City of Caves, Nottingham: A Journey Beneath the Streets
Explore Nottingham’s vast underground network of historic sandstone caves, where centuries of hidden stories await discovery beneath the city streets.
Discover Nottingham’s City of Caves, a fascinating underground network of over 800 sandstone caves carved beneath the city centre. These caves reveal centuries of history, from medieval tanneries and wartime air raid shelters to ancient dwellings. Guided tours bring to life the stories of those who lived and worked underground, offering a unique glimpse into the city’s hidden past in a cool, atmospheric setting.
A brief summary to City of Caves
- Garner's Hill, Nottingham, NG1 1HF, GB
- +441159881955
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 1.5 hours
- Mid ranged
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book your tickets online in advance to guarantee your spot, especially on weekends and during school holidays.
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes due to uneven floors and low ceilings inside the caves.
- Bring a light jacket as the caves maintain a cool temperature year-round.
- The attraction is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs due to stairs and confined spaces.
- Allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour for the guided tour and additional time for self-exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
Take the Nottingham tram to the Lace Market stop, then walk approximately 5 minutes down Garner’s Hill steps to the City of Caves entrance. Tram services run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around £2-£3.
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Train and Walk
From Nottingham Train Station, it’s a 10-15 minute walk to the City of Caves. The route is urban and involves some stairs near the entrance, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Taxis are also available at the station.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve Nottingham city centre with stops within walking distance of the caves. Buses run regularly, and a single ticket typically costs £2-£3. Plan for a 15-20 minute journey from outer areas.
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Car and Park & Ride
There is no onsite parking. Visitors can use Nottingham’s park and ride facilities located on the city outskirts and then take public transport or walk into the city centre. Parking fees vary by site, generally £3-£5 per day.
City of Caves location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about City of Caves
Unveiling Nottingham’s Subterranean Heritage
Beneath Nottingham’s bustling streets lies an extraordinary labyrinth of sandstone caves, carved and expanded over centuries. The City of Caves showcases the largest publicly accessible section of this vast underground network, with over 800 caves documented beneath the city. These caves have served diverse purposes throughout history, from medieval homes and workshops to storage spaces and wartime refuges. Their origins trace back to the Dark Ages, with evidence of habitation and use continuing until the mid-19th century.Living and Working Underground Through the Ages
Visitors explore caves that once housed medieval tanneries, where leather was processed in dim, damp conditions. The caves also reveal remnants of wells and storage pits, highlighting their role in daily life. During World War II, parts of the caves were transformed into air raid shelters, providing refuge from bombing raids. This layered history is brought vividly to life by knowledgeable guides and immersive actor-led performances, which recreate the atmosphere and stories of past inhabitants.The Visitor Experience: Guided Tours and Interactive Exploration
Access to the City of Caves is exclusively by guided tours, lasting around 45 minutes to an hour. Tours are designed to be engaging for adults and children alike, with interactive elements such as characters portraying historical figures. After the guided portion, visitors can explore some areas at their own pace, examining displays and absorbing the unique ambiance. The caves maintain a cool, consistent temperature year-round, making visits comfortable even on hot days. Due to uneven floors and low ceilings in places, sensible footwear is recommended, and the site is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs.Location and Accessibility in the Heart of Nottingham
The entrance to the City of Caves is located at the bottom of Garner’s Hill steps, adjacent to Nottingham Contemporary art gallery. This central location places the caves within easy reach of Nottingham’s city centre amenities. While there is no onsite parking, multiple park and ride options and public transport links, including buses, trams, and a short walk from Nottingham Train Station, facilitate convenient access. Visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance, especially during weekends and school holidays, to secure preferred tour times.Preserving a Unique Underground Landmark
Managed by the National Justice Museum, the City of Caves is a protected heritage site that offers a rare window into Nottingham’s subterranean past. Efforts to maintain the caves ensure they remain a sustainable and educational attraction, balancing visitor access with conservation. The site’s combination of historical significance, atmospheric setting, and engaging storytelling makes it a unique cultural landmark in the UK.Planning Your Visit and Practical Information
Open daily from 10am to 5pm, with the last tour starting before 4:10pm, the City of Caves offers an accessible and affordable cultural experience. Adult tickets typically cost around £8.75, with concessions available for children, seniors, and families. Visitors should prepare for a tour involving stairs and uneven terrain and bring comfortable shoes and a light jacket for the cool cave environment. The attraction’s immersive tours and rich history provide a memorable adventure beneath Nottingham’s streets.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Weekday Cross Monument
0.1 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s medieval market life, commemorating centuries of trade and community gatherings in the Lace Market district.
