Situated on the edge of Sherwood Forest, The Sherwood Hideaway is home to a range of luxurious lodges, all with private hot tubs.
At The Sherwood Hideaway you really do get the best of both worlds, by night relax in your hot tub and do a spot of star gazing, and by day enjoy one of the many activities available in and around the park and nearby area.
The Sherwood Hideaway is the perfect place to enjoy the fresh air and beautiful scenery of Sherwood Forest as well as indulging in some well-deserved R and R in the comfort of your private luxury lodge.
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Immerse yourself in centuries of history, discover brilliant national museums, enjoy exciting family friendly events, stroll through thriving town centres and unleash your inner adventurer to relive the legend of Robin Hood.
Plan your next getaway at visitevents.co.uk
Nottinghamshire is a foodie’s paradise with a host of fantastic restaurants, cafés and pubs – so make sure you bring a healthy appetite.
Only here for the weekend? here are some ideas for a memorable short break to this cool county.
Culture vultures assemble! Nottinghamshire offers the perfect mix of galleries, museums, exhibitions and festivals.
The nightlife here is thriving, packed with clubs, pubs, bars and live music venues.
Although Nottinghamshire has more than enough to keep you busy, a journey further afield can make for an exciting new adventure.
A final look at the beautiful county of Nottinghamshire – Gunthorpe Bridge over the River Trent.
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HART’S HOTEL, STANDARD HILL, PARK ROW, NOTTINGHAM NG1 6GN TEL: 0115 988 1900 WWW.HARTSNOTTINGHAM.CO.UK
Whether it’s a weekend break in the heart of England’s green and pleasant land, days out with the children hearing legendary tales of Robin Hood, top-class sport, brilliant nightlife, or cutting-edge art and culture, this cool county has got it all.
You’ll find outdoor adventures in abundance in this part of the Midlands with the iconic Sherwood Forest taking centre stage. Discover the Robin Hood and Sheriff of Nottingham experience in Sherwood Forest, hear stories of castles torn apart by civil war and the boom of industry that built a city around Nottingham Lace.
Nottinghamshire’s towns and villages also offer exciting opportunities for days out for both adults and kids, with museums, nature reserves and historic buildings to suit all tastes.
Shopping in Nottinghamshire is a real treat, as temptations call across bustling town
centres and shopping malls brim with brand names. Better yet, independent boutiques and local markets fill the baskets of those looking for local produce and one-off treasures to take home.
You can get a taste for sumptuous food at the end of a hard day’s shopping at a number of Nottinghamshire’s award-winning restaurants. Our must-visits include Hart’s Kitchen, Nottingham and the two-Michelin star Restaurant Sat Bains, also in Nottingham.
If you’re a culture vulture, you’re in luck in Nottinghamshire. This region is home to top galleries New Art Exchange and Nottingham Contemporary. Theatre buffs are well-catered for too, with the likes of the Lakeside Arts and Nottingham Playhouse to name a couple.
Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, you can always be assured of finding something exciting to do, tasty to eat or interesting to explore.
“THIS COUNTY’S TOWNS AND VILLAGES OFFER EXCITING OPPORTUNITIES FOR DAYS OUT FOR BOTH ADULTS AND KIDS ALIKE”
THIS COUNTY OFFERS AN ABUNDANCE OF THINGS TO DO WITH DAYS OUT AND TOP ATTRACTIONS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY TO ENJOY
History buffs, cyclists and ramblers, assemble! Nottinghamshire has bike trails, walking paths and historic homes and castles aplenty. Even if you’re staying in the centre of Nottingham, you’ll be amazed how easy it is to get gorgeous rural countryside. Not to mention a whole host of lovely atmospheric towns and villages.
Nottinghamshire isn’t just about Robin Hood. There are plenty of heritage sites to keep you busy, from ancient cathedrals to grand country piles to remnants of the industrial revolution.
The big news in Nottingham tourism was the reopening of Nottingham Castle in June 2021, after a £30 million revamp of the building and its grounds. Channel the
Sheriff of Nottingham on the castle’s ramparts, take the kids to the Robin Hood-themed adventure playground and wander the revamped terrace for glorious views south towards the River Trent. Then check out an exhibition in the castle’s gallery or a theatre production in its grounds.
