The Iconic Robin Hood Statue at Nottingham Castle
Stand with Nottingham’s legendary outlaw at the iconic Robin Hood Statue, a timeless symbol of rebellion and folklore outside Nottingham Castle.
The Robin Hood Statue is a 7-foot bronze monument located on Robin Hood's Lawn outside Nottingham Castle. Created by James Woodford in 1952, it depicts the legendary outlaw aiming his arrow at the castle gatehouse. Surrounded by smaller statues of his Merry Men, this Grade II listed landmark is a symbol of Nottingham's rich folklore and history, accessible 24/7 and free to visit.
A brief summary to Robin Hood Statue
- Castle Rd, Nottingham, NG1 6AA, GB
- +441159155555
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning on weekdays to avoid crowds and get clear photos of the statue.
- Combine your visit with a tour of Nottingham Castle and nearby historic pubs for a full cultural experience.
- Respect the statue by avoiding climbing or touching it excessively to help preserve its condition.
- Look for the smaller statues of Robin Hood’s Merry Men around the main statue to complete the story.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Drink Options
Getting There
-
Public Transport
Take Nottingham City Tram to the Nottingham Castle stop, located about 5 minutes’ walk from the statue. Trams run every 7-15 minutes, costing approximately £2.50 for a single journey.
-
Train and Walk
From Nottingham Railway Station, it’s a 10-15 minute walk uphill to the statue. The route is paved but includes some inclines, so moderate mobility is recommended. No cost beyond train fare.
-
Car
Drive to Nottingham Castle Canal Street Car Park, about 10 minutes from city center. Parking costs around £3-£5 per hour. The statue is a short walk from the car park. Note that city center traffic can be busy during peak hours.
-
Walking Tour
Join a guided Robin Hood Town Tour starting from The Cross Keys pub, lasting about 90-120 minutes and covering key Nottingham landmarks including the statue. Tickets cost approximately £12-£17.
Robin Hood Statue location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Robin Hood Statue
A Symbol of Nottingham's Legendary Outlaw
The Robin Hood Statue stands proudly on Robin Hood's Lawn, just outside Nottingham Castle, embodying the city's deep connection to the folklore of its most famous figure. Crafted in 1952 by Royal Academy sculptor James Woodford, the statue is made of eight bronze pieces, weighing half a ton, and mounted on a substantial white Clipsham stone plinth. Robin Hood is captured in a dynamic archer's pose, his arrow aimed deliberately at the castle gatehouse, symbolizing his defiance against authority and the establishment.Artistic Craftsmanship and Historical Context
The statue’s design reflects meticulous craftsmanship, intended to endure for 6,000 years, with its bronze components half an inch thick. The surrounding smaller sculptures represent his loyal Merry Men—Little John, Friar Tuck, Alan A Dale, and Will Scarlett—adding depth to the narrative. The statue was commissioned by local businessman Philip E. F. Clay and unveiled in a grand ceremony in 1952, attended by 500 schoolchildren and marked by a fanfare from the Royal Lincolnshire Regiment band. Its placement in the remains of the medieval castle moat enhances its historical resonance.A Landmark with Cultural Significance and Resilience
Over the decades, the statue has become Nottingham’s most photographed landmark and a focal point for cultural events, celebrity photo shoots, and media features. Despite attempts at vandalism, especially targeting the bow and arrow, the statue has been reinforced with specialized materials to deter damage. Its importance is recognized through its Grade II listed status, safeguarding its place in Nottingham’s heritage. The statue’s arrow is famously aimed outward, symbolizing Robin Hood’s role as an outsider and rebel.Visitor Experience and Surrounding Attractions
Visitors can access the statue freely at any time, making it a convenient and popular stop. The site offers ample space for photography and reflection, with benches nearby to rest while soaking in the atmosphere. The statue’s proximity to Nottingham Castle, which features interactive exhibits and panoramic city views, enriches the visitor experience. Nearby, historic pubs like Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem add to the area's charm, blending history with contemporary city life.Connecting Legend with Modern Nottingham
The Robin Hood Statue serves as a tangible link between Nottingham’s medieval past and its vibrant present. It anchors a wider network of Robin Hood-related attractions, including immersive exhibitions, guided tours, and the famous Sherwood Forest nearby with the Major Oak. This connection invites visitors to explore the legend’s enduring appeal and Nottingham’s cultural heritage beyond the statue itself.Preserving a Timeless Icon
Efforts to maintain and protect the statue reflect Nottingham’s pride in its folklore and history. The statue stands not only as a tribute to Robin Hood but as a symbol of the city’s identity and storytelling tradition. Its presence on the historic castle grounds ensures that Robin Hood’s spirit continues to inspire and captivate visitors from around the world.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
0.2 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
0.4 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.
