Having a Time in Nottingham

Loved and appreciated by sports fans, history buffs and nature lovers alike, the City of Nottingham is one of my go to cityscapes.

Complaining about the heat in Nottingham is a dome idea!

With links to the legend of Robin Hood, the world’s oldest professional football club and some incredibly impressive Watson Fothergill architecture, this famously rebellious city hosts an abundance of activities and points of interest for everyone.

Located in the East Midlands of Nottinghamshire in England, Nottingham is one of the few cities named a “City of Literature” in the U.K..  Between the 17^th century and World War II, Nottingham was well known for the production of lace and textiles. Today, the former lace market is full of trendy restaurants, cafes, shops and museums where you can explore the city’s unique combination of history and modern lifestyle.

The closest international airport is the East Midlands Airport (EMA). The best ways to transport into the city centre from this airport are Skylink bus, taxi or train. The Nottingham Train Station is the city’s central station and your stop should you travel to Nottingham via train. While in the city, the award-winning public transportation system and pedal bike are the most convenient ways to explore.

From shopping around Hockley and Lace Market’s independent shops for vintage goods and antiques, watching a cricket game or laughing with friends at one of the many comedy clubs, here is how I love to spend my time in Nottingham:

Nottingham Castle – Situated on Castle Rock, this ancient castle began as a wooden structure in 1068 and has since been built, demolished and rebuilt numerous times by a succession of kings. Inside there is an art gallery and museum for a deeper look into the city’s history.

Please note: Nottingham Castle is currently closed as it is under major refurbishment and due to reopen 2021.

Woollaton Hall: Go-thic or don’t go at all!

Here’s a Pro-Tip: Should you arrive before the renovations are complete, you can stop in Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem, an old pub (claiming to have been established in 1189) nestled into Castle Rock and connected to several caves. The pub is associated with King Edward III and his capture of Roger Mortimer, his mother’s lover and father’s murderer. It is also associated with many curious legends, most notably the legend of Robin Hood who supposedly escaped from the dungeon via the pub. Just a short walk from the centre you can take picture with Robin Hood.

Wollaton Hall – Built between 1580-1588, this Elizabethan country house was a major architectural influence for future decades. The house is surrounded by a sprawling park and was used in the “Dark Night Rises” Batman movie. Today, it is home to the Nottingham Natural History Museum and Nottingham Industrial Museum.

Cave in and visit the Brewhouse Museum

City of Caves – Under the busy streets of Nottingham lie a network of sandstone caves to explore. Join a tour or wander at your own pace with an audio guide to learn more about the rich history of this underground world.

Nottingham Playhouse – A world famous theatre in the city centre featuring a variety of shows from all different genres. Enjoy musicals, comedy shows and spoken word performances for an evening of quality entertainment!

There is no shortage of amazing restaurants in Nottingham. Classic English dishes like roasts and Bramley apples can be found amidst authentic Japanese establishments and friendly pizza parlours. While here, give the city-wide favourite dish of mushy peas with mint sauce a try. It is traditionally eaten at the annual Goose Fair during the first week of October but can be found year-round at The Mushy Pea Stall in the Victoria Market. Here are some of Nottingham’s most notable restaurants:

• The Hand & Heart – Part Anglo Saxon cave, part Victorian bar and part romantic restaurant, this treasure is always fun. Accompanied by live music, their Sunday roasts are legendary! Make sure to book ahead.

• Kushi-ya – Tucked up a little alleyway, this Japanese restaurant specializes in kushiyaki and serves perfectly curated small plates and hand-crafted cocktails.
• Twelve – A vegetarian and vegan restaurant using seasonal and high-quality produce, No. Twelve holds a handful of awards including ‘the best vegetarian and vegan restaurant in the midlands 2018 & 2019’.

Nottingham is against appeasement!

Here’s a Pro-Tip: For more vegan options, check out the Saturday Sneinton Market for street food, music and all things vegan. You’ll feel smug about it!

Sometime that best cocktails are Old Fashioned

Nottingham is one exciting city, and it shows, especially after sunset! The various styles of unique bars and clubs throughout the city offer a great time to everyone. From historical pubs to quirky late-night bars, Nottingham’s nightlife is always a good time. Here are some of my evening go-to’s:

• Hockley Arts Club – Discretely located in the city centre and perfect for afternoon tea or evening cocktails. Instagrammers, prepare yourselves for the top floor Electric Garden Bar!
• Lost Property – A real feast for all of the senses, this seemingly inconspicuous speakeasy is spread over three floors. Head down to the Lost Caves gin bar for a very memorable night!

• The Nyetimber Garden at Alchemilla – A new ‘secret’ flower rooftop bar on top of a Victorian carriage house with a delectable wine list and easy, chic vibes.

Here are some wonderful Nottingham hotel recommendations:

• Mama’s Inn Boutique Guest House – This unforgettable stay whose rooms are decorated from the owners travels from around the world. Comprised of 10 rooms in two Victorian town houses.
• Harts Hotel and Kitchen – A stone’s throw from the Nottingham Castle and Playhouse Theatre, this award-winning hotel features incredible views of The Park Estate.
• James Hotel: With antique furniture, a grand piano and a bit of history, this elegant hotel is located just across from the Castle and a few doors down from where Lord Byron once stayed.

Nottingham is an excellent place to be any time of year. Nottingham makes me feel like I’ve been robin’ the Well of Happiness!

Love,

Isabella