Sky Mirror: Anish Kapoor’s Reflective Masterpiece at Nottingham Playhouse
Experience Nottingham’s iconic Sky Mirror, a captivating stainless steel sculpture reflecting the sky and cityscape in ever-changing optical illusions.
The Sky Mirror is a striking public sculpture by renowned artist Anish Kapoor, located outside Nottingham Playhouse in Wellington Circus. This large concave stainless steel mirror reflects the sky, clouds, and surrounding architecture, creating an ever-changing, captivating visual experience. Installed in 2001, it has become an iconic landmark and popular photo spot in Nottingham’s city centre, celebrated for its artistic creativity and interactive appeal.
A brief summary to Public Art - Sky Mirror
- Wellington Circus, Nottingham, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours for the best reflections and photographic opportunities.
- Combine your visit with a show or event at Nottingham Playhouse nearby.
- Look out for changing weather and cloud patterns to see different visual effects.
- Be mindful that nearby parking can sometimes obstruct views of the sculpture.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Frequent city centre buses serve stops near Nottingham Playhouse, with travel times ranging from 10 to 25 minutes depending on your starting point. Tickets cost approximately £2 to £4. Buses run regularly throughout the day but check schedules for evening service.
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Walking
If you are staying in Nottingham city centre, the Sky Mirror is accessible on foot within a 10 to 20-minute walk over flat, paved terrain. The route is wheelchair accessible and suitable for all fitness levels.
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Car
Nearby public car parks are available within a 5 to 10-minute walk of the sculpture. Parking fees typically range from £2 to £6 per hour. Be aware that occasional obstructive parking by delivery vehicles may affect views.
Public Art - Sky Mirror location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Public Art - Sky Mirror
An Iconic Sculpture in Nottingham’s Cultural Heart
The Sky Mirror stands proudly outside Nottingham Playhouse at Wellington Circus, serving as a landmark and meeting point within the city centre. Created by internationally acclaimed sculptor Anish Kapoor and unveiled in 2001, the sculpture has become a defining feature of Nottingham’s public art scene. Its polished stainless steel surface and concave shape invite viewers to explore distorted reflections of the sky, clouds, and urban surroundings, offering a dynamic interplay of light and perspective throughout the day and seasons.Artistic Vision and Optical Illusions
Kapoor’s Sky Mirror is more than just a sculpture; it is an interactive optical experience. The concave mirror, approximately six meters in diameter, captures an upside-down panorama of the sky and environment, transforming the familiar into a surreal, warped vista. This effect encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings in new ways, sparking curiosity and reflection. The sculpture’s reflective surface also changes with weather and light conditions, making each visit unique.Connection to Kapoor’s Broader Work
Sky Mirror in Nottingham is part of a series of similar works by Anish Kapoor, who is known for exploring themes of presence, absence, and illusion in his art. Kapoor’s use of reflective materials and large-scale forms challenges perceptions of space and reality. Other notable installations include versions of Sky Mirror displayed at Rockefeller Center in New York and Kensington Gardens in London. The Nottingham piece holds a special place as the original and a beloved cultural icon.Visitor Experience and Photographic Appeal
Visitors to the Sky Mirror often find it a captivating spot for photography and artistic expression. The sculpture’s reflective qualities create striking images, especially on clear days when the sky’s colors are vividly mirrored. It is a popular site for creative photo shoots and social media sharing, offering a visually rich backdrop that changes with every glance. Its location outside the theatre also makes it a vibrant part of Nottingham’s cultural fabric.Community and Cultural Significance
Over two decades, Sky Mirror has become more than a sculpture; it is a symbol of Nottingham’s artistic identity. Celebrated in local events and anniversaries, it has been voted a favourite landmark by residents and visitors alike. The work’s playful interaction with light and environment embodies the city’s blend of history and contemporary creativity, making it a cherished public artwork.Accessibility and Surroundings
Situated in an accessible urban setting, the Sky Mirror is open to the public 24/7 without any entry fee. Its placement near Nottingham Playhouse ensures it is surrounded by other cultural attractions, cafes, and amenities, enhancing the visitor experience. While parking nearby can sometimes affect the visual setting, the sculpture remains a must-see for art lovers and curious travelers exploring Nottingham’s city centre.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.1 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
Cathedral Hall
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Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
Scale Space Nottingham
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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.
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.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.4 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
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.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
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A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
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.
