Best Attractions Near Calke Explore (Derbyshire)
Planning a trip to Calke Explore? Discover the best attractions nearby with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions near Calke Explore
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- Closest to Calke Explore
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70 attractions
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Theme park4.3★18,740 reviews
Drayton Manor Resort
Drayton Manor Resort, located near Tamworth in Staffordshire, England, is a sprawling family-friendly theme park, zoo, and accommodation complex set within historic grounds. Covering 180 acres, it features thrilling rides, Thomas Land for young children, and a zoo with over 100 animals. The resort also includes a 4-star hotel with themed rooms, making it a complete destination for family fun and relaxation.
Price level $$Time to spend 4–10 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.1★17,249 reviews
Derbion
Derbion is Derby’s largest shopping and leisure complex, offering over 200 stores, a vibrant food court, and extensive entertainment options including a 12-screen cinema, bowling alley, and indoor adventure golf. Located in the heart of Derby city centre, it combines shopping, dining, and cultural experiences in a modern, spacious environment with ample parking and excellent transport links.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
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Memorial park4.9★12,475 reviews
National Memorial Arboretum (Alrewas, Staffordshire)
The National Memorial Arboretum is the UK’s premier site of remembrance, set within 150 acres of beautifully landscaped woodland and gardens near Alrewas, Staffordshire. Home to over 400 memorials and 25,000 trees, it honours the sacrifices of the armed forces, emergency services, and civilian organisations. Visitors can explore themed trails, attend acts of remembrance, and enjoy facilities including an award-winning visitor centre, restaurant, and guided land train tours.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
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Park and Garden4.7★12,854 reviews
Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park
Wollaton Hall is a stunning Grade One listed Elizabethan mansion set within 500 acres of beautiful parkland in Nottingham. It houses the city's Natural History Museum and features formal gardens, deer park, and the Nottingham Industrial Museum. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, family-friendly activities, a café, and seasonal events, making it a rich cultural and natural attraction open year-round.
Mon–Fri 8:00–21:15 · Sat–Sun 9:00–21:15Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Park and Garden4.8★10,597 reviews
Bradgate Park
Bradgate Park is a vast 830-acre medieval deer park near Leicester, England, famed for its ancient oak trees, free-roaming red and fallow deer, and striking landmarks like Old John Tower. It features the ruins of Bradgate House, childhood home of Lady Jane Grey, and offers diverse walking trails, a visitor centre with engaging exhibitions, and scenic views across Leicestershire’s countryside.
Daily 7:00–17:00Time to spend 1–5 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.2★9,640 reviews
Giltbrook Shopping Park
Giltbrook Shopping Park is a large retail destination on the outskirts of Nottingham, anchored by IKEA and featuring a wide range of well-known high-street brands, fashion outlets, homeware stores, and casual dining options. The park offers extensive parking, family-friendly facilities including a children’s play area, and accessible amenities, making it a convenient one-stop destination for shopping, dining, and everyday errands. It’s particularly popular on weekends and during seasonal sales, when the atmosphere is lively and bustling.
Mon–Sat 9:00–21:00 · Sun 11:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Park and Garden4.6★8,635 reviews
National Trust - Calke Abbey
Calke Abbey, located in Ticknall, Derbyshire, is a unique National Trust property known as the 'un-stately home.' This grand country house, set within 600 acres of ancient parkland, reveals a fascinating story of decline and preservation. Visitors explore peeling paintwork, abandoned rooms, and an extraordinary collection of natural history and everyday objects preserved by the Harpur-Crewe family. The estate includes a walled garden, domed orangery, and extensive grounds rich in wildlife and history.
Daily 8:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
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Pub4.6★7,161 reviews
Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
Tucked beneath Nottingham Castle’s rocky outcrop, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is a legendary pub that claims to be England’s oldest inn, dating back to 1189. Built into the sandstone cliff, its cave-like rooms and historic cellars tell stories of crusaders, castle brewhouses, and centuries of local life. Inside, low-beamed ceilings, stone walls, and quirky relics create a uniquely atmospheric setting where history and hospitality blend. Whether stopping for a pint, a hearty meal, or simply soaking up the medieval ambience, visitors step into a living piece of Nottingham’s past.
