Nottingham Arboretum: A Historic Urban Oasis of Trees and Tranquillity
Discover Nottingham’s oldest public park, a Victorian arboretum with historic trees, charming monuments, and a magical atmosphere near the city centre.
Nottingham Arboretum, opened in 1852, is the city's oldest public park and a celebrated green space featuring over 800 trees from 65 species, some dating back to the 19th century. This Victorian-era park, located near the city centre, offers tranquil pathways, historic monuments, and a rich heritage, including links to J.M. Barrie's inspiration for Neverland. It hosts community events and provides accessible, peaceful natural beauty year-round.
A brief summary to Arboretum
- Waverley St, Nottingham, NG7 4HF, GB
- +441159152733
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-9:15 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-9:15 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-9:15 pm
- Thursday 8 am-9:15 pm
- Friday 8 am-9:15 pm
- Saturday 8 am-9:15 pm
- Sunday 8 am-9:15 pm
Local tips
- Visit the Arboretum Tree Trail and Heritage Trail for self-guided walks that highlight the park’s significant trees and historic features.
- Use Nottingham’s NET tram to reach the park easily and avoid limited on-street parking in surrounding areas.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the ornamental lake, especially during spring or autumn for seasonal beauty.
- Check the seasonal opening times as closing hours vary throughout the year, from 4:30pm in winter to 9:15pm in summer.
- Dogs are welcome but must be kept under control, especially near wildlife habitats.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Tram
Take Nottingham’s NET tram to the Arboretum stop on Waverley Street, located just 150 meters from the park entrance. Trams run frequently, with fares typically between £2-£4 for a single journey, and the trip from the city centre takes about 10-15 minutes.
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Bus
Several local bus routes serve stops within a 10-15 minute walk of the Arboretum, including services from Nottingham city centre. Bus fares range around £2-£3.50. Check local timetables for frequency and accessibility.
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Car
Driving is possible but parking is limited to on-street spaces in surrounding residential areas. Expect to spend 5-15 minutes searching for parking, with some paid zones. Use public transport if possible to avoid parking constraints.
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Walking
From Nottingham city centre, walking to the Arboretum takes approximately 20-30 minutes along mostly flat, paved routes suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
Arboretum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Arboretum
Origins and Botanical Heritage
Nottingham Arboretum was officially opened on 11 May 1852 by the Mayor and Sheriff before a crowd of 30,000. Designed under the guidance of botanist Samuel Curtis, who also contributed to London's Victoria Park, the Arboretum was conceived as a botanical haven laid out in the “natural order.” It remains home to a remarkable collection of over 800 trees representing 65 species, including many original 19th-century plantings. This historic collection offers visitors a unique glimpse into Victorian horticultural design and botanical diversity.Design, Features, and Historic Monuments
The park’s layout includes formal pathways, flowerbeds, and an ornamental lake that serves as a focal point for wildlife and scenic beauty. Noteworthy features include the Grade II listed octagonal bandstand, which evokes the charm of Victorian leisure, and a distinctive pagoda-like war memorial housing a bell from a Cantonese temple, surrounded by 19th-century Russian cannons. These elements contribute to the park’s rich character and historic atmosphere.Community Role and Cultural Significance
As Nottingham’s closest park to the city centre, the Arboretum plays a vital role in the local community. It hosts numerous events throughout the year, from music concerts to festivals, fostering social engagement and cultural life. The park’s tranquil environment also supports mental and physical wellbeing, with self-guided Tree and Heritage Trails encouraging exploration and education about its natural and historical assets.Legendary Inspiration and Literary Connections
Local lore suggests that the Arboretum inspired J.M. Barrie’s creation of Neverland, the magical setting of Peter Pan. Barrie lived in Nottingham before writing the famous tale, and the park’s whimsical charm and leafy paths are thought to have sown the seeds for his fantasy world. Visitors can immerse themselves in this enchanting atmosphere and imagine the fairy dust and flights of fancy that may have taken root here.Accessibility and Visitor Experience
The Arboretum is easily accessible via Nottingham’s tram network, with a dedicated stop nearby and four main entrances. It offers surfaced paths suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, making it welcoming to all visitors. The park is dog friendly, with dogs welcome under control, and provides seasonal café facilities and public toilets. Entry is free, and the park is open daily from 8am on weekdays and 9am on weekends, closing seasonally between 4:30pm and 9:15pm depending on the time of year.Natural Beauty Through the Seasons
The Arboretum’s appeal varies with the seasons: spring brings delicate blossoms, while autumn transforms the park into a vibrant tapestry of colorful leaves. Wildlife such as squirrels and diverse bird species add to the sensory experience. Whether seeking a peaceful stroll, a picnic spot, or a place to connect with nature in the heart of Nottingham, the Arboretum offers a timeless green retreat.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Spot
0.1 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.6 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Scale Space Nottingham
0.7 km
Experience collaboration and innovation at Scale Space Nottingham, the premier co-working space in the heart of the city, perfect for entrepreneurs and remote workers.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.7 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.8 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
Cathedral Hall
0.8 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
King's Walk sign
0.9 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
Speakers' Corner
1.0 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
The Left Lion
1.0 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Right Lion
1.0 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
Watson Fothergill's Office
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
1.2 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
1.2 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
The Tokenhouse
1.2 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
The Hockley Arts Club
1.2 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
Unmissable attractions to see
Chinese Bell Tower
0.1 km
A Victorian pagoda war memorial in Nottingham Arboretum, blending British military history with Chinese cultural symbolism.
