Nottinghamshire · Travel guide · Updated 2026

The Heart of Sherwood: Nottinghamshire

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Nottinghamshire, located in the heart of England, is a county steeped in history and legend. Known worldwide as the home of the legendary Robin Hood, the county offers a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant urban life. From the ancient woodlands of Sherwood Forest to the historic city of Nottingham, there is something for every traveler. Begin your journey in Nottingham, a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new. Here, you can explore Nottingham Castle, which offers stunning views of the city and an intriguing museum dedicated to the legend of Robin Hood. Wander through the Lace Market, a historic district that showcases Nottingham's industrial past. Don't miss the City of Caves, an underground network of over 500 sandstone caves that have been used since the Dark Ages. Venture into the countryside to discover the iconic Sherwood Forest, the legendary hideout of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. The forest is a haven for walkers and nature lovers, with miles of trails and the ancient Major Oak, a tree believed to be over 1,000 years old. For a more immersive experience, visit the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, which offers interactive exhibits and guided walks. Nottinghamshire is also home to charming market towns like Newark and Southwell. Newark boasts a beautiful riverside setting and a stunning castle, while Southwell is famous for its magnificent Minster, a stunning example of Gothic architecture. Take a leisurely stroll through these towns to enjoy their unique shops, cafes, and historic buildings.

Nottingham

Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Nottingham

Nottingham Castle

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Nottingham

Arboretum

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Nottingham

Victoria Centre

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Ollerton

Rufford Abbey

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Alfreton

Designer Outlet East Midlands

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Nottingham

Robin Hood Statue

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Nottingham

City of Caves

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

Matlock

High Peak Trail

Discover the enchanting blend of history, legend, and natural beauty in Nottinghamshire, the heartland of Robin Hood and the gateway to England's rich cultural heritage.

When is the best time to go to Nottinghamshire?

Weather at a glance

Use the monthly temperature and precipitation trends to compare typical conditions across the year before planning countryside walks, town visits, and heritage days.

Temperature

°C

Precipitation

mm
Warmest monthsJun–Aug
Longest daylightJun–Jul
Driest periodJan–Apr, Oct

Explore places in Nottinghamshire

    See all →

    Iconic landmarks you can't miss

    Classic Nottinghamshire sights that mirror the landmark pins above, with a little more context before users explore further.

    Unmissable attractions to see

    These cards mirror the attraction list in the map, while adding enough context to help users prioritise.

    Designer Outlet East Midlands

    Shop top designer brands for up to 60% off year-round at East Midlands Designer Outlet, a vibrant, family-friendly retail and dining destination.

    Designer Outlet East Midlands

    Victoria Centre

    Victoria Centre is Nottingham’s vibrant shopping and dining hub with over 120 stores and a lively Clocktower dining experience under one roof.

    Victoria Centre

    Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park

    Explore Nottingham’s stunning Elizabethan Wollaton Hall, set in 500 acres of deer park with museums, gardens, and family-friendly events.

    Wollaton Hall, Gardens and Deer Park

    Giltbrook Shopping Park

    A practical, family-friendly retail park on the edge of Nottingham with IKEA, high-street brands, dining options and plenty of parking.

    Giltbrook Shopping Park

    Rufford Abbey

    Explore medieval ruins, scenic gardens, and family adventures at Nottinghamshire’s historic Rufford Abbey Country Park.

    Rufford Abbey

    Nottingham Castle

    Discover Nottingham Castle’s rich history, art galleries, and underground caves atop a historic hilltop fortress with stunning city views.

    Nottingham Castle

    Arboretum

    Explore Nottingham’s oldest public park, a Victorian botanical gem with over 800 trees, serene lakes, and a touch of literary magic.

    Arboretum

    Idlewells Shopping Centre

    A vibrant indoor shopping and market centre in Sutton-in-Ashfield with over 45 retailers and a lively traditional market under a stunning glass roof.

    Idlewells Shopping Centre

    City of Caves

    Explore Nottingham’s vast underground network of historic sandstone caves, where centuries of hidden stories await discovery beneath the city streets.

    City of Caves

    Essential places to dine

    The dining ideas below match the food pins above, making the map and editorial recommendations work together.

    Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

    Each shopping card aligns with a mapped browsing area, from major retail streets to market-led detours.

    File:Clock Tower - Palace of Westminster, London - September 2006-2.jpg -  Wikipedia
    Destination guide

    More about United Kingdom

    Discover the United Kingdom: A blend of rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offering a unique travel experience for every visitor.

    Tell me more about United Kingdom
    Mobile App
    Get the app

    Your all‑in‑one travel companion app

    Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.

    Explore Nottinghamshire in Photos

    A quick visual route through countryside views, towns, gardens, and regional day-trip atmosphere.

    File:Oldest tree in Sherwood Forest park.JPG - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Nottingham Castle on its promontary.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Major Oak (9494).jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Wollaton Hall Nov2010.jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Newstead Abbey Japanese Garden - 1 (geograph 4263920).jpg - Wikimedia  Commons
    File:Lake at Clumber Park - panoramio.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Southwell Minster Exterior, Nottinghamshire, UK - Diliff.jpg -  Wikimedia Commons
    File:Rufford Abbey (1).jpg - Wikipedia
    File:Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem 2005.jpg - Wikimedia Commons
    File:Southwell Workhouse.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

    Planning another trip?

    Continue exploring nearby country regions around Nottinghamshire, from connected city edges to neighbouring counties, coastlines, and countryside escapes.

    Select Currency

    Choose the currency you want prices to display in.