Museum of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard
Explore 300 years of Nottingham’s social history beneath historic 17th-century cottages and intriguing sandstone caves.
Located beneath Nottingham Castle in a row of 17th-century cottages, the Museum of Nottingham Life offers an immersive journey through 300 years of Nottingham’s social and industrial history. Visitors can explore recreated Victorian homes, a 1920s shopping street, and the fascinating sandstone caves that once served as maltings, tanneries, and air raid shelters. Open weekends and bank holidays, it provides a vivid glimpse into the everyday lives of Nottingham’s past residents.
A brief summary to Museum of Nottingham Life
- Brewhouse Yard, Castle Blvd, Nottingham, NG7 1FB, GB
- +441158761400
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Saturday 12 pm-4 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekends or bank holidays between 12 PM and 4 PM, as the museum is closed on weekdays.
- Take time to explore the sandstone caves beneath the museum to appreciate Nottingham’s unique underground heritage.
- Enjoy the recreated 1920s shopping street and try the interactive hand pump for an immersive experience.
- Combine your visit with nearby Nottingham Castle and Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem for a full day of historical exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take Nottingham City Transport buses 5, 7, or 36 to the Castle Boulevard stop, approximately 10-15 minutes from Nottingham city center. Services run frequently with tickets costing around £2-£3 for a single journey.
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Train and Walk
From Nottingham Railway Station, a 20-minute walk through the city center leads to Brewhouse Yard. The route is mostly flat and suitable for wheelchairs, with several cafes and shops en route.
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Taxi
Local taxis can reach the museum within 5-10 minutes from central Nottingham. Estimated fare is £5-£8 depending on traffic.
Museum of Nottingham Life 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 Museum of Nottingham Life
A Living History Beneath Nottingham Castle
Nestled in the historic Brewhouse Yard, just below Nottingham Castle, the Museum of Nottingham Life occupies a unique setting within a row of charming 17th-century cottages. These buildings, once part of a larger cluster, were restored and converted into the museum in 1977, preserving their authentic character. The museum’s location is notable for the porous sandstone beneath the city, where visitors can explore a network of man-made caves that have served diverse roles over centuries—from medieval maltings and tanneries to World War II air raid shelters.Step Back into Nottingham’s Domestic Past
The museum vividly portrays how Nottingham’s residents lived and worked from the 18th century through the early 20th century. A highlight is the recreated Victorian home, featuring a parlour, kitchen, and child’s bedroom, all dimly lit to simulate the era’s gas lighting. This setting offers an intimate glimpse into the domestic life of the time, emphasizing the routines and challenges faced by families.A Stroll Through a 1920s Shopping Street
On the museum’s first floor, visitors are transported to the 1920s via a meticulously restored shopping precinct. This includes a variety of shops essential to daily life, such as a pharmacy, barber’s, hairdresser’s, pawnbroker, ironmonger, music shop, antiques shop, and a grocer’s filled with items still recognizable today. The boot and shoe shop even features a saddler’s workshop selling horse tack. Ambient sounds enhance the immersive experience, while interactive elements like a traditional hand pump allow visitors to engage physically with history.The Caves: Nottingham’s Underground Heritage
Beneath the museum lie the sandstone caves, a distinctive feature of Nottingham’s heritage. These caves, carved out over centuries, provide insight into the city’s industrial past and wartime resilience. Visitors can explore these subterranean spaces that once supported maltings and tanneries, highlighting Nottingham’s role in the textile industry and its adaptation during conflict.Community and Cultural Significance
The Museum of Nottingham Life serves as a vital cultural resource, preserving the stories of ordinary people who shaped the city’s character. Its exhibits and archives celebrate Nottingham’s working-class heritage and the evolution of urban life. The museum’s weekend and bank holiday opening schedule reflects its community-driven operation, relying on volunteers and local support to maintain this window into the past.Nearby Attractions and Visitor Experience
Situated close to Nottingham Castle and Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, the museum is part of a rich historical quarter. Visitors can combine their visit with exploring these iconic sites, enhancing their understanding of Nottingham’s layered history. The museum’s intimate scale encourages a focused, reflective visit, ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and those interested in social heritage.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.
St Nic's Church
0.2 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
0.3 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.4 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Right Lion
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Tokenhouse
0.5 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Weekday Cross Monument
0.5 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
The Left Lion
0.5 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Citylife UK
0.6 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
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.
Cathedral Hall
0.6 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
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.
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.
King's Walk sign
0.7 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.7 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
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
0.0 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
0.0 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.
Mortimer’s hole
0.0 km
Explore Mortimer’s Hole, a secret medieval tunnel beneath Nottingham Castle steeped in history and mystery.
Nottingham Castle
0.1 km
Explore Nottingham Castle’s rich history, underground caves, and vibrant museums atop a scenic hill overlooking Nottingham’s cityscape.
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.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.2 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
0.2 km
A dramatic sandstone cliff crowned by castle ruins, offering panoramic city views and a journey into Nottingham’s medieval and rebellious past.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.4 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
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.
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.
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.
Hopkinson
0.5 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
Inspired
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
City of Caves
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
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.
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.
World Service Restaurant
0.2 km
Elegant Modern European dining in Nottingham’s historic Newdigate House, blending ambitious cuisine with warm, attentive service.
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.
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.
The Roundhouse Bar & Kitchen
0.3 km
Historic charm meets casual dining with local craft beers and hearty pub classics in Nottingham’s city centre.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
0.4 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
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.
No.Twelve
0.4 km
Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
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.
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
0.5 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Restaurant Bar Gigi
0.5 km
Elegant Italian dining and cocktails in a historic Nottingham setting, perfect for intimate evenings and sharing inspired plates.
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Garms Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Lulu Brandy Vintage
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Lulu Brandy Vintage, Nottingham’s premier vintage clothing boutique.
Stick & Ribbon
0.5 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.5 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.5 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.5 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.
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.
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.
Primark
0.6 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
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
0.2 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
Canalhouse
0.3 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
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.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
0.4 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.
Pepper Rocks
0.5 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.5 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
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.
The Blind Rabbit
0.5 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.
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
0.6 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
0.6 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.
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
0.6 km
Experience vibrant social life in a stunning Gothic church setting with creative cocktails and hearty British classics in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
All Bar One Nottingham
0.6 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ocean Nightclub
0.2 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.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.5 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Cell
0.6 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.
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.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.6 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.
The Bodega Nottingham
0.7 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.
CRISIS
0.8 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
0.8 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
0.8 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
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.
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.
Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
0.8 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
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
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
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
