Arboretum
• National Justice Museum
• Nottingham Castle
• Old Market Square
• City of Caves
• Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
• Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery
• Highfields Park
• D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum
• Green's Windmill
• St Mary's Church
• Nottingham Industrial Museum
• Stonebridge City Farm
• Newstead Abbey

7 Places to Visit in Nottingham – Is it worth visiting?

There are plenty of great places to visit in Nottingham, but before diving into them. If you’re wondering if Nottingham is worth visiting…

The truth is that I’ve visited many places close to Yorkshire , and I wanted to travel somewhere not too far and not too close, so I decided to look into Nottingham.

I remember a friend telling me that Nottingham is a charming place to visit, but I had heard mixed reviews – from “It’s lovely!” to “It isn’t worth a visit”.

However, you must go to Nottingham to create your own opinion of the city. Personally, it’s a great city to visit for a day trip because you have a bit of everything (museums, parks, a good variety of restaurants, monuments, etc.) The city isn’t very big, so that will help you visit almost everything in one day.

In this blog, I’ll tell you some of the reasons why Nottingham should be on your UK bucket list, seven must-see places to visit in Nottingham in a day and my food recommendations.

This post contains affiliate links, and as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. If you click through and purchase something, I receive a small commission on the price at no extra cost to you. This helps me keep the content up to date and make other improvements to the blog.

Table of Contents

Top Reasons To Visit Nottingham

• It’s home to the oldest pub in England
• It’s close to beautiful natural spots
• Its interesting legends about Robin Hood
• Its historic buildings
• Its amazing cafes and restaurants
• It’s less crowded than other UK destinations

7 Best Places To Visit In Nottingham

1. nottingham castle.

One of the best things to do in Nottingham is to visit Nottingham Castle.

Nottingham Castle has been a desirable castle by kings and lords in England, and as a consequence, it has gone through many turbulent events, such as the British Civil War.

This is the perfect place for any history lover as you’ll learn more about the history of this castle and its legends in the great exhibitions and tours.

Apart from the tours, Nottingham’s Castle is also worth visiting for its lush green grounds, where you can enjoy a nice hot drink from one of their cafes.

2. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem , located beneath Nottingham’s Castle Cliff, is the oldest inn and pub in England . Not only can you enjoy a delicious meal, but take their cellar tour to learn more about this pub – where the pub got its name from and much more.

3. City of Caves

City of Caves is a must-see attraction because you’ll learn so much about the history and culture of this city. Nottingham is well-known for its caves, which were used in different ways through the years.

Some of these caves were houses for poor families, but as time passed, it was used for many other reasons, such as a place to have meetings to carry out illegal activities, a place to protect yourself from explosions during the Second World War, a place to make fabric…

This is a 45 minutes guided tour with a history expert that will tell you everything you want to know about the history behind the caves. However, you’ll also have some take to take pictures and wander by yourself.

I loved how informative the tour was and the little breaks between the talks to take pictures and enjoy exploring the caves.

Also, before starting your tour, while you’re waiting, you can glimpse the little souvenir shop near the ticket office. They have beautiful shiny gemstones to purchase.  

Overall, visiting Nottingham Caves is a great experience.

4. Robin Hood Statue 

If you’re walking around the castle, you won’t miss the Robin Hood statue because it’s located near the castle entrance .

Apart from taking a picture of this statue, you can also see and read the wall plaques that illustrate scenes from the tales of Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

📌 Related post : What To Do In Lincoln UK In 2 Days , another great city to visit in the Midlands.

5. Arboretum Park 

This park is a bit further away from the city centre but within walking distance.

It’s also near the city cemetery, as I found out, to my surprise! It seems like you can access the park from the cemetery too, but when I went, they had closed the back gate.

The park is a great place to relax and enjoy a picnic on a sunny day . As you walk in, you can find the small lake and birdcages on the left. 

The birdcages didn’t have any real birds as expected, but maybe this is because I visited Nottingham in March, and it was still cold.

One of the best things to do is enjoy the squirrels’ company! There are many friendly squirrels running around the trees, so you can be lucky to feed them or take a close picture of them.

