Nottingham Natural History Museum at Wollaton Hall
Explore Nottingham’s grand Elizabethan Wollaton Hall and its vast Natural History Museum nestled within 500 acres of scenic deer park and gardens.
Set within the majestic Elizabethan Wollaton Hall, Nottingham's Natural History Museum showcases an extensive collection of taxidermy, insects, birds, and minerals. The museum is housed in a striking Grade I listed mansion surrounded by 500 acres of deer park and gardens, blending history, nature, and architecture into a unique visitor experience.
A brief summary to Nottingham Natural History Museum
- Wollaton Hall, Nottingham, NG8 2AE, GB
- +441158763100
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Free
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 11 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 11 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 11 am-4 pm
- Thursday 11 am-4 pm
- Friday 11 am-4 pm
- Saturday 11 am-4 pm
- Sunday 11 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book guided tours in advance to gain deeper insights into Wollaton Hall’s history and architecture.
- Visit the Natural History Museum to see iconic taxidermy specimens including the famous gorilla and giraffe.
- Enjoy a picnic in the expansive deer park, especially on sunny days when the gardens are in full bloom.
- Check the schedule for special events like Ghost Nights or Sunday Steamings at the Industrial Museum.
- Allow 1-2 hours to explore the hall, museum, and surrounding parkland fully.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take Nottingham City Transport bus routes 35 or 36 from Nottingham city centre to Wollaton Hall. The journey typically takes 20-30 minutes. Services run frequently during the day, but check schedules on weekends and holidays. A single ticket costs around £2.50 GBP.
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Car
Drive approximately 5 km west from Nottingham city centre to Wollaton Hall via the A52. Paid parking is available on site for £5 per day or £3 for up to 2 hours. Parking can be limited on busy days, so early arrival is recommended.
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Walking
For the adventurous, a 60-75 minute walk from Nottingham city centre to Wollaton Hall is possible via urban and park pathways. The terrain is mostly flat but includes some paved and gravel sections. Suitable for most fitness levels but not wheelchair accessible for the full route.
Nottingham Natural History Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Nottingham Natural History Museum
Architectural Grandeur and Historical Setting
Wollaton Hall is a magnificent Elizabethan mansion, completed in 1588 and designed by Robert Smythson. It stands proudly on a natural hill three miles west of Nottingham city centre, commanding impressive views across 500 acres of parkland. The hall is a Grade I listed building, renowned for its ornate Tudor architecture, including dramatic turrets, intricate stonework, and expansive interiors that reflect Tudor, Regency, and Victorian influences. Its historical significance is further enhanced by its role as the filming location for Wayne Manor in the 2012 Batman film, The Dark Knight Rises.Natural History Museum Collections
Within the grand halls of Wollaton lies Nottingham's Natural History Museum, the largest dedicated natural history collection in Nottinghamshire. The museum's exhibits feature an extensive array of taxidermied animals including Victorian birds and game heads, alongside more contemporary specimens. Visitors can explore diverse galleries such as the Bird Gallery, the Insect Gallery showcasing spectacular butterflies, moths, beetles, and bugs from around the world, and the African Gallery, home to iconic specimens like a gorilla, giraffe, and cheetah. The displays also include minerals and fossils, offering a comprehensive insight into the natural world.Expansive Parkland and Wildlife
Surrounding Wollaton Hall is a vast deer park spanning over 500 acres, home to herds of deer and a variety of wildlife. The park features multiple habitats including grassland, woodland, and wetland, providing a tranquil natural escape. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along well-maintained pathways, picnic in scenic meadows, or simply absorb the serene ambiance of the gardens. The botanic garden, open seasonally, adds a splash of colour and botanical interest to the landscape.Visitor Experience and Facilities
The museum and hall are open daily from 11 am to 4 pm, with last entry at 3:30 pm. Admission is free, though guided tours of the hall are available for a fee and provide deeper insight into its history and architecture. The site also includes the Nottingham Industrial Museum housed in the Courtyard Stables, featuring steam engines and exhibits on textiles and transport. Cafés offer light refreshments, including freshly ground coffee and homemade cakes, enhancing the visitor experience. The park gates open earlier, allowing for extended outdoor enjoyment.Events and Tours
Wollaton Hall hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including hidden history tours that explore lesser-known parts of the hall such as the Tudor Kitchen and the Prospect Room. Seasonal activities like spooky Ghost Nights and Segway tours of the park add unique layers to the visit. The Industrial Museum holds special Sunday Steamings events, and the Yard Gallery presents changing exhibitions focused on art and the environment.Conservation and Cultural Significance
As a protected Grade I listed building and a site of natural heritage, Wollaton Hall combines cultural preservation with environmental stewardship. The hall and park support wildlife habitats and promote sustainable visitor practices. Its blend of architectural splendor, natural beauty, and rich collections make it a vital cultural landmark in Nottinghamshire.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gazebo
0.1 km
A serene early 19th-century stone pavilion nestled in Wollaton Park, blending heritage charm with tranquil garden beauty.
