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Flying Horse Walk

Discover Nottingham's historic boutique arcade, where 15th-century inn legacy meets curated luxury shops in a Georgian-framed haven off Old Market Square.

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Flying Horse Walk is a historic boutique shopping arcade in the heart of Nottingham city centre, linking South Parade and St Peter's Gate. Opened in 1988, it preserves the facade of the Grade II-listed 15th-century Flying Horse Inn and features independent shops offering luxury fashion, gourmet food, and fine art amid elegant Georgian architecture and modern horse sculptures. Steeped in 600 years of history from coaching inn to exclusive retail haven, it provides a refined escape from the bustling Old Market Square.

A brief summary to Inspired

  • 5 Flying Horse Walk, Nottingham, NG1 2HN, GB
  • +447970486385
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit midweek mornings for quieter browsing amid the boutiques.
  • Admire the Grade II-listed Flying Horse Inn facade and horse sculptures at both ends.
  • Pair your shop with a glance at adjacent St Peter's Church, one of Nottingham's medieval trio.
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Origins in Nottingham's Coaching Era

The Flying Horse Walk traces its roots to the 15th-century Flying Horse Inn, a prominent public house at the edge of Nottingham's Market Square. Historians note that by the 16th century, the site served wealthy tradesmen and became a key coaching stop as stagecoaches traversed Cuckstool Row—once home to the city's public punishment chair. Stagecoaches entered through the South Parade entrance, underscoring the area's vibrant transport history amid medieval stone walls still visible in the cellars today. In the 17th century, it evolved into the Flying Horse Hotel, hosting actors from the nearby Theatre Royal and cricketers preparing for matches at Trent Bridge. Local lore suggests the Council House muted its bells to ensure players' rest before Test matches, blending hospitality with sporting legacy.

Architectural Legacy and Preservation

The arcade's entrance boasts an 18th-century four-storey Georgian brick elevation, meticulously restored in 1935 and integrated into the modern structure in 1989. This Grade II-listed facade anchors the walkway, where ancient timbers and medieval remnants endure despite centuries of adaptation. The single-level arcade, spanning from The Poultry to St Peter's Gate, harmonizes historic charm with contemporary design. Horse sculptures grace both entrances, installed post-2011 refurbishment by London & County LLP, which revived the original name and curated a boutique atmosphere. Positioned adjacent to the medieval St Peter's Church, the site evokes Nottingham's layered past—from punishment grounds to refined retail passage.

Boutique Retail Haven

Today, Flying Horse Walk houses independent boutiques specializing in exceptional craftsmanship. Shoppers discover luxury fashion, artisanal foods, and fine art from curated retailers blending national brands with unique independents. The arcade's compact layout encourages leisurely browsing, away from the crowds of Old Market Square. Its central location in Nottingham's retail district makes it an iconic link between busy shopping zones, offering a timeless destination for discerning tastes. The emphasis on quality and character defines the experience, with stores reflecting the venue's heritage of exclusivity.

Enduring Allure in City Centre

Refurbished to highlight its heritage, Flying Horse Walk stands as a refined counterpoint to Nottingham's high-street bustle. The walkway's evolution—from inn to arcade—mirrors the city's commercial spirit, preserving fragments of its past while embracing boutique modernity. Visitors encounter a space where history informs every step, from Georgian thresholds to sculptural accents.

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