6. Old Market Square 

The main meeting point for locals and tourists , Old Market Square, is where you can find your way to shopping streets and the tourist centre if you want to buy a souvenir or ask for any information.

This square is very impressive, spacious and beautiful, and somehow reminds me of London . But, actually, it’s the largest public space in the UK after London’s Trafalgar Square.

On a sunny day, you can grab a takeaway, sit down and relax watching how people pass or interact with others as well as see how children play and run in the fountain area.

Also, this is where many important events, such as Christmas Winter Wonderland in the winter and Riviera Beach in the summer, take place.

7. Carlton Street

If you love visiting vibrant and lively streets wherever you go, you must walk around Carlton Street. I didn’t find this street on anyone’s blogs or travel recommendations, but I always like getting lost in the city, and I found this one while I was there.

Not only is the street vibrant, but full of food options from little cafes to restaurants . One of my favourite things about this street is the LGBT rainbow pedestrian crossing too. It looks so good!

Places to eat in Nottingham

Annie’s burger shack.

I must admit that I look for restaurants and cafes before travelling anywhere. So, I looked in a couple of blogs and TripAdvisor and found Annie’s .   I saw that reviews and comments were positive, so I decided to try it.

The restaurant is a bit hidden in comparison to other restaurants that you can find on the main streets, and we arrived it was a bit empty. They have a big menu to choose from, and you can spend more than 5 minutes deciding what burger you want to have.

There are so many different burgers (Mexican fajita burger, German burger…), and the good thing is that they offer vegetarian and vegan options too.

I ordered the Mexican burger with skinny fries, and it was so good. I just need to warn you that portions are very big , so you’d better be hungry. 

We didn’t wait very long for our burgers, and the staff was very friendly. Also, I was glad we arrived a bit early for dinner because, after 5 minutes of being sat down, the restaurant was full!

Doughnotts 

Fancy something sweet? Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Doughnotts ! It’s a little donut shop with a wide variety of tasty donuts, from the famous Homer donut to the salted toffee donut. 

I initially saw they do an avocado donut called the Avocadough, and I wanted to try it. But when I got to the shop, they didn’t have any. Instead of the avo donut, I had a red velvet one, and it was delicious!

You can eat it out or inside! If you go upstairs, they have a cosy area to sit down and enjoy your donut.

Places to stay in Nottingham

Leonardo hotel nottingham (formerly jurys inn).

Leonardo Hotel Nottingham is a 4-star hotel located less than 5 minute walk from the train station and not far from the city centre. It’s only 15 minute walk from Old Market Square where you can find a great variety of shops, restaurants and bars.

The hotel offers comfortable and modern rooms that are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV, an ensuite bathroom, a safe, and free WiFi.

🏨 Check out availability and prices here

If you prefer to feel at home and stay somewhere spacious, this river facing townhouse with a balcony and parking at Trent Bridge is for you.

This cosy house includes two of the three bedrooms (a double and twin) that open out onto a beautiful balcony with seating where you can look down onto the riverside and look across to Trent Bridge itself.

This townhouse is also perfect if you plan to spend more than a weekend in Nottingham, as the owner offers good discounts for weekly and longer stays.

So, is Nottingham worth visiting?

Yes! Nottingham is a very underrated city. Most travellers will choose other cities over Nottingham, but this city can surprise you.

There are beautiful places in Nottingham and its surroundings. If you spend more than a day in the city, you should explore beautiful outdoor places like Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve , Wollaton Hall & Park , Newstead Abbey , or the Peak District National Park (one of the most beautiful places near Nottingham).

I hope I’ve inspired you to visit Nottingham and let me know in the comments if you’re adding these places to visit in Nottingham to your UK bucket list!

If you have any questions about Nottingham, don’t hesitate to reach me at cristina[at]mylittleworldoftravelling.com

Safe adventures!

P.S. Enjoyed reading this post? Share it with others.

Save these must-see places to visit in Nottingham on Pinterest for later

Top things to do before visiting Nottingham

• Book accommodation in Nottingham with Booking or VRBO .
• If you’re travelling to Nottingham by train,  check train prices here . Are you planning to rent a car instead? Check out Discover Cars for the best deals.
• Are you planning to go on a day trip from Nottingham? Have a look at this guide .
• Book travel insurance  for your trip. This is a must for any trip.