Right Lion
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Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
King's Walk sign
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A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
St Nic's Church
0.5 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.6 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
The Tokenhouse
0.6 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.7 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
Citylife UK
0.7 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nottingham Playhouse
0.0 km
Bold, thrilling theatre in a modernist landmark—where regional excellence meets West End ambition.
Cryptology Escape Rooms Nottingham
0.2 km
Immersive escape rooms with innovative puzzles and theatrical game masters in Nottingham's city centre.
The Park Tunnel
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden Victorian sandstone tunnel, a unique historic passage blending architectural beauty with urban mystery.
Bell Inn
0.3 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.
The Museum Of Curiosities
0.3 km
Explore Nottingham’s eerie Museum of Curiosities, where haunted artifacts, real skulls, and horror props create a spine-chilling, immersive experience.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
0.4 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.
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.
The Turf Tavern
0.4 km
Experience the rich history and local flavors at The Turf Tavern, Nottingham's iconic pub steeped in tradition and charm.
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.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.4 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Axed Nottingham Axe Throwing
0.4 km
Experience the thrill of interactive axe throwing with expert coaching in Nottingham’s vibrant urban playground.
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.
Robin Hood Statue
0.4 km
Iconic bronze statue of Robin Hood beside Nottingham Castle, celebrating the legendary outlaw and Nottingham’s rich folklore heritage.
The Cornerhouse
0.4 km
A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.
Nottingham Council House
0.5 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Essential places to dine
Browns Nottingham
0.1 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Nottingham
0.1 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
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in Nottingham’s lively Chapel Quarter at Las Iguanas.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Nottingham
0.2 km
Elegant steakhouse in Nottingham offering expertly cooked steaks, jazz ambiance, and attentive service for memorable dining experiences.
Casa Italian & Seafood Restaurant
0.2 km
Authentic Italian and seafood dining in Nottingham’s city centre with warm service and a welcoming atmosphere.
Calcutta Club
0.2 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
MemSaab
0.2 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
Zaap Thai Street Food
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.
Chino Latino
0.3 km
Savor vibrant Pan-Asian and Latino fusion dishes in a sleek, metropolitan setting at Nottingham’s award-winning Chino Latino.
Kushi-ya
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
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
0.3 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
Corinthian Restaurant
0.3 km
Elegant Modern British dining in a historic Masonic Hall, offering refined dishes and exceptional value in Nottingham’s city centre.
Warsaw Diner
0.4 km
Experience hearty American-Polish breakfasts in a lively 1950s-style diner with generous portions and bottomless coffee in Nottingham’s Derby Road.
The Castle - Pub and Kitchen
0.4 km
Historic Nottingham gastropub offering hearty British dishes, craft ales, and a warm atmosphere next to Nottingham Castle.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
OH DUCK IT
0.3 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.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.3 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.
ChicChoiceHub
0.3 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
0.3 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
Shop Zero
0.4 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
Happy Sunday Vintage & Antiques
0.4 km
A joyful vintage boutique in Nottingham offering bold fashion, unique antiques, and a welcoming atmosphere for vintage lovers.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.5 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
Handmade Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade treasures from UK designers in Nottingham’s vibrant gift shop at 8 King's Walk.
Parallel Universe
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant retro collectibles shop filled with vintage games, toys, comics, and nostalgic treasures in a quirky, welcoming setting.
Primark
0.5 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Vivienne Westwood
0.6 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
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.
Bubble Vintage
0.6 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Tap & Tumbler
0.2 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Six Richmond House
0.3 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
Cucamara
0.3 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
400 Rabbits
0.3 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Bunk
0.3 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Malt Cross
0.3 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
0.3 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.3 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
Crafty Crow
0.4 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
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.
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.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
0.4 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Alchemist Nottingham
0.5 km
Ignite your senses in Nottingham's alchemical lair, where molecular cocktails erupt in spectacle and inventive dishes fuel unforgettable nights on King Street.
Slug & Lettuce - Cornerhouse Nottingham
0.5 km
A lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Cornerhouse, blending classic British dishes with vibrant social energy and modern style.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
CRISIS
0.3 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
Tunnel Club
0.3 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
Rock City
0.3 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
ICON
0.3 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Rescue Rooms
0.3 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Stealth
0.3 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
0.4 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.4 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.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.6 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
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.
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.
Ocean Nightclub
0.7 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
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.
Eleven
0.9 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
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
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
