Nottinghamshire Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Nottinghamshire with our informative travel guide, featuring must-visit places, local culture, transportation options, food, and more!


Introduction to Nottinghamshire

Situated in East Midlands, Nottinghamshire is a historic county in England and a perfect destination for travelers seeking a delightful vacation. With its rolling countryside, scenic waterways, and rich cultural heritage, Nottinghamshire has something for everyone.

In this comprehensive tour guide for Nottinghamshire, we’ll give you a detailed overview of the places to visit, things to do, local culture, transportation, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Nottinghamshire

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nottinghamshire is steeped in history, and visitors can immerse themselves in the county’s fascinating heritage.

1. Nottingham Castle: The iconic Nottingham Castle, built in the 17th century, is a must-visit attraction in the county. The castle houses a museum, art gallery, and a variety of historical artifacts.

2. Newstead Abbey: Fans of poet Lord Byron must visit his former home, Newstead Abbey, which boasts Gothic and Tudor architecture, stunning gardens, and an on-site museum.

3. Sherwood Forest Country Park: Step back in time and explore the legendary Sherwood Forest, where famous outlaw Robin Hood once roamed. The park is home to a variety of wildlife and features a treetop adventure course.

Natural Attractions of Nottinghamshire: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The county’s natural beauty offers visitors plenty of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.

1. Peak District National Park: The Peak District National Park, a short distance from Nottinghamshire, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. The park boasts scenic trails, rolling hills, and stunning landscapes.

2. Attenborough Nature Reserve: Attenborough Nature Reserve is a wildlife haven, featuring tranquil waterways, serene lakes, and an array of birds and animals.

3. Water Sports at Holme Pierrepont: Holme Pierrepont is a perfect spot for adrenaline junkies, offering white water rafting, kayaking, and other water sports.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire is ideal for those who enjoy hiking and biking due to its beautiful countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque views.

1. The Robin Hood Way: This long-distance footpath runs the entire length of Nottinghamshire and winds through Sherwood Forest and other scenic areas.

2. The Big Track: This cycling route spans 34 miles and takes riders through Attenborough Nature Reserve, Beeston, and Bramcote Hills Park.

Best Things to Do in Nottinghamshire: Activities and Tours

Nottinghamshire offers an array of activities and tours for visitors.

1. Shopping in Nottingham: Nottingham has a vibrant retail scene, featuring independent shops, cafes, and gift shops.

2. Nottingham Ghost Walks: Take a spine-tingling ghost tour through the historic city of Nottingham to learn about the city’s eerie past.

3. Pubs and Live Music: Nottingham is known for its lively nightlife, and visitors can enjoy traditional pubs and live music throughout the city.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nottinghamshire

For those visiting Nottinghamshire for a week, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Visit Nottingham Castle and its museum
2 Take a walk through Sherwood Forest
3 Go for a hike in Peak District National Park
4 Explore the shops and cafes in Nottingham
5 Take a ghost walk tour of Nottingham at night
6 Try some local food and drinks
7 Relax at Attenborough Nature Reserve

Food and Drink Scene of Nottinghamshire

Must-Try Dishes

Nottinghamshire’s cuisine is rooted in English tradition, with a variety of local and international dishes.

1. Bramley Apple Pie: This locally made apple pie features a tangy filling made from locally sourced Bramley apples.

2. Stilton Cheese: Stilton Cheese, made in Nottinghamshire, is a crumbly blue cheese that is perfect for cheese connoisseurs.

3. Nottingham Pudding: This sweet dessert, made with breadcrumbs, sugar, and butter, is a classic Nottinghamshire dish.

Local Beverages

Nottinghamshire is home to several craft breweries, and visitors can enjoy traditional cask ales, lagers, and ciders.

1. Castle Rock Brewery: Visitors can tour the brewery and enjoy a pint of their award-winning Harvest Pale Ale.

2. Cross Keys Gin Distillery: Gin lovers must visit Cross Keys Gin Distillery, which offers tasting sessions and tours of the distillery.

Where to Stay in Nottinghamshire: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nottinghamshire offers a variety of accommodation options for visitors on any budget.

1. Lace Market Hotel: Located in the heart of Nottingham, Lace Market Hotel is a luxurious boutique hotel that offers stylish rooms, elegant decor, and excellent customer service.

2. YHA Nottingham: The YHA Nottingham hostel is perfect for budget-conscious travelers, offering shared and private rooms, and a communal kitchen for self-catering.

3. River Rooms Guest House: This charming guest house, located on the River Trent, offers scenic views and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Nottinghamshire: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

1. Stilton Cheese: As mentioned above, Stilton Cheese is a classic Nottinghamshire product that visitors must bring home.

2. Nottingham Lace: Nottingham is famous for its lace, and visitors can purchase beautiful lace products, such as handkerchiefs and table linens.

3. Bramley Apple Jam: Another popular local product is Bramley Apple Jam, made using locally sourced Bramley apples.

Local Culture and Customs of Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire has a rich cultural heritage and several customs that are unique to the county.

1. Robin Hood Festival: Each year, Nottinghamshire hosts the Robin Hood Festival, celebrating the legendary outlaw and featuring archery, storytelling, and medieval reenactments.

2. Morris Dancing: Morris dancing is a traditional English folk dance that is still popular in Nottinghamshire.

3. Goose Fair: The Goose Fair is a centuries-old tradition in Nottinghamshire, featuring fairground rides, food stalls, and entertainment.

Best Time to Visit Nottinghamshire

The best time to visit Nottinghamshire is during the summer months, from June to August, when visitors can enjoy sunny weather and outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nottinghamshire

Do:

  1. Take a walk through Sherwood Forest
  2. Try some local food and drink
  3. Visit the Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery

Don’t:

  1. Litter in public spaces
  2. Be disrespectful to local customs and traditions
  3. Ignore safety guidelines while hiking or biking

Safety and Health

Safety in Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire is generally safe for visitors, but travelers should exercise caution when walking alone at night or leaving valuables in their cars.

Health in Nottinghamshire

Visitors to Nottinghamshire should ensure they are up to date on routine vaccinations, including measles and mumps, before traveling.

Getting to Nottinghamshire: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nottinghamshire is easily accessible by road and rail, with several transportation options available.

Airports Near Nottinghamshire

The nearest airports to Nottinghamshire are East Midlands Airport and Robin Hood Doncaster Sheffield Airport.

Bus Stations Near Nottinghamshire

Nottingham Bus Station is the major bus station for Nottinghamshire, offering both local and national bus services.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Nottinghamshire by train, with frequent services from London, Birmingham, and other major cities.

How to Get Around in Nottinghamshire

Visitors can easily get around Nottinghamshire using public transportation, including buses, trains, and trams.

Alternatively, visitors can rent a bike to explore the countryside or hire a car for more flexibility.

Where to Go Next from Nottinghamshire: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Just a short distance from Nottinghamshire are several popular destinations that are worth visiting, including:

  • Leicester
  • Derbyshire
  • Lincolnshire

Conclusion

Nottinghamshire is a charming county that offers visitors a wealth of activities, culture, and natural beauty. With its rich history and vibrant food scene, Nottinghamshire is the perfect destination for a delightful vacation. Plan your trip to Nottinghamshire today!



    Beeston
    Hucknall
    Mansfield
    Newark-on-Trent
    Worksop