Discover Nottingham's caves, courts and culture

Nottingham Overview

Nottingham may be most famous as the homeland of Robin Hood prince of thieves but it is also a cultural hub, which is home to Ice Art, underground caves and great nightlife.

The city is located around the River Leen and its central area is based around the Old Market Square, which was renovated in 2006.

However, it is the trendy Lace Market area that has become fashionable over the past few years, with its buzzing bars attracting bright young things from far and wide.

This area boasts one of Nottingham's most impressive pubs, which despite being part of the Pitcher and Piano chain, is located inside an old church that has retained much of its old décor, giving drinkers a truly unique experience.

Nottingham Location

Nottingham, often referred to as the Queen of the Midlands, is ideally positioned in the centre of England, making it easy to access for tourists from all over the country.

For those coming by train, the city has good rail links up, down and across England. A link with St Pancras will transport those heading to and from the capital, while regular connections to Birmingham and Sheffield are also in operation.

Those choosing to motor to the city will find its close proximity to the M1 provides a speedy link. Junction 25 or 26 is where motorists should get off.

Better still, for travellers coming from a bit farther Nottingham has its own airport. East Midland Airport – Nottingham, Leicester, Derby operates flights to international and domestic locations.

Why Visit Nottingham?

Nottingham is a city that offers culture vultures plenty for the day time and then caters superbly for the night owl in every tourist.

During the day, tourists should make a beeline for the Galleries of Justice, which are located in the Lace Market district.

This attraction won the 'Museum of the year 2007' prize at the Renaissance Heritage Awards last year and goes to great efforts to take visitors back in time.

A team of actors will take visitors around the court, which back in the 1800s served as a prison, explaining the city's gruesome history and engaging them in re-enactments.

These interested in the city's history should take a ten minute walk over to Nottingham's underground caves.

The route, which consists of a series of Anglo-Saxon man-made tunnels, lies underneath one of the city's busiest shopping districts the caves. Throughout history they have served as air raid shelters and even homes to some of the city's poorest residents.

Theatre-lovers will also not leave Nottingham disappointed as the city's Playhouse puts on an impressive range of shows throughout the year and is always worth checking out.

Nottingham Castle, which dates back to 1674, may also be worth a visit as would Sherwood Forest, the fabled land of Robin Hood.

The forest is located just out of the city but offers visitors the chance to explore the ancient land, which is now home to a range of farms and some rare heathland.