Daily 11:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.1★7,313 reviews
Beaumont Shopping Centre
Beaumont Shopping Centre is a vibrant retail hub located in Beaumont Leys, Leicester. Open daily from 9 AM to 6 PM, it offers a diverse range of shops, eateries, and weekend markets, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors seeking fashion, essentials, and dining options in a welcoming community atmosphere.
Daily 9:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.1★5,925 reviews
Coopers Square
Coopers Square is a vibrant shopping centre located in the heart of Burton-on-Trent, offering a wide variety of high street and independent stores, a food court, and essential amenities. Open daily with convenient hours, it serves as a key retail destination for locals and visitors alike, blending accessibility with a clean, welcoming environment.
Mon–Sat 8:00–18:00 · Sun 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Tropical Birdland
Tropical Birdland in Desford, Leicester, is a 6.5-acre sanctuary home to over 250 exotic birds, including stunning free-flying parrots. Visitors can explore walk-through aviaries, wooded trails, and enjoy interactive experiences like feeding and holding birds. The site features a café, picnic areas, and hosts seasonal events, making it an engaging family-friendly destination immersed in nature and conservation.
Daily 10:00–17:30Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Kedleston Hall
Kedleston Hall, near Derby, is a grand 18th-century English country house designed by Robert Adam with Palladian exteriors and opulent Neo-classical interiors. Commissioned by Nathaniel Curzon, it showcases lavish state rooms, extensive art collections, and historic parkland. The hall also houses intriguing colonial-era artifacts collected by George Nathaniel Curzon, reflecting its rich cultural heritage and global connections.
Daily 9:00–17:30Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Nottingham Castle
Nottingham Castle, perched atop Castle Rock in Nottingham, England, offers a rich blend of history, art, and legend. Originally a Norman fortress from 1068, it now houses museums and galleries showcasing local heritage, including the famed Nottingham Lace Gallery and the Museum of the Mercian Regiment. Visitors can explore the castle’s grounds, enjoy panoramic views, and take guided tours of the fascinating underground caves beneath the site.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2.5–4 hrs
Rushcliffe Country Park
Rushcliffe Country Park, spanning 210 acres near Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, is a vibrant green space featuring diverse habitats, a large lake, extensive trails, and a popular adventure playground. Established on a former wartime depot, it offers wildlife spotting, cycling, picnicking, and engaging sensory trails, making it ideal for families, nature lovers, and dog walkers alike.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Attenborough Nature Reserve
Attenborough Nature Reserve, located just 5 miles southwest of Nottingham city centre, is a 220-hectare haven of lakes, wetlands, and grasslands. Established in 1966 and managed by Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust, it offers diverse birdlife, nature trails, bird hides, and an eco-friendly visitor centre with café. Ideal for birdwatchers, photographers, and nature lovers seeking peaceful walks and wildlife encounters year-round.
Daily 9:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 1–4 hrs
National Forest Adventure Farm
National Forest Adventure Farm in Burton-on-Trent is a vibrant family-friendly attraction offering a rich blend of farm animal encounters, extensive indoor and outdoor play areas, and seasonal events like the massive maize maze and Farmarama summer beach bonanza. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it provides immersive experiences for all ages with activities ranging from tractor rides and fossil digs to soft play and adventure playgrounds.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 3–6 hrs
Darley Park
Darley Park is an 80-acre urban park located on the banks of the River Derwent just north of Derby city centre. It offers diverse gardens, open fields, river access, sports facilities, and hosts community events including the famous Darley Park Concert. The park’s natural amphitheatre and scenic river views make it a beloved green space for locals and visitors alike.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
Nottingham Playhouse
Nottingham Playhouse is a world-class regional theatre in Nottingham city centre, established in 1948 and housed in a striking modernist building since 1963. The venue produces bold, innovative theatre ranging from Shakespeare and classic drama to new commissions, musicals, and family shows. With a 770-seat auditorium and a reputation for launching productions to the West End and Broadway, it remains one of England's leading producing theatres, recently awarded Theatre of the Year 2025.