Frequently asked questions about Nottingham, UK

Which part of england is nottingham.

It’s part of the East Midlands, in the centre of England.

Is Nottingham a nice place to visit?

Yes, Nottingham is an underrated city, but it has fantastic things to do for everyone, whether you love visiting historical places or parks to eating delicious food.

Is Nottingham safe?

Yes, Nottingham is generally a safe destination for travellers.

Read more about the UK

• Things to Do in Gretna Green, Scotland
• Best Things to Do in Halifax, England
• Great Things To Do in Harrogate in a Day
• Leeds Attractions and Hidden Gems You Must See
• 20 Incredible Day Trips From Leeds
• Best Free Things To Do In Sheffield
• Best Things to Do in Skipton, Yorkshire
• Top Free Things To Do In York

Sharing is caring!

Travel Writer

Cristina is the founder and writer of My Little World of Travelling. She was born and raised in Malaga (Costa del Sol) and studied for a Master's Degree in Tourism. She is passionate about showing her hometown and other beautiful Andalusian destinations. She helps other travellers plan their trips to Spain by providing local advice and unique insights.

30 Comments

Nottingham looks so awesome Cristina! I totally want to go now and I love Robin Hood growing up. 🙂

I’m glad you like it! I think one of the main reasons I wanted to go was Robin Hood 🙂

Oh how great, I had no idea, I´m definitely putting it on the daytrips list for when I visit my friends in the UK again, thanks for sharing!

That’s great to hear 🙂 I think you’ll like it.

I love charming England towns and Nottingham surely looks like one! Especially since I watched Robin Hood too many times when I was young 😀

I think that small towns are more charming than some bigger cities in the UK 🙂

It looks like a nice city to discover! Must be perfect for a weekend getaway in the UK!

Yes, it’s a great place to spend your weekend 🙂

That mexican burger is giving me food envy!

You must try it 🙂 It was delicious

The food alone looks like it’s worth the trip! I’m a sucker for both good burgers and donuts, so I’ll keep those in mind if I ever visit! 🙂

I agree with you! You will love them 🙂

Looks like an interesting place. Awesome picures loved it

Thank you, Madhu 🙂

What a fun place to explore. I had no idea Nottingham had so many caves though. I would also have to visit the Robin Hood statue while I was there. But love smallish cities that you can see in a day or two. Thanks for the tips!

You are welcome, Kelly. I think UK small towns have so much to offer! Not only their city centres but their surroundings 🙂

Sounds like such a nice city! Good thing you decided to visit anyways and love your photos!

Thank you! I’m glad I visited it 🙂

Nottingham is my home city! I’m so glad you liked it, even though I’ve not lived there for several years, my parents still do and I love going back, especially to that Carlton Street area, there’s always new and interesting things that pop up there! Lovely guide xx

It’s great to have someone from Nottingham commenting on my blog 🙂 Carlton Street is one of my favourite places like you say, there are interesting things around. Thank you, Helena xx

Looks like such a nice place! I would love to visit one day when I’m back in Europe 🙂

That would be great!

Looks like a beautiful place to visit, love those caves! And I always love a good donut place 😁

The caves are amazing 🙂 I believe you’d enjoy visiting Nottingham.

Nottingham looks like such a cute place to visit! I love little towns outside of the big cities because you can really see the culture. When I was in England visiting London, on my day trip to Stonehenge we stopped in the town Bath and it was the cutest! Just like what you’d picture from a small town in England, Nottingham looks the same!

Great article! I can’t believe I didn’t know the oldest English pub is in Nottingham. I used to go Nottingham for lacrosse games and never took advantage of the great city. Looking forward to visiting again!

I am VERY not familiar with the UK, so thanks for pointing out where Nottingham was, because I have HEARD of it, but I had no idea where it was in relation to other things. ALSO OMG, the food looks so good! Makes me excited for an eventual UK roadtrip!

I’m so happy you visited Nottingham so you could share your opinion with us. I would love to visit! I’m all about history so would love Nottingham Castle, the caves look super cool and those donuts look amazing!

I hadn’t thought of visiting Nottingham before! It looks like a good idea for a day trip if you’re in the area, and I like the historic points of interest you can visit too.

I used to live in Nottingham, and would walk home through the Arboretum so it was a real trip down memory lane reading this. The Jerusalem is great too! To my shame (I’m pleading student poverty at this point) I never made it to the castle. I’ll have to go back and rectify this glaring omission now I can stretch to the entry fee.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies
• Cookie Policy

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information about our Cookie Policy

Skip To Main Content

• Marketing Nottingham

Other Websites

Already saved an Itinerary?

Follow Us...

Outdoor Cinema & Theatre

Summer in nottinghamshire.

• Things to do in Nottinghamshire in 2024
• The Great Outdoors

Lord Byron Bicentenary Celebrations

• Comedy in Notts
• Music Venues
• Exhibitions
• Classes & Workshops

Competitions

• The Ultimate Nottingham Bucket List
• Independent Shopping in Nottingham
• Nottingham Shopping
• Shopping in the County
• Adventure Sports
• Boat Trips & Holidays
• Horse Riding
• Get Active Indoors
• Outdoor Activities
• Spectator Sports
• Water Sports & Swimming
• Cave Attractions
• Robin Hood Attractions
• Arts, Crafts & Galleries
• Cathedrals and Churches
• Country Parks and Gardens
• Family Attractions
• Historic Homes & Castles
• Nature Reserves
• Theatres & Entertainment
• Escape Rooms
• Accessible Attractions
• Pet Friendly Attractions
• Tour and Trail Events
• Tour Guides
• Walking Trails
• Cultural Trails
• Foodie Trails
• History & Heritage Trails
• Nottinghamshire Literary Tours
• Cycling Trails
• Family Days Out
• Free Days Out
• Ten things to do for under £10
• Things to Do on Rainy Days
• Itinerary Ideas
• Dark Tourism
• Robin Hood Legends
• Robin Hood Events
• Robin Hood Town Tour

Sherwood Forest

• The Major Oak
• Robin Hood Movies
• Robin Hood Itinerary
• Nottingham Castle
• English Civil War
• Mayflower Pilgrims
• Historical Homes & Castles
• Industrial Heritage
• Interesting Facts
• Nottingham Lace History
• History and Heritage Trails
• Literary Heroes
• Local Heroes
• Entertainers & Musicians
• Sporting Heroes
• Libraries & Family History
• Nottinghamshire Archives
• Museums & Attractions
• Cave App and Trail
• Pubs with Caves
• Tours of Caves
• All Cave Attractions
• One Day Nottingham Itinerary
• Two Day Nottingham Itinerary
• Weekend on a Budget
• Literary Itinerary
• Lord Byron Two Day Itinerary
• Southwell Two Day Itinerary
• Newark Two Day Itinerary
• Click here for more itineraries
• City Breaks
• LGBTQ Nottingham
• Nottingham Nightlife

The Lace Market and Hockley

West bridgford.

• Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre
• History of Sherwood
• Woodland Areas
• All Market Towns
• Rural Towns and Villages

The Dukeries

• Hotels beyond the city
• Hotels in Nottingham City Centre
• Bed & Breakfast
• Self Catering
• Caravan & Camping
• Romantic Breaks
• Weekend Breaks
• Boutique Breaks
• Accessible Accommodation
• Pet Friendly Accommodation
• Delivery & Takeout
• Fine Dining
• Afternoon Tea
• Artisan Cheese
• Pubs and Real Ale Trails
• Pubs With Caves
• Dining with a view
• Vegetarian Restaurants and Eateries
• Vegan Restaurants and Eateries
• Sunday Lunch
• Accessible Drinking & Dining
• Pet Friendly Pubs & Cafes

Special Offers

• E-News Sign Up
• Tourist Info
• View our Visitor Guide
• Getting Around
• Overseas Visitors
• UK Visitors
• Travel Trade and Groups
• Why Nottingham?
• Further Education Colleges
• Top 10 Reasons to Study in Nottingham
• Nottingham Host Families
• Nottingham Trent University
• University of Nottingham
• Student Blogs
• Accessible Public Toilets
• Accessible Travel
• Useful Contacts
• Visit England Case Studies
• Autism Friendly Venues
• Nottingham Two Day Itinerary
• Weekend On A Budget Itinerary
• Pet Friendly Things to Do
• What's On This Weekend
• Market Town blogs
• Student life in Notts
• Robin Hood Blogs

You are here > Blog > What's On This Weekend in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 16 – 18 August

What's On This Weekend in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire 16 – 18 August

We’ve rounded up our top 5 things to do in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire this weekend.

