Forget what you think you know about England. We are not in London anymore, folks. Nottingham is a city where history is not just in books.
It is woven into the ancient streets and whispered in the shadows of its legendary caves. This is the home of Robin Hood, a place of rebellion and rich stories.
Get ready to dive into a destination that packs a serious punch. From exploring a castle built on a labyrinth of man-made tunnels to getting lost in a gallery of incredible art, your itinerary is about to be stacked.
We have hunted down the absolute best things to do in Nottingham. This guide is your golden ticket to an unforgettable adventure. Let’s get into it!
1. Nottingham Castle – Best Overall & For History Buffs
Your first stop for any Nottingham trip simply has to be the Castle. Perched high on a cliff, this iconic landmark is your gateway to the city’s epic past. But here is the inside scoop.
The castle you see today is not the medieval fortress Robin Hood would have known. It is a magnificent 17th-century ducal mansion, rebuilt after the original was destroyed.
The recent multi-million pound transformation is a total game-changer. Inside, you will find interactive galleries that tell the real story of the legendary outlaw. You can also explore the Rebellion Gallery, which dives into the city’s history of protest.
The art collections are seriously impressive. Do not even think about leaving without descending into the mysterious Mortimer’s Hole. This tunnel leads deep into the rock.
It is a direct connection to the city’s underground world. The views from the grounds across Nottingham are worth the trip alone. This is the best thing to do in Nottingham to get a full feel for its soul.
2. City of Caves – Best For a Unique Underground Adventure
Ready to discover a secret city beneath the city? The City of Caves is one of the coolest and most unique things to do in Nottingham. This network of over 500 hand-carved sandstone caves is a hidden world.
You access it from the lower level of the Broadmarsh Shopping Centre, which feels like stepping into a different universe. Your guided tour will take you through centuries of history.
You will see everything from a medieval tannery to an air raid shelter used during World War II. You can even stand in a cave that was once a pub cellar. The atmosphere down there is wild. It is damp, cool, and filled with stories.
You’ll quickly understand why these caves made Nottingham a powerhouse for leatherworking and brewing. This is a hands-on history lesson you cannot get anywhere else. Do not miss this underground adventure.
3. Wollaton Hall and Park – Best For Families & Nature Lovers
If you need a break from the city bustle, Wollaton Hall is your spot. This jaw-dropping Elizabethan mansion looks like a real-life Batman’s Wayne Manor. It is set within 500 acres of gorgeous deer park.
The best part? It is completely free to enter the park and gardens. You can spend a whole afternoon here just wandering. The hall itself is now the Nottingham Natural History Museum.
Inside, you will find spectacular collections of fossils, minerals, and animals from around the globe. The centerpiece is the towering skeleton of a giant giraffe. Kids absolutely love it. Outside, keep your eyes peeled for the herd of majestic red and fallow deer that roam freely.
You can also explore the beautiful botanical gardens and a serene lake. For a fantastic day out that does not break the bank, this is a top contender.
4. The Lace Market – Best For Architecture & Shopping
Take a stroll through the Lace Market and feel the vibe of Nottingham’s industrial glory days. This historic area was the global epicenter of the lace industry during the Victorian era.
The streets are lined with stunning red-brick and cast-iron warehouses. Many of these beautiful buildings have been transformed into chic bars, restaurants, and independent shops.
The architecture here is seriously next-level. It is a photographer’s dream. You can also pop into the Lace Market Museum to get the full story on how this delicate fabric built a city. Today, the area is a hub for creativity.
You will find unique boutiques and designer stores that are perfect for picking up a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Exploring the Lace Market is one of the best activities for anyone who loves style and history.
5. Old Market Square – Best For People-Watching & City Vibes
You have not really been to Nottingham until you have hung out in the Old Market Square. This is one of the largest public squares in the entire UK. It is the true heart of the city.
Surrounded by impressive buildings like the Council House, it is always buzzing with energy. There is a fantastic series of fountains and water features that kids love to run through on a warm day.
Throughout the year, the square hosts everything from food festivals and concerts to a huge winter ice rink and Christmas market. Grab a coffee, find a spot on the steps, and just watch the world go by.
It is the perfect place to get a feel for the local rhythm. It is also a great central point to start your exploration of the city’s shopping streets.
6. Nottingham Contemporary – Best For Art Lovers
Even if you are not a huge modern art fan, the Nottingham Contemporary is a must-see. The building itself is a work of art, with its striking lace-patterned exterior.
This world-class gallery hosts a constantly changing roster of exhibitions. They feature big-name international artists and exciting new talent. The best part? Admission is free, making it a perfect budget-friendly activity.
