Located in the heart of England, Nottingham is one of the UK’s most popular cities, with two universities, history aplenty, attractions, lively city centre and entertainment venues. Usually associated with the infamous Robin Hood, Nottingham has so much more to the city than meets the eye. Check out our favourite things to do in Nottingham below, and get booking that perfect city break today with Park Plaza Nottingham.
Nottingham Castle
Overlooking the city from Castle Rock, Nottingham Castle has recently reopened after a £30 million restoration. Dating back from 1068, the castle has a rich and colourful history that can all be explored through the galleries, exhibitions, underground caves and guided tours. This is something not to be missed during your visit to the city!
Credit:Nottingham Castle Org
Explore the City of Caves
Deep below the city, is a whole other city – a city of caves. Steeped in history, these are the UK largest network of caves, with over 800 connecting spaces used to house and protect the people of the city and act as World War II air raid shelters, amongst other uses. The City of Caves is truly breathtaking, and well worth a visit.
Credit: Visit Nottinghamshire:
The Lace Market
One of the oldest areas of the city, The Lace Market was once the city’s industrial centre, producing intricate lace to be sold internationally, putting Nottingham on the map for fashion! Now, The Lace Market is one of the coolest, independent spots in the city, with a mixture of independent shops, boutiques, studios and a bustling cafe and bar culture.
Credit: Lucy Beth Photography & Creative Quarter
Explore the beauty of The Arboretum
Nottingham’s oldest public park is an award-winning Green Flag park, home to an incredible collection of trees, some of which date back to the 19th century. Perfect for somewhere to admire the natural surroundings, wildlife and plants, The Arboretum is a great escape to unwind from the bustle of the city, with regular events, a cafe and walking trails.
Credit: Visit Nottinghamshire
Wollaton Hall & Park
A stunning Tudor house, located just a 20 minute drive from Park Plaza Nottingham, Wollaton Hall and Park is home to the county’s Natural History Museum, as well as stunning lakes, formal gardens, parkland and its very own wild deer. It makes for a great day out, and offers something for everyone.
Credit: Wollaton Hall Org
Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery
Free to enter, the Nottingham Contemporary Art Gallery hosts up to five exhibitions a year, amongst other events such as family workshops, film screenings and talks. With exciting international art, an onsite cafe and shop, this is a great place to take in a bit of culture and discover a different side to the city.
Credit: Wollaton Hall Org
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
A must for anyone coming to Nottingham for the first time, Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem is believed to be the oldest public house in England. Brimming full of character and charm, this pub is a great spot to have a drink and is set within Nottingham Castle’s sandstone crag. Make sure you get chatting to the locals in there to discover the tales surrounding this historical pub!
Credit: Visit Nottinghamshire
Newstead Abbey & Park
Just ten miles north of Nottingham, Newstead Abbey is the ancestral home of poet Lord Byron. Set amongst 300 acres, the Gothic abbey adjoins a Tudor-style house where Lord Byron lived. House and garden tours are available, and you can also explore the surrounding parkland with trails, lakes, ponds, waterfalls and wildlife including peacocks.
Credits: Newsteadabbey org
