Nottingham, United Kingdom Travel Guide

Explore Nottingham, a dynamic city where history meets modernity, with its legendary tales, cultural vibrancy, and stunning natural landscapes.

Nottingham, a city rich in history and folklore, is nestled in the heart of England. Known for its ties to the legendary Robin Hood, this vibrant city offers an enticing blend of the past and present. Explore the historic Nottingham Castle, perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the city. The castle's museum and art gallery provide an immersive journey through the city's storied past. Just a stone's throw away, the Lace Market showcases Nottingham's industrial heritage. This charming district is now a hub for creative industries, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and bars. Wander through the cobbled streets and discover the city's lace-making history, which once made Nottingham the lace capital of the world. For those seeking a taste of the outdoors, Sherwood Forest is a must-visit. Just a short drive from the city, this ancient forest is home to the legendary tales of Robin Hood and his merry men. Visitors can explore the lush landscape, enjoy hiking trails, and participate in seasonal events celebrating this iconic folklore. Nottingham is also a city of innovation, hosting a thriving cultural scene with numerous theaters, galleries, and music venues. The Nottingham Playhouse and Theatre Royal offer stellar performances, while the city's music festivals attract visitors from all corners of the globe. With a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Nottingham is a captivating destination for travelers seeking a unique experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nottingham.

Visit the Nottingham Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best views.
Take a guided tour of the Lace Market to learn about its rich industrial past.
Explore Sherwood Forest in spring or autumn for the most picturesque scenery.
Check the calendar for local festivals and events to enhance your visit.

Neighbourhoods in Nottingham

Wollaton Park

Nottingham Castle

Sneinton Market

City Centre

Hockley

Explore All Neighbourhoods in Nottingham

Explore Nottingham: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Nottingham

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

Victoria Centre

Shop, dine, and unwind at Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre, the city’s ultimate retail and leisure destination.

4.2

Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall

Nottingham’s historic Theatre Royal and modern Royal Concert Hall host West End musicals, concerts, comedy and more in the heart of the city.

4.6

Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem

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.

4.6

The Cornerhouse

A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.

4.3

Best landmarks in Nottingham

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

Robin Hood Statue

Stand with Nottingham’s legendary outlaw at the iconic Robin Hood Statue, a timeless symbol of rebellion and folklore outside Nottingham Castle.

4.4

Old Market Square

Historic and lively, Nottingham’s Old Market Square is the city’s grand civic heart and a vibrant hub for events, markets, and social life.

4.5

St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham

A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.

4.6

St Mary’s Church Nottingham

Medieval masterpiece and civic heart of Nottingham, crowned by a soaring tower and filled with light.

4.7

Best restaurants in Nottingham

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem

Step into England’s oldest inn, where medieval caves and legends blend with cozy bars beneath Nottingham Castle.

4.6

Turtle Bay Nottingham

Experience authentic Caribbean flavours and tropical vibes in the heart of Nottingham’s lively Cornerhouse complex.

4.8

Annie's Burger Shack

Vibrant American diner in Nottingham’s Lace Market, serving over 30 creative burgers with vegan options and craft beers in a lively, casual setting.

4.4

Zaap Thai Street Food

Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.

4.5

Best bars in Nottingham

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham

A vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, perfect for lively dining, drinks, and celebrations.

4.8

Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem

Step into England’s oldest pub, carved into Nottingham’s castle caves, where medieval history and legends flow alongside hearty ales and warm hospitality.

4.6

Pitcher & Piano Nottingham

Experience vibrant social life in a stunning Gothic church setting with creative cocktails and hearty British classics in Nottingham’s Lace Market.

4.5

Canalhouse

Experience Nottingham’s unique canal-side pub with award-winning craft beers, historic charm, and a lively atmosphere in the heart of the city.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Nottingham

Top-rated picks

Best Nightclubs

Rock City

Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.

4.5

Rescue Rooms

Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.

4.5

The Bodega Nottingham

Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.

4.3

Popworld - Nottingham

Popworld Nottingham delivers a vibrant, fun-filled nightclub experience with cheesy pop hits, lively crowds, and friendly service in the city centre.

4.6

Best shops in Nottingham

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

Primark

Discover budget-friendly fashion and home essentials at Primark Nottingham, right in the city’s vibrant heart.

4.1

Flying Tiger Copenhagen

Discover quirky Danish design and affordable everyday essentials at Flying Tiger Copenhagen in Nottingham’s vibrant Victoria Centre.

4.4

Urban Outfitters

Eclectic fashion, vintage finds, and creative homewares in Nottingham's vibrant shopping heart.

3.9

Menkind

Discover quirky gifts, gadgets, and fun collectibles for men at Menkind Nottingham, your go-to spot for original presents and playful shopping.

4.2

Explore Nottingham on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Nottingham, mapped for you.