Camellia House
0.1 km
Explore the historical beauty of Camellia House in Nottingham, a landmark showcasing exquisite architecture and serene gardens.
The Hemlock Stone
1.3 km
Towering sandstone sentinel amid Nottinghamshire woods, blending ancient geology, whispered legends, and sweeping valley views for an effortless nature immersion.
Cathedral Hall
3.5 km
Pugin's masterpiece: England's grandest post-Reformation Catholic cathedral, where Gothic Revival vision endures.
St Barnabas Cathedral Nottingham
3.6 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece in the heart of Nottingham, home to centuries of Catholic worship and Pugin’s architectural vision.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
3.6 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
3.8 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
Scale Space Nottingham
3.8 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.
The Belgrave Rooms
3.9 km
Discover The Belgrave Rooms, Nottingham's premier venue for conferences and weddings, blending elegance and modern amenities for unforgettable events.
The Spot
3.9 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic heart at The Spot, a tranquil city centre landmark blending heritage with urban life.
St Nic's Church
3.9 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Speakers' Corner
4.1 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Right Lion
4.1 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
4.1 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
4.1 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
Unmissable attractions to see
Wollaton Hall.
0.0 km
An Elizabethan prodigy house turned natural history museum, Wollaton Hall rises above Nottingham’s parkland with centuries of grandeur and a cinematic legacy as Wayne Manor.
Nottingham Industrial Museum
0.1 km
Discover Nottinghamshire’s rich industrial past through working engines, vintage machinery, and engaging exhibits in a historic 17th-century stable block.
Treasure Trove - Nottingham Industrial Museum
0.1 km
Unearth industrial relics and charity gems in Wollaton's historic stables—a hidden trove blending Nottingham's manufacturing past with eclectic finds in an Elizabethan setting.
Climbing Tree
0.2 km
Adventure and tranquility blend seamlessly at Nottingham’s Climbing Tree, nestled beside the historic Camellia House in scenic Wollaton Park.
Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park
0.4 km
Elizabethan grandeur meets natural history in 500 acres of deer-roamed parkland—the real Wayne Manor.
Walled Garden, Wollaton Park
0.6 km
A beautifully restored historic walled garden offering a peaceful retreat and heritage horticulture within Nottingham’s Wollaton Park.
Wollaton Park Lake
0.6 km
A tranquil 25-acre lake set within Nottingham’s historic Wollaton Park, offering scenic walks, rich wildlife, and Georgian landscape charm.
Wollaton Village Dovecote Museum
1.0 km
Explore a rare Elizabethan dovecote museum in Nottingham, showcasing centuries of rural heritage and architectural charm.
Harrison's Plantation Nature Reserve
1.1 km
A tranquil woodland retreat in Nottingham featuring diverse trees, peaceful ponds, and rich birdlife for immersive nature walks.
Nottingham City of Literature
1.7 km
A vibrant arts hub blending theatre, galleries, and music set beside a scenic lake in Nottingham’s University Park.
The University of Nottingham Museum of Archaeology
1.8 km
Explore 250,000 years of regional archaeology at the University of Nottingham’s award-winning museum, set within the vibrant Lakeside Arts Centre.
