The Lace Market: Nottingham's Historic Gem

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The Lace Market

Nestled in the heart of Nottingham, the Lace Market is a vibrant area teeming with history and charm. Once the global center of the lace industry, this neighborhood is now a harmonious blend of the old and the new, offering a rich tapestry of attractions for every visitor. Wander through cobblestone streets lined with Victorian buildings, each one whispering tales of a bygone era. The architecture alone is a feast for the eyes, with red-brick warehouses now transformed into chic apartments, hip cafes, and unique boutiques. A visit to the Lace Market is not complete without exploring its cultural landmarks. The Nottingham Contemporary is one of the largest contemporary art centers in the UK and frequently hosts international exhibitions. For history buffs, the Galleries of Justice Museum offers a deep dive into the city’s judicial past, housed in a building that dates back to the 14th century. Foodies will also find their slice of heaven here. From fine dining restaurants to cozy coffee shops, the Lace Market caters to all tastes and preferences. Whether you’re savoring a meal at one of the Michelin-starred restaurants or enjoying a pint in a historic pub, the culinary scene is sure to impress. Shopping enthusiasts will be delighted by the array of independent stores offering everything from vintage fashion to handmade crafts. The Lace Market is also a hub for creative industries, making it an ideal place to pick up unique souvenirs and gifts. The neighborhood’s lively atmosphere is further enhanced by frequent events and festivals, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening. In summary, the Lace Market is a dynamic neighborhood that seamlessly blends its rich history with contemporary allure. It promises an unforgettable experience for tourists, offering a little something for everyone.

Local tips in The Lace Market

Wear comfortable shoes; the cobblestone streets can be tricky to navigate.
Check the schedule at Nottingham Contemporary for current exhibitions.
Visit the Galleries of Justice Museum early to avoid crowds.
Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants, especially on weekends.
Explore side streets and alleys for hidden gems and unique photo opportunities.

File:Lace Market Skyline, Nottingham.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Manchester Opera House 3.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Nottingham-Contemporary-entrance.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Galleries of Justice Museum - High Pavement, Nottingham - gibbet.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:High Pavement and the National Justice Museum, Nottingham.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

File:Lace market justice galleries.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

City of Caves

Discover the hidden history beneath Nottingham at the City of Caves, an extraordinary underground attraction teeming with stories and adventure.

Old Market Square

Nottingham’s historic and vibrant central square, alive with events, iconic architecture, and a rich cultural heritage at the city’s heart.

Speakers' Corner

Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.

The Left Lion

A beloved stone lion guarding Nottingham’s Council House, the Left Lion is a timeless symbol and popular meeting point in Old Market Square.

Right Lion

Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.

Weekday Cross Monument

Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, marking centuries of trade and community in the Lace Market district.

Lace Market

Explore Lace Market, Nottingham: A historical hub showcasing Victorian architecture, local art, and a vibrant dining scene.

King Charles I Standard Hill Monument

Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.

Lace Market Square

Explore Lace Market Square in Nottingham, a historic town square rich in architecture, culture, and local flavor—perfect for a memorable visit.

16 Stoney Street

Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.

Essential places to dine

Annie's Burger Shack

Vibrant American diner in Nottingham’s Lace Market, serving over 30 creative burgers with vegan options and craft beers in a lively, casual setting.

Bar Iberico

Experience the vibrant flavours and warm atmosphere of authentic Spanish tapas right in Nottingham’s city centre.

Piccolino Nottingham

Elegant Italian dining with a modern twist, vibrant cocktails, and alfresco charm in Nottingham’s city centre.

Pizzamisú

Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian charm in Nottingham’s historic High Pavement at Pizzamisú.

Iberico World Tapas

Experience award-winning Spanish tapas in Nottingham’s historic Shire Hall, blending tradition with refined global flavors in a cozy, Moorish-inspired setting.

Anoki Restaurant Nottingham

Experience authentic Indian fine dining in Nottingham’s historic Gothic House with exquisite flavors and elegant ambiance.

The Pelican Club

A vibrant blend of authentic Umbrian Italian cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and live jazz in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market.