Cave Escape Nottingham
0.5 km
Solve puzzles in a real sandstone cave beneath Nottingham – immersive escape rooms with a thrilling underground twist.
The Museum Of Curiosities
0.7 km
Explore Nottingham’s eerie Museum of Curiosities, where haunted artifacts, real skulls, and horror props create a spine-chilling, immersive experience.
Trinity Square
0.7 km
Modern student living at Trinity Square, Nottingham’s vibrant city centre residence, steps from university and cultural hotspots.
Axed Nottingham Axe Throwing
0.8 km
Experience the thrill of interactive axe throwing with expert coaching in Nottingham’s vibrant urban playground.
The Cornerhouse
0.8 km
A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.
The Park Tunnel
0.8 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden Victorian sandstone tunnel, a unique historic passage blending architectural beauty with urban mystery.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
0.8 km
Nottingham’s historic Theatre Royal and modern Royal Concert Hall host West End musicals, concerts, comedy and more in the heart of the city.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
0.8 km
Immersive escape rooms with innovative puzzles and theatrical game masters in Nottingham's city centre.
Public Art - Sky Mirror
0.8 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic Sky Mirror, a captivating stainless steel sculpture reflecting the sky and cityscape in ever-changing optical illusions.
The Turf Tavern
0.8 km
Experience the rich history and local flavors at The Turf Tavern, Nottingham's iconic pub steeped in tradition and charm.
Nottingham Playhouse
0.8 km
Bold, thrilling theatre in a modernist landmark—where regional excellence meets West End ambition.
Victoria Centre
0.9 km
Victoria Centre is Nottingham’s vibrant shopping and dining hub with over 120 stores and a lively Clocktower dining experience under one roof.
Bell Inn
1.0 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub where 15th-century beams, historic caves, and traditional ales create an unforgettable medieval atmosphere in the city’s heart.
Old Mkt Sq
1.0 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Essential places to dine
Farro's Grillhouse
0.4 km
A lively Nottingham grillhouse blending steakhouse classics with Portuguese and Italian flavours in a casual, vibrant setting.
The Lobster Pot Nottingham
0.4 km
Cozy seafood and Thai fusion dining on Mansfield Road, blending fresh flavors with a welcoming atmosphere in Nottingham.
Corinthian Restaurant
0.6 km
Elegant Modern British dining in a historic Masonic Hall, offering refined dishes and exceptional value in Nottingham’s city centre.
Balageru Ethiopian and Eritrean Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience authentic Ethiopian and Eritrean flavors with warm hospitality in Nottingham’s cozy Balageru restaurant.
Sans Patrie
0.7 km
Discover Nottingham’s Sans Patrie, where inventive tasting menus meet artistic presentation in a relaxed, inclusive fine dining setting.
Warsaw Diner
0.7 km
Experience hearty American-Polish breakfasts in a lively 1950s-style diner with generous portions and bottomless coffee in Nottingham’s Derby Road.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Nottingham
0.7 km
Elegant steakhouse in Nottingham offering expertly cooked steaks, jazz ambiance, and attentive service for memorable dining experiences.
