Top 10 Things to do in Nottingham

Things to do in Nottingham

Welcome to Nottingham, a city full of history, culture and entertainment. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are plenty of things to see and do that will leave you captivated. From exploring underground caves to enjoying the serene beauty of parks, Nottingham has something for everyone.

1. The Arboretum

The Arboretum is a beautiful park located in the heart of Nottingham. With over 800 trees and various flower beds, it’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park has been around since 1852 when it was officially opened to the public, making it one of the oldest parks in England.

There are plenty of things to do at The Arboretum, from taking a stroll through its winding paths to enjoying a picnic on its lush green lawns. If you’re into sports, there are also facilities for basketball, football and tennis available.

Moreover, The Arboretum hosts many events throughout the year like music festivals and open-air theatre performances that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages. When visiting this place during autumn or springtime, you’ll be amazed by how colorful nature can get as well as seeing squirrels gathering food before winter!

Whether you want some alone time or wish to spend your day outside with family and friends or just love being surrounded by ancient trees while listening birds singing their songs then The Arboretum is an absolute must-visit!

2. National Justice Museum

If you’re interested in Nottingham’s history, the National Justice Museum is a must-visit. The museum is housed in Nottinghamshire’s old courthouse and gaol and provides visitors with an immersive journey through the country’s legal system.

The museum has various exhibitions that showcase how justice was served throughout different periods of time, including Victorian times when hanging was still used as a punishment. You can even step into the dock yourself to experience what it feels like to face trial for your crimes!

One of the most memorable experiences at this museum is its mock trial performances. Visitors can watch actors reenact historic trials such as those of William Penn and Thomas Hardy.

In addition to its fascinating exhibits, the National Justice Museum also offers tours of its eerie underground cells where prisoners were held before they went on trial or served their sentence.

This unique attraction provides an educational and entertaining day out for all ages, especially for those who are fascinated by crime and punishment throughout history.

3. Hockley

Hockley is one of the trendiest neighbourhoods in Nottingham, and a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique shopping and dining experience. Located just north of the city centre, Hockley features an eclectic mix of independent shops, galleries, and cafes.

One of the highlights of Hockley is its vibrant street art scene. Take a stroll down Carlton Street to see colourful murals adorning building walls and alleyways. It’s also home to several vintage clothing stores where you can find unique fashion pieces that are hard to come by elsewhere.

If you’re feeling peckish after all that shopping, there’s no shortage of fantastic eateries in Hockley. From vegan bakeries to artisanal coffee shops and craft beer pubs, there’s something for every taste bud on offer here.

Don’t forget to visit Cobden Chambers while you’re in Hockley – it’s an atmospheric Victorian courtyard that has been transformed into a hub for independent businesses selling everything from handmade jewellery to rare vinyl records.

If you want to experience some authentic Nottingham culture with a hipster twist then make sure not miss out on visiting Hockley during your time here!

4. City of Caves

Located in the heart of Nottingham, the City of Caves is a unique attraction that offers visitors an opportunity to explore underground caves and learn about their historical significance. These man-made caves were carved into sandstone and limestone over hundreds of years for various purposes such as shelter during World War II, beer cellars, tanneries, and even air raid shelters.

Visitors can take a guided tour through the maze-like system of tunnels that spread underneath the city streets. The tour takes you down steep steps into dimly lit chambers where you will see exhibits showcasing how people lived and worked in these ancient dwellings.

One notable feature of this attraction is its ability to transport visitors back in time. The damp walls, narrow passages, and eerie silence create an atmosphere that makes it easy to imagine what life was like for those who lived here centuries ago.

The guides are knowledgeable about each cave’s history and provide interesting facts about how they were used throughout different periods. Visitors can also enjoy interactive displays featuring old photographs, maps, artifacts from previous eras providing an insightful glimpse into Nottingham’s past.

Visiting the City of Caves is a fascinating experience worth exploring while in Nottingham – one which offers both entertainment and educational value.

5. Old Market Square

Old Market Square is a hub of activity in Nottingham, offering plenty of things to see and do. It’s the largest public space in the city and has been at the heart of Nottingham for over 1,000 years.

The square features historic architecture mixed with modern amenities such as cafes, bars, shops, and restaurants. There are also regular events held here including markets, festivals and concerts. During Christmas time it’s home to an outdoor ice rink.

One of the most impressive landmarks located within Old Market Square is The Council House which serves as the city’s town hall. This grand building boasts a clock tower that stands at just under 200ft tall.

