Nottingham War Memorial Gardens
Nottingham's largest memorial to the World Wars, where history and nature converge along the River Trent.
A solemn and beautifully maintained tribute to military sacrifice, the Nottingham War Memorial Gardens occupy a prominent position along the Victoria Embankment overlooking the River Trent. Opened in 1927, this Grade II listed site features a grand ceremonial gateway inscribed with the Latin motto 'Virtue outlives death,' manicured lawns, a fountain, and a statue of Queen Victoria. The gardens serve as Nottingham's largest single memorial to the World Wars, with additional plaques commemorating subsequent conflicts. A peaceful retreat for reflection and remembrance.
A brief summary to Nottingham War Memorial Gardens
- Victoria Embankment, Nottingham, NG2 2LA, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 2.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more contemplative experience with softer light for photography.
- Bring a camera; the ceremonial gateway, fountain, and floral displays create compelling photographic subjects throughout the seasons.
- Check the local events calendar for commemorative ceremonies and military parades that regularly take place at the gardens.
- Pack a picnic and blanket to enjoy a peaceful meal by the riverside while reflecting on the site's historical significance.
- Read the information boards and plaques carefully to understand the regiments and conflicts commemorated throughout the gardens.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Bus
Multiple bus routes serve the city center with stops near Victoria Embankment. Journey times from central Nottingham are typically 5–10 minutes depending on your starting point. Services run regularly throughout the day with reduced frequency in evenings and Sundays. Single fares cost approximately £1.50–£2.50 depending on distance traveled. The gardens are a short walk from the main bus stops in the city center.
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Walking from City Center
From Old Market Square in Nottingham city center, walk south toward the River Trent via Collin Street, then cross toward the Victoria Embankment. The journey takes approximately 15–20 minutes on flat, paved urban streets. The route is well-signposted and passes through the historic Lace Market area. This is the most direct and accessible approach for those already in the city center.
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Car with Parking
Follow the A612 toward Colwick and the Lace Market district. Victoria Embankment is accessible from the city center via clearly marked routes. Limited on-street parking is available along the embankment itself, though spaces fill quickly during peak hours. Nearby car parks in the city center offer additional options, typically costing £1.50–£3.00 per hour. Be prepared to walk 5–10 minutes from alternative parking locations if embankment spaces are unavailable.
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Taxi or Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-share services are readily available throughout Nottingham. Journey time from the city center is approximately 5–10 minutes depending on traffic. Fares typically range from £6–£12 for short journeys within the city. Drop-off points are available near the gardens entrance on Victoria Embankment.
Nottingham War Memorial Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Nottingham War Memorial Gardens
A Monument to Sacrifice and Remembrance
The Nottingham War Memorial Gardens stand as one of the city's most significant tributes to those who served and died in military conflict. Unveiled in 1927 on land generously donated by Sir Jesse Boot, the gardens were originally conceived as a memorial to the First World War but were later inscribed to honor the Second World War as well. Today, additional plaques commemorate more recent conflicts, making the site a living record of Nottingham's military heritage. The gardens occupy a prominent position along the Victoria Embankment, overlooking the River Trent, creating a setting that combines historical gravity with natural beauty.Architectural Features and Design
At the heart of the memorial gardens stands a striking ceremonial gateway, a Grade II listed structure that commands attention with its imposing colonnade. The gateway bears the Latin inscription 'Vivit post funera virtus'—meaning 'Virtue outlives death'—a phrase that encapsulates the purpose of the entire site. The gardens are laid out with highly maintained lawns, a large fountain at the center, and a statue of Queen Victoria that adds to the formal character of the space. The original design included steps leading down to the riverside, though these were removed after the Second World War. Information boards positioned throughout the gardens provide context for visitors seeking to understand the historical significance of the memorials and the regiments they honor.Spaces for Quiet Reflection
The gardens offer numerous seating areas positioned throughout the landscaped grounds, allowing visitors to pause and reflect in peaceful surroundings. The combination of manicured lawns, floral displays, and riverside views creates an atmosphere conducive to contemplation. The site is particularly serene during early morning and late afternoon hours, when fewer visitors are present and the light casts a gentle glow across the memorial structures. The gardens serve as a sanctuary for those seeking a moment of quiet away from the bustle of the city center, while simultaneously functioning as a formal space for military ceremonies and commemorative events that continue to take place throughout the year.A Hub of Local and Military History
