Nottingham

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Nottingham is a large settlement in the East-Midlands of England. It was granted official "city" status in 1897, during Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee celebrations, and since then, it has developed into one of the biggest business and cultural centres in the UK.

Trent Bridge
Photo Insignia3

The name "Nottingham" evolved from the original title of "Snotingaham", which came about after the town was founded in the 7th century by a Saxon chieftain called Snot. Since then, it has been almost continually growing and expanding, especially during the Industrial Revolution when it became internationally recognised as an important producer of lace, and other textiles.

Buildings in Nottingham's Lace Market
Photo Alan Murray-Rust

Nottingham is also notable for being one of the only cities with its own super-hero! The city, as well as the nearby Sherwood Forest, are known as the old haunts of the infamous Robin Hood, who - with his band of Merry Men - stole from the rich and gave to the poor. There is a statue of the renowned outlaw in the city centre, just outside Nottingham Castle - one of the area's main attractions.

Robin Hood
Picture in the Public Domain

The castle is built on top of a large hill, with commanding views over the city. It used to be one of the most important in the entire country, with regular visits from Kings of the past. Unfortunately, the building which stands there today is not as impressive as the original fort which was razed to the ground in the English Civil War. Rather than having the appearance of a true castle, it takes the form of a stone mansion. However, there's still lots to see here. The space is regularly used as an art gallery, and the beautifully maintained gardens are extremely popular during summer.

Nottingham Castle
Photo Tagishsimon

On sunny days, another great spot in the city is Wollaton Park. This 500-acre space is filled with wild deer that roam around at their leisure. The grassy hills and woodland areas surround a large hill, which is crowned by Wollaton Hall - a Tudor mansion that houses a Natural History Museum.

Wollaton Hall
Photo Andy Jamieson

Aside from the landmarks and old buildings, the main reason to visit Nottingham is to enjoy all the opportunities that a major settlement provides. The city has more than its fair share of retail opportunities, including two large shopping centres, and there are half-a-dozen theatres within walking distance of each other. Nottingham also boasts an international cricket stadium, top-level water sports and ice-hockey venues, as well as its own tennis tournament. In addition to this, the city has two large universities, giving the whole of Nottingham an energetic, youthful atmosphere. It is renowned for its nightlife, which varies wildly in size and style, from the more eclectic bars in the alternative area of Hockley, to the bigger clubs in the central area.

Nottingham Forest and Notts County, whose football grounds are on opposite banks of the River Trent
Photo Lasse1974

Anchoring all of this together is Nottingham's Old Market Square, an open space in the heart of the city that is actually the UK's largest town square. Throughout the year, it is the venue for all sorts of festivals, events, and markets, making it a popular place for locals and tourists alike. It is watched over by the, imposing Council House, with its tall dome, and its dramatic balcony. Many famous people have looked out over the square from that stage, from local sporting heroes, to the Queen of England herself.

The Council House in Old Market Square
Photo Smashman

Nottingham Castle is open Tuesday – Sunday from 10am to 5pm (4pm in Winter). Entry costs around £6 for adults, £4 for children. Friar Lane, Nottingham, NG1 6EL. Tel: 01159 153 700

Wollaton Hall is open daily from 11am to 5pm (4pm in winter). Entry is FREE (car park costs £2). Wollaton Road, Nottingham, NG8 2AE. Tel: 01159 153 900

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