Price level $$Time to spend 2.5–4 hrs
Robin Hood Statue
The Robin Hood Statue stands prominently on Castle Road near Nottingham Castle, serving as an iconic tribute to the legendary English folk hero. Crafted to endure millennia, this celebrated bronze sculpture captures Robin Hood in a dynamic pose with his bow, surrounded by smaller statues and plaques that enrich the site’s storytelling. Open 24/7 and free to visit, it offers visitors a symbolic connection to Nottingham’s rich medieval folklore and is a popular photo spot for tourists and locals alike.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–1 hr
Alvaston Park
Alvaston Park is an 85-acre riverside park located about two miles southeast of Derby city centre. It features a picturesque lake, inclusive playgrounds, BMX and skate facilities, sports courts, and scenic riverside paths along the River Derwent. The park hosts community events, offers accessible amenities, and is a cherished local green space for relaxation, active pursuits, and family fun.
Mon–Fri 10:00–15:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–16:00Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre
The Bosworth Battlefield Heritage Centre in Sutton Cheney offers a compelling journey through the site of the pivotal 1485 Battle of Bosworth, a decisive moment in British history. Visitors explore interactive exhibitions, guided battlefield walks, and family-friendly discovery zones amidst scenic rural landscapes. The centre combines immersive history with natural beauty, making it an engaging destination for all ages interested in medieval England and the Wars of the Roses.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Tamworth Castle
Tamworth Castle, located in the heart of Tamworth, Staffordshire, is a remarkably well-preserved Norman motte-and-bailey fortress offering visitors a rich journey through English history. Featuring 15 period rooms, interactive Anglo-Saxon exhibitions including items from the Staffordshire Hoard, and extensive pleasure grounds with panoramic views, it is a captivating destination for families, history enthusiasts, and cultural explorers alike.
Tue–Sat 9:30–16:30 · Sun 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3.5 hrs
Belper River Gardens
A charming Victorian riverside park in Derbyshire's Derwent Valley Mills World Heritage site, Belper River Gardens offers over a century of tranquil waterside beauty. This Green Flag–awarded gem features a historic 1906 bandstand, colourful flowerbeds, a children's play area with heritage-inspired equipment, and seasonal rowing boat hire. The riverside café and picnic areas make it an ideal spot for families, photographers, and anyone seeking peaceful riverside walks along the River Derwent.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Derby Museum & Art Gallery
A free cultural institution in Derby's city centre showcasing world-class art and archaeological treasures. Home to the world's largest collection of paintings by 18th-century artist Joseph Wright, plus galleries spanning Ancient Egypt, natural history, and local heritage. The airy, welcoming galleries are ideal for a leisurely half-day visit, with a family-friendly café and curated shop on-site.
Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
East Midlands Aeropark
East Midlands Aeropark is a unique aviation museum and viewing area located at East Midlands Airport near Castle Donington, Derby. It showcases a collection of historic civil and military aircraft alongside viewing mounds that offer close-up views of modern aircraft take-offs and landings. Open seasonally from April to October, the Aeropark features outdoor static displays, a shop and snack bar, picnic areas, and accessible facilities, making it a fascinating destination for aviation enthusiasts and families alike.
Thu 11:00–17:00 · Sat–Sun 11:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Highfields Park
Highfields Park centres on a 6-hectare boating lake with islands, bridges and a cascade in a Grade II* registered municipal landscape. Visitors follow a level lakeside path past mature trees and exotic planting, stopping at the play area, adventure golf and seasonal boat hire. The park sits beside Lakeside Arts on University Boulevard, offering a compact mix of outdoor recreation and adjacent galleries and performances. The setting combines civic planting from the 1920s with views toward the Trent Building on the adjoining campus slope. Free entry and modest activity costs make it a practical choice for families, students and walkers seeking a relaxed waterside circuit.
