Attractions and Places To See around Nottingham - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Nottingham include a diverse array of historical sites, natural features, and cultural points of interest. The city is known for its rich history and folklore, with ancient castles, subterranean caves, and expansive parks. Nottingham's landscape features the River Trent and is close to Sherwood Forest, offering both urban and natural exploration opportunities. The area provides a variety of attractions for those interested in landmarks, nature, and cultural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Nottingham
- The most popular attractions is Wollaton Hall, an Elizabethan mansion that houses a natural history museum. It is set within 500 acres of deer park and was featured in "The Dark Knight Rises."
- Another must-see spot is Robin Hood Statue, Nottingham, a historical statue located outside Nottingham Castle. Visitors can take photos with this iconic figure, central to Nottingham's folklore.
- Visitors also love Wilford Suspension Bridge, a historic pedestrian bridge over the River Trent. Built in 1906, it offers a scenic crossing for walkers and cyclists.
- Nottingham is known for its historical sites, natural parks, and cultural venues. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient buildings to expansive green spaces.
- The attractions around Nottingham are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 60 upvotes and 56 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Highfields Lake, University Park
Highlight • Lake
The public can walk around Highfields Park. The circuit of the lake is a nice, gentle walk within the city.
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Bulwell Hall Ruins
Highlight • Structure
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Ruins of St John the Baptist Church
Highlight • Monument
source: travellerj.com/2018/12/18/ruins-of-st-johns-church
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Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem – The Oldest Inn in England
Highlight • Historical Site
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Wollaton Hall
Highlight • Monument
The park that surrounds the hall is a lovely place for an afternoon ramble. Fallow deer roam the grounds, whilst its popular lake boasts a nature trail.
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St Peter's Church, Nottingham
Highlight • Historical Site
The church shows traces of many stages of construction from about 1180 onwards (the original church of around 1100 was destroyed by fire).
(en.wikipedia.org/wiki/St_Peter%27s_Church,_Nottingham)
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Theatre Royal Nottingham
Highlight • Historical Site
The current program can be found at trch.co.uk
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Robin Hood Statue, Nottingham
Highlight • Historical Site
You can take your photo next to it for free, as millions of people have done — including several famous people and celebrities including the singer Cilla Black, football manager Brian Clough and news reader Jan Leeming.
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Wilford Suspension Bridge
Highlight • Monument
Its elegant suspension design makes it a local landmark, offering a scenic crossing for walkers and cyclists.
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Colwick Country Park Lakes
Highlight • Lake
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Popular around Nottingham
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Tips from the Community
The Domesday Book records a church and priest at Colwick in 1086. The church that now stands in ruins was largely built by Sir John Byron in the 16th Century but incorporates 14th and 15th Century sections from an earlier church. The building at that time probably had a spire not a plain tower. By 1912 the roof of the church was in a poor state. Although repairs made the building serviceable again for a few years, the condition of the church continued to deteriorate and by 1920 some of the services were being held in the Schoolrooms in wintertime and later in a newly built Parish Hall. From 1923 some marriages were conducted in the Parish Hall. In Mar 1924, the down-pipes were repaired and the walls pointed. The roof was again repaired but its condition continued to give concern and in 1933 the church was abandoned as dangerous. It was finally closed as being unsafe in March 1936, and in November 1936, the principal beam of the roof gave way.
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Whether its claim to be England's oldest inn is true or not, this is a lovely, old, atmospheric inn well worth a visit! 🍻
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A lovely place for a gentle cycle or stroll. It's a popular spot!
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A cozy pub with history - whether the story is real or well-invented
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Wilford Suspension Bridge, built in 1906, is a historic pedestrian bridge over the River Trent in Nottingham, originally designed to carry a water pipeline. Its elegant suspension design makes it a local landmark, offering a scenic crossing for walkers and cyclists.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Nottingham?
Nottingham is rich in history. You can visit the iconic Wollaton Hall, an Elizabethan mansion housing a natural history museum. Explore the ancient Bulwell Hall Ruins, or discover the unique subterranean passages of the City of Caves. The National Justice Museum, located in a former courthouse and jail, offers an immersive insight into crime and punishment. Don't miss St. Mary's Church, the city's oldest and largest medieval building, or Newstead Abbey, the ancestral home of Lord Byron.