Citylife UK
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham with Citylife UK, your trusted travel agency for personalized experiences and local insights.
The Tokenhouse
0.2 km
Explore The Tokenhouse in Nottingham for unique gifts and heartfelt treasures that capture the essence of the city.
St Peter's Church, Nottingham
0.3 km
A medieval sanctuary and historic gem in Nottingham’s city centre, blending centuries of architecture and community spirit.
16 Stoney Street
0.3 km
Discover 16 Stoney Street, a preserved Victorian lace warehouse in Nottingham’s historic Lace Market, echoing the city’s rich industrial heritage.
The Hockley Arts Club
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant cocktail culture at The Hockley Arts Club, where artistry meets exceptional mixology in a stylish bar setting.
St Nic's Church
0.3 km
Medieval survivor rebuilt from Civil War ashes, standing as Nottingham's testament to faith and resilience.
Right Lion
0.4 km
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
0.4 km
Meet Nottingham’s iconic Left Lion, a historic stone sentinel and beloved city landmark at the heart of Old Market Square.
Watson Fothergill's Office
0.4 km
Explore the vibrant Gothic Revival office of Watson Fothergill, Nottingham’s iconic Victorian architect, showcasing intricate brickwork and historic homage.
Speakers' Corner
0.5 km
Nottingham’s vibrant Speakers' Corner offers a historic platform for free speech, lively debates, and community connection in the heart of the city.
Bunkers Hill
0.5 km
Discover Bunkers Hill, Nottingham's lively pub and restaurant, offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Statue of Captain Albert Ball
0.5 km
A striking bronze tribute in Nottingham Castle Gardens honoring WWI flying ace Captain Albert Ball’s valor and legacy.
King's Walk sign
0.6 km
A pedestrianised passage where Georgian elegance meets contemporary commerce in Nottingham's historic heart.
King Charles I Standard Hill Monument
0.7 km
Historic site where King Charles I raised his standard in 1642, igniting the English Civil War and shaping Nottingham’s rich heritage.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nottingham Contemporary
0.0 km
Explore cutting-edge contemporary art in Nottingham’s iconic sandstone gallery with free exhibitions, lively events, and a vibrant café.
National Justice Museum
0.1 km
Explore five centuries of crime, punishment, and justice in Nottingham's authentic Georgian gaol and Victorian courtroom.
St Mary’s Church Nottingham
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham’s grand medieval parish church, rich in Gothic architecture, historic tombs, and stained glass celebrating centuries of faith and community.
Lace Market
0.2 km
Explore Nottingham’s oldest district, the Lace Market, where industrial heritage meets vibrant creativity in a historic lace-making hub.
The Lacehouse
0.2 km
Experience the vibrant heart of Nottingham at The Lacehouse, where cocktails, brunch, and live music come together in a unique setting.
Lace Market Square
0.3 km
Historic heart of Nottingham’s lace industry, blending Victorian charm with vibrant cultural life and creative energy.
Flying Horse Walk
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s elegant boutique arcade blending historic charm with artisanal shops and cozy cafes in a tranquil city-centre setting.
Inspired
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s historic boutique arcade blending timeless charm, independent shops, and elegant Georgian architecture in the city’s vibrant heart.
Nottingham City Council
0.3 km
Central Nottingham’s modern civic heart, housing the City Council and vital public services in a contemporary landmark opposite the railway station.
Hopkinson
0.3 km
A quirky blend of antiques, vintage treasures, and artisan café culture near Nottingham train station.
The Exchange (Exchange Arcade)
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s oldest shopping arcade with exclusive boutiques beneath a stunning 200ft glass dome in the city centre.
Nottingham Council House
0.4 km
Historic Edwardian elegance in Nottingham's heart—where nine versatile rooms create unforgettable celebrations.
Nottingham Tourism Centre
0.4 km
Your welcoming gateway to Nottingham’s attractions, events, and local insights in the heart of the city.
Old Market Square
0.4 km
Discover the bustling heart of Nottingham at Old Market Square, a historical landmark rich in culture, events, and captivating architecture.
Old Mkt Sq
0.4 km
Nottingham’s historic Old Market Square: a vibrant civic heart blending medieval roots with modern urban life and lively events.
Essential places to dine
Pizzamisú
0.1 km
Experience authentic Neapolitan pizza and Italian charm in Nottingham’s historic High Pavement at Pizzamisú.
Iberico World Tapas
0.1 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in Nottingham’s historic Shire Hall with refined flavors and a warm, intimate atmosphere.
