Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
Gateway to Nottingham Castle’s rich history, interactive galleries, cave tours, and family-friendly adventures in the heart of the city.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre serves as the gateway to the historic Nottingham Castle complex, offering ticketing services, a café, and a shop. It is part of the recently redeveloped castle site featuring interactive galleries, cave tours, and extensive exhibitions on local history, including Robin Hood legends and Nottingham’s lace industry.
A brief summary to Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
- Nottingham, NG1 6AA, GB
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Book cave tours in advance as they are popular and have limited availability.
- Wear comfortable shoes due to uneven surfaces and stairs in the cave tours.
- Adult tickets offer year-round access, making repeat visits great value.
- Visit the café at the visitors centre for refreshments during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Several city bus routes serve Nottingham city centre with stops within a 10-minute walk of the castle. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around £2-£4 depending on route and duration.
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Train
Nottingham Railway Station is approximately a 20-minute walk from the castle visitors centre. Taxi rides from the station take about 5 minutes and cost around £6-£10.
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Taxi
Taxis and rideshare services can drop you directly at the visitors centre. Typical fares from central locations range from £5 to £15 depending on distance and time of day.
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Walking
If you are staying in central Nottingham, the castle is easily reachable on foot via paved city streets. Walking times vary from 10 to 30 minutes depending on your starting point, with mostly flat terrain.
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre
A Hub for Exploring Nottingham’s Historic Castle
Nottingham Castle Visitors Centre is the welcoming point for visitors eager to explore one of Nottingham’s most iconic landmarks. Situated in the city centre, the centre provides essential services such as ticket sales, a café for refreshments, and a gift shop. It is the starting place for accessing the castle’s grounds, museums, and interactive exhibitions that bring Nottingham’s rich history to life.Modern Facilities Amidst Historic Surroundings
Following a £31 million redevelopment, the visitors centre features modern amenities designed to enhance the visitor experience while respecting the site’s heritage. The centre is bright and clean, providing a comfortable space to plan your visit or rest after exploring. It serves as the gateway to the castle’s new interactive galleries, including the Robin Hood Adventures and Rebellion Galleries, where history is presented through engaging multimedia displays.Access to Unique Attractions and Tours
From the visitors centre, guests can book and embark on popular cave tours beneath the castle, such as Mortimer’s Hole and King David’s Dungeon, which reveal fascinating subterranean stories but require navigating steep stairs. The centre also facilitates access to Brewhouse Yard Cottages and the Hood’s Hideout adventure playground, making it a family-friendly destination. The site hosts a land train service during peak times, connecting key areas of the castle grounds.Immersive Cultural and Historical Exhibits
The castle complex includes several galleries showcasing Nottingham’s cultural heritage. Notable exhibits include the Nottingham Lace Gallery, highlighting the city’s historic role in lace manufacturing, and the Museum of the Mercian Regiment, which displays military artifacts. The art gallery features a rich collection of paintings and sculptures, while the Rebellion Gallery explores Nottingham’s history of civil unrest and reform.Visitor Experience and Practical Information
The visitors centre ensures accessibility with lifts and wheelchair availability, though cave tours involve uneven terrain and stairs. Tickets purchased here grant year-round access to the castle’s grounds and exhibitions, offering excellent value. The centre also provides information boards and friendly staff to assist with planning your visit. Nearby public parking and transport options make it convenient to reach despite its central urban location.Nottingham Castle’s Role in the Community
Beyond tourism, the castle and its visitors centre act as a cultural hub hosting events, exhibitions, and educational programs. The site’s redevelopment has revitalized this historic landmark, blending heritage with modern interactive experiences that celebrate Nottingham’s unique stories and artistic legacy.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.
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 Nic's Church
0.2 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
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
0.5 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.
Cathedral Hall
0.5 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
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.
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.
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.
Citylife UK
0.5 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
King's Walk sign
0.6 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
The Belgrave Rooms
0.7 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
Unmissable attractions to see
Robin Hood Statue
0.0 km
Iconic bronze statue of Robin Hood beside Nottingham Castle, celebrating the legendary outlaw and Nottingham’s rich folklore heritage.
Nottingham Castle
0.1 km
Explore Nottingham Castle’s rich history, underground caves, and vibrant museums atop a scenic hill overlooking Nottingham’s cityscape.
The Original Nottingham Ghost Walk
0.2 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
0.2 km
Explore 300 years of Nottingham’s social history beneath historic 17th-century cottages and intriguing sandstone caves.
Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem
0.2 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.
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.
Nottingham Playhouse
0.4 km
Bold, thrilling theatre in a modernist landmark—where regional excellence meets West End ambition.
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.
Public Art - Sky Mirror
0.4 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic Sky Mirror, a captivating stainless steel sculpture reflecting the sky and cityscape in ever-changing optical illusions.
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.
Essential places to dine
Fothergills
0.1 km
Historic bistro with local flavors and castle views in Nottingham’s architectural gem, welcoming all including dog lovers.
The Castle - Pub and Kitchen
0.1 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.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
0.2 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
MemSaab
0.2 km
Experience award-winning Indian fine dining in Nottingham with MemSaab’s exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance on Maid Marian Way.
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.
Calcutta Club
0.2 km
Experience regal Indian cuisine and refined hospitality inspired by the Maharajas’ polo clubs in the heart of Nottingham.
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.
No.Twelve
0.3 km
Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
Browns Nottingham
0.3 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.
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.
Garms Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.5 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.5 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
0.6 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.
Cucamara
0.4 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
400 Rabbits
0.4 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
Canalhouse
0.4 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
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.
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 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.
Tap & Tumbler
0.5 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
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.
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.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.5 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
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.
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.
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.
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
0.8 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
- Family Friendly
- Relaxing
- Cultural Heritage
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
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
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly