Nottingham Castle: A Historic Cultural Landmark in Nottingham
Discover Nottingham Castle’s rich history, legendary caves, and vibrant museums atop Castle Rock with stunning city views.
Nottingham Castle, perched on Castle Rock in the heart of Nottingham, is a historic site blending rich medieval history with modern museum and gallery experiences. Visitors explore art collections, interactive galleries, and the legendary caves beneath the castle, all while enjoying panoramic views of the city. The site offers accessible facilities, a café, and a visitor centre, making it a compelling destination for history enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Nottingham Castle
- Lenton Rd, Nottingham, NG1 6EL, GB
- +441158763100
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book the popular cave tours in advance as they have limited capacity and involve steep stairs.
- Take time to explore the diverse galleries, including the Nottingham Lace Gallery and Rebellion Gallery.
- Wear sturdy footwear for the cave tour and bring a camera for panoramic views from the castle grounds.
- Consider purchasing an annual ticket for unlimited visits and access to special exhibitions.
- Use nearby public car parks as there is no on-site parking; accessible facilities are available throughout.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Bus
Multiple bus routes serve stops within 300 meters of Nottingham Castle, with frequent services running every 10-20 minutes from Nottingham city centre. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 for a single journey, making this a convenient and affordable option.
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Tram
The Nottingham Express Transit tram stops at Old Market Square, about a 10-minute walk from the castle. Trams run every 7-15 minutes, with tickets priced around £2.50 for a single trip.
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Taxi or Rideshare
Taxis and rideshare services can reach Nottingham Castle directly, with travel times from Nottingham railway station around 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Typical fares range from £6 to £12.
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Walking
From Nottingham railway station, walking to Nottingham Castle takes approximately 20-25 minutes across mostly flat urban terrain, suitable for most visitors with moderate mobility.
Nottingham Castle location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Nottingham Castle
Legacy of Nottingham Castle Through the Centuries
Nottingham Castle stands on the site of the original Norman fortress built in 1068, a strategic stronghold that has witnessed centuries of English history. The medieval castle was largely destroyed during the English Civil War in the 17th century and replaced by a ducal mansion. Today’s structure blends this rich past with modern museum spaces, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Nottingham’s evolving story. The castle’s association with the Robin Hood legends adds a layer of mythic allure, connecting folklore with tangible heritage.Diverse Museums and Galleries Within the Castle
Inside, the castle houses several specialized galleries. The Nottingham Lace Gallery celebrates the city’s pioneering role in machine-made lace, showcasing exquisite examples and the craft’s history. The Early Nottingham Craft Gallery features alabaster statues reflecting the city’s medieval artistic prominence. The Rebellion Gallery explores Nottingham’s spirited history of uprisings, including the Civil War and Luddite movements, through interactive exhibits. The Museum of the Mercian Regiment displays military artifacts including Victoria Crosses, while the permanent Art Gallery presents a broad collection of paintings, sculptures, and textiles.Exploring the Subterranean Caves
Beneath the castle lies a fascinating network of sandstone caves and tunnels, accessible via guided tours. The Mortimer’s Hole tunnel, linked to King Edward III’s historic efforts to expose his father’s murderer, is a highlight. The cave tours involve steep stairs and uneven terrain, requiring sturdy footwear and moderate physical fitness. This subterranean maze offers a mysterious contrast to the castle’s above-ground grandeur and reveals Nottingham’s unique geological and historical layers.Visitor Experience and Amenities
The castle grounds provide scenic views over Nottingham and include a medieval-style playground for children, making it family-friendly. The visitor centre houses a café and gift shop, offering refreshments and souvenirs. Accessibility is well catered for, with lifts, wheelchair hire, and accessible toilets. While parking is not available on site, several public car parks are nearby. The castle is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with last entry at 4pm, and tickets grant year-long access, encouraging repeat visits.Architectural and Cultural Significance
Nottingham Castle is a landmark that combines historic architecture with cultural vitality. Its ducal mansion reflects 17th-century design, while the galleries and exhibitions maintain a contemporary museum ethos. The castle’s location atop Castle Rock offers iconic views of Nottingham’s skyline, blending natural and built environments. It remains a focal point for cultural events, educational programs, and heritage preservation, embodying Nottingham’s identity and history.Engaging with Nottingham’s Heritage and Legends
Visitors can immerse themselves in Nottingham’s rebellious spirit through the castle’s exhibits, tracing stories of civil unrest and reform. The Robin Hood connection enriches the narrative, linking the castle to England’s most famous outlaw. Interactive displays and augmented reality features enhance the storytelling, making history accessible and engaging for all ages. This blend of myth, history, and art makes Nottingham Castle a multifaceted destination that appeals to diverse interests.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.1 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
0.2 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
St Nic's Church
0.3 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.5 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Cathedral Hall
0.6 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
Right Lion
0.6 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Left Lion
0.6 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.6 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
The Tokenhouse
0.6 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Scale Space Nottingham
0.6 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.
