Flying Horse Walk
Discover Nottingham's hidden gem: a historic arcade brimming with independent boutiques, luxury fashion, and artisanal treasures in the city centre.
Flying Horse Walk is a charming boutique shopping arcade in the heart of Nottingham's city centre, blending historic charm with contemporary independent retail. Nestled between South Parade and St Peter's Gate, it features eclectic shops offering fashion, food, fine art, and gifts amid a Grade II-listed facade from the former Flying Horse Inn. Refurbished in recent years with striking horse sculptures at entrances, this compact passageway draws discerning shoppers seeking unique finds away from mainstream crowds. Open daily with varying hours, it's an ideal spot for leisurely browsing in a lively urban setting.
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
-
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 the quietest shopping; weekends peak after 11 AM.
- Check the arcade map at entrances to locate specific boutiques like Vivienne Westwood.
- Combine with a stroll to nearby St Peter's Church for a dose of medieval history.
- Look for seasonal sales and events announced on site for exclusive deals.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Inspired location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Inspired
Historic Origins of the Flying Horse Inn
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. Originally serving as a hub for wealthy tradesmen and stagecoach travelers in the 16th century, the inn evolved into a coaching destination on what was then Cuckstool Row. Stagecoaches entered through the South Parade entrance, near the historic market place known for its public punishment stool. By the 17th century, it operated as the Flying Horse Hotel, hosting actors from the nearby Theatre Royal and cricketers playing at Trent Bridge. Legends persist that the Council House bell chimes were muffled to let players rest before Test matches. Fragments of medieval stone walling in the cellars and ancient timbers endure, underscoring over 600 years of adaptation while retaining Grade II listed status. The facade, restored in 1935 and repurposed in 1989 as the arcade entrance, preserves this Georgian-era brick elevation.Modern Refurbishment and Rebirth
Opened as a shopping arcade in 1988, Flying Horse Walk underwent a significant transformation after its 2011 acquisition by London & County LLP. Reverting from FH Mall to its original name, the space received a full refurbishment, including three-dimensional horse sculptures adorning both entrances. This revival positioned it as a haven for independent boutiques amid Nottingham's bustling retail core. The single-level arcade connects St Peter's Gate and South Parade, just off Old Market Square and near Bridlesmith Gate's fashion pitches. Its central location enhances accessibility, with no on-site parking but proximity to major retailers like M&S and Primark.Eclectic Boutique Offerings
Today, the arcade houses around 19 independent shops, anchored by luxury names like Vivienne Westwood and White Wall Galleries. Visitors discover fashion boutiques, artisanal food purveyors, fine art dealers, and specialty gift stores such as Inspired at 5 Flying Horse Walk. Each retailer emphasizes craftsmanship, quality, and uniqueness, creating a curated emporium distinct from high-street chains. The atmosphere invites unhurried exploration, with the compact layout fostering serendipitous discoveries. Seasonal events, new openings, and sales add vibrancy, while an arcade map aids navigation.Architectural and Cultural Allure
Framed by an 18th-century four-storey brick facade, the arcade exudes timeless elegance. Adjacent to St Peter's Church, one of Nottingham's three medieval churches, it sits within a heritage-rich district blending historic walking areas, monuments, and architectural landmarks. The setting evokes Nottingham's layered past, from lace market heritage to vibrant modern commerce. Horse motifs throughout nod to its namesake, enhancing thematic cohesion. This fusion of preservation and innovation makes it a microcosm of the city's evolving character.Visitor Experience in the Arcade
Strolling through Flying Horse Walk feels like stepping into a refined urban oasis. Light filters through glass elements, illuminating boutique displays and polished floors. The air carries subtle scents of artisanal cheeses, fresh bakes, and designer fabrics, mingling with the hum of quiet conversations. Compact yet immersive, it rewards repeat visits with evolving tenant mixes and pop-up events. Positioned for half-hour diversions or longer indulgences, it complements broader city explorations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.1 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
The Tokenhouse
0.1 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
Right Lion
0.1 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
0.1 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Citylife UK
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
Speakers' Corner
0.2 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Weekday Cross Monument
0.2 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
Watson Fothergill's Office
0.3 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
King's Walk sign
0.3 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
St Nic's Church
0.3 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
16 Stoney Street
0.3 km
Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
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.
Victoria Station Clock Tower
0.5 km
A towering 100-foot clock tower preserving the grandeur and history of Nottingham's lost Victoria railway station.
Unmissable attractions to see
Flying Horse Walk
0.0 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
0.1 km
Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
Nottingham Council House
0.1 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
0.1 km
Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
Old Market Square
0.1 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Old Mkt Sq
0.1 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
White Rose Nottingham Outlet
0.2 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.
Nottingham Contemporary
0.3 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
Lace Market Square
0.3 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s lace industry, blending Victorian charm with vibrant cultural life and creative energy.
City of Caves
0.3 km
Explore Nottingham’s hidden underground world: medieval tanneries, wartime shelters and centuries of history carved into sandstone beneath the city streets.
The Turf Tavern
0.3 km
Experience the rich history and local flavors at The Turf Tavern, Nottingham's iconic pub steeped in tradition and charm.
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
0.3 km
Nottingham’s historic Theatre Royal and modern Royal Concert Hall host West End musicals, concerts, comedy and more in the heart of the city.
National Justice Museum
0.4 km
Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
Lace Market
0.4 km
Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Bar Gigi
0.0 km
Elegant Italian dining and cocktails in a historic Nottingham setting, perfect for intimate evenings and sharing inspired plates.
No.Twelve
0.1 km
Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
baresca
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
Everyday People
0.2 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
Cosy Club
0.2 km
Historic charm meets eclectic British dining and vibrant bar culture in the heart of Nottingham city centre.
The Loxley
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant pub culture at The Loxley – where great food meets friendly faces in a cozy atmosphere.
Yamas Meze & Tapas
0.2 km
Authentic Greek and Cypriot mezze in Nottingham's vibrant city centre—sharing plates, Mediterranean flavors, exceptional value.
Bill's Nottingham Restaurant
0.2 km
Cozy British dining with hearty classics and lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
George's Great British Kitchen
0.2 km
A vibrant Nottingham eatery serving classic British fish and chips with a modern twist in a lively, nostalgic setting.
Piccolino Nottingham
0.2 km
Elegant Italian dining with classic flavors, a vibrant cocktail bar, and alfresco terrace in Nottingham’s city centre.
Spice Cay Restaurant & Bar
0.2 km
Discover bold Caribbean flavors and vibrant vibes at Spice Cay, Nottingham’s premier tapas-style restaurant and bar on Pelham Street.
Dino
0.2 km
Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Soulville Steakhouse
0.2 km
Experience Nottingham’s vibrant soul-themed steakhouse with expertly cooked steaks and a lively 60s Motown atmosphere.
Gusto Italian
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively dining in Nottingham’s city centre with Gusto Italian’s open kitchen and private dining options.
French Living
0.3 km
Experience authentic French cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting at Nottingham’s long-standing French Living restaurant.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vivienne Westwood
0.0 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Tutu urban boutique
0.1 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.1 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.1 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.1 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Primark
0.1 km
Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Garms Nottingham
0.1 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Bubble Vintage
0.1 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
White Rose Nottingham WR6
0.1 km
Discover thoughtfully curated vintage and recycled fashion at White Rose Nottingham WR6, where style meets sustainability in the city’s historic heart.
Stick & Ribbon
0.1 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Hopkinsons @ Cobden Place
0.2 km
Vintage emporium with bar and café flair in Nottingham's creative Hockley—hunt treasures, sip pints, savor cakes in a restored lace factory gem.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
0.3 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.
Shop Zero
0.3 km
Nottingham’s zero-waste shop championing sustainable living with refillables, reusable goods, and community-driven eco-consciousness.
Mood Outfitters
0.3 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.
Cow
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads in Nottingham's coolest vintage haven—Cow curates retro gems with style and soul on Carlton Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pepper Rocks
0.1 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Tilt
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s cozy cocktail retreat, where expertly crafted drinks meet intimate candle-lit ambiance and soulful blues.
BOX Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience Nottingham’s premier sports bar in a stunning historic building with live sport, games, music, and great food under one roof.
O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
0.2 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.
Pit & Pendulum
0.2 km
Descend into Poe-inspired gothic splendor at Nottingham's most haunting pub, where shadowy decor, themed cocktails, and rock anthems craft unforgettable nights.
The Bierkeller Nottingham
0.2 km
Experience lively Bavarian beer hall vibes with authentic brews, live Oompah bands, and festive fun in Nottingham’s city centre.
Be At One - Nottingham
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant cocktail scene with over 100 expertly crafted drinks and a lively late-night atmosphere at Be At One.
TIER Nottingham
0.2 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar with quirky décor, creative drinks, and popular Happy Hours in the heart of the city.
Penny Lane
0.2 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.
All Bar One Nottingham
0.2 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.
MOJO
0.2 km
MOJO Bar Nottingham: Where rock ’n’ roll meets expertly crafted cocktails in a lively, no-pretence late-night hotspot.
The Alchemist Nottingham
0.2 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 Blind Rabbit
0.2 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.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
0.2 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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Nottingham
0.0 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Cell
0.2 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
0.2 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
0.2 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
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.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Ocean Nightclub
0.4 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Eleven
0.4 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
Unit 13
0.4 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.4 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.
NG-One
0.5 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
Stealth
0.5 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
0.5 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
Rock City
0.5 km
Experience Nottingham’s iconic live music and nightclub venue, where legendary acts and vibrant club nights come alive in an intimate, energetic setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Unique
- Casual
- Boutique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Car-Free Access
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