Bistro Live Nottingham

Experience vibrant nightlife, delicious dining, and unforgettable celebrations all under one roof at Bistro Live Nottingham.

Dino

Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.

ViDa by Lorentes

Experience authentic Spanish tapas and warm hospitality in Nottingham’s cozy Lace Market basement gem.

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Handmade Nottingham

Discover quirky UK-made gifts, prints, stationery, and crafts in Nottingham's creative haven—perfect for unique finds and workshop fun.

Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market

Craft, sip, and savor Nottingham's lace legacy in a creative studio-tearoom fusion amid heritage archives and hands-on workshops.

Cow

Discover timeless threads at Cow, Nottingham's organized haven for vintage clothing treasures amid urban cool.

That Weird Shop

Unearth retro vinyl, quirky toys, alternative gear, and haunted basement thrills in Nottingham's ultimate oddity emporium—a weird wonderland for collectors and thrill-seekers.

Wild Clothing

Discover timeless vintage treasures at Nottingham's iconic Wild Clothing, a 40-year Hockley staple brimming with unique, quality pieces for every style seeker.

Garms Nottingham

Unearth retro streetwear gems in a historic Nottingham boutique, where vintage outerwear meets sustainable style on vibrant Bridlesmith Gate.

MAISON GB

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.

Inspired

Explore Inspired, Nottingham's charming gift shop, featuring unique treasures and local crafts perfect for every occasion.

Catori's Gift Shop

A compact Sneinton Market boutique of handmade gifts, local crafts and seasonal surprises — ideal for curious shoppers seeking one-off presents.

Mood Outfitters

Discover Nottingham's boldest independent fashion at Mood Outfitters, where local designers craft unique, wearable art in the heart of Hockley's creative scene.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Pitcher & Piano Nottingham

Historic church turned stylish bar: stained-glass cocktails, pub feasts, and nightlife buzz in Nottingham's Lace Market.

Pit & Pendulum

Descend into Poe-inspired gothic splendor on Nottingham's Victoria Street, where shadowy cocktails, rock anthems, and British bites fuel an alt-nightlife legend until 2am.

The Hockley Arts Club

Nottingham's hidden multi-level cocktail sanctuary in Hockley, where award-winning drinks meet themed rooms from retro Stockholm to neon Electric Garden bliss.

All Bar One Nottingham

Sophisticated wine bar in Nottingham's Weekday Cross, perfect for after-work unwinds, bottomless brunches, and vibrant evenings with global wines and sharing plates.

Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar

Descend into Nottingham's speakeasy underworld at Coco Tang, where theatrical cocktails, mirror-lined intimacy, and DJ-fueled dancefloors craft unforgettable nights since 2008.

Bunk

Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.

Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)

Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.

Cock & Hoop

Cozy Lace Market pub pouring local ales and pub favorites in a historic nook, perfect for relaxed escapes amid Nottingham's creative buzz.

The Blind Rabbit

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.

Brass Monkey

Nottingham's rum-soaked gem: 120+ rums, killer Zombies, and £5 classics in the heart of Lace Market until 4am.

The Lacehouse

Converted factory bar in Nottingham's Lace Market: craft cocktails, ping pong, live music, pizzas, and rustic vibes for day-to-night revelry.

Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide to The Lace Market

Discover The Lace Market with Evendo, a 100% free app-based local travel guide. Explore attractions, landmarks, restaurants, and more with ease and convenience.

