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7 Attractions of Nottingham the City of Robin Hood ...

Lauren

If you ever find yourself in the East Midlands, you might want to check out some of the attractions of Nottingham. You might not have heard much about the city but it is a popular tourist destination, and is in fact the 6th most visited city in the UK. You will of course know it as the home of the legend of Robin Hood, but there are plenty more attractions of Nottingham besides the outlaws of Sherwood Forest.

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1. Nottingham Castle

Nottingham Castle Sadly, the magnificent medieval castle that features so prominently in the tales of Robin Hood no longer stands, but in its place is a ducal mansion – still called Nottingham Castle. The 17th century building is one of the major attractions of Nottingham and is home to the City’s Museum and Art Gallery. It stands on Castle Rock overlooking the city and as well as an extensive collection of art and artifacts, visitors can also learn about the original castle that was built by William the Conqueror.

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The Ducal Mansion, which remains a formidable structure, encapsulates a crucial part of Nottingham's history. Visitors can immerse themselves in tales of yore with the Robin Hood legend deeply woven into the fabric of the city. The museum showcases a diverse range of collections, from fine art to historical relics, and educates about the significance of the site. The panoramic views from Castle Rock are unrivaled, offering a visual narrative to the city’s evolution from its medieval roots to the vibrant urban landscape of today.

2. Nottingham Castle Caves

Nottingham Castle Caves One of the most intriguing attractions of Nottingham are the Castle Caves. It’s just incongruous that a major city has such a network of caves under its busy streets. You need to be fairly fit to explore the labyrinthine caverns, some of which date back to the medieval times of the castle above, and to hear the various stories stretching through hundreds of years, including that of Mortimer’s Hole.

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With its honeycombed structure deep beneath the urban streetscape, the Castle Caves offer a remarkable glimpse into Nottingham's past. These hand-carved tunnels tell tales of industry and storied escapes, including the legendary passage used by King Richard III in the 15th century. As you descend, you can practically hear the whispers of history echoing off the ancient sandstone. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and watch your step – the journey through history is as fascinating as it is physically demanding.

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3. The Lace Market

The Lace Market The history of the wealth of Nottingham is indelibly entwined with lace making. At the height of the British Empire, the city was the heart of the world’s lace making industry. It massively declined with the introduction of industrially manufactured lace and today, the quaint streets and grand buildings of the historical Lace Market have been transformed into a fashionable area for shopping, dining and entertainment. The Lace Market is one of the best places to go in Nottingham for nightlife.

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Once considered the bustling hub of the world's lace production, today's Lace Market has embraced a new identity while preserving its striking Victorian architecture. Visitors can wander through cobbled streets, find themselves in trendy coffee shops, and explore unique boutiques. By evening, the old factories and warehouses come alive, housing chic bars and gourmet restaurants that serve both local and international cuisine. Nottingham's creative past beautifully merges with contemporary culture in this district, making it a must-visit for both history enthusiasts and urban explorers looking for an elegant night out.

4. The Oldest Pub in England

The Oldest Pub in England Although there are various claimants to the title, it is widely accepted that the oldest pub in England is Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. The original drinking establishment purportedly dates back to 1189 and is named for the Knight Crusaders who stopped at the castle on their journey south to join with the armies of King Richard I. The pub building today is reckoned to be 300 years old but it’s still a fun experience to sit under the shade of the castle to enjoy a drink.

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Although there are various claimants to the title, it is widely accepted that the oldest pub in England is Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. The original drinking establishment purportedly dates back to 1189 and is named for the Knight Crusaders who stopped at the castle on their journey south to join with the armies of King Richard I. The pub building today is reckoned to be 300 years old but it’s still a fun experience to sit under the shade of the castle to enjoy a drink. Carved into the rock beneath Nottingham Castle, the pub offers unique nooks and crannies to explore. Whether you’re a history buff or just after a good pint, it’s a must-visit.

5. The Arboretum

The Arboretum The Arboretum is one of the most tranquil parts of the East Midlands City. It is a large green area that, whilst being residential, is also a botanical garden complete with lake. It is a Green Flag park, Grade II Heritage listed and is the green space closest to the city center. With a bell tower bandstand and circular aviary, it is a venue for outdoor activities and events.

6. Robin Hood

Robin Hood Although Nottingham is Robin Hood’s city, the major attractions of the legend are actually only associations. Of course, the leader of the Merry Men never lived in the city but his adventures are chronicled in various ways – the main being a statue outside Nottingham Castle. There are various themed trails and tours but a must is to get outside the city to visit Sherwood Forest. Once there, you’ve got the choice of visiting the various Robin Hood attractions or enjoying the forest itself with lots of outdoor activities at Sherwood Pines.

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While Nottingham holds a special place in the heart of the Robin Hood saga, the real magic happens when you immerse yourself in the enchanting forest where many of his tales unfolded. Beyond Sherwood Forest's green embrace lies the Major Oak, an ancient tree said to have sheltered Robin Hood and his outlaws. This legendary oak is a must-see for its historical significance and sheer grandeur. For those seeking a deeper connection with the lore, special events such as medieval fairs and reenactments can often be found, bringing the spirit of the outlaw to life.

7. Old Market Square

Old Market Square Nottingham’s central square is the oldest surviving open public square in England. From the days when Snottingham residents gathered to trade, eat and be entertained to today, the Old Market Square has anchored life in the city. It has seen much through the ages, including being the site of the massive annual Goose Fair and the Luddite riot that led to the destruction of the original castle. Today it is home to various municipal buildings and the impressive merchant buildings are home to retail establishments, pubs and restaurants.

I love to go to Nottingham for shopping as it is only just over an hour’s drive away from me. I might take some time out to visit some more places the next time I go. Do the attractions of Nottingham appeal to you?

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The Galleries of Justice and Brewhouse Yard Museum are also great Nottingham attractions.