Mon–Fri 8:00–21:15 · Sat–Sun 9:00–21:15Price level $Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Derby Cathedral
Derby Cathedral, officially the Cathedral Church of All Saints, stands in the city centre as a remarkable blend of Georgian architecture and medieval heritage. Known for its serene atmosphere, historic monuments, and vibrant cultural events, it serves as a spiritual sanctuary and a hub for concerts, exhibitions, and community gatherings. Visitors can explore its striking tower, tranquil chapels, and rich history dating back over a thousand years.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Cathedral Quarter Derby
Derby’s Cathedral Quarter is the historic heart of the city, a vibrant district of cobbled lanes, Victorian arcades, and independent boutiques. Centered around Derby Cathedral, it blends heritage charm with modern life, offering stylish shopping, cozy cafés, lively bars, and cultural venues. The area is known for its elegant architecture, lively atmosphere, and role as a hub for events and local life. Whether you’re browsing unique shops, enjoying a meal in a historic street, or soaking up the city’s history, the Cathedral Quarter captures the spirit of Derby in a walkable, welcoming neighborhood.
Daily 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
Statfold Country Park
Statfold Country Park in Tamworth, Staffordshire, is a unique family attraction featuring a renowned narrow-gauge heritage railway, an extensive museum with over 20 working steam and diesel locomotives, and engaging play areas like Toby’s Barn. Visitors can enjoy scenic train rides through the Staffordshire countryside, interactive exhibits, mini golf, woodland trails, and special events, making it a vibrant destination for all ages.
Wed–Sun 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Ashby de la Zouch Castle
Ashby de la Zouch Castle is a striking medieval ruin in Leicestershire, England, originally a 12th-century manor house transformed into a fortified castle in the 15th century. Famous for its imposing Hastings Tower, underground passage, and connection to Sir Walter Scott's novel Ivanhoe, the site offers visitors a rich historical experience with panoramic countryside views and evocative ruins set within a charming market town.
Wed–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Tutbury Castle
Tutbury Castle, perched above the River Dove in Staffordshire, is a historic medieval fortress renowned for its royal connections, including the imprisonment of Mary, Queen of Scots. Visitors can explore atmospheric ruins, a Tudor garden, and the Great Hall, set amidst scenic countryside views. The castle hosts events like ghost hunts and medieval festivals but is currently closed for general public visits pending a new curator.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
National Trust - Stoneywell
Nestled in the heart of Leicestershire’s National Forest, Stoneywell is a rare surviving Arts & Crafts cottage set amidst 4 acres of vibrant gardens and 11 acres of woodland. This charming historic home, designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings, offers visitors a unique glimpse into early 20th-century craftsmanship, alongside tranquil woodland walks and seasonal floral displays. Pre-booking is essential to explore the cottage and grounds, with guided tours enhancing the rich heritage experience.
Mon 10:00–16:30 · Fri–Sun 10:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Five Lamps Pub
The Five Lamps Pub is a welcoming and lively pub located on Duffield Road in Derby. Known for its clean, friendly atmosphere and moderate pricing, it offers a classic British pub experience with a good selection of drinks and a bustling social scene. Open daily from noon to late evening, it is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike.
Daily 12:00–23:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Manor Farm Park & Woodlands
Manor Farm Park & Woodlands in East Leake, near Loughborough, offers over 25 acres of engaging countryside for families. Featuring a wide variety of rescued animals, extensive indoor and outdoor play areas, nature trails, and daily falconry displays, it provides a full day of fun for all ages. With picnic spots, a café, and accessible pathways, it’s an ideal destination for young families seeking a blend of animal encounters and outdoor exploration.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
NTHC - Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre
Nestled in the village of Ruddington, the Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre is a lively heritage railway and transport museum where history comes alive. Home to the Great Central Railway (Nottingham), it features a working steam and diesel railway, a large ride-on miniature railway, vintage buses, model railways, and a heritage café. Open on weekends and special event days, it’s a hands-on destination for families, rail enthusiasts, and anyone who loves the golden age of transport.