Are there any unique cultural experiences in Nottingham?
Absolutely! Experience the historic atmosphere of Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, claimed to be one of England's oldest pubs. The Lace Market, once the heart of Britain's lace industry, is now a vibrant cultural quarter with independent shops and the modern art gallery, Nottingham Contemporary. You can also catch a performance at the Theatre Royal Nottingham or visit the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum in Eastwood.
Where can I learn about Nottingham's famous folklore?
Nottingham is synonymous with Robin Hood. You can find the famous Robin Hood Statue, Nottingham located outside Nottingham Castle, perfect for a photo opportunity. While the original Nottingham Castle is now a ducal manor, its grounds and the nearby Sherwood Forest are steeped in the legend of Robin Hood and his Merry Men.
What natural parks and green spaces are there to visit in Nottingham?
Nottingham offers numerous green spaces. Wollaton Hall is set within 500 acres of picturesque deer park, ideal for walks. You can also enjoy Highfields Lake, University Park, which offers a gentle walk around the lake. Colwick Country Park Lakes provides walking and cycling paths, while the Nottingham Arboretum is the city's oldest public park with over 800 unique trees. Further afield, Sherwood Forest is a renowned ancient woodland.
Are there good walking or cycling routes near Nottingham's attractions?
Yes, there are many options for walking and cycling. The Wilford Suspension Bridge offers a scenic crossing over the River Trent for walkers and cyclists. You can also find pleasant walks around Wollaton Park Lake Path and Highfields Lake. For more extensive routes, explore the gravel biking, MTB trails, and running trails guides around Nottingham.
Where can I enjoy water-based activities in Nottingham?
The National Water Sports Centre is a world-class facility offering various water sports such as canoeing, kayaking, white-water rafting, and Olympic rowing. You can also find boating opportunities at Highfields Park and Colwick Country Park. The Wilford Suspension Bridge provides scenic views of the River Trent.
Are there any places to see wildlife near Nottingham?
Wollaton Park is home to two herds of wild deer (Red and Fallow) that roam freely. Attenborough Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for nature lovers to observe diverse wildlife, including otters, kingfishers, and peregrine falcons, across its large lakes and woodlands. Colwick Country Park also features wildlife areas.
What are some family-friendly attractions in Nottingham?
Many attractions in Nottingham are suitable for families. Wollaton Hall and its deer park are great for exploration. The Robin Hood Statue is a fun photo stop. The City of Caves offers an engaging historical experience. Green's Windmill and Science Centre provides interactive science exhibits, and Highfields Park has a play area and boating opportunities.
Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Nottingham?
The Robin Hood Statue, Nottingham is noted as wheelchair accessible. Many of Nottingham's parks, such as Wollaton Park and Highfields Park, offer accessible paths, though it's always advisable to check specific routes for suitability.
What is the best time of year to visit Nottingham's attractions?
Nottingham's attractions can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for exploring the numerous parks and outdoor spaces like Wollaton Park, Highfields Park, and Sherwood Forest. The autumn offers beautiful foliage, while winter brings a festive atmosphere, particularly around the Old Market Square. Indoor attractions like Nottingham Castle, the City of Caves, and the National Justice Museum are great options regardless of the weather.
Where can I find cafes or refreshments near attractions?
Many attractions have on-site or nearby refreshment options. Highfields Lake, University Park has a lakeside cafe and arts centre. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem offers a unique pub experience. The Lace Market and Hockley areas are known for their vibrant selection of independent shops, restaurants, and bars.
Are there any hidden gems or lesser-known outdoor spots in Nottingham?
Beyond the main attractions, consider exploring Creswell Crags, an enclosed limestone gorge with caves occupied by Ice Age settlers, featuring northernmost cave art in Europe. Bestwood Country Park offers a 650-acre wildlife haven for peaceful strolls or horseback riding. The Nottingham Arboretum, while central, is a peaceful sanctuary often overlooked for its unique tree collection.
Most popular routes around Nottingham
Most popular attractions around Nottingham
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