Nottingham Arboretum: Historic Victorian Botanical Haven

Historic Victorian park in Nottingham with 800+ trees, tranquil lakes, and charming architecture, inspiring nature lovers and literary fans alike.

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Nottingham Arboretum, opened in 1852, is the city’s oldest public park and a cherished green space near the city centre. It features over 800 trees of 65 species, including original 19th-century plantings, alongside charming Victorian architecture and tranquil lakes. The Grade II* listed park offers self-guided Tree and Heritage Trails, a bandstand, and hosts community events, providing a peaceful urban retreat rich in history and natural beauty.

A brief summary to Arboretum

Waverley St, Nottingham, NG7 4HF, GB
+441159152733
Visit website
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 8 am-9:15 pm
Tuesday 8 am-9:15 pm
Wednesday 8 am-9:15 pm
Thursday 8 am-9:15 pm
Friday 8 am-9:15 pm
Saturday 8 am-9:15 pm
Sunday 8 am-9:15 pm

Local tips

Visit in spring or autumn to enjoy the park’s vibrant blossoms or colorful foliage.
Explore the self-guided Tree and Heritage Trails to learn about the park’s botanical and cultural history.
Use public transport, especially the NET tram, for easy access and limited parking nearby.
Bring a picnic to enjoy by the ornamental lake or relax near the historic bandstand.
Keep dogs on a lead to protect wildlife and respect park rules.

Getting There

Tram

Take the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram to the Arboretum stop on Waverley Street, located adjacent to the park. Trams run frequently from the city centre, with journeys typically lasting 5 to 10 minutes. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 one way. The tram stop is wheelchair accessible.
Bus

Several Nottingham City Transport buses serve routes near the Arboretum, including routes 35 and 56 from the city centre. Travel times range from 10 to 20 minutes depending on traffic. A single adult fare costs around £2.50. Buses have limited space for bikes and wheelchairs.
Car

Driving to the Arboretum is possible but parking is limited to on-street spaces in surrounding residential areas. Expect to spend 5 to 15 minutes searching for parking. Parking is free but restricted during certain hours. Use public transport when possible to avoid congestion.
Walking

From Nottingham city centre, walking to the Arboretum takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes via mostly flat, paved streets suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs. This is a pleasant option for those who enjoy urban strolls and want to experience the city en route.

Arboretum location weather suitability

Any Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures
Rain / Wet Weather

Discover more about Arboretum

A Botanical Legacy in the Heart of Nottingham

Nottingham Arboretum stands as the city’s oldest public park, officially opened on 11 May 1852 by the Mayor and Sheriff before a crowd of 30,000. Designed by botanist Samuel Curtis, the park was laid out in the “natural order” to educate and delight visitors with its curated plantings. Today, it is home to over 800 trees representing 65 species, some dating back to the original Victorian era. The Arboretum holds Grade II* listed status, reflecting its historic and horticultural significance, and has earned a Green Flag award for its quality and care.

Victorian Charm and Architectural Highlights

The park’s layout features formal pathways, flowerbeds, and a long ornamental lake that gleams in the sunlight. A notable architectural gem is the elegant Grade II listed octagonal bandstand set in a natural amphitheatre, evoking the atmosphere of Victorian leisure. The park also contains aviaries, including a cast-iron circular structure from 1892, and a unique pagoda-like war memorial housing a bell from a Cantonese temple, surrounded by Russian cannons—an intriguing blend of history and design.

Trails and Community Engagement

Visitors can explore the Arboretum through self-guided Tree and Heritage Trails, which highlight significant trees and historic features, enriching the experience with botanical and cultural insights. The park plays a vital role in the local community, hosting various events throughout the year, from music concerts to festivals, making it a lively yet tranquil urban oasis.

Inspiration for Neverland and Local Lore

Local lore suggests that the Arboretum inspired J.M. Barrie’s magical world of Neverland. Barrie lived in Nottingham before writing Peter Pan, and the park’s leafy paths and whimsical charm are thought to have sown the seeds of flight and fairy dust. A blue plaque nearby marks Barrie’s former home, inviting visitors to connect with this enchanting literary heritage.

Accessibility and Visitor Amenities

The Arboretum is easily accessible from Nottingham city centre, with the NET tram running alongside and a dedicated stop on Waverley Street. The park has four main entrances and offers surfaced paths suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs, ensuring accessibility. Entry is free, and a seasonal café with public toilets is available. Dogs are welcome under control, and limited on-street parking surrounds the area.

Seasonal Beauty and Wildlife

The park transforms with the seasons, offering vibrant autumn colors and delicate spring blossoms. It is a haven for local wildlife, including friendly squirrels and diverse birdlife, enhancing the peaceful atmosphere. The well-maintained green space invites leisurely strolls, picnics, and moments of mindfulness amid nature’s diversity.