Take your pick of unique events and activities including picking your own sunflowers, the Nottingham Carnival, Gloworm Festival and more!

And while you’re out and about, don’t forget - if you are out having a great time in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire, you can use #LoveNotts to share the love, or tag us using @visitnotts on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We’re also on TikTok under @visitnottinghamshire!

There are many more things to do and explore on our full What’s On calendar such as interesting exhibitions, tours, and fun outdoor activities. Have a browse today and find the perfect activity or experience to enjoy this weekend.

1. Gloworm Festival at Holme Pierrepont Country Park

Friday 16th - Sunday 18th August | Holme Pirerrepont Country Park | 10am - 10pm daily | Ticket prices vary

Gloworm Festival, nestled within the stunning Holme Pierrepont Country Park in Nottinghamshire, promises a weekend full of all-inclusive family entertainment. From live artists and tribute bands to workshops, character shows, circus acts, a modern farm, great food fairground rides and more. What makes this festival extra special is that all entertainment is included in the ticket cost, including free fairground rides until 5pm daily.

Returning festival zones like Playmobil Zone, Tiny Tots, Dino-Zone, The Great Outdoors, and The Hive are back, along with the exciting new Adventure Zone for 2024. This new addition includes activities like Mini Golf, Sky Trail, Mini Land Rovers, Wipeout, and more, which are available at Holme Pierrepont Country Park, ready to be enjoyed by Gloworm attendees as part of the inclusive experience.

2. Nottingham Carnival

Sunday 18th August | Victoria Embankment | 1pm - 8pm | Adults £5.50, Age 12 & Under free

Nottingham Carnival returns to Victoria Embankment this August.

On the Carnival park this year, there will be three music zones featuring international reggae star Wayne Wonder, live bands, and more than 20 DJs and sound systems. As always, the music will include Soca, Reggae, Afrobeat, Calypso, Samba, RnB, Soul, Dancehall, Jungle, Grime, Baseline House. The line-up includes V Rocket, Gambino Akuboy (as seen on Britain's Got Talent), Claire Angel, Big Ship Alliance, Escobar, Rastarella, Suga Lion, Dial Tone, and DJ Steel.

There will also be trade stalls, world food stalls, a licensed bar and fairground rides within the Carnival park, as well as a kids zone with activities for little ones.

3. Hannah Wants (18+)

Saturday 17th August | Binks Yard | 2pm - 10pm | Tickets: From £16.50

Hannah Wants, Arielle Free and many other amazing DJ's join for their summer show back at the stunning Binks Yard Terrace in 2024

What to expect: 8 hours of raving in the sun, incredible production, a variety of food vans, glitter station, Groovebox merch station and more!

4. Meet the Holocaust Survivor: Simon Winston BEM

Sunday 18th August | National Holocaust Centre & Museum | 1pm - 2.30pm

Aged only 6, Simon went on the run for two years from the Mazis, hiding in farms in what is now Ukraine.

Now 86 and a proud Nottingham Forest fan, he will tell you his miraculous story of survival.

The National Holocaust Centre and Museum is so much more than a museum. It’s a vibrant memorial, a place of testimony and a Centre of learning for communities of all faiths, and none, across the UK.

Since the Centre was established in 1995, in the grounds of a former farmhouse in the village of Laxton, on the edge of Sherwood Forest in North Nottinghamshire, it remains the first and only place of its kind in the UK.

5. Nottinghamshire Sunflower Experience

Saturday 10th August | Oaks Lane, Oxton | Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm (4pm last entry) | Standard entry from £5, Children aged 5 and under are free

Set in the rolling Nottinghamshire countryside a few miles north of Nottingham, this family-run 'Pick Your Own' has 1000's of pumpkins and squashes for you to choose from in October. During the summer they hold their Sunflower Experience ! 5 acres. 40,000+ sunflowers!