The Tokenhouse
0.5 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
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.
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.
Scale Space Nottingham
0.5 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.
Cathedral Hall
0.5 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
Citylife UK
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
0.5 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
0.6 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
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
0.0 km
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
0.1 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
0.1 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.
Museum of Nottingham Life
0.1 km
Explore 300 years of Nottingham’s social history beneath historic 17th-century cottages and intriguing sandstone caves.
Nottingham Castle
0.1 km
Explore Nottingham Castle’s rich history, underground caves, and vibrant museums atop a scenic hill overlooking Nottingham’s cityscape.
Mortimer’s hole
0.2 km
Explore Mortimer’s Hole, a secret medieval tunnel beneath Nottingham Castle steeped in history and mystery.
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
0.3 km
Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
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.
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.
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.
Flying Horse Walk
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
Inspired
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Nottingham Playhouse
0.4 km
Bold, thrilling theatre in a modernist landmark—where regional excellence meets West End ambition.
Nottingham Council House
0.4 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Essential places to dine
Fothergills
0.0 km
Historic bistro with local flavors and castle views in Nottingham’s architectural gem, welcoming all including dog lovers.
The Castle - Pub and Kitchen
0.0 km
Historic Nottingham gastropub offering hearty British dishes, craft ales, and a warm atmosphere next to Nottingham Castle.
World Service Restaurant
0.1 km
Elegant Modern European dining in Nottingham’s historic Newdigate House, blending ambitious cuisine with warm, attentive service.
The Cumin Restaurant
0.1 km
Experience authentic North Indian and Punjabi cuisine with bold flavors and warm hospitality in Nottingham’s family-run gem.
The Roundhouse Bar & Kitchen
0.2 km
Historic charm meets casual dining with local craft beers and hearty pub classics in Nottingham’s city centre.
Chino Latino
0.2 km
Savor vibrant Pan-Asian and Latino fusion dishes in a sleek, metropolitan setting at Nottingham’s award-winning Chino Latino.
MemSaab
0.2 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
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.
Calcutta Club
0.3 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
No.Twelve
0.3 km
Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
Zaap Thai Street Food
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant streets of Bangkok through authentic Thai street food, lively atmosphere, and quirky decor in the heart of Nottingham.
Browns Nottingham
0.4 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Las Iguanas - Nottingham
0.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and festive spirit of Latin America in Nottingham’s lively Chapel Quarter at Las Iguanas.
Kushi-ya
0.4 km
Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
Bar + Block Steakhouse Nottingham
0.4 km
Modern steakhouse in Nottingham’s Chapel Quarter serving expertly cooked steaks and classic British grill fare in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Common Choice
0.1 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
ChicChoiceHub
0.1 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
0.2 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
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.
Vivienne Westwood
0.4 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.4 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.
Garms Nottingham
0.4 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.4 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.4 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.4 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
Stick & Ribbon
0.5 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Tutu urban boutique
0.5 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
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.
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.
Bubble Vintage
0.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Crafty Crow
0.1 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
0.1 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.3 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
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.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
0.3 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.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
0.4 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
Canalhouse
0.4 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
Cucamara
0.4 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
Pepper Rocks
0.4 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
400 Rabbits
0.4 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Six Richmond House
0.4 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
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.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
0.5 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
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.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
0.5 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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.
Tunnel Club
0.3 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
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
0.5 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.5 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
The Cell
0.5 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
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 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
0.6 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Stealth
0.6 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
0.6 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.6 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.
Revolution Nottingham - Hockley
0.7 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
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
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
- Myth & Legends
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