The grand Romanesque Southwell Minster dominates the pretty town of Southwell and is one of the finest buildings in the whole county. Its distinctive twin-towered frontage has stood for over 900 years and has been the site of Christian worship for even longer. In the 1950s, excavation work uncovered an even older past, when the foundations of an ancient Roman villa were discovered underneath, complete with beautifully preserved wall paintings and a mosaic floor.
You can visit Southwell for the Minster, but there are plenty of other reasons to stay. The centre of Southwell
Award-winning, accessible park with walking and cycling routes for all abilities. Places to visit include the viewing platforms, gardens, play areas and a café, all reflecting the area’s mining heritage. Find
Mr Straw’s House, Blyth Grove, Worksop, S81 0JG
Virtually unchanged since the Straws moved there in 1923. The house contains over 30,000 treasured possessions that can still be seen exactly where their owners left them.
Book online or by calling 0344 249 1895 nationaltrust.org.uk/mrstrawshouse
Clumber Park, Worksop, S80 3BE
Over 3,800 acres of parkland to explore including a Gothic Revival Chapel, serpentine lake and a four-acre walled kitchen garden.
No booking required. Call 01909 476592 nationaltrust.org.uk/clumberpark
The Workhouse & Infirmary, Southwell, NG25 0PT
Built in 1824 as a place of last resort for the destitute, walk up pauper’s path and learn what life was like for residents through time.
No booking required. Call 01636 817260 nationaltrust.org.uk/theworkhouse
For everyone, for ever
is a fine example of a traditional market town, and has some lovely independent shops, tea rooms, restaurants and cafés to explore.
While you’re in town, sign up for one of several history walks and heritage trails, such as the fascinating World War I Trail, or the Southwell Trail, which follows disused railway tracks.
Newark is a bigger, livelier town than Southwell, and the proud host of Europe’s largest antiques fair, plus an annual blues festival, a major air show and the country’s largest fair for agricultural and farming machinery. It’s not short on Christmassy magic either – come December, the town puts on the UK’s largest canopy of unsupported Christmas lights, suspended over the market square.
If you love your history a visit to Newark Castle reveals the grisly details of how much-maligned King John was poisoned and killed.
Rufford Abbey Country Park is an English Heritage site that features the well-preserved remains of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey incorporated into an impressive 17th-century mansion. The building itself is well worth a trip, but you might just stay for a glorious walk around the well-kept grounds.
The majestic Newstead Abbey, the original site of a 12th-century priory, is well worth a visit. It takes on new meaning when you learn that it was the home of ‘mad, bad and dangerous to know’ poet, Lord Byron. Many of the
tales from Byron’s dissolute, wild existence stem from his time spent as a youth in Newstead, Southwell and Colwick Hall, close to the centre of Nottingham, on the banks of the Trent.
Just over six miles away from Newstead Abbey lies the village of Eastwood, home of one of history’s most controversial writers DH Lawrence. The village is popular with Lawrence buffs, and with walkers seeking out the striking views over the North Nottinghamshire countryside.
Completed in 1588, when Queen Elizabeth I was on the throne and the career of one young Stratford-born playwright was just taking off, Wollaton Hall is masterpiece of pre-Gothic charm. So much so that it features as the house of Bruce Wayne in the 2012 Batman movie. The surrounding Deer Park and Gardens can be a blissful place for a walk.
Nottinghamshire’s once-proud identity as a powerhouse of the Industrial Revolution has long faded. But there are still some striking examples of Victorian industrial engineering dotted around the county. They include the Bestwood Winding Engine House in Bestwood Village, just north of Nottingham. It’s only open on Saturdays for viewings, so a bit of planning is needed, but it’s a fascinating if melancholy glimpse into the city’s powerful past.
Thoresby Park is a beautiful country estate located in the heart of Nottinghamshire. The park has been in the Pierrepont Family for over 400 years and is home to a stunning 17th-century mansion and over 1,000 acres of parkland.
Thoresby Park is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. Visitors can explore the Estate, take a walk through the park, visit the art gallery, or enjoy a picnic in the grounds.
Thoresby Park is also a popular venue for weddings and outdoor events.