Piccolino Nottingham
0.1 km
Elegant Italian dining with classic flavors, a vibrant cocktail bar, and alfresco terrace in Nottingham’s city centre.
Everyday People
0.2 km
MasterChef-inspired ramen with rich broths and creative fusion dishes in Nottingham’s stylish Byard Lane eatery.
baresca
0.2 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas and vibrant atmosphere in Nottingham’s lively Baresca, where Catalan flavours meet rustic charm.
The Pelican Club
0.2 km
Experience authentic Umbrian Italian cuisine, live jazz, and crafted cocktails in Nottingham’s elegant and intimate Pelican Club.
Annie's Burger Shack
0.3 km
Vibrant American diner in Nottingham’s Lace Market, serving over 30 creative burgers with vegan options and craft beers in a lively, casual setting.
ViDa by Lorentes
0.3 km
Experience authentic Spanish tapas in a cozy Lace Market basement with creative dishes, warm hospitality, and a rustic atmosphere.
Cosy Club
0.3 km
Historic charm meets eclectic British dining and vibrant bar culture in the heart of Nottingham city centre.
Bistro Live Nottingham
0.3 km
Experience vibrant nightlife, delicious dining, and unforgettable celebrations all under one roof at Bistro Live Nottingham.
Dino
0.3 km
Modern dining and lively bar in Nottingham city centre, known for juicy burgers, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Anoki Restaurant Nottingham
0.3 km
Experience refined Indian cuisine in Nottingham’s Gothic House, where tradition meets elegance in every flavorful dish.
Restaurant Bar Gigi
0.3 km
Elegant Italian dining and cocktails in a historic Nottingham setting, perfect for intimate evenings and sharing inspired plates.
Paste Contemporary Thai Cuisine
0.3 km
Experience authentic Thai flavors with a contemporary twist in the heart of Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market.
The Loxley
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's vibrant pub culture at The Loxley – where great food meets friendly faces in a cozy atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Stick & Ribbon
0.1 km
Discover curated women’s fashion with a personal, sustainable touch in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate.
Garms Nottingham
0.2 km
Discover unique vintage streetwear and stylish outerwear at Garms Nottingham, a vibrant boutique nestled in the historic heart of Bridlesmith Gate.
Relic x Hooked Nottingham
0.2 km
Discover eclectic vintage fashion and unique style treasures in Nottingham’s edgy and vibrant Relic x Hooked store.
18montrose
0.2 km
Discover premium streetwear and designer fashion at 18montrose, nestled in Nottingham’s historic Bridlesmith Gate shopping district.
White Stuff Nottingham
0.2 km
A cheerful, independent-feel clothing store on Nottingham’s main shopping street, offering relaxed British style for women, men and children.
Debbie Bryan | Nottingham Lace Market
0.2 km
Discover Nottingham’s heritage through artisan crafts, exquisite lace, and delightful tearoom treats in the heart of the Lace Market.
Mood Outfitters
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham's boldest independent fashion at Mood Outfitters, where local designers craft unique, wearable art in the heart of Hockley's creative scene.
Vivienne Westwood
0.3 km
Discover bold British fashion and iconic accessories at Vivienne Westwood’s Nottingham boutique in historic Flying Horse Walk.
Lulu Brandy Vintage
0.3 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion at Lulu Brandy Vintage, Nottingham’s premier vintage clothing boutique.
Cow
0.3 km
Discover timeless threads in Nottingham's coolest vintage haven—Cow curates retro gems with style and soul on Carlton Street.
Tutu urban boutique
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s stylish independent ladieswear boutique offering unique, high-quality fashion from emerging designers in a charming city centre arcade.
MAISON GB
0.3 km
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.
Void Clothing
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s premier alternative fashion destination blending music culture, unique styles, and local creativity on Carlton Street.
Your Unique Day
0.4 km
Letterbox magic on Goose Gate: bespoke cakes that deliver joy through your mailbox in Nottingham's creative heart.
Bubble Vintage
0.4 km
Discover timeless style and sustainable fashion treasures at Bubble Vintage, Nottingham’s vibrant vintage clothing shop in The Exchange.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Pitcher & Piano Nottingham
0.1 km
Experience vibrant social life in a stunning Gothic church setting with creative cocktails and hearty British classics in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
Brass Monkey
0.1 km
Late‑night Lace Market cocktail bar with a big rum selection, polished service and warm, low‑lit interiors — ideal for cocktails into the small hours.
Billy Bootleggers Nottingham (formerly Percy Picklebackers)
0.1 km
Dive into Nottingham's live music heartbeat at Billy Bootleggers, where nightly gigs, moonshine cocktails, and Lace Market history fuel epic nights until 3am.
