The delightful city of Nottingham is full of gems that make it well worth the visit - even if it is often generally wetter than the rest of the country! Lucky for me, a friend of mine from Canada was on exchange at the University of Nottingham meaning not only did I have a free place to stay, but a tour guide who had spent her last few months getting to know all the nooks and crannies of town.
How to Get to Nottingham
While it may be further north, Nottingham is still accessible on a direct line from many of England's major cities, especially from London in just under two hours. You can buy train tickets at any railway station, or you can purchase them online from Trainline in advance as they're often more expensive last minute.
Things to See & Do in Nottingham
University of Nottingham
A charming university, spread out on a sprawling campus, Nottingham Uni has a bundle of interesting places to explore within the grounds (take it from the exchange student, herself!).
Old Market Square
Nottingham's bustling town centre is home to busy shops, a winding high street, weekend markets and every sort of thing you didn't even know you needed.
Nottingham Castle
Built on Castle Rock, a museum displays the magnificent history of the 17th century castle, once a royal fortress and royal household.
Robin Hood Statue
You can't come to Nottingham and not visit good old Robin Hood. He made this place famous with his 'robbing the rich to give to the poor' tales, inspiring the legendary Tales of Robin Hood.
Nicole and Robin Hood!
Wollaton Hall
Wollaton Hall is a gorgeous Elizabethan manor that once belonged to an avid taxidermist, the filming location of Wayne Manor, where Batman lives. The Hall is a few miles north of Gotham, Nottinghamshire, which is how Gotham City got its name. Now you know!
Where to Grab a Bite in Nottingham
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem Pub & Inn
Thirsty? Stop in at the oldest inn in England. I'm not joking - this place is legendary. They've been operating since 1189 AD!
Pitcher & Piano
This building used to house a magnificent church, and now it houses Pitcher & Piano, an equally lovely restaurant. You can sit high up in the pews to take in the wonderfully designed architecture while indulging on flatbreads and Pimm's.
Patisserie Valerie Cafe
For a little bit of a French flair in the heart of Old Market Square, pop in to the darling Patisserie Valerie Cafe for delightful high tea and scones.
Aubrey's Traditional Creperie
If it's something more savoury you're on the hunt for, there is no better place to go than Aubrey's. Tucked into a tiny little shop in the heart of the Arcade, this place is bursting with sweetness. The ladies who work in the shop are lovely, too.
Hi! I’m Jana, a Dutch-German-British-Canadian with a dream of seeing every country in the world. I am a storyteller, photographer and adventurer passionate about documenting and sharing my travels.