Another notable landmark found here is The Brian Clough Statue – celebrating one of football’s greatest managers who led two different teams from Nottingham (Nottingham Forest & Notts County) to incredible success during his career.

Old Market Square can be considered both an important historical site and a lively social hub where visitors can soak up some local culture while enjoying its vibrant atmosphere.

6. Castle Quarter

Castle Quarter is one of Nottingham’s most iconic destinations. As its name suggests, it is home to the city’s historic castle, which was built in the 11th century and has stood proudly ever since.

But there’s more to Castle Quarter than just its castle. The area is also home to a plethora of trendy bars, restaurants and shops that are popular with both locals and tourists alike.

One must-visit spot in Castle Quarter is Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem – said to be England’s oldest pub. Dating back to 1189 AD, this pub boasts an impressive selection of beers and ciders, as well as a cozy atmosphere that oozes history.

Another highlight of Castle Quarter is St. Mary’s Church – a stunning medieval church that dates back almost a thousand years. Visitors can explore its beautiful stained glass windows and intricate carvings before heading outside to take in views of the castle from afar.

If you’re looking for a dose of history mixed with modern-day charm, then Castle Quarter should definitely be on your list of things to do in Nottingham!

7. Highfields Park

Highfields Park is a beautiful and picturesque park located in the heart of Nottingham. It covers over 120 acres of land, making it one of the largest parks in the city. The park has been around since 1923 and was opened by Sir Jesse Boot, who donated the land to Nottingham City Council.

The main attraction at Highfields Park is its large lake, which is home to an array of wildlife including ducks, swans and geese. Visitors can take a stroll around the lake or even hire a rowing boat for a more immersive experience.

If you’re looking for something more active to do at Highfields Park, then there are plenty of options available. There’s a children’s play area with swings and slides as well as tennis courts and a basketball court for older visitors.

For those who prefer something more relaxing, there are plenty of benches dotted around the park where you can sit back and enjoy some peace and quiet while taking in the stunning views surrounding you.

Highfields Park is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for somewhere peaceful yet full of life. Its vast expanse offers something for everyone – whether it be taking part in sports activities or simply enjoying nature at its finest!

8. The Adrenalin Jungle

The Adrenalin Jungle is the perfect place to get your heart racing and adrenaline pumping. Set in 150 acres of Sherwood Forest, this outdoor activity centre offers a range of exciting activities for all ages.

One of the most popular activities at The Adrenalin Jungle is paintballing. With several different game zones, you can take part in a variety of scenarios and test your tactical skills against friends or family members. Alternatively, if you prefer something a little less aggressive, why not try archery or laser tag?

For those who are true thrill-seekers, The Adrenalin Jungle also offers high ropes courses and zip lines. Whether you’re climbing through trees or flying through the air on a zip line over water pits, these courses will definitely get your blood pumping.

If you’re looking for something more unique, The Adrenalin Jungle also has quad biking and off-road karting available. Take on challenging terrain as you navigate your way around the course with speed and precision.

The Adrenaline Jungle is an excellent choice for anyone looking for an adventurous day out in Nottinghamshire. With so many activities to choose from, there’s bound to be something that will suit everyone’s tastes!

9. St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is one of the most beautiful and historic landmarks in Nottingham. Located in the heart of the city, this church has been a vital part of Nottingham since medieval times.

The church dates back to the 14th century, and it features outstanding architectural styles that perfectly blend Gothic and Romanesque elements. The intricate details, stonework, stained-glass windows, and stunning ceiling carvings are all worth seeing.

One of St. Mary’s Church’s main attractions is its famous bell tower, which boasts fantastic views across the entire city from its topmost point. Visitors can climb up to see breath-taking panoramic views while enjoying a unique experience at the same time.

Moreover, St. Mary’s Church also provides guided tours for visitors who want to learn more about its rich history and architecture with knowledgeable guides offering interesting insights into each aspect of this iconic landmark.

10. The City Ground

To cap off your trip, a visit to The City Ground is a must-do. This iconic football stadium is home to Nottingham Forest F.C., two-time winners of the European Cup. Even if you’re not a die-hard fan, taking a tour of the stadium or catching a match can be an unforgettable experience.

And there you have it, the top 10 things to do in Nottingham! From exploring caves and castles to enjoying nature and adrenaline-inducing activities, this city truly has something for everyone. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Nottingham today and get ready for some serious fun!