City of Caves, Nottingham

Unveiling Nottingham’s Underground Labyrinth

Beneath the modern city streets of Nottingham lies the City of Caves, a remarkable network of over 800 sandstone caves carved and shaped over centuries. These caves, some naturally formed and others manually excavated, stretch beneath the city centre, revealing a hidden world that has been used for a variety of purposes from medieval times to the 20th century. The City of Caves offers visitors access to the largest publicly available section of this vast subterranean maze, inviting exploration of its winding passageways and historic chambers.

Layers of History Carved in Stone

The caves tell stories spanning many eras. In medieval times, parts of the caves were used as tanneries, where animal hides were processed in dark, damp conditions. During World War II, the caves transformed into air raid shelters, providing refuge from bombings for the people of Nottingham. Other areas served as homes, pubs, storage spaces, and even cesspits, reflecting the diverse and sometimes gritty uses of these underground spaces. The City of Caves preserves these layers of history, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere and hear the tales of those who lived and worked beneath the city.

Immersive Tours Bring the Past to Life

Visitors explore the caves primarily through guided or audio tours, which typically last around 45 minutes to an hour. Knowledgeable guides and engaging audio narratives share vivid stories and historical insights, bringing the caves’ past inhabitants and uses to life. The tours include interactive elements and theatrical performances, such as portrayals of medieval tanners and wartime air raid wardens, enhancing the immersive experience. Due to the confined nature of the caves, group sizes are limited, and entry times are staggered to ensure a comfortable visit.

Atmosphere and Visitor Experience

The caves maintain a cool, consistent temperature of approximately 13-15°C (55-59°F), offering a refreshing escape from the city above. The lighting is dim, and the floors can be uneven with low ceilings in places, so sensible footwear and caution are advised. Visitors can wander parts of the caves at their own pace after the guided portion, exploring displays and absorbing the unique subterranean ambiance. The site is cashless and does not have onsite restrooms, but facilities are available nearby at the National Justice Museum.

Location and Practical Information

The entrance to the City of Caves is located at the bottom of Garner’s Hill Steps next to Nottingham Contemporary, with the postcode NG1 1HF. It is within walking distance of Nottingham Train Station and accessible via tram (Lace Market stop) and bus routes serving the city centre. There is no onsite parking, but park and ride options are available around Nottingham. The attraction is open daily from 10am to 5pm, with the last tour starting at 4:10pm. Booking tickets in advance is strongly recommended, especially during weekends and school holidays.

Supporting Nottingham’s Heritage

The City of Caves is operated by the National Justice Museum, and visitor donations support educational programs, community projects, and the preservation of this historic site. The attraction offers a rare and captivating journey into Nottingham’s hidden past, appealing to families, history enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike.