Heralded as the ‘Queen of the Midlands’ and famous for the globally renowned legend of Robin Hood, England’s central city is a thriving cosmopolitan hub brimming with all manner of things to see and do. Steeped in history and saturated in culture, Nottingham boasts some of the best museums, galleries and theaters in the Midlands. Suitable for couples and families of all ages, splurge-worthy shopping and satisfying eateries are also in good supply. For those in pursuit of folklore, the legendary Sherwood Forest lies just north of the city.
Things to see
Perched high on Castle Rock with regal views of the city, Nottingham Castle is layered with an intriguing history. The museum within hosts exhibitions detailing the castle’s past, while six acres of Victorian gardens make for the perfect picnic spot. If history is your vice, then the Galleries of Justice calls for your verdict too. Located in the Lace Market district, the museum of crime and punishment makes for a delightfully grim time. With its blend of old and new architecture, the centrally located Old Market Square is the spirited soul of Nottingham. The vast plaza is a hotspot for regular local events, fairs, markets and performances. For entertainment on a grander scale, look to the Capital FM Arena. East of the city center, the arena hosts sporting events and musical stars. If theatre, musicals and concerts are more your thing, then catch a showing at the glass-encased Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall.
Hotels in Nottingham
There are hotels in Nottingham to suit every city breaker’s budget. For those looking for something extra special, luxury laden options come in the form of swanky boutique style accommodation and large independently run establishments; some of which include meeting and conference rooms. The city’s mid-range hotels are well located and reasonably priced, many being decked out with all the mod cons and amenities you might expect. Comfortable budget hotels in Nottingham can also be found in and around the city center, meaning that you won’t have to miss out on the city buzz, should you decide to pay less.
Where to stay
A hotel in Nottingham’s compact city center places you within easy reach of the main attractions, shopping, restaurants and entertainment. With many of its historic streets pedestrianized, you’ll also be able to get around by foot. For attractions further afield, the city’s highly praised public transport system makes travel in Nottingham especially easy. Shopping hubs include the Victoria Centre and the many streets branching out from the Old Market Square, while a trip to Hockley’s bohemian shopping haven is a great place to snare a unique bargain. Quality bars and restaurants are plentiful throughout the center, conveniently located for refuel-stops during an energetic day of site seeing.
How to get to
Southwest of Nottingham, East Midlands Airport is the main gateway into the Midlands for most European visitors. The Skylink bus runs between the airport and Nottingham city center every half an hour with an average journey time of 30 to 40 minutes. For those from further afield, train links from Birmingham International Airport’s station to Nottingham Station take just shy of two hours and run frequently. Nottingham Station is especially well-connected for those travelling by train from within the UK. The city is easy to reach by car, and cheaper to reach by coach. Broadmarsh Bus Station will be your city center stop.
