Things to do in Nottingham

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Nottingham which includes markets, a river or creek and an administrative buidling
Nottingham featuring heritage architecture and a castle
Nottingham showing street scenes, a hotel and heritage elements
Nottingham featuring heritage architecture, a castle and a fountain
Nottingham which includes a small town or village

Nottingham Attractions

Want to know the best things to do in Nottingham? Rich history, delicious local food and loads of exciting attractions are just the tip of the iceberg. Get set to pack your bags and explore this bustling city.

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Nottingham must see attractions

1. University of Nottingham

With its roots in the first University Extension Lectures ever offered by the University of Cambridge in 1873, the University of Nottingham has a long and proud history of bringing learning to the Midlands. Now accommodated in a beautiful early 20th-century site on the shores of a lake west of the city, it is one of the U.K.’s biggest universities. Wander across the verdant lawns that spread out from the porticoes of each building as you admire the architecture and planning that has made Nottingham one of England’s most celebrated university campuses.
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University of Nottingham featuring street scenes and heritage elements

2. Theatre Royal

The Theatre Royal is one of Nottingham’s principal playhouses, offering a diverse range of shows for all ages. The 19th-century theater is a major landmark in the city and is recognizable by its classic white façade. Attend a ballet, musical, pantomime or play at this historic venue.
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Theatre Royal featuring theater scenes, a city and street scenes

3. Nottingham Castle

Nottingham Castle is a 17th-century palace built on the site where a medieval royal fortress once stood. Browse the art gallery and museum that now occupy the historic structure to get a sense of the former stronghold’s role in the city’s history.
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Nottingham Castle showing heritage elements and a castle

4. Wolla­ton Hall

Wollaton Hall is a majestic hilltop mansion surrounded by an expansive deer park. The 16th-century Elizabethan country house now contains the Nottingham Natural History Museum and the Nottingham Industrial Museum. Browse the captivating exhibits and spot herds of deer in the picturesque parkland surrounding the building.
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Nottingham featuring heritage architecture, a castle and a fountain

5. National Water Sports Centre

England’s national canoeing team practices at the National Water Sports Centre. For other visitors, the center also offers numerous activities, from kayaking on the lagoon to ropes courses and laser tag. Paddle out onto the adjacent lakes or scramble up climbing walls, stop for a quick meal at the café and shoot and run through the laser tag course. At the end of the day, appreciate the clean and inexpensive accommodations available on site, the perfect springboard for another day of activities or a home base from which to explore Nottingham.
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National Water Sports Centre

What to do in Nottingham

Free Things to Do in Nottingham

Vacationing in Nottingham on a budget? The following can be seen for zip.

Bestwood Winding Engine House - Talk to the staff and discover more about the special collections on display at this museum.

Lakeside Arts Centre - When it's time to get cultured, drop by and enjoy the talent on show.

University of Nottingham Jubilee Campus - If you're a fan of modern design and architecture, add this landmark to your schedule.

Old Market Square - This lively area is a favorite of both locals and visitors.

Queen's Medical Centre - If you're eager to check out some of the more important or interesting places in the community, start here.

St Peter's Church - Get an understanding of the local faith at this spiritual sanctuary.

Highfields - Grab your blanket, throw together a quick snack and find a cozy spot to be with nature.

Things to Do in Nottingham with Kids

There's fun for all the family no matter where you go in Nottingham. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that are sure to make your break a blast:

 

Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Nottingham? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!

 

 

Discover the most popular places to visit in Nottingham

University of Nottingham featuring street scenes and heritage elements

University of Nottingham

4.5/5(8 reviews)

Overlooking a lake, the spire of the Trent Building is one of Nottingham’s most distinctive sites, representing over 135 years of higher education in the city.

University of Nottingham
30 Seconds to Mars released giant balloons at a gig

Motorpoint Arena Nottingham

4/5(6 reviews)

Catch an event at Motorpoint Arena Nottingham during your trip to Nottingham. Experience the area's entertainment choices and acclaimed theater scene.

Motorpoint Arena Nottingham
Theatre Royal featuring theater scenes, a city and street scenes

Theatre Royal

4/5(5 reviews)

Watch an entertaining show and learn about the city’s dramatic arts scene at this prominent theater. Meet friends for a pre-show chat in the bar or restaurant.

Theatre Royal
Trent Bridge

Trent Bridge

You can find out about the history of Nottingham with a visit to Trent Bridge. Experience the area's entertainment choices and acclaimed theater scene.