Sat–Sun 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
The Staffordshire Regiment Museum and Mercian Regiment Archive
Located at the Defence Medical Services site in Lichfield, The Staffordshire Regiment Museum offers a comprehensive look into over 300 years of military history. The museum showcases uniforms, weaponry, medals, and memorabilia from the Staffordshire Regiment and its successor, the Mercian Regiment. Highlights include a full-scale World War I trench system, Anderson shelters, military vehicles, and an engaging adventure playground. Open daily from 10am to 4pm, it is a family-friendly destination rich in heritage and interactive exhibits.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Kirby Muxloe Castle
Kirby Muxloe Castle is a striking late 15th-century fortified manor house located in the village of Kirby Muxloe near Leicester, England. Begun in 1480 by William, Lord Hastings, it remains an evocative ruin with a moat, impressive gatehouse, and corner tower. Though never completed due to Hastings’ execution, the castle showcases exquisite brickwork and offers tranquil grounds for exploration and picnics, managed today by English Heritage.
Fri–Sun 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
The Museum Of Curiosities
A privately run four-floor cabinet of macabre oddities and paranormal objects in central Nottingham, this compact museum packs thousands of unsettling items into dim, theatrical rooms. Visitors move at their own pace through displays of human skulls and bones, taxidermy, haunted dolls, occult ritual objects, horror-film props and a sandstone cave-cellar typical of the city. Staff share object stories on request, and the collection evolves, so repeat visits differ. The tone is dark-tourism theatrical rather than scholarly, suiting adults and teens drawn to folklore, true-crime artefacts and haunted-house atmosphere.
Tue–Sun 11:00–18:00Price level $Time to spend 0.8–2 hrs
Nottingham War Memorial Gardens
Nestled along Nottingham’s scenic Victoria Embankment, the Nottingham War Memorial Gardens is a tranquil and beautifully maintained space dedicated to honoring those who served in the World Wars. Established in 1926, the gardens feature a striking triumphal arch gateway, commemorative plaques, a large fountain, and lush landscaping, offering visitors a serene environment for reflection and remembrance by the River Trent.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Wollaton Hall.
Wollaton Hall is a magnificent Grade One listed Elizabethan mansion set within 500 acres of historic deer park in Nottingham. Home to the city's Natural History Museum, the hall features stunning Tudor architecture, extensive formal gardens, woodland trails, and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore exhibitions, enjoy seasonal events, and relax in cafés and play areas, making it a rich cultural and natural destination.
Daily 11:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Teahouse
The Apple Tree Gift Shop and Teahouse is a charming, award-winning destination in the village of Ockbrook near Derby. Combining a high-end gift shop with a cozy teahouse, it offers homemade cakes, quality British fare, and specialty drinks like signature hot chocolates topped with giant marshmallows. The venue features a rustic barn with a log burner and a courtyard, popular with walkers and dog owners. Its welcoming ambiance and unique blend of shopping and dining make it a beloved local gem.
Mon 9:30–15:00 · Thu–Sun 9:30–15:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Armstrong’s Mill Outlet
Armstrong’s Mill Outlet in Ilkeston, England, is a lively shopping hub featuring a diverse range of clothing stores alongside antiques and vintage collections. With over 150 individual sellers spread across 20,000 square feet, it offers shoppers a unique blend of fashion, collectibles, and bargains, complemented by amenities like free parking and onsite dining. Open daily from 10am to 5pm, it’s a favored spot for bargain hunters and fashion enthusiasts alike.