Thoresby Park, Newark, Nottinghamshire. NG22 9EP
www.thoresby.com
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If aviation’s more your thing, pop down to one of the county’s many air museums or air shows. Other than the excellent Newark Air Museum, there’s also East Midlands Aeropark, where you can watch the planes land and take off from East Midlands Airport, literally on the other side of the fence.
If you want to explore a slice of England’s green and pleasant land, you’ve come to the right place. The county is blessed with hiking paths and biking trails up hills, across meadows and through forests. Listen carefully and you can almost hear the laughter of Robin Hood and his Merry Men.
The countryside around Newark and Southwell is a delightful spot to start a walk along the River Trent. Depending how far you want to ramble, you can take in some serene little villages and towns along the way –Farndon, Fiskerton, Bleasby are all beautiful – or just meander alongside the river and enjoy the gentle peace of it all.
If you’d rather explore the countryside by boat, you’ll find plenty of fantastic options, whether you want to zip along the River Trent or take in slowly on one of the county’s canals. The Nottingham and Beeston Canal is one of the most popular waterways in the country, while the Chesterfield Canal takes you to some magical spots through Sherwood Forest, Worksop and Retford, along a 46-mile route that ends in Yorkshire.
If you prefer to travel under your own steam, there’s a whole host of fantastic cycle routes around the county.
>> p25
“DEPENDING HOW FAR YOU WANT TO RAMBLE, YOU CAN TAKE IN SOME SERENE LITTLE VILLAGES AND TOWNS ALONG THE WAY – FARNDON, FISKERTON, BLEASBY ARE ALL BEAUTIFUL”
Sherwood Forest is alive with nature, history and folklore – enjoy a legendary day in Robin Hood’s stomping ground!
Take a trail and marvel at one of Europe’s largest collections of ancient oaks – including the mighty Major Oak – once home to the famous outlaw! There’s lots for families, from crafts and nature activities with the RSPB team to archery and a range of Robin Hood-themed fun.
Our visitor centre has all you need, from great food and drink to souvenirs to remember your legendary visit! It’s fully accessible and includes a Changing Places facility.
Tel: 01623 677321 • Email: sherwoodforest@rspb.org.uk
Find us: Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre and National Nature Reserve • Forest Corner Edwinstowe • Nottinghamshire • NG21 9RN
www.visitsherwood.co.uk
Sundown is a huge fun, family day out whatever the weather. It’s a uniquely designed theme park for the under 10’s. Families can run, jump and explore the indoor and outdoor rides and attractions. Drive the tractors, ride a wild ostrich, drive at monkey mayhem and even fly a pink piggy!
Shortlisted in the UK Theme Park Awards for Best Theme Park for Toddlers and Best Customer Service
Why not make a weekend of it at our wonderful new Wild Acre Village? With beautifully designed family lodges designed for 5-10 people, many with hot-tubs, right alongside the park.
Come on what are you waiting for? Your adventure is just beginning....
Address: Treswell Road, Rampton, Retford, Notts DN22 0HX
What 3 Words address: Tidy.Pacemaker.Corals sundownadventureland.co.uk
Work is underway to make Nottingham one of the greenest cities in Europe, and routes include the famous Big Track, which takes you out along the river as far as Beeston Lock and back again, linking up with National Cycle Network 6.
Scenic routes include several trails through Sherwood Forest around Edwinstowe. Known as the Sherwood Pines trails, there are three routes ranging in length and difficulty to suit riders of varying ages and skill.
It may be the leafy domain of a certain local outlaw – to whom a big part of the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre is naturally dedicated – but the forest is also an enchanting place to visit and just be.
With its numerous trails through the glades and clearings, it’s easy to explore this magnificent natural oasis – a world of plants and trees, foxes, badgers, woodlarks, nightjars and hawfinches. One of the best ways to see it all through expert eyes is to take a wild tour with one of the resident Sherwood Forest rangers. And don’t forget to check out the legendary Major Oak, whose branches once sheltered Robin Hood and his Merry Men, according to local legend.
If you prefer to get stuck into the action, there are some nerve-jangling escapades to be had in Sherwood Forest. The Adrenalin Jungle is a great one-stop shop for all things adventurous – paintballing, blindfolded driving, assault courses, quad bikes and knife throwing, to name just a few.