The shows are always thought-provoking and visually stunning. The gallery also has a fantastic shop for unique gifts and a great cafe with outdoor seating.
Checking out the Nottingham Contemporary is one of the top things to do in Nottingham for a dose of cutting-edge culture. It proves that the city’s creative spirit is alive and well.
7. Sherwood Forest Country Park – Best For Robin Hood Fans
Channel your inner outlaw with a pilgrimage to the legendary Sherwood Forest. Just a 30-mile drive north of the city, this ancient woodland is the stuff of myth.
This is where Robin Hood and his Merry Men supposedly hid from the Sheriff of Nottingham. The park is a beautiful nature reserve spanning 450 acres. The star of the show is the Major Oak.
This gigantic tree is estimated to be over 1,000 years old. Local folklore says it was Robin Hood’s secret hideout. Walking among the ancient oaks feels like stepping back in time.
There are plenty of walking and biking trails to explore. The visitor center does a great job of telling the Robin Hood story. For a classic, bucket-list Nottingham experience, this is absolutely it.
8. National Justice Museum – Best For a Gripping Historical Experience
Get ready for a riveting and sometimes chilling look at the history of crime and punishment. Housed in the city’s former Shire Hall and County Gaol, the National Justice Museum is an unforgettable stop.
You will walk through real courtrooms and prison cells. Costumed actors bring the past to life with incredible storytelling. You might meet a judge, a prisoner, or a Victorian policeman.
You can even take part in a mock trial. It is both educational and wildly entertaining. The museum holds over 1,000 years of legal history within its walls. This is not a dry, boring museum.
It is an immersive experience that will have you hooked from the start. It is easily one of the most engaging Nottingham attractions for adults and older kids.
9. Arboretum – Best For a Peaceful Stroll
Need a quiet moment? The Nottingham Arboretum is the city’s oldest public park. It is a beautiful, tranquil green space right in the city center.
This Victorian garden is home to over 800 trees and a lovely collection of wildlife. It is the perfect place for a leisurely walk, a picnic, or just sitting on a bench with a good book.
The park features a pretty boating lake, ornamental gardens, and a Chinese bell tower.
Throughout the year, it hosts fun events and food fairs. For a free and relaxing escape without leaving the city, the Arboretum is a little slice of heaven. It is a favorite among locals for a reason.
10. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem – Best For a Historic Pub Experience
Step into a piece of living history at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. This incredible pub claims to be the oldest inn in England, dating back to 1189. It is built right into the cliff face beneath Nottingham Castle.
The atmosphere is absolutely dripping with character. You can sit in caves carved from the sandstone rock and feel the weight of centuries.
The pub serves a great selection of local ales and tasty pub grub. There are plenty of vegan and meat-loving options on the menu. Even if you just pop in for a soda, the experience is worth it.
The quirky rooms and ancient artifacts make you feel like you are drinking in a museum. It is a legendary stop on any Nottingham tour.
11. Green’s Windmill and Science Centre – Best For a Quirky, Educational Outing
For a truly unique and family-friendly activity, head to Green’s Windmill. This isn’t just a pretty picture. It’s a fully restored 19th-century tower mill that still grinds flour using wind power.
The mill was owned by famous mathematician George Green. The attached science center brings his genius to life with fun, hands-on experiments about electricity and magnetism.
You can see the massive gears turning and even buy some of the freshly milled flour. The views from the top are fantastic. It is a wonderful, low-key attraction that combines history, science, and practical craft. It is a hidden gem that offers a different perspective on the city’s industrial heritage.
12. Nottingham Canal – Best For a Leisurely Walk or Boat Trip
Discover Nottingham from a different angle by exploring its historic canal network. The canal walks offer a peaceful and picturesque route through the city.
You can start in the city center and follow the towpath. You will pass by colorful narrowboats, old industrial buildings, and green spaces. For a real treat, book a trip with a local boat tour company.
A guided cruise gives you a relaxing and informative tour. You will learn about the canal’s importance to the city’s trade. It is a serene way to see Nottingham without the crowds. Whether you walk or float, exploring the canal is a delightful way to spend an afternoon.
Conclusion
As you can see, Nottingham is way more than just a single legend. It is a city of layers, from its underground caves to its hilltop castle and its creative, modern heart.
The best things to do in Nottingham mix unforgettable history with vibrant, present-day culture.
Your incredible trip is waiting. So, what are you waiting for? Book your tickets, pack your walking shoes, and get ready to create your own legendary stories in this amazing city. Nottingham is ready for you.