Background

Weekday Cross Monument, Nottingham

Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.

3.7

The Weekday Cross Monument in Nottingham marks the historic site of the medieval Weekday Market, once the civic and commercial heart of the city. Located in the Lace Market area, this monument commemorates a market cross that stood for centuries as a focal point for daily trade and gatherings before the Norman Conquest. Though the original cross was demolished in the early 19th century, the monument preserves the legacy of Nottingham’s vibrant medieval marketplace and civic life.

A brief summary to Weekday Cross Monument

  • 21 High Pavement, Nottingham, GB
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Free
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Local tips

  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best natural light to photograph the monument and surrounding historic buildings.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the nearby Lace Market area to explore Nottingham’s rich industrial heritage.
  • Look for informational plaques nearby to deepen your understanding of the site’s historical significance.
  • Wear comfortable shoes to enjoy exploring the historic streets and nearby attractions around Weekday Cross.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    Take Nottingham’s tram system to the Lace Market stop, located approximately 300 meters from Weekday Cross Monument. Trams run frequently every 7-15 minutes with tickets costing around £2.50-£3.50. The walk from the stop is on paved urban streets and takes about 5 minutes.

  • Walking

    From Nottingham city center, walk east along High Pavement for about 10 minutes on mostly flat, paved streets. The route passes notable landmarks such as Nottingham Contemporary art gallery. Suitable for most fitness levels and wheelchair accessible.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    A taxi or rideshare from Nottingham Railway Station to Weekday Cross Monument takes approximately 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £6-£10. Drop-off is possible close to the monument, but parking nearby is limited.

Weekday Cross Monument location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

Unlock the Best of Weekday Cross Monument

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Weekday Cross Monument

Medieval Origins and Market Heritage

Weekday Cross was the central marketplace of Nottingham long before the Norman Conquest, originally known as "Snotingaham." It served as the hub for the town’s domestic trade and civic activities, with a market cross symbolizing this important gathering place. The market was held on weekdays, distinguishing it from the Saturday market that later developed in the Old Market Square. The cross itself was a traditional feature, marking the market’s location and acting as a point for proclamations and public events.

The Cross and Its Role in Civic Life

The Weekday Cross was more than a market marker; it was a site of social and legal significance. Historical records mention a bull ring nearby and references to public gatherings and celebrations, such as wine drinking on Corpus Christi Day. The cross was repaired and altered over centuries, appearing on maps from the early 17th century. It stood near Fletcher Gate, Nottingham’s butchers’ quarter, and was a focal point for the community until its demolition in 1804.

Transition and Legacy

By the late 18th century, the limited space at Weekday Cross led to the transfer of the market to the larger Great Market Place (now Old Market Square). Although the physical cross was removed, the site’s historical importance remains commemorated by the modern monument at 21 High Pavement. Nearby, other historic crosses and market structures, such as the Malt Cross, tell the story of Nottingham’s rich mercantile past.

Architectural and Cultural Context

The Weekday Cross Monument stands in the Lace Market, an area renowned for its historic buildings and industrial heritage. The monument’s presence evokes Nottingham’s evolution from a fortified Saxon settlement to a bustling medieval town. The surrounding architecture, including Victorian and Georgian buildings, complements the monument’s historical narrative and offers visitors a tangible connection to the city’s past.

Modern Significance and Visitor Experience

Today, the Weekday Cross Monument is a quiet yet evocative landmark. It invites reflection on Nottingham’s medieval roots and the daily lives of its past inhabitants. Visitors can appreciate the monument’s symbolism while exploring the vibrant Lace Market district, known for its cultural events, cafes, and preserved heritage. The site offers a glimpse into the city’s transformation and enduring community spirit.

Preservation and Commemoration

Though the original cross was dismantled over two centuries ago, the monument and the surrounding area are protected as part of Nottingham’s historic fabric. The site serves as a reminder of the city’s mercantile traditions and civic history, preserving the memory of a marketplace that shaped Nottingham’s identity for centuries.

Busiest months of the year

Busiest hours of the day

Popular Experiences near Weekday Cross Monument

Popular Hotels near Weekday Cross Monument

Select Currency