Clumber Park is a beautiful expanse of parkland, heath and woods covering more than 3,800 acres. Originally home to the Dukes of Newcastle, Clumber Park is steeped in history and is home to a splendid 83-acre serpentine lake, a four-acre walled kitchen garden and a magnificent Gothic Chapel.
NATURAL BEAUTY
Hop on a bike, or hire one from the Cycle Hub and explore over 20 miles of cycle routes around the park. Visitors can pick up refreshments from one of the various cafés and food outlets, browse the Laundry Cottage shop for a range of locally sourced gifts and homewares or get lost in the second-hand bookshop.
From here you can make an unusual trail along the lesser-known River Leen, starting at Leen Valley Country Park. If you don’t mind a bit of a hike and would like to explore some of Nottingham’s grittier urban landscape, you can even follow this little river as far as the University of Nottingham.
Whether you want to dig into the big city pleasures of Nottingham, explore some lush green countryside on foot or by bike or delve into the county’s fascinating heritage and history, you’ll never get bored here. So pull on some sturdy walking shoes, get out there and explore your heart out!
OUR TOP THINGS TO SEE AND DO WHEN VISITING THIS BEAUTIFUL REGION
The dramatic stately home Wollaton Hall is a must for the sheer grandeur of this unique 16th-century building and the sight of the deer that roam the grounds. There’s also plenty to see and do at the hall. Enjoy natural history exhibits, tours of the house, formal and botanical gardens, cafés, shops and much more.
No trip to Robin Hood Country is complete without a visit to the forest where the Sherwood outlaw was said to roam. Even if you don’t buy the legends, Sherwood Forest is a superb wild forest with an abundance of dramatic woodland life and scenery.
Whether you want a slick lounge bar, a quaint old pub or a jumping late night venue, this county has it all in spades. And Nottingham itself is a city jampacked with exciting gig venues and nightclubs. The nights here are full of energy – from the trendiest bars to atmospheric pubs rumoured to be the oldest in England. Just south of the city, West Bridgford also offers a fabulous high street, but one of its true treasures is the amount of great places to grab a cold pint or quirky cocktail.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a city slicker or more of a rural type, there can be no better way to explore this county than by bicycle. There are some excellent routes available both for Nottingham and the surrounding countryside.
There’s a hidden world of caves underneath Nottingham, with a trove of secrets to unfold. There are a number of tours starting from various places including underneath the beautiful old music hall turned pub, the Malt Cross on St James’s Street. A particular treat is the tunnel known as ‘Mortimer’s Hole’, which legend has it was used by Edward III to enter Nottingham Castle to kidnap Roger de Mortimer in 1330.
There’s always plenty going on so take your pick. You could catch a gig at the nationallyrenowned Rock City, see a play at one of a number of theatres around the county, laugh your socks off at a comedy club or lose yourself in a poetry recital or literary reading at one of the many societies in the county.
Not only is Newstead Abbey interesting for being the home of playboy poet Lord Byron, it’s also one of the finest stately homes in the county. Built in the 12th century, the abbey has survived earthquakes, the Civil War and the wild parties held by its most famous owner.
Whether you’re in Nottingham, Newark, Southwell or Beeston, the county has a wealth of quirky independent bookshops, clothes stores, delis, bakeries and bars to explore, all full of local charm and character.
A short hop outside the city – you can get the train – takes you to a truly idyllic spot, the Attenborough Nature Reserve, managed by
Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust. You can stroll for hours around the lakes and wooded areas taking in the sights and sounds of nature and really get away from it all. The reserve attracts around 500,000 visitors each year and holds a special place in the hearts of many.
THE BREWHOUSE YARD
The Museum of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard, at the foot of Nottingham Castle, is the quintessential document of the city and beyond. Celebrating more than 300 years of life in the county, it is the perfect way to get your historical bearings.
SHOPAHOLICS WILL LOVE THIS COUNTY FOR ITS ECLECTIC MIX OF BOHO-CHIC BOUTIQUES, HIGH-STREET STAPLES AND QUIRKY INDEPENDENTS
Thanks to a major shopping centre, plenty of high-street retail and a funky independent fashion scene, Nottingham pulls the punters from all over the region and beyond. Add to this an ambitious programme of regeneration works and the city’s title as Queen of the East Midlands looks pretty safe.