Mon–Sat 10:00–17:00 · Sun 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–3 hrs
Grace Dieu Priory
Grace Dieu Priory is a peaceful 13th-century Augustinian nunnery ruin nestled in the Leicestershire countryside near Coalville. Founded around 1239 by noblewoman Roesia de Verdun, it once housed a community of Augustinian canonesses known as the White Nuns of St Augustine. Today, ivy-clad stone walls and arches stand as a quiet testament to medieval monastic life, cared for by a local trust and open to visitors exploring history, nature, and quiet reflection in the National Forest.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Wollaton Park Lake
Wollaton Park Lake is a serene 25-acre body of water nestled within the expansive 500-acre Wollaton Park in Nottingham, England. Created in the late 18th century, the lake offers picturesque views, abundant wildlife, and peaceful walking paths. It serves as a tranquil focal point amidst the park’s historic gardens, deer park, and woodland areas, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and casual visitors alike.
Mon–Fri 8:00–19:00 · Sat–Sun 9:00–19:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Pickford's House
Pickford's House Museum in Derby is an exquisite Georgian townhouse showcasing 18th to 20th-century domestic life. Once the home and professional showcase of architect Joseph Pickford, it features period rooms, historic costume displays, and a unique Dracula exhibition. Located on Friar Gate, this free-entry museum offers a glimpse into Derby's architectural and cultural past, complemented by a charming garden and a welcoming shop.
Tue–Sat 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Calke Explore
Calke Explore is a tranquil outdoor adventure hub nestled within the vast 600-acre historic parkland of Calke Abbey in Derbyshire. It offers accessible walking and cycling trails, natural play areas, and facilities for all ages to reconnect with nature. The site serves as the ideal gateway to explore ancient woodlands, wetlands, and the wider Calke Estate, renowned for its ancient veteran trees and rich wildlife.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Nottingham Industrial Museum
Nestled within the 17th-century stable block of Wollaton Hall, Nottingham Industrial Museum offers a captivating journey through Nottinghamshire’s rich industrial past. The museum showcases five key sectors: textiles, transport, communication, mining, and steam power, featuring working engines, historic machinery, and unique artefacts such as a Thomas Humber bicycle. Run entirely by volunteers, it provides an engaging, educational experience ideal for families and history enthusiasts alike.
Thu 10:00–15:00 · Sat–Sun 11:00–16:00Price level $Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Framework Knitters Museum
An award-winning living history museum in Ruddington, Nottinghamshire, preserving the authentic Victorian-era working and living conditions of framework knitters. Explore restored workshops with original 19th-century knitting machines, period cottages, and interactive demonstrations. Discover the 400-year heritage of framework knitting—from its role in the Industrial Revolution to the Luddite riots—and try your hand at operating a historic sock machine. The museum features a café, textile shop, and enclosed gardens.
Wed–Sat 11:00–16:30 · Sun 13:30–16:00Price level $Time to spend 1.5–3.5 hrs
Nottingham Natural History Museum
The Nottingham Natural History Museum occupies the ground and first floors of Wollaton Hall, a striking Grade I Elizabethan prodigy house built 1580–1588. Its 750,000-object collection spans taxidermy, fossils, minerals, insects and plants, presented in a mix of 1930s-style cases and newer galleries. The standout addition is the 2025 Discovering Dinosaurs gallery, anchored by a 12-metre T. rex skeleton. Visitors move between grand historic rooms and intimate displays featuring George the Gorilla and a full-size giraffe, all inside a 500-acre deer park that extends the experience outdoors.
Daily 11:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Harrison's Plantation Nature Reserve
Harrison's Plantation Nature Reserve in Nottingham offers a peaceful woodland retreat featuring diverse native trees, tranquil water features like Raleigh Pond and a waterfall, and a rich habitat for local wildlife. Visitors can enjoy scenic walking trails and the calming sounds of birdsong in this important urban green space.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Park Tunnel
The Park Tunnel in Nottingham is a remarkable Victorian-era sandstone tunnel built in 1855 to provide access for horsedrawn carriages to The Park Estate from Derby Road. Though never used as intended due to its steep gradient, it remains a striking historical structure and pedestrian passage, tucked away in the city centre. Its unique architecture and atmospheric setting make it a hidden gem for visitors seeking a glimpse into Nottingham’s 19th-century heritage.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Beeston Lock
Beeston Lock, located on Riverside Road in Beeston, Nottingham, is a historic canal lock on the Nottingham & Beeston Canal. Opened in 1796, it allows boats to bypass unnavigable sections of the River Trent, playing a crucial role in transporting coal during the industrial era. Today, it offers a tranquil setting where visitors can watch boats navigate the lock, explore nearby heritage sites, and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty along the canal and river.
Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Sinai Park House Trust
Sinai Park House is a remarkable Grade II* listed timber-framed building dating back to the 1300s, nestled within a 13th-century hilltop moat in Burton-on-Trent, Staffordshire. Lovingly restored, it offers visitors a vivid glimpse into medieval architecture and centuries of local history, making it a captivating historical landmark and museum.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Public Art - Sky Mirror
The Sky Mirror is a striking public sculpture by renowned artist Anish Kapoor, located outside Nottingham Playhouse in Wellington Circus. This large concave stainless steel mirror reflects the sky, clouds, and surrounding architecture, creating an ever-changing, captivating visual experience. Installed in 2001, it has become an iconic landmark and popular photo spot in Nottingham’s city centre, celebrated for its artistic creativity and interactive appeal.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–1 hr
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
Starting from the historic Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem pub in Nottingham, The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk offers a captivating evening tour exploring the city's haunted past. This atmospheric walking tour delves into chilling tales and legends around Nottingham Castle and its surroundings, blending medieval history with ghostly folklore. The walk begins at one of England’s oldest inns, famed for its ancient caves and connections to crusaders, setting the perfect eerie tone for a night of supernatural storytelling.
Sat 19:00–20:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–1.5 hrs
Museum of Nottingham Life
Nestled beneath Nottingham Castle in a row of 17th-century cottages, the Museum of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard offers an immersive journey through 300 years of Nottingham’s social and industrial history. Visitors explore recreated Victorian homes, a 1920s shopping street, and intriguing sandstone caves once used for maltings, tanneries, and air raid shelters. Open weekends and bank holidays, it provides a vivid glimpse into the daily lives of Nottingham’s past residents.
Sat–Sun 12:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Walled Garden, Wollaton Park
The Walled Garden at Wollaton Park is a historic community garden nestled within the grounds of the grand Elizabethan Wollaton Hall in Nottingham. This tranquil, restored garden space offers visitors a peaceful retreat amid formal plantings and heritage horticulture, reflecting centuries of gardening tradition linked to the Wollaton estate. Open on select days, it complements the wider park’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Tue 9:30–16:00 · Thu 9:30–16:00Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre serves as the gateway to the historic Nottingham Castle complex, offering ticketing services, a café, and a shop. It is part of the recently redeveloped castle site featuring interactive galleries, cave tours, and extensive exhibitions on local history, including Robin Hood legends and Nottingham’s lace industry.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
The University of Nottingham Museum of Archaeology
Located within the Lakeside Arts Centre on University Park Campus, the University of Nottingham Museum of Archaeology showcases an award-winning collection focused primarily on regional archaeology spanning 250,000 years. The museum offers insight into everyday life from prehistoric times through to the Roman, Saxon, and Viking periods, featuring artefacts from Nottinghamshire and surrounding counties. It is free to visit and open Thursday to Sunday, 12 noon to 4 pm.
Thu–Sun 12:00–16:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
King's Meadow Nature Reserve
King's Meadow Nature Reserve is a compact urban green space in Nottingham, offering a rich variety of habitats including meadows, streams, and woodlands. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and diverse wildlife, it provides a peaceful retreat within the city, with open access from early morning until late evening. Its location near the Queens Drive Industrial Estate makes it a unique natural oasis amid urban surroundings.
