City of Caves, Nottingham
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
Beneath Nottingham’s streets lies the City of Caves, a fascinating network of man‑made sandstone caverns used for centuries as homes, workshops, and wartime shelters. Explore winding passageways, a medieval tannery, and a WWII air‑raid shelter on a guided or audio tour, discovering how people lived and worked underground. The cool, atmospheric caves offer a unique glimpse into the city’s hidden history, ideal for history lovers and curious families.
A brief summary to City of Caves
- Garner's Hill, Nottingham, NG1 1HF, GB
- +441159881955
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets in advance, especially on weekends and during school holidays, to guarantee a spot on your preferred tour time.
- Wear comfortable, flat shoes and bring a light jacket – the cave floors are uneven and the temperature stays cool underground.
- Check the current entrance location before you go; it’s now at the bottom of Garner’s Hill Steps next to Nottingham Contemporary, not inside the old shopping centre.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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On foot from Nottingham city centre
From Nottingham’s main shopping streets, head towards Nottingham Contemporary on Weekday Cross. Stand at the Contemporary’s entrance and walk down the Garner’s Hill Steps to the left; the City of Caves entrance is at the bottom. Allow 10–15 minutes from the train station or central bus stops, on flat, paved paths.
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By tram
Take the tram to the Lace Market stop. From there, walk to Nottingham Contemporary and down the Garner’s Hill Steps to the City of Caves entrance. The walk takes about 5 minutes on level, paved routes.
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By train
From Nottingham railway station, walk about 10–15 minutes to Nottingham Contemporary, then down Garner’s Hill Steps to the caves. The route is on city pavements and is straightforward, but can be busy at peak times.
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By bus
Use central Nottingham bus stops near the train station or Broadmarsh Bus Station. From there, walk to Nottingham Contemporary and down Garner’s Hill Steps to the caves; the walk takes 10–15 minutes on flat, paved city streets.
City of Caves location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about City of Caves
A Hidden World Beneath the City
Beneath the bustling streets of Nottingham lies a remarkable underground network: the City of Caves. Carved from soft sandstone over centuries, these man‑made caverns form the largest publicly accessible section of Nottingham’s estimated 800 subterranean chambers. As you descend into the cool, dimly lit passages, the modern city fades away, replaced by the quiet, earthy atmosphere of a hidden world that once housed homes, workshops, storage, and even pubs. The caves’ soft, honey‑coloured walls and uneven floors speak of generations of human activity, from medieval times through the industrial era and into the 20th century.Centuries of Use in Stone
The City of Caves reveals how Nottingham’s geology shaped its history. The soft sandstone was easily excavated, allowing people to hollow out dwellings and workspaces directly into the rock. On your tour, you’ll see the remains of a medieval tannery – one of the few surviving underground tanneries in the UK – where hides were processed using urine and other pungent materials. Later, the caves served as storage for goods and even as makeshift homes for the poor. During the Second World War, sections were converted into the Anderson air‑raid shelter, offering refuge from bombing raids. These layers of use, from industry to survival, give a vivid sense of how Nottingham’s citizens adapted to their underground environment.Bringing History to Life Underground
Visitors experience the caves through guided or audio tours that weave together archaeology, social history, and storytelling. Knowledgeable guides or engaging audio commentary explain how the caves were formed, who lived and worked here, and what daily life was like in these cramped, dimly lit spaces. The tour often includes atmospheric reconstructions, such as the medieval tannery and the WWII shelter, helping to visualise the past. The experience is immersive and informative, appealing to adults and older children alike, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and absorb the unique atmosphere of this underground heritage site.Planning Your Visit
The City of Caves is open daily, with tours running from around 10:00 until 17:00, and the last entry typically around 16:10. The visit itself lasts about 45 minutes to an hour, making it a manageable stop in a city break. Tickets are required and are reasonably priced, with discounts for children and concessions; booking in advance is strongly recommended, especially at weekends and during school holidays, to secure a spot. The entrance is now at the bottom of Garner’s Hill Steps, next to Nottingham Contemporary (postcode NG1 1HF), so it’s wise to check current directions before arriving. Comfortable shoes are essential due to uneven surfaces and low ceilings in places, and a light jacket is advisable as the caves stay cool year‑round.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Weekday Cross Monument
0.1 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
Citylife UK
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
The Tokenhouse
0.2 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.3 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
16 Stoney Street
0.3 km
Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
St Nic's Church
0.3 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Right Lion
0.4 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
0.4 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Watson Fothergill's Office
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
Speakers' Corner
0.5 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Bunkers Hill
0.5 km
Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
King's Walk sign
0.6 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
0.7 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nottingham Contemporary
0.0 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
National Justice Museum
0.1 km
Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
St Mary’s Church Nottingham
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
Lace Market
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
The Lacehouse
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
Lace Market Square
0.3 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s lace industry, blending Victorian charm with vibrant cultural life and creative energy.
Flying Horse Walk
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
Inspired
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Nottingham City Council
0.3 km
Central Nottingham’s modern civic heart, housing the City Council and vital public services in a contemporary landmark opposite the railway station.
Hopkinson
0.3 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
Nottingham Council House
0.4 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
0.4 km
Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
Old Market Square
0.4 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Old Mkt Sq
0.4 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
Pizzamisú
0.1 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian charm in Nottingham’s historic High Pavement at Pizzamisú.
Iberico World Tapas
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Nottingham’s historic Shire Hall with refined flavors and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Piccolino Nottingham
0.1 km
Elegant Italian dining with classic flavors, a vibrant cocktail bar, and alfresco terrace in Nottingham’s city centre.
Everyday People
0.2 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
baresca
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
The Pelican Club
0.2 km
Experience authentic Umbrian Italian cuisine, live jazz, and crafted cocktails in Nottingham’s elegant and intimate Pelican Club.
Annie's Burger Shack
0.3 km
Vibrant American diner in Nottingham’s Lace Market, serving over 30 creative burgers with vegan options and craft beers in a lively, casual setting.
ViDa by Lorentes
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a cozy Lace Market basement with creative dishes, warm hospitality, and a rustic atmosphere.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic charm meets eclectic British dining and vibrant bar culture in the heart of Nottingham city centre.
Bistro Live Nottingham
0.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife, delicious dining, and unforgettable celebrations all under one roof at Bistro Live Nottingham.
Dino
0.3 km
Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Anoki Restaurant Nottingham
0.3 km
Experience refined Indian cuisine in Nottingham’s Gothic House, where tradition meets elegance in every flavorful dish.
Restaurant Bar Gigi
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining and cocktails in a historic Nottingham setting, perfect for intimate evenings and sharing inspired plates.
Paste Contemporary Thai Cuisine
0.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market.
The Loxley
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant pub culture at The Loxley – where great food meets friendly faces in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stick & Ribbon
0.1 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Garms Nottingham
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.2 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.2 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.2 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
Mood Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's boldest independent fashion at Mood Outfitters, where local designers craft unique, wearable art in the heart of Hockley's creative scene.
Vivienne Westwood
0.3 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Lulu Brandy Vintage
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Lulu Brandy Vintage, Nottingham’s premier vintage clothing boutique.
Cow
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads in Nottingham's coolest vintage haven—Cow curates retro gems with style and soul on Carlton Street.
Tutu urban boutique
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
MAISON GB
0.3 km
Discover stylish clothing in Nottingham's Gothic House, a Victorian warehouse on historic Barker Gate amid Lace Market's tanneries, graveyards, and mail coach legacy.
Void Clothing
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s premier alternative fashion destination blending music culture, unique styles, and local creativity on Carlton Street.
Your Unique Day
0.4 km
Letterbox magic on Goose Gate: bespoke cakes that deliver joy through your mailbox in Nottingham's creative heart.
Bubble Vintage
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
0.1 km
Experience vibrant social life in a stunning Gothic church setting with creative cocktails and hearty British classics in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Brass Monkey
0.1 km
Late‑night Lace Market cocktail bar with a big rum selection, polished service and warm, low‑lit interiors — ideal for cocktails into the small hours.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
0.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.
The Blind Rabbit
0.1 km
New York-inspired Nottingham bar blending juicy burgers, wild cocktails, live sports on mega screens, arcade games, and casual vibes in a historic Lace Market gem.
Cock & Hoop
0.1 km
Cozy Lace Market pub pouring local ales and pub favorites in a historic nook, perfect for relaxed escapes amid Nottingham's creative buzz.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
All Bar One Nottingham
0.1 km
Sophisticated wine bar in Nottingham's Weekday Cross, perfect for after-work unwinds, bottomless brunches, and vibrant evenings with global wines and sharing plates.
Pepper Rocks
0.2 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Penny Lane
0.2 km
Step into Nottingham’s Penny Lane for nostalgic arcade fun, creative cocktails, and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of the Lace Market.
Be At One - Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant cocktail scene with over 100 expertly crafted drinks and a lively late-night atmosphere at Be At One.
Pit & Pendulum
0.3 km
Descend into Poe-inspired gothic splendor at Nottingham's most haunting pub, where shadowy decor, themed cocktails, and rock anthems craft unforgettable nights.
Canalhouse
0.3 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
Bunk
0.3 km
Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.
Six Barrel Drafthouse
0.3 km
Hockley’s friendly craft-beer pub — six rotating taps, large bottle fridge and a relaxed, dog-welcoming atmosphere.
TIER Nottingham
0.3 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar with quirky décor, creative drinks, and popular Happy Hours in the heart of the city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Cell
0.2 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
0.3 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.
Ocean Nightclub
0.3 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.3 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Bodega Nottingham
0.3 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.
Eleven
0.4 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
ICON
0.5 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
0.5 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
NG-One
0.5 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
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.
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.
The Brickworks
0.8 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
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.
Rescue Rooms
0.8 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Unique
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