Local Phrases

- HelloAy up
  [ay up]
- GoodbyeTa-ra
  [ta-ra]
- YesAye
  [aye]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/Tha's welcome
  [please/tha's welcome]
- Thank youCheers
  [cheers]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon/Pardon me
  [pardon/pardon me]
- How are you?Ow do?
  [ow do]
- Fine. And you?Reyt. An' tha?
  [reyt. an' tha]
- Do you speak English?D'ya speak English?
  [d'ya speak English]
- I don't understandAh divvent get ya
  [ah divvent get ya]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see t'menu, please
  [can I see t'menu, please]
- I don't eat meatAh divvent eat meat
  [ah divvent eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please
  [can I pay, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Clear off!
  [Clear off!]
- Call the Police!Ring t'cops!
  [Ring t'cops!]
- Call a doctor!Ring a doctor!
  [Ring a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm lost
  [I'm lost]
- I'm illI'm poorly
  [I'm poorly]
- I'd like to buy...I'd like to buy...
  [I'd like to buy...]
- I'm just lookingI'm just looking
  [I'm just looking]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [How much is it?]
- That's too expensiveThat's too dear
  [That's too dear]
- Can you lower the price?Can you drop t'price?
  [Can you drop t'price?]
- What time is it?What's time?
  [What's time?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
- MorningMorning
  [Morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [Evening]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
  [Where's a/the...?]
- What's the address?What's t'address?
  [What's t'address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
  [Can you show me (on the map)?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [When's the next (bus)?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [A ticket (to ....)]

History of The Lace Market

The Lace Market earned its name in the 18th century as Nottingham became the center of lace production. The invention of lace-making machinery, such as the Nottingham lace frame, revolutionized the industry, leading to an economic boom. This period saw the establishment of numerous lace factories, making Nottingham a key player in the global lace market.
During the Victorian era, the Lace Market area expanded rapidly, reflecting the wealth generated by the lace trade. The architecture from this time is characterized by impressive warehouses and factories, many of which have been repurposed into trendy apartments and offices. This architectural legacy is a testament to Nottingham's industrial prowess during the 19th century.
By the late 20th century, the lace industry in Nottingham faced significant decline due to globalization and competition from cheaper imported lace. Many factories closed, leading to economic challenges in the Lace Market area. However, this decline also paved the way for urban regeneration, with efforts to revitalize the area for new uses.
In the 21st century, the Lace Market has undergone significant gentrification, transforming into a vibrant cultural hub. Art galleries, restaurants, and boutiques have emerged, alongside the preservation of its historical buildings. The area hosts various events and festivals, celebrating Nottingham's rich heritage and the legacy of its lace-making past.
The historical significance of the Lace Market has been recognized through its designation as a conservation area. The Lace Market is now celebrated not only for its historical context but also for its role in shaping Nottingham's identity. It serves as a reminder of the city’s industrial heritage and its transition towards a modern cultural landscape.

The Lace Market Essentials

The Lace Market is conveniently located in the heart of Nottingham and can be accessed easily from other neighbourhoods. If you are arriving by train, Nottingham Railway Station is a short walk away, approximately 15 minutes. Local buses also serve various routes to the Lace Market area, with several stops on the outskirts. If you are coming from the city centre, it's a brief 10-minute stroll, or you can hop on a tram that connects the main areas directly. For those driving, there are nearby parking facilities, including the Lace Market Car Park.
The Lace Market is a compact neighbourhood, making it ideal for exploration on foot. The local tram service operates frequently, connecting you to other parts of Nottingham. Buses are also available for longer distances, and bike rentals are offered through various schemes around the city, promoting cycling as an eco-friendly option. Additionally, taxis are readily available for those who prefer a quicker mode of transport.
The Lace Market is generally considered safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant, especially at night. While the area is well-policed, certain parts of Nottingham, such as some areas near the city centre, may have higher crime rates for petty theft. Always keep an eye on your belongings and avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas after dark.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Nottingham has several hospitals and medical facilities available. It is advisable to carry a copy of your emergency contact numbers and travel insurance details. For minor health issues, local pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medication.
Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot. Don't wear excessively casual clothes if dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect the local culture and traditions. Don’t disturb worshippers in places of worship. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to those in need. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do use a friendly smile or nod to greet locals. Don't assume familiarity; keep interactions polite. Eating & Drinking: Do try local specialties and enjoy meals in restaurants. Don’t consume food or drink in public transport.
To experience the Lace Market like a local, explore its historic streets and enjoy the vibrant café culture. Visit the local art galleries and independent shops that showcase Nottingham's creative scene. Don't miss the opportunity to participate in a guided walking tour to learn more about the area's rich history, especially its lace-making heritage. Engage with local artisans; many are happy to share their craft stories and practices.

The Lace Market: Nottingham's Historic Gem

Local tips in The Lace Market