Speakers' Corner
0.6 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Weekday Cross Monument
0.6 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
Citylife UK
0.7 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
King's Walk sign
0.7 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.8 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
0.1 km
A dramatic sandstone cliff crowned by castle ruins, offering panoramic city views and a journey into Nottingham’s medieval and rebellious past.
Mortimer’s hole
0.1 km
Explore Mortimer’s Hole, a secret medieval tunnel beneath Nottingham Castle steeped in history and mystery.
Museum of Nottingham Life
0.1 km
Explore 300 years of Nottingham’s social history beneath historic 17th-century cottages and intriguing sandstone caves.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.1 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Robin Hood Statue
0.1 km
Iconic bronze statue of Robin Hood beside Nottingham Castle, celebrating the legendary outlaw and Nottingham’s rich folklore heritage.
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
0.1 km
Step into Nottingham’s haunted past with The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk, starting at the legendary Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem pub.
Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
0.2 km
Tucked beneath Nottingham Castle, this legendary pub claims to be England’s oldest inn, with cave-like rooms, centuries of history, and a famously cursed galleon.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.5 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
Bell Inn
0.5 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.
Nottingham Playhouse
0.5 km
Bold, thrilling theatre in a modernist landmark—where regional excellence meets West End ambition.
Public Art - Sky Mirror
0.5 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic Sky Mirror, a captivating stainless steel sculpture reflecting the sky and cityscape in ever-changing optical illusions.
Old Mkt Sq
0.5 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Old Market Square
0.5 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Flying Horse Walk
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
0.5 km
Immersive escape rooms with innovative puzzles and theatrical game masters in Nottingham's city centre.
Essential places to dine
Fothergills
0.2 km
Historic bistro with local flavors and castle views in Nottingham’s architectural gem, welcoming all including dog lovers.
The Castle - Pub and Kitchen
0.2 km
Historic Nottingham gastropub offering hearty British dishes, craft ales, and a warm atmosphere next to Nottingham Castle.
World Service Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant Modern European dining in Nottingham’s historic Newdigate House, blending ambitious cuisine with warm, attentive service.
The Roundhouse Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Historic charm meets casual dining with local craft beers and hearty pub classics in Nottingham’s city centre.
The Cumin Restaurant
0.2 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Punjabi cuisine with bold flavors and warm hospitality in Nottingham’s family-run gem.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
0.3 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
MemSaab
0.4 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
Calcutta Club
0.4 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
Chino Latino
0.4 km
Savor vibrant Pan-Asian and Latino fusion dishes in a sleek, metropolitan setting at Nottingham’s award-winning Chino Latino.
Zaap Thai Street Food
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.
Browns Nottingham
0.4 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
No.Twelve
0.4 km
Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
Las Iguanas - Nottingham
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in Nottingham’s lively Chapel Quarter at Las Iguanas.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Nottingham
0.5 km
Modern steakhouse in Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter serving expertly cooked steaks and classic British grill fare in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Kushi-ya
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
ChicChoiceHub
0.2 km
Discover Eastern elegance on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill at ChicChoiceHub, where oriental treasures meet Civil War legacy in a treasure trove of Asian artistry and crafts.
Common Choice
0.2 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
Shop Zero
0.3 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
OH DUCK IT
0.4 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.
Vivienne Westwood
0.5 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.6 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.
Garms Nottingham
0.6 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Castle Marina Retail Park
0.6 km
Nottingham's go-to retail park for home essentials, pet supplies, and coffee breaks, with free parking and canal-side convenience.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.6 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.6 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.6 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
Stick & Ribbon
0.6 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.6 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Tutu urban boutique
0.6 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Lulu Brandy Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Lulu Brandy Vintage, Nottingham’s premier vintage clothing boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Crafty Crow
0.2 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
0.3 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.4 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Malt Cross
0.4 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
Canalhouse
0.4 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
0.5 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.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.5 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
Cucamara
0.5 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
400 Rabbits
0.5 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Pepper Rocks
0.6 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Six Richmond House
0.6 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.6 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
Tap & Tumbler
0.6 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
0.6 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ocean Nightclub
0.4 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
ICON
0.4 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Tunnel Club
0.4 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.6 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.6 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Cell
0.7 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.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.7 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.
CRISIS
0.7 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Rock City
0.7 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Rescue Rooms
0.7 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
The Bodega Nottingham
0.8 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.
Stealth
0.8 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Unit 13
0.8 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.8 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.
Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
0.9 km
Discover the lively Revolution Nottingham - Hockley, where craft cocktails and delicious food create unforgettable moments in a chic atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Cultural Heritage
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