The Blind Rabbit
0.1 km
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.
Cock & Hoop
0.1 km
Cozy Lace Market pub pouring local ales and pub favorites in a historic nook, perfect for relaxed escapes amid Nottingham's creative buzz.
Coco Tang -Cocktail Bar
0.1 km
Daytime Asian café and a theatrical underground cocktail bar — two distinct moods under one roof in Nottingham’s Lace Market.
All Bar One Nottingham
0.1 km
Sophisticated wine bar in Nottingham's Weekday Cross, perfect for after-work unwinds, bottomless brunches, and vibrant evenings with global wines and sharing plates.
Pepper Rocks
0.2 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar blending quirky charm, great value drinks, and a vibrant two-floor atmosphere for memorable nights out.
Penny Lane
0.2 km
Step into Nottingham’s Penny Lane for nostalgic arcade fun, creative cocktails, and a lively, family-friendly vibe in the heart of the Lace Market.
Be At One - Nottingham
0.3 km
Discover Nottingham’s vibrant cocktail scene with over 100 expertly crafted drinks and a lively late-night atmosphere at Be At One.
Pit & Pendulum
0.3 km
Descend into Poe-inspired gothic splendor at Nottingham's most haunting pub, where shadowy decor, themed cocktails, and rock anthems craft unforgettable nights.
Canalhouse
0.3 km
Iconic canal-pierced pub blending Grade II heritage, world-class craft beers, and waterside vibes in Nottingham's vibrant core.
Bunk
0.3 km
Crispy wings, killer cocktails, and Lace Market vibes—Bunk delivers Nottingham's boldest bite in a historic street setting.
Six Barrel Drafthouse
0.3 km
Hockley’s friendly craft-beer pub — six rotating taps, large bottle fridge and a relaxed, dog-welcoming atmosphere.
TIER Nottingham
0.3 km
A lively Nottingham cocktail bar with quirky décor, creative drinks, and popular Happy Hours in the heart of the city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Cell
0.2 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsing heart at The Cell, where affordable drinks, diverse beats, and Hockley's electric vibe fuel unforgettable nights of dance and discovery.
Tantra Night Clubs
0.3 km
Dive into Nottingham's electric nightlife at Tantra Night Clubs, where pulsating beats, dazzling lights, and stylish vibes create unforgettable nights of dance and discovery in the city center.
Ocean Nightclub
0.3 km
Unpretentious beats and dazzling lights fuel all-night dances at Nottingham's go-to multi-room nightclub on Greyfriar Gate.
Popworld - Nottingham
0.3 km
A neon-soaked, singalong pop-club in Nottingham city centre — colourful cocktails, nostalgic anthems and compact dancefloor energy.
The Bodega Nottingham
0.3 km
Intimate two-level live-music bar and late-night club on Pelham Street — gritty, affordable and centred on close-up gigs and local sounds.
Eleven
0.4 km
A lively, multi-bar nightclub in Nottingham’s Hockley district, famed for great cocktails, student nights, and an intimate yet energetic party vibe.
ICON
0.5 km
A compact, DJ-driven late-night club on St James’s Street — small footprint, high-energy nights and a tight city-centre atmosphere.
Tunnel Club
0.5 km
Loud. Intimate. Disruptive. Dive into Nottingham's raw underground beats at this city-center nightclub powerhouse.
NG-One
0.5 km
A large, late‑night Nottingham club with multiple dancefloors, strong sound and long weekend hours — built for night owls and student crowds.
VIBES NIGHTLIFE
0.6 km
Dive into Nottingham's pulsating party hub where weekend beats, neon lights, and vibrant crowds fuel epic nights until 2am—pure vibes unleashed.
Unit 13
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's underground bassline haven at Unit 13, where industrial beats and stellar DJs fuel unforgettable warehouse raves.
Love zoo
0.7 km
Dive into Nottingham's electrifying beats at Love Zoo, where house rhythms, dazzling lights, and cocktail-fueled nights create pure nightlife magic on Weekday Cross.
The Brickworks
0.8 km
Nottingham's raw warehouse heartbeat: intimate DJ nights, killer cocktails, and pure underground energy in a brick-clad haven.
Stealth
0.8 km
Nottingham's drum and bass dynamo: world-ranked beats, epic nights, and unrelenting energy since 2004 in the heart of Goldsmith Street.
Rescue Rooms
0.8 km
Nottingham's intimate live music powerhouse: raw gigs, electric crowds, and beats till 3am in a historic nook.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Educational
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