For those interested in understanding Nottingham's role during wartime, the gardens provide invaluable insight into local military heritage. The plaques and inscriptions throughout the site reference specific regiments, including the Sherwood Foresters, allowing visitors to connect with particular units and their contributions. The site remains an important gathering place for military personnel, veterans, and cadets who participate in parades and ceremonies to honor those who served. The gardens thus function both as a public memorial open to all and as a specialized space designed for military remembrance and education, creating a unique dual purpose within Nottingham's cultural landscape.Natural Beauty Along the River
Beyond its role as a memorial, the gardens showcase the natural beauty of the Victoria Embankment setting. The proximity to the River Trent provides scenic views and a connection to Nottingham's waterfront heritage. Vibrant floral displays and well-maintained landscaping enhance the aesthetic appeal of the site, making it an attractive destination for photography and leisurely walks. The riverside location offers a sense of openness and tranquility that distinguishes the gardens from more enclosed urban memorials, allowing visitors to experience both historical reflection and natural serenity in a single visit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Trent Bridge
0.5 km
A historic river crossing in Nottingham blending medieval origins with Victorian engineering and enduring local heritage.
St Nic's Church
1.9 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Weekday Cross Monument
1.9 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
1.9 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Citylife UK
2.0 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
16 Stoney Street
2.0 km
Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
2.0 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
The Tokenhouse
2.0 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
2.1 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Bunkers Hill
2.1 km
Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
The Hockley Arts Club
2.1 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
Right Lion
2.1 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
2.2 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Watson Fothergill's Office
2.2 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
Speakers' Corner
2.2 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nottingham Beeston Canal (Art
1.4 km
Explore vibrant street art and tranquil waterside views along Nottingham’s Beeston Canal, a unique urban oasis of culture and nature.
Hopkinson
1.5 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
Nottingham City Council
1.5 km
Central Nottingham’s modern civic heart, housing the City Council and vital public services in a contemporary landmark opposite the railway station.
Public Art - The Sneinton Dragon
1.7 km
A gleaming stainless steel dragon born from community spirit, guarding Sneinton with myth, history, and striking craftsmanship.
Mortimer’s hole
1.8 km
Explore Mortimer’s Hole, a secret medieval tunnel beneath Nottingham Castle steeped in history and mystery.
National Justice Museum
1.8 km
Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
1.8 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.
City of Caves
1.8 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
1.8 km
Step into Nottingham’s haunted past with The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk, starting at the legendary Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem pub.
Museum of Nottingham Life
1.8 km
Explore 300 years of Nottingham’s social history beneath historic 17th-century cottages and intriguing sandstone caves.
Nottingham Contemporary
1.8 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
St Mary’s Church Nottingham
1.8 km
Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
Cliff of Nottingham Castle
1.9 km
A dramatic sandstone cliff crowned by castle ruins, offering panoramic city views and a journey into Nottingham’s medieval and rebellious past.
Nottingham Castle
1.9 km
Explore Nottingham Castle’s rich history, underground caves, and vibrant museums atop a scenic hill overlooking Nottingham’s cityscape.
The Lacehouse
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
Essential places to dine
Cleaver & Wake
1.5 km
Experience refined modern British cuisine in a stylish art deco setting beside Nottingham’s scenic canal.
Binks Yard
1.5 km
Lively restaurant and social hub in Nottingham’s Island Quarter, serving creative wood-fired dishes in a vibrant urban regeneration setting.
Harvester Wilford Farm Nottingham
1.6 km
Family-friendly British dining with a famous salad bar and casual atmosphere in Nottingham’s Wilford area.
Iberico World Tapas
1.8 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Nottingham’s historic Shire Hall with refined flavors and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Pizzamisú
1.8 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian charm in Nottingham’s historic High Pavement at Pizzamisú.
ViDa by Lorentes
1.9 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a cozy Lace Market basement with creative dishes, warm hospitality, and a rustic atmosphere.