Come and stroll through acres of sunflowers, take pictures at the different photo opportunities, and pick-your-own produce!

Since 2019 Nottinghamshire ‘Pick Your Own’ Pumpkins has quickly risen to being one of the most popular pick-your-owns in the Midlands, if not the UK, with visitors travelling from all over the country!

With a family-friendly atmosphere, delicious food by Little Schnauzer Coffee Company, and free parking, this is the perfect outing for all the family! 

This blog was written by Katherine Taylor, Marketing Executive at Visit Nottinghamshire.

Gloworm Festival, nestled within the stunning Holme Pierrepont Country Park in Nottinghamshire, promises a weekend full of all-inclusive family entertainment.

Nottingham Carnival returns on Sunday 18 August with a spectacular one-day event on the Victoria Embankment.

Come and stroll through acres of sunflowers, take pictures at the different photo opportunities, and pick-your-own produce! Venture into the Maize Maze and explore the Wildflower Meadow.

Comments are disabled for this post.

• #NottGoingOut (4)
• afternoon-tea (3)
• christmas (22)
• events (254)
• explore-outdoors (161)
• family-fun (32)
• favourite-places (259)
• featured (388)
• food-and-drink (160)
• guest-blogs (11)
• have-a-go (51)
• Lord-Byron (6)
• love-local (757)
• market-towns (17)
• nottingyum (67)
• reviews (174)
• robin-hood (50)
• sherwood-forest (47)
• sporting-and-cultural (245)
• staycation (11)
• Student life in Nottingham (8)
• things-to-do (276)
• things-to-do-this-weekend (137)
• valentines-day (3)
• what-legends-are-made-of (112)
• whats-on (271)

Recent Posts

• Aug 2024 (6)
• July 2024 (10)
• June 2024 (8)
• May 2024 (12)
• Apr 2024 (17)
• Mar 2024 (8)
• Feb 2024 (7)
• Jan 2024 (10)
• Dec 2023 (9)
• Nov 2023 (25)
• Oct 2023 (8)
• Sep 2023 (4)

• Digital Nottingham ,
• Exhibitions ,
• Classes & Workshops ,
• Competitions ,
• Comedy in Notts ,
• Music Venues ,
• Festivals ,
• Robin Hood ,
• Independent Shopping in Nottingham ,
• Nottingham Shopping ,
• Shopping in the County ,
• The Ultimate Nottingham Bucket List ,
• Get Active ,
• Attractions ,
• Tours and Trails ,
• Mayflower Pilgrims Origins ,
• The Mayflower Trail ,
• The Separatists ,
• English Civil War ,
• History & Heritage ,
• Famous People ,
• Itineraries ,
• Nottingham ,
• Sherwood Forest ,
• Market Towns and Villages ,
• Rural Nottinghamshire ,
• Bed & Breakfast ,
• Self Catering ,
• Caravan & Camping ,
• Romantic Breaks ,
• Weekend Breaks ,
• Boutique Breaks ,
• Farm Stays ,
• Fine Dining ,
• Cafes and Tea Rooms ,
• Local Produce ,
• Pubs & Breweries ,
• Restaurants ,
• Vegetarian Restaurants and Eateries ,
• Vegan Restaurants and Eateries ,
• Special Offers ,
• E-News Sign Up ,
• Tourist Info ,
• View our Visitor Guide ,
• Study in Nottingham ,
• Accessibility ,
• Pet Friendly ,
• Invest in Nottingham
• Nottingham Partners
• Meet in Nottingham
• Media relations
• Accessibility Statement
• Advertise With Us
• Data Protection Policy
• Terms and Conditions

© Visit Nottinghamshire 2024. All Rights Reserved

Don't Miss

What's On This Weekend

The National Holocaust Centre and Museum

City of Caves

Rufford Abbey Country Park

East Midlands Designer Outlet

Southwell Minster

The Workhouse

Ezekial Bone Tours

Newark Castle

Crowne Plaza

Orchard Hotel

Primrose House

20 Crown Street

Bar Iberico

Josephine's Tea Room and Cafe

Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem

Newsletter Sign Up

Colwick Hall

Wollaton Hall