Attractions and Places To See around Nottingham - Top 20

Nottingham is rich in history. You can visit the iconic Wollaton Hall, an Elizabethan mansion housing a natural history museum. Explore the ancient Bulwell Hall Ruins, or discover the unique subterranean passages of the City of Caves. The National Justice Museum, located in a former courthouse and jail, offers an immersive insight into crime and punishment. Don't miss St. Mary's Church, the city's oldest and largest medieval building, or Newstead Abbey, the ancestral home of Lord Byron.

Absolutely! Experience the historic atmosphere of Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, claimed to be one of England's oldest pubs. The Lace Market, once the heart of Britain's lace industry, is now a vibrant cultural quarter with independent shops and the modern art gallery, Nottingham Contemporary. You can also catch a performance at the Theatre Royal Nottingham or visit the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum in Eastwood.

Nottingham is synonymous with Robin Hood. You can find the famous Robin Hood Statue, Nottingham located outside Nottingham Castle, perfect for a photo opportunity. While the original Nottingham Castle is now a ducal manor, its grounds and the nearby Sherwood Forest are steeped in the legend of Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

Nottingham offers numerous green spaces. Wollaton Hall is set within 500 acres of picturesque deer park, ideal for walks. You can also enjoy Highfields Lake, University Park, which offers a gentle walk around the lake. Colwick Country Park Lakes provides walking and cycling paths, while the Nottingham Arboretum is the city's oldest public park with over 800 unique trees. Further afield, Sherwood Forest is a renowned ancient woodland.

Yes, there are many options for walking and cycling. The Wilford Suspension Bridge offers a scenic crossing over the River Trent for walkers and cyclists. You can also find pleasant walks around Wollaton Park Lake Path and Highfields Lake. For more extensive routes, explore the gravel biking, MTB trails, and running trails guides around Nottingham.

The National Water Sports Centre is a world-class facility offering various water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, white-water rafting, and Olympic rowing. You can also find boating opportunities at Highfields Park and Colwick Country Park. The Wilford Suspension Bridge provides scenic views of the River Trent.

Wollaton Park is home to two herds of wild deer (Red and Fallow) that roam freely. Attenborough Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for nature lovers to observe diverse wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and peregrine falcons, across its large lakes and woodlands. Colwick Country Park also features wildlife areas.

Many attractions in Nottingham are suitable for families. Wollaton Hall and its deer park are great for exploration. The Robin Hood Statue is a fun photo stop. The City of Caves offers an engaging historical experience. Green's Windmill and Science Centre provides interactive science exhibits, and Highfields Park has a play area and boating opportunities.

The Robin Hood Statue, Nottingham is noted as wheelchair accessible. Many of Nottingham's parks, such as Wollaton Park and Highfields Park, offer accessible paths, though it's always advisable to check specific routes for suitability.

Nottingham's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for exploring the numerous parks and outdoor spaces like Wollaton Park, Highfields Park, and Sherwood Forest. The autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter brings a festive atmosphere, particularly around the Old Market Square. Indoor attractions like Nottingham Castle, the City of Caves, and the National Justice Museum are great options regardless of the weather.

Many attractions have on-site or nearby refreshment options. Highfields Lake, University Park has a lakeside cafe and arts centre. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem offers a unique pub experience. The Lace Market and Hockley areas are known for their vibrant selection of independent shops, restaurants, and bars.

Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring Creswell Crags, an enclosed limestone gorge with caves occupied by Ice Age settlers, featuring northernmost cave art in Europe. Bestwood Country Park offers a 650-acre wildlife haven for peaceful strolls or horseback riding. The Nottingham Arboretum, while central, is a peaceful sanctuary often overlooked for its unique tree collection.