Stopover guide
Nottingham is conveniently located in the centre of England, making it easily accessible from most UK destinations. Nottingham is best known for its associations with the legendary outlaw, Robin Hood, and it has many interesting attractions in the Old City and a great atmosphere as well as many beautiful parks and squares. Derby and Loughborough are also in the region and worth a visit, while East Midlands Airport is also the gateway to the world-famous Donington race track.
Attractions:
- Seventeenth century Nottingham Castle is a striking edifice and was famously the headquarters of Robin Hood’s nemesis, the Sheriff of Nottingham.
- The ancient taverns of the Trip to Jerusalem and The Salutation Inn are reputedly the oldest inns in England and well worth a visit for the real ale.
- Arboretum Park is one of Nottingham’s many parks and it houses an attractive aviary and duck pond.
- In nearby Derby, the Old Silk Mill Museum stands on the site of the oldest factory in England and is one of the city’s major attractions.
- Near to Derby is Kedleston Hall, a glorious Georgian mansion, which was the brainchild of the famous architect Robert Adam.
- Donington Park is the main draw to the area and it sees much racing action throughout the season, with both motorbikes and rally cars featuring in grand prix events.
Eating and shopping: Nottingham is a big shopping destination, with several major shopping centres as well as the unique shops and boutiques of Hockley, Bridelsmith Gate, and not to mention the historic Lace Market. Lace Market also features a cultural quarter, which is loaded with cafés and bars, while the University of Nottingham and its many colleges ensure a buzzing nightlife.
Nearby Derby also offers great shopping, dining and entertainment, with the compact city centre being home to the exciting Market Place. Cornmarket and Irongate are Derby’s best shopping streets, while the up and coming Saddler Gate area, together with Market Place, contains the city’s oldest pubs and numerous cafés and bars.
 |
Day trips and tours: there is so much to see and do in the East Midlands region that visitors are spoilt for choice, with the main attraction being the 450-acre legendary Sherwood Forest Country Park, which gives an insight into the world of Robin Hood and provides excellent opportunity for cycling and walking.
Those who enjoy admiring fine old buildings and architecture will be pleased to learn that there are many mansions in the area as well as the magnificent Newstead Abbey in Ravenshead and Chatsworth Castle. The nearby Peak District National Park is located to the northwest, while the UK’s number one theme park, Alton Towers, is also in the area and features many white-knuckle roller coasters and a plethora of family attractions.
Nottingham City Tourist Information Centres
1-4 Smithy Row
Nottingham
FNG1 2BY
Tel: +44 115 915 5330
Email: tourist.information@nottinghamcity.gov.uk
Experience Nottinghamshire
Unit 1.1 Clarendon Park
Clumber Avenue
NG5 1AH
Tel: +44 115 962 8300
Fax: +44 115 962 5367
Email: enquiries@experiencenottinghamshire.com