Nottingham Essentials

Nottingham is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The city is served by East Midlands Airport, located about 15 miles from the city center, which offers flights to and from several European destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or use the Skylink bus service to reach Nottingham. Alternatively, Nottingham is well connected by train, with direct services from major cities such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester. National Express and Megabus provide coach services to Nottingham from various locations across the UK.
Nottingham boasts an efficient public transportation system, including buses and trams. The Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram network is a convenient way to get around the city and its suburbs. Buses operated by Nottingham City Transport cover most areas and offer various ticketing options, including day passes. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber are widely available. For those who prefer cycling, Nottingham has an extensive network of cycle routes and bike rental options.
The official currency of the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Nottingham, including Visa, MasterCard, and American Express. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city. It's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. Contactless payments are also widely used and accepted in most places.
Nottingham is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to stay vigilant. Areas such as St. Ann's and The Meadows have higher crime rates, so exercise caution when visiting these neighborhoods, particularly at night. Keep your belongings secure in crowded places and be aware of your surroundings. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit areas after dark and use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services for late-night travel.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Nottingham has several hospitals, including Queen's Medical Centre, which provides emergency services. It's wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city, where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably for the weather and bring a waterproof jacket, as rain is common. Avoid overly casual attire in more formal settings. Religion: Do respect local customs when visiting religious sites, such as cathedrals or churches, and dress modestly. Public Transport: Do have your ticket ready before boarding buses or trams. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: A handshake is a common greeting; a smile and a 'hello' are always appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties like Stilton cheese or Nottinghamshire sausages. Don't forget to tip in restaurants, usually around 10%.
To experience Nottingham like a local, explore the independent shops and cafes in the Hockley area. Visit the historic Lace Market for a glimpse into the city's industrial past. Engage with locals at the Nottingham Contemporary art gallery or catch a play at the Theatre Royal. For a unique experience, explore the network of caves beneath the city on a guided tour. Don't miss a visit to Wollaton Hall, a stunning Elizabethan mansion and deer park.

When is the best time to visit Nottingham?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Nottingham

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Nottingham. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloAy up
  [Eɪ ʌp]
- GoodbyeTa-ra
  [Tɑː-rɑː]
- YesAye
  [Aɪ]
- NoNah
  [Nɑː]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [Pliːz]
- Thank youCheers
  [ʧɪəz]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [ˈsɒri]
- How are you?Ow do?
  [aʊ duː]
- Fine. And you?Reet. An you?
  [riːt. ənd juː]
- Do you speak English?D'ya speak English?
  [dʒə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandAh don’t get it
  [ɑː dɒnt ɡɛt ɪt]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [kæn aɪ siː ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliːz]
- I don't eat meatAh don’t eat meat
  [ɑː dɒnt iːt miːt]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [ʧɪəz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please?
  [kæn aɪ peɪ pliːz]
- Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [ɡɛt lɒst]
- Call the Police!Ring the bobbies!
  [rɪŋ ðə ˈbɒbiz]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [ɡɛt ə dɒk]
- I'm lostAh'm lost
  [ɑːm lɒst]
- I'm illAh'm poorly
  [ɑːm ˈpʊəli]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [aɪ wɒnt tə baɪ]
- I'm just lookingJust browsing
  [dʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪŋ]
- How much is it?How much's this?
  [haʊ mʌʧz ðɪs]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit dear
  [ðæts ə bɪt dɪə]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock the price down?
  [kæn jə nɒk ðə praɪs daʊn]
- What time is it?Wot time is it?
  [wɒt taɪm ɪz ɪt]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [ɪts wʌn əˈklɒk]
- Half past (10)Half past ten
  [hɑːf pɑːst tɛn]
- MorningMornin'
  [ˈmɔːnɪn]
- AfternoonArvo
  [ˈɑːvəʊ]
- EveningEvenin'
  [ˈiːvnɪn]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstədeɪ]
- TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɒrəʊ]
- 1One
  [wʌn]
- 2Two
  [tuː]
- 3Three
  [θriː]
- 4Four
  [fɔː]
- 5Five
  [faɪv]
- 6Six
  [sɪks]
- 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
- 8Eight
  [eɪt]
- 9Nine
  [naɪn]
- 10Ten
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [wɛrz ðə]
- What's the address?Wot’s the address?
  [wɒts ðə əˈdrɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?
  [kæn jə ʃoʊ mi ɒn ðə mɛp]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [wɛnʔs ðə nɛkst bʌs]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt tə]

History of Nottingham

Nottingham is famously associated with the legendary outlaw Robin Hood, who, according to folklore, robbed from the rich to give to the poor. His adventures were set against the backdrop of Sherwood Forest and Nottingham Castle, with the Sheriff of Nottingham often portrayed as his arch-nemesis. This legend has become an integral part of Nottingham's cultural identity, celebrated through various festivals and attractions that draw visitors to explore the depths of this enchanting tale.
Nottingham Castle has a rich history, particularly noted during the English Civil War. In 1642, King Charles I raised his standard at Nottingham, marking the start of the conflict. The castle was a key strategic fortification, changing hands multiple times between the Royalists and Parliamentarians. Its turbulent past is now preserved and showcased in the castle's museum, offering a glimpse into the city's pivotal role in the nation's history.
During the Industrial Revolution, Nottingham emerged as a center for lace manufacturing. The Lace Market area became the heart of this booming industry, with its impressive Victorian architecture housing numerous factories and warehouses. This economic boom transformed Nottingham into a thriving industrial city, with the Lace Market today serving as a vibrant district of creative businesses, boutiques, and cafes that pay homage to its industrial heritage.
In the early 19th century, Nottingham was a focal point for the Luddite movement, a group of textile workers who protested against the mechanization of their industry, which threatened their livelihoods. In 1811-1816, a series of violent protests and machine-breaking incidents occurred, highlighting the social tensions of the time. These events are a reminder of the city's complex industrial past and its influence on the labor rights movements that followed.
In recent years, Nottingham has experienced a cultural renaissance, becoming a hub for the arts and creative industries. The city boasts a vibrant music scene, numerous galleries, and theaters such as the Nottingham Playhouse and Theatre Royal. Additionally, its two universities contribute to a youthful and dynamic atmosphere, fostering innovation and cultural exchange. This modern transformation honors Nottingham's historical legacy while looking confidently towards the future.