Highfields Park
1.9 km
A historic 21-hectare park in Nottingham offering boating, adventure golf, scenic walks, and family-friendly fun near the university campus.
Statue of Honeycomb
2.3 km
A lifesize tribute to Beeston’s bee heritage, this serene beekeeper statue blends nature and urban life on High Road.
King's Meadow Nature Reserve
2.8 km
A vibrant urban nature reserve in Nottingham blending meadows, streams, and woodland for a peaceful wildlife retreat.
The Museum Of Curiosities
3.4 km
Explore Nottingham’s eerie Museum of Curiosities, where haunted artifacts, real skulls, and horror props create a spine-chilling, immersive experience.
Essential places to dine
Mr Man's Restaurant
0.6 km
Spacious Cantonese dining in Wollaton Park offering authentic Chinese flavors and generous portions in a relaxed suburban setting.
Wollaton Fish Bar
0.7 km
Nottingham's go-to chippie for crispy battered fish, chunky chips, and massive kebabs in hearty, wallet-friendly portions.
Wheelhouse
0.8 km
Cosy family-friendly pub in Wollaton, Nottingham, serving classic British fare with welcoming service and a lively, casual atmosphere.
Wollaton Pub & Kitchen
0.8 km
A vibrant pub and kitchen in Wollaton blending traditional charm with modern British cuisine and community spirit.
Admiral Rodney
0.9 km
A traditional Nottingham pub offering hearty food, friendly service, and a cozy atmosphere on Wollaton Road.
Miller & Carter Wollaton
1.0 km
Savor 30-day aged steaks from British farms in a warm, intimate steakhouse near Wollaton Park—where butchery expertise meets grilled perfection daily.
SUDA Delicatessen & World Kitchen
1.4 km
A lively Nottingham eatery blending global flavours with vegan and gluten-free options in a vibrant, welcoming setting.
ZHUG
1.5 km
Savor vibrant Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with fresh, bold dishes and a lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s Bramcote Lane.
Spicy House
1.7 km
Experience authentic Szechuan spice and flavor at Spicy House, Nottingham’s go-to for bold Chinese cuisine with customizable heat levels.
BEST FOOD Chinese And Thai Takeaway
1.8 km
Experience authentic Chinese and Thai cuisine at BEST FOOD Takeaway in Wollaton—delicious meals made with quality ingredients at affordable prices.
Alchemilla
3.1 km
Discover Alchemilla, Nottingham’s Michelin-starred fine dining gem blending historic charm with innovative, sustainable cuisine.
Sans Patrie
3.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s Sans Patrie, where inventive tasting menus meet artistic presentation in a relaxed, inclusive fine dining setting.
Warsaw Diner
3.4 km
Experience hearty American-Polish breakfasts in a lively 1950s-style diner with generous portions and bottomless coffee in Nottingham’s Derby Road.
Hart's Hotel and Kitchen
3.6 km
Stylish boutique hotel with contemporary comfort and acclaimed dining, set steps from Nottingham Castle in a peaceful city centre courtyard.
Browns Nottingham
3.7 km
Elegant British brasserie in Nottingham’s historic heart, perfect for classic dining, afternoon tea, and special occasions.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
B & V Thornhill
0.7 km
Discover B & V Thornhill, your friendly neighborhood newsagent in Wollaton, Nottingham, offering local news, snacks, and convenience items.
Rico’s Vape Store Wollaton
0.7 km
Explore a diverse range of vaporizers and e-liquids at Rico's Vape Store Wollaton, Nottingham's premier destination for vaping enthusiasts.
Aryaan Straps
1.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of fashion accessories at Aryaan Straps in Beeston, Nottingham, where style meets uniqueness in every piece.
Marks and Spencer
1.3 km
24-hour M&S haven at Wollaton BP: gourmet groceries, stylish clothes, and convenience essentials in Nottingham's suburban heart.
Stratus Wallets
1.4 km
Discover unique gifts and treasures at Stratus Wallets, Nottingham's charming gift shop for memorable souvenirs and accessories.
Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories
1.4 km
Discover unique ladies' fashion, gifts, and jewelry at Indigo Ladieswear, Gifts & Accessories in Nottingham, a stylish destination for every shopper.
Grocery Store & Florist
1.5 km
Explore Nottingham's local culture at this delightful grocery store and florist, perfect for unique gifts and fresh flowers.
Catherine’s Exclusive Fashion
1.5 km
Discover unique fashion treasures at Catherine's Exclusive Fashion, Nottingham's premier boutique for stylish clothing and accessories.
Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore
2.2 km
Discover ethically crafted furniture, gifts, and clothing at Iguazu Fair Trade Superstore in Beeston, Nottingham’s hub for sustainable shopping.
Fromno19
2.7 km
Small-batch, handcrafted bags and home gifts where vintage-inspired fabrics meet practical, well-finished design.
Happy Sunday Vintage & Antiques
3.4 km
A joyful vintage boutique in Nottingham offering bold fashion, unique antiques, and a welcoming atmosphere for vintage lovers.
Castle Marina Retail Park
3.4 km
Nottingham's go-to retail park for home essentials, pet supplies, and coffee breaks, with free parking and canal-side convenience.
ChicChoiceHub
3.7 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.
Common Choice
3.7 km
Curated fashion finds on Nottingham's historic Standard Hill—unique clothing blending trends, quality, and local flair for effortless style.
OH DUCK IT
3.9 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.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Nurseryman - Pub & Grill
1.6 km
Flame-grilled feasts and cask ales in a refreshed Beeston pub, perfect for family meals and relaxed evenings on Derby Road.
The Pelican
2.3 km
Cozy Nottingham pub on Bracebridge Drive, pouring pints and pub classics in a relaxed suburban haven—perfect for casual drinks and community vibes.
Crafty Crow
3.8 km
A vibrant Nottingham pub offering innovative vegetarian dishes and a diverse craft beer selection near the historic Castle.
Tap & Tumbler
3.9 km
Nottingham’s legendary rock pub with live music, real ales, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere in the city’s cultural heart.
Malt Cross
3.9 km
Historic Victorian music hall pub in Nottingham offering award-winning ales, live music, and a vibrant community atmosphere in a stunning heritage setting.
Ye Olde Salutation Inn
3.9 km
Step into Nottingham’s oldest pub, where medieval history meets lively rock vibes and ghostly legends in a welcoming atmosphere.
Bunk
3.9 km
Quirky basement cocktail bar serving bold wings and inventive drinks in Nottingham's electric city center hideaway.
Cucamara
3.9 km
Lively late-night cocktail bar in Nottingham’s Hurts Yard, blending vibrant atmosphere with creative drinks and social energy.
Six Richmond House
3.9 km
Elegant cocktails and modern British dining blend seamlessly in Nottingham’s intimate and stylish Six Richmond House.
400 Rabbits
3.9 km
Intimate Hurts Yard cocktail bar specialising in tequila and mezcal cocktails with a theatrical, cosy atmosphere.
The Stage Pub Nottingham
3.9 km
Traditional Nottingham pub with live music, cosy nooks, and late-night vibes near Theatre Royal – perfect for drinks, dancing, and city-centre camaraderie.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
3.9 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
3.9 km
Vibrant cocktail bar and restaurant in Nottingham’s Market Square, known for lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and all-day 2-4-1 cocktails.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
4.0 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.
Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Havana with authentic Cuban cuisine, cocktails, and live Latin music in the heart of Nottingham.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
CRISIS
3.8 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
3.8 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
Tunnel Club
3.8 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
ICON
3.9 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Rescue Rooms
3.9 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Stealth
3.9 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
3.9 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Ocean Nightclub
4.0 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Unit 13
4.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
4.1 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.
Popworld - Nottingham
4.2 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Cell
4.3 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
4.3 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
4.3 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.
The Hockley Arts Club
4.4 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where innovative drinks and artistic ambiance come together for an unforgettable night out.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Wildlife Habitat
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
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
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