Piccolino Nottingham
1.9 km
Elegant Italian dining with classic flavors, a vibrant cocktail bar, and alfresco terrace in Nottingham’s city centre.
Annie's Burger Shack
1.9 km
Vibrant American diner in Nottingham’s Lace Market, serving over 30 creative burgers with vegan options and craft beers in a lively, casual setting.
World Service Restaurant
1.9 km
Elegant Modern European dining in Nottingham’s historic Newdigate House, blending ambitious cuisine with warm, attentive service.
Fothergills
2.0 km
Historic bistro with local flavors and castle views in Nottingham’s architectural gem, welcoming all including dog lovers.
Everyday People
2.0 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
Bistro Live Nottingham
2.0 km
Experience vibrant nightlife, delicious dining, and unforgettable celebrations all under one roof at Bistro Live Nottingham.
baresca
2.0 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
The Castle - Pub and Kitchen
2.0 km
Historic Nottingham gastropub offering hearty British dishes, craft ales, and a warm atmosphere next to Nottingham Castle.
Anoki Restaurant Nottingham
2.0 km
Experience refined Indian cuisine in Nottingham’s Gothic House, where tradition meets elegance in every flavorful dish.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
1.1 km
Discover unique, ethically sourced gifts and homewares that support global artisans at Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore in Nottingham.
Lulu Brandy Vintage
1.5 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Lulu Brandy Vintage, Nottingham’s premier vintage clothing boutique.
Castle Marina Retail Park
1.7 km
Nottingham's go-to retail park for home essentials, pet supplies, and coffee breaks, with free parking and canal-side convenience.
Stick & Ribbon
1.9 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Garms Nottingham
1.9 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
2.0 km
Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
MAISON GB
2.0 km
Discover stylish clothing in Nottingham's Gothic House, a Victorian warehouse on historic Barker Gate amid Lace Market's tanneries, graveyards, and mail coach legacy.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
2.0 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
2.0 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Stuff Nottingham
2.0 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Mood Outfitters
2.0 km
Discover Nottingham's boldest independent fashion at Mood Outfitters, where local designers craft unique, wearable art in the heart of Hockley's creative scene.
Common Choice
2.0 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
ChicChoiceHub
2.0 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.
Vivienne Westwood
2.0 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Shop Zero
2.1 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Test Match
1.2 km
A beautifully preserved Art Deco pub in West Bridgford offering great food, lively sports viewing, and warm hospitality.
Canalhouse
1.6 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
1.8 km
Historic church turned buzzing bar: stained-glass cocktails, pub feasts, and electric nights in Nottingham's Lace Market heart.
Cock & Hoop
1.8 km
Cozy Lace Market pub pouring local ales and pub favorites in a historic nook, perfect for relaxed escapes amid Nottingham's creative buzz.
Brass Monkey
1.9 km
Late‑night Lace Market cocktail bar with a big rum selection, polished service and warm, low‑lit interiors — ideal for cocktails into the small hours.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
1.9 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.
The Blind Rabbit
1.9 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.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
1.9 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
All Bar One Nottingham
1.9 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.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
2.0 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
Pepper Rocks
2.0 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Penny Lane
2.0 km
Step into Nottingham’s Penny Lane for nostalgic arcade fun, creative cocktails, and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of the Lace Market.
Crafty Crow
2.0 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Bunk
2.0 km
Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.
King William IV
2.1 km
A compact, traditional Nottingham pub — friendly bar service, rotating ales, classic pub food and a relaxed, dog‑friendly atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ocean Nightclub
1.7 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
The Brickworks
1.9 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
The Cell
2.0 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
2.1 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.
Popworld - Nottingham
2.1 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
Eleven
2.1 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
The Bodega Nottingham
2.1 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.
ICON
2.2 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
2.2 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
NG-One
2.2 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
2.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Unit 13
2.5 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
2.5 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.
Rescue Rooms
2.5 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
CRISIS
2.5 km
Experience Nottingham’s legendary live music and nightlife at Rock City, a vibrant venue with a rich history and dynamic club nights.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Sacred Sites
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
