Things to do in Nottingham

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Nottingham which includes markets, a river or creek and an administrative buidling
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 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.

If you're ready to explore Nottingham, sign up for one of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let a friendly expert show you some of the most popular attractions. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our {18 fun activities in Nottingham fun activities in Nottingham} are also worth browsing through.

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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 which includes signage 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 and heritage architecture

3. 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

4. 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

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

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Recommended things to do in Nottingham

Number of things to do
18
Cheapest thing to do on Expedia
Robin Hood’s Nottingham: Interactive Game & Walking Tour: $11
Top 5 things to do
Under $25
With kids

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

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
Theatre Royal featuring theater scenes, a city and street scenes

Theatre Royal

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 Cricket Ground, Nottingham

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
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
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
Nottingham Castle showing heritage elements and a castle

Nottingham Castle

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

Nottingham Castle
National Water Sports Centre

National Water Sports Centre

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

National Water Sports Centre
Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem showing outdoor eating, heritage elements and signage

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

Enjoy a beer or two at one of the oldest pubs in England and listen to tales of the chilling ghosts that haunt the caves beneath it.

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
Old Market Square which includes an administrative buidling and heritage architecture

Old Market Square

Find out about the public beatings and squalid conditions that were once a feature of this historic square as you relax and people-watch from a café.

Old Market Square

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
Long exposure of Trent Bridge in Nottingham, UK

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
Default Image

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
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
Nottingham castle, a Norman castle in a city of Nottingham in central England’s Midlands region

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
Highbury Vale: railway and tramway

Basford

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Basford and surrounding area, you can visit Rock City Nottingham and Theatre Royal.

Basford
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Popular day trips from Nottingham

Crisp winters morning in Grantham

Grantham

BR Standard Class 5 73156 Steam Engine pulling into North Leicester Heritage Railway Station.

Loughborough

ruins of donington castle

Castle Donington

Aerial Panorama shot of the village of Bradfield in the Peak District National Park, English Countryside during a beautiful winter sunset

South Normanton

A view across towards St Marys Church in Melton Mowbray, Leicestershire, UK in the summertime

Melton Mowbray

Nice walk along a canal from sandiacre all the way to Shipley park or opposite way towards long eaton to sawley marina. Great bike route too

Sandiacre

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

Derby

Cemetery Chapel And Mortuary Wikidata has entry Q26540235 with data related to this item.
Photo by Heather Domleo (page does not exist) (Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0)

Stapleford

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.

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