Trent Bridge
Nottingham Castle showing heritage elements and a castle

Nottingham Castle

4/5(14 reviews)

Hear tales of sieges, civil war, high treason and Robin Hood in this historic castle that conceals a labyrinth of underground tunnels.

Nottingham Castle
Nottingham featuring heritage architecture, a castle and a fountain

Wolla­ton Hall

See the real-life Wayne Manor from the Batman franchise and explore its fascinating museum and vast scenic grounds where deer roam.

Wolla­ton Hall
The home of Nottingham Forest and has been since 1898

City Ground

Catch an event at City Ground during your trip to Nottingham. Discover the area's acclaimed theater scene and shops.

City Ground
National Water Sports Centre

National Water Sports Centre

4/5(1 review)

Kayaking, canoeing, whitewater rafting, ropes courses and mini-golf combine in one complex outside Nottingham, which also offers inexpensive accommodations.

National Water Sports Centre
Newstead Abbey. Former home of Lord Byron

Newstead Abbey

4.5/5(2 reviews)

Find out about the history of Newstead when you take a trip to Newstead Abbey. Discover the top-notch restaurants and entertainment choices in this walkable area.

Newstead Abbey

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Nottingham

Nottingham City Centre which includes a statue or sculpture

Nottingham City Centre

4.5/5(30 area reviews)

A castle on a grassy mound stands as a reminder of Nottingham’s rich medieval history, while the diverse playhouses and shopping malls look modern.

Nottingham City Centre
Nottinghamshire featuring a city

West Bridgford

You'll enjoy the restaurants and riverfront in West Bridgford. You might want to make time for a stop at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground or Trent Bridge.

West Bridgford
Lace Market showing a city, road cycling and street scenes

Lace Market

Admire the 19th-century architecture in this stylish zone. The old lace warehouses here have been converted into shops, museums, apartments and restaurants.

Lace Market
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Lenton

While there might not be top attractions in Lenton, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Dusk till Dawn Poker and Casino and Wollaton Park Golf Club.

Lenton
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Forest Fields

When in Forest Fields, you can plan a visit to Rock City Nottingham and Nottingham Cathedral, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Forest Fields
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The Park

While there might not be top attractions in The Park, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Nottingham Playhouse and Nottingham Castle.

The Park
See our Where To Stay guide

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Popular day trips from Nottingham

Photo by Martin Gerrish

Grantham

Photo by Nivedita Kulkarni

Loughborough

Photo "South Normanton" by Ann Ballinger (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Ann Ballinger (CC BY-SA)

South Normanton

Photo by James Ridealgh

Melton Mowbray

Photo by Marta McManus

Sandiacre

Derby Cathedral which includes a city, night scenes and heritage architecture

Derby

Photo by Karen Dalldorf

Stapleford

Photo "Kegworth" by Chris J Dixon (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Chris J Dixon (CC BY-SA)

Kegworth

Frequently asked questions

Is Nottingham worth visiting?
One of the most common things to do in Nottingham is explore Theatre Royal. Check this top sight off your agenda, then discover more of the area's walking trails and views.
How do I spend a day in Nottingham?
When you've checked off popular attractions like Wolla­ton Hall and Nottingham City of Caves, spend the rest of your day discovering the food and retail options in Nottingham.
What is the top tourist attraction in Nottingham?
Don't leave without visiting Theatre Royal, ranked the top tourist attraction in Nottingham.
Is three days enough to stay in Nottingham?
Three days in Nottingham is plenty of time to visit the city's major highlights. Many travelers book for two days on average. Theatre Royal, Wolla­ton Hall and Nottingham Playhouse are top-rated sights. Like to see more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots such as Leicester.
Is Nottingham a walkable city?
With exciting neighborhoods and major sights within walking distance of the city center, Nottingham is a good place to explore on foot. Have fun wandering between Theatre Royal and Wolla­ton Hall. Then take a stroll around Nottingham City Centre, located 0.1 miles from downtown, and Lace Market, which is about 0.2 miles away.
What are some activities to do in Nottingham with kids?
Whether you're traveling with young explorers or playful teenagers, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Take a look at our recommendations for what to do in Nottingham with kids.

What to do in Nottingham for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in Nottingham for adults including Motorpoint Arena Nottingham and Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem.
Are there free things to do in Nottingham?
One of the top ways to learn about free things to do in Nottingham is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider recommendations on exciting neighborhoods, parks and other attractions you can visit without taking your wallet out. Nottingham Cathedral is one place that doesn't have an admission fee.