Right Lion of Nottingham: A Historic Meeting Place
Discover Nottingham’s iconic Right Lion, a historic stone sculpture and beloved meeting point near the Council House in Old Market Square.
The Right Lion is one of Nottingham’s iconic stone lions located at 1 Cheapside, near the Council House in Old Market Square. Sculpted by Joseph Else, this historic landmark has long served as a popular meeting point for locals and visitors alike. With its rich cultural background and connection to Nottingham’s civic pride, the Right Lion stands as a symbol of the city’s heritage and community spirit.
A brief summary to Right Lion
- 1 Cheapside, Nottingham, NG1 2HU, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the lion’s detailed stonework and the surrounding historic architecture.
- Combine your visit with exploring Old Market Square and the Nottingham Council House nearby for a rich cultural experience.
- Look out for local stories and folklore about the lions to add an intriguing narrative to your visit.
- The lion is a popular meeting spot, so it’s a great place to connect with locals or start a walking tour of Nottingham’s city center.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local Nottingham City Transport buses connect the city center with stops near Old Market Square, including routes 35 and 36. Travel time from Nottingham Station is approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently throughout the day with standard fares around £2.50 per single journey.
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Tram
The Nottingham Express Transit tram service stops at Old Market Square, just a short walk from the Right Lion. Trams run every 7-15 minutes, with a journey time of about 5 minutes from Nottingham Station. Ticket prices start at £2.40 for a single adult fare.
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Walking
From Nottingham Station, a 15-20 minute walk along pedestrian-friendly city streets leads directly to Old Market Square. The route is flat and accessible, suitable for all mobility levels.
Right Lion 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 Right Lion
Sculptural Legacy of Joseph Else
The Right Lion, positioned at 1 Cheapside, Nottingham, is a distinguished stone sculpture created by Joseph Else, who was principal of the Nottingham School of Art from 1923 to 1939. Else was a prominent local artist responsible for many of the intricate carvings on the Nottingham Council House, including the two famous lions flanking its main entrance. These lions, affectionately named Leo (left) and Oscar (right), embody the artistic craftsmanship and civic pride of Nottingham in the early 20th century.A Civic Symbol and Social Landmark
Situated near the grand Council House in Old Market Square, the Right Lion has historically served as a favored meeting place for residents from the southern parts of Nottingham. The square itself has been the heart of Nottingham’s social and commercial life for centuries, and the lions have become enduring symbols of community gathering and local identity. The Right Lion’s role as a social focal point continues today, maintaining its place in the city’s collective memory and everyday life.Architectural and Historical Context
The Right Lion complements the grandeur of the Nottingham Council House, a building opened in 1929 by the Prince of Wales. The Council House is a centerpiece of Nottingham’s civic architecture, featuring classical design elements and detailed sculptures representing various aspects of the city’s heritage. The lions guard the entrance steps, welcoming visitors and symbolizing strength and vigilance. Their presence enhances the historic ambiance of Old Market Square, which has evolved from a medieval marketplace to a vibrant urban hub.Folklore and Local Legends
Local folklore adds a layer of intrigue to the Right Lion. It is said that the right lion roars when an honest politician passes by, contrasting with the left lion’s reputed roar at the sight of a virgin. These tales, while whimsical, reflect the lions’ deep integration into Nottingham’s cultural fabric and the affectionate regard in which they are held by the community.Visitor Experience and Cultural Significance
Visitors encountering the Right Lion can appreciate not only its artistic merit but also its role as a living part of Nottingham’s urban culture. The lion invites interaction, often climbed upon by children and used as a rendezvous point by friends and couples. Its location in Old Market Square places it amid a lively setting of shops, eateries, and historic sites, making it an accessible and meaningful stop for those exploring Nottingham’s city center.Preservation and Legacy
Though the Right Lion is a stone sculpture exposed to the elements, it remains well-preserved as a cherished landmark. It stands as a testament to Joseph Else’s artistic legacy and Nottingham’s commitment to celebrating its history through public art. The lion continues to inspire pride and serves as a reminder of the city’s rich cultural heritage and community spirit.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Right Lion
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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
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Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Speakers' Corner
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St Peter's Church, Nottingham
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The Tokenhouse
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King's Walk sign
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Citylife UK
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Watson Fothergill's Office
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Weekday Cross Monument
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The Hockley Arts Club
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St Nic's Church
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16 Stoney Street
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Scale Space Nottingham
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Victoria Station Clock Tower
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The Belgrave Rooms
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Unmissable attractions to see
Nottingham Tourism Centre
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Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
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Old Market Square
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Old Mkt Sq
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Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Inspired
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Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Flying Horse Walk
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White Rose Nottingham Outlet
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Leeds’ vibrant shopping and entertainment hub with over 120 stores, an IMAX cinema, and family-friendly outdoor play area.