Daily 6:30–23:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Mortimer’s hole
Mortimer’s Hole is a fascinating medieval sandstone tunnel beneath Nottingham Castle, linked to dramatic 14th-century history. Named after Sir Roger Mortimer, it served as a secret passage used in a royal coup and is now accessible via guided tours from Brewhouse Yard Museum. The tunnel and surrounding caves reveal Nottingham’s extensive subterranean network, carved into soft sandstone, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s layered past.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Statue of Honeycomb
The Beekeeper Statue, also known as the Statue of Honeycomb, is a lifesize outdoor sculpture located at 47 High Road, Beeston, Nottingham. Created in 1987 by artist Sioban Coppinger, it represents a calm beekeeper quietly smoking his pipe, surrounded by symbolic bees and natural elements, serving as a meditative resting place and a town identity symbol amid the busy shopping street.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum
The Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum is a rare Elizabethan dovecote built circa 1565 by Sir Francis Willoughby. This Grade II listed heritage museum in Nottingham showcases the history of dovecotes as vital sources of food and features original architectural details. Restored and preserved by local volunteers, it offers a glimpse into rural life and the legacy of Wollaton’s historical estate.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
Perched atop a sandstone outcrop in Nottingham city center, the Cliff of Nottingham Castle offers stunning panoramic views and a rich historical backdrop. This natural rock formation underpins the medieval castle site, famous for its ties to the legend of Robin Hood and centuries of English history. Visitors can explore the surrounding gardens, historic caves beneath the cliff, and enjoy the dramatic vistas over Nottingham’s urban landscape.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Reform Bill Heads (Friar Gate Heads)
The Reform Bill Heads, also known as the Friar Gate Heads, are a striking sculptural landmark located at 93a Friar Gate in Derby. These heads commemorate the 19th-century Reform Bill riots, symbolizing the crowds that gathered in Derby to demand political change during a pivotal era in British democracy. Set against the historic Friar Gate Conservation Area, the heads offer a tangible connection to Derby’s rich political and social history.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Climbing Tree
The Climbing Tree, located at Camellia House in Nottingham, is a unique outdoor tourist attraction combining adventure and nature. Nestled within the historic grounds of Wollaton Park, it offers visitors a chance to climb and explore amidst a tranquil setting surrounded by the iconic Camellia House greenhouse. Ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts, it provides a peaceful retreat with opportunities to enjoy nature and local heritage.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Treasure Trove - Nottingham Industrial Museum
Nestled in the historic Courtyard Stables of Wollaton Hall, the Treasure Trove - Nottingham Industrial Museum showcases Nottingham's industrial heritage through fascinating artifacts, machinery, and exhibits on local manufacturing and innovation. This charming charity shop complements the museum by offering unique second-hand treasures amid the Elizabethan grandeur of Wollaton Park. Free entry makes it an accessible gem for history enthusiasts exploring the site's stables, with limited hours on select days.
Thu 10:00–14:30 · Sat–Sun 10:30–15:30Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Nottingham City of Literature
Lakeside Arts is a vibrant cultural hub located in Highfields Park, Nottingham, offering a rich mix of theatre, art exhibitions, music performances, and cafés. Situated on the University of Nottingham’s University Park Campus, it features multiple venues including the Djanogly Theatre, Recital Hall, and Gallery. Surrounded by scenic parkland and a lake, it blends artistic creativity with natural beauty, making it a key destination for arts and literature enthusiasts.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Derbion shopping centre
Derbion Shopping Centre, located in the heart of Derby, is a vibrant retail and leisure hub featuring over 200 shops, a diverse food terrace, entertainment venues including a 12-screen cinema, bowling alley, and indoor adventure golf. With ample parking and excellent transport links, it serves a large catchment area and offers a modern, family-friendly shopping experience.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Derby Ghost Walk and Jail
Derby Gaol is a haunted 18th-century prison in the heart of Derby, England, offering visitors an immersive journey into the paranormal and the region's dark history. Famous for its authentic atmosphere, original prisoner graffiti, and paranormal investigation events led by renowned experts, this atmospheric venue combines historical education with thrilling supernatural experiences. Themed nights and guided ghost hunts make it a unique destination for those seeking both history and mystery.
Sat 11:00–15:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–4 hrs
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Calke Explore travel guide
Explore ancient woodlands, accessible trails, and natural play areas at Calke Explore, the perfect outdoor adventure base within Calke Abbey’s historic estate.
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