Turtle Bay Nottingham
0.8 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavours and tropical vibes in the heart of Nottingham’s lively Cornerhouse complex.
Casa Italian & Seafood Restaurant
0.8 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in Nottingham’s city centre with warm service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tamatanga
0.8 km
Authentic Indian flavors served fresh in a lively, family-friendly Nottingham hotspot with great value and welcoming vibes.
Prezzo Italian Restaurant Nottingham
0.8 km
Authentic Italian dining in Nottingham’s city centre, offering classic pasta, pizza, and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Nottingham
0.8 km
Modern steakhouse in Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter serving expertly cooked steaks and classic British grill fare in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Las Iguanas - Nottingham
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in Nottingham’s lively Chapel Quarter at Las Iguanas.
Kushi-ya
0.9 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
Bistrot Pierre
0.9 km
Authentic French bistro dining with seasonal menus and a cozy private room in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
WAREHOUSE
0.7 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at WAREHOUSE inside Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, blending style and convenience in the city heart.
Happy Sunday Vintage & Antiques
0.7 km
A joyful vintage boutique in Nottingham offering bold fashion, unique antiques, and a welcoming atmosphere for vintage lovers.
Søstrene Grene
0.7 km
Scandinavian hygge meets affordable creativity in Nottingham's Victoria Centre – a Danish design haven brimming with homewares, crafts, and joyful discoveries.
Menkind
0.8 km
Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and fun collectibles for men at Menkind Nottingham, your go-to spot for original presents and playful shopping.
Miniso
0.8 km
Discover stylish, affordable gifts and essentials at Miniso, Nottingham’s vibrant variety shop in Victoria Centre.
Flying Tiger Copenhagen
0.8 km
Compact Danish design and playful everyday goods — pocket-friendly gifts, stationery and novelty finds in Victoria Centre.
Handmade Nottingham
0.9 km
Discover unique handmade treasures from UK designers in Nottingham’s vibrant gift shop at 8 King's Walk.
Parallel Universe
0.9 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant retro collectibles shop filled with vintage games, toys, comics, and nostalgic treasures in a quirky, welcoming setting.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.9 km
A vibrant independent bead and craft shop in Nottingham’s historic Market Street, offering expert workshops and a vast range of jewellery-making supplies.
Urban Outfitters
1.0 km
Eclectic fashion, vintage finds, and creative homewares in Nottingham's vibrant shopping heart.
Next
1.0 km
A stylish and family-friendly fashion store in Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, offering a wide range of clothing and accessories with convenient hours.
OH DUCK IT
1.0 km
Dive into duck-tastic humor and Nottingham dialect delights at this cheeky gift shop, where quirky souvenirs and local crafts quack up the city's shopping scene.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
1.0 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
Primark
1.0 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Tutu urban boutique
1.1 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Rose Of England
0.7 km
A historic Victorian Neo-Gothic pub in Nottingham blending architectural grandeur with authentic local charm and a lively community spirit.
Tap & Tumbler
0.7 km
A historic Nottingham pub blending quality ales, vibrant rock music, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Bunk
0.7 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Slug & Lettuce - Cornerhouse Nottingham
0.8 km
A lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Cornerhouse, blending classic British dishes with vibrant social energy and modern style.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
0.8 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Six Richmond House
0.8 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
0.9 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
400 Rabbits
0.9 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Cucamara
0.9 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
Nottingham Secret Garden
0.9 km
Discover Nottingham's lush cocktail hideaway: tropical vibes, craft drinks, and electric nights in a secret beer garden oasis.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.9 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
The Alchemist Nottingham
0.9 km
Ignite your senses in Nottingham's alchemical lair, where molecular cocktails erupt in spectacle and inventive dishes fuel unforgettable nights on King Street.
Malt Cross
1.0 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
1.0 km
Lively Irish pub in Nottingham's Market Square: pub grub, live sports, DJ nights, and pints in a buzzing city-centre spot that parties till late.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
1.1 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rock City
0.6 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
CRISIS
0.6 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Stealth
0.6 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
0.6 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Unit 13
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.8 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Tunnel Club
1.0 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
ICON
1.0 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Popworld - Nottingham
1.1 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Bodega Nottingham
1.1 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
Tantra Night Clubs
1.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
NG-One
1.3 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
The Cell
1.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Eleven
1.3 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