Bell Inn
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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.
The Turf Tavern
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Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
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Axed Nottingham Axe Throwing
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Experience the thrill of interactive axe throwing with expert coaching in Nottingham’s vibrant urban playground.
The Cornerhouse
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A dynamic Nottingham hotspot blending cinema, dining, and unique leisure activities in a vibrant city center setting.
Victoria Centre
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Lace Market Square
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Historic heart of Nottingham’s lace industry, blending Victorian charm with vibrant cultural life and creative energy.
Nottingham Contemporary
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Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Bar Gigi
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Elegant Italian dining and cocktails in a historic Nottingham setting, perfect for intimate evenings and sharing inspired plates.
Bill's Nottingham Restaurant
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Cozy British dining with hearty classics and lively atmosphere in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
George's Great British Kitchen
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No.Twelve
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Experience the best of vegan dining at No.Twelve in Nottingham - where creativity meets sustainability for unforgettable meals.
The Soulville Steakhouse
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Experience Nottingham’s vibrant soul-themed steakhouse with expertly cooked steaks and a lively 60s Motown atmosphere.
Yamas Meze & Tapas
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French Living
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Experience authentic French cuisine in a cozy, welcoming setting at Nottingham’s long-standing French Living restaurant.
Gusto Italian
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Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively dining in Nottingham’s city centre with Gusto Italian’s open kitchen and private dining options.
The Loxley
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Cosy Club
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baresca
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Prezzo Italian Restaurant Nottingham
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Authentic Italian dining in Nottingham’s city centre, offering classic pasta, pizza, and welcoming family-friendly atmosphere.
Kushi-ya
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Discover Nottingham’s hidden gem for authentic Japanese kushiyaki skewers and inventive small plates in a stylish, modern setting.
Everyday People
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MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
Bistrot Pierre
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Authentic French bistro dining with seasonal menus and a cozy private room in Nottingham’s vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
White Rose Nottingham WR6
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Tutu urban boutique
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Primark
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Explore vast, affordable fashion and home goods at Primark Nottingham, a lively city centre store with accessibility and style for all.
Vivienne Westwood
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Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Bubble Vintage
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Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
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Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
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Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
The Bead Shop (Nottingham) Limited
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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 Stuff Nottingham
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A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Garms Nottingham
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OH DUCK IT
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Handmade Nottingham
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Stick & Ribbon
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Shop Zero
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Hopkinsons @ Cobden Place
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Alchemist Nottingham
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O'Neill's Market Square Nottingham
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Tilt
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Slug & Lettuce - Market Square Nottingham
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The Bierkeller Nottingham
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BOX Nottingham
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Pepper Rocks
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Revolución de Cuba Nottingham
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MOJO
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Malt Cross
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Pit & Pendulum
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TIER Nottingham
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Nottingham Secret Garden
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Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
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400 Rabbits
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Popworld - Nottingham
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Tantra Night Clubs
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The Bodega Nottingham
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ICON
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The Cell
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Tunnel Club
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VIBES NIGHTLIFE
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Unit 13
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Love zoo
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Stealth
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Rescue Rooms
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Eleven
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Rock City
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CRISIS
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Ocean Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
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
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