Old fashioned brands, hip labels and high-end high street are all on the retail menu in Nottingham. So put on your sturdy shoes and get ready to pound the pavements (and shopping malls) in search of a bargain or two.
For big high-street brands, you have to get down to Nottingham. You’ll find Next, Superdry, River Island, Monsoon and more in Nottingham’s Victoria Centre, and H&M on Lister Gate close to Marks & Spencer and New Look. Add to that department stores John Lewis and House of Fraser and all your favourite shopping options are sorted.
The crown jewel of Nottingham’s shopping scene is Bridlesmith Gate, a compact cobbled street a short walk from the Old Market Square, where you can while away your time in stores including White Stuff, Sneakerverse, Jack Wills, Kurt Geiger, ECCO, Flannels and BOSS.
Just off Bridlesmith Gate is Byard Lane. This little alleyway is where Paul Smith opened his first ever boutique store and is now home to shops including Whittard of Chelsea. Bookworms should head to nearby Fletcher Gate, where Waterstones has occupied a grand five-storey building for years. Prefer luxury creams and high thread count sheets? Offshoot street St Peter’s Gate boasts The White Company store, Molton Brown and Kiehl’s.
At the other end of Fletcher Gate, Low Pavement and Middle Pavement form a beautiful little shopping strip, including Paperchase, Jo Malone and a Paul Smith store of grand proportions.
Set in the dramatic early-Georgian Willoughby House, it’s as much a museum to Paul Smith, his life and his connection to Nottingham as it is a retail store. The house is filled with mysterious little trinkets, signed
photographs and souvenirs and is a must for visitors to Nottingham, even if you’re not shopping.
The four-storey Zara store at the crossroads of Pelham Street and Clumber Street sits in a beautiful building dating from 1903, the exterior of which is adorned with gorgeous art nouveau details. At the other end of Clumber Street – which has some good brands including Levi’s, Schuh and Footasylum – is the Victoria Centre and a separate entrance to John Lewis, followed by Waitrose and an impressive TK Maxx store just over the road. Turn left at Zara, up Pelham Street, and you’ll make your way past Primark, Dr. Martens, Ann Summers and onto the Old Market Square.
Victoria Street is home to Lacoste, Jigsaw, quirky tea store Bird & Blend Tea Co. and award-winning food deli and café Delilah Fine Foods. As if that wasn’t enough, jewellery retailer Goldsmiths opened a stunning new £1 million store at the end of the street in November 2018.
If you’d rather get your shopping kicks away from the big smoke, head to West Bridgford across the Trent. It’s home to plenty of upmarket shops intermingled with elegant bars, cafés and restaurants for when you need that post-retail pick-me-up. Heavy hitters include Oliver Bonas, Waterstones and JoJo Maman Bébé. Want to bag a bargain in a sprawling outlet mall?
The East Midlands Designer Outlet is just outside the county in Derbyshire but easily accessible from anywhere in Nottingham. Come here for up to 60 per cent off brands including Barbour, Fossil, Joules, Skechers and Under Armour. When you’ve worn out your cards, you can take a break at one of
“THE FOUR-STOREY ZARA STORE AT THE CROSSROADS OF PELHAM STREET AND CLUMBER STREET SITS IN A BEAUTIFUL BUILDING DATING FROM 1903”
a number of popular chain restaurants, which include Wagamama and Five Guys.
Had enough of high streets and shopping malls? Nottinghamshire serves up a healthy selection of independent gems. Whether you’re after a bargain piece of vintage clothing, an obscure book or a selection of gourmet treats, you won’t go home disappointed.
Five Leaves Bookshop, hidden up a tiny alley off Long Row, is one of the city’s hidden gems. It stocks a phenomenal range of books of the more radical, political persuasion and often plays host to events and talks that attract nationally renowned speakers and thinkers.
If you fancy more of a rummage, head to the other side of the Old Market Square to find the West End Arcade, which holds a colourful selection of second-hand books, vintage clothing, quirky interiors and some superb indie record stores.
The Exchange arcade is set within the Council House building, topped by a grand domed ceiling at one end. Inside, there’s a host of retail stores, some well-known, some a little more niche. They include a traditional tobacconist and fine-wine retailer; an independent art
gallery; fashion chain Tutu; and women’s vintage clothes store Bubble Vintage.
Over the road in Flying Horse Walk, you’ll find another enticing walkway of shops. Alongside the high-end Vivienne Westwood boutique are a craft beer shop, a cheese shop, Cathy Stephens independent jewellers, the excellent George Thornton Art gallery and 200 Degrees, a superb coffee shop with its own roasting house.
With a host of hip stores, hairdressers, vintage shops and fashion designers Hockley has become the beating heart of Nottingham’s youth culture and creative scene. In 2015, legendary record label Rough Trade opened its first store outside of London on Broad Street. Above the main store is a cool bar and live-music venue as well as a cluster of beautiful independent shops.
If you’re in the area a visit to Cobden Chambers, a formerly derelict alleyway off Pelham Street, is an absolute must. There’s no longer a hint of deprivation – instead, you’ll find a characterful drag full of gorgeous little independent stores selling everything from fashion to stationery.
At the end of the alleyway is a lovely café, interiors store and mini art gallery. It’s a tranquil arty breather from the world outside.
If you’re willing to walk a little further from the main hub, Derby Road is home to some wonderful niche retailers. You’ll find a good selection of antique shops as well as first-class independent music shop Windblowers, art dealers and picture framers Lime Gallery,
“IF YOU’RE WILLING TO WALK A LITTLE FURTHER FROM THE MAIN HUB, DERBY ROAD IS HOME TO SOME WONDERFUL NICHE RETAILERS”
Alzheimer’s Society offers support to anyone affected by dementia –including family members, friends and carers. Whether it’s face to face, online or over the phone, we are here for you.
eco-friendly timber furniture at Brown Dog Interiors and outdoor decorations store The Worm That Turned.
On Station Street, Hopkinson Vintage, Antiques & Art Centre is a stunning Aladdin’s cave of new and vintage items from clothes and furniture to paintings and sculpture. When you’re done browsing, pull up a chair in the café and watch people pouring into the city from the railway station a few yards away. Beeston, a short tram journey from the city centre, has an abundance of independent shops, charity shops, cafés and pubs if you feel like exploring one of Nottingham’s best satellite towns.
Newark, meanwhile, is a lovely town with plenty of shopping options to keep you going all day. One of the best things to do here is to visit the lively outdoor market. You can easily find yourself mesmerised by the quaint, quirky items laid out on the tables – from books to brassware, cheeses to children’s toys.
Bookworms will love Bookwise, a charity shop selling CDs and sheet music, which has a store in the city centre too. Often overlooked but well worth the trip are the pretty market towns of Retford and Worksop, just five miles apart in North Nottinghamshire.
Retford is at its most entertaining on a Saturday, when the ancient market takes place in the town’s main square, flanked by fine Georgian buildings.
Worksop has an equally beguiling market, as well as a cluster of independent boutiques around Bridge Street and Bridge Place. If you want to flex your shopping muscles, Nottinghamshire is an excellent place to do so. With shopping malls and high streets featuring big-name brands, elegant boutiques offering designer gear and a whole host of independent markets, delis and vintage stores, it’s easy to get your retail fix in this lively county.
“YOU CAN EASILY FIND YOURSELF MESMERISED BY THE QUAINT, QUIRKY ITEMS LAID OUT ON THE TABLES – FROM BOOKS TO BRASSWARE, CHEESES TO CHILDREN’S TOYS”
THIS COUNTY IS A FOODIE’S PARADISE WITH A HOST OF FANTASTIC RESTAURANTS, CAFÉS AND PUBS – SO MAKE SURE YOU BRING A HEALTHY APPETITE
Foodies, rejoice! Nottinghamshire offers a whole host of delicious eats to satisfy both belly and soul. Hit the big city for elegant Michelin-starred dining, hole up in the countryside in an idyllic old pub or sample fantastic street food from around the world. The only problem you’ll have is deciding where to eat.
If you like nothing better than to dress up and dine out in style, you’re in luck! Nottinghamshire keeps the options coming and coming. From city centre sophistication to historic country house hotels, dining out has rarely been so much fun.
Hart’s Kitchen is a stylish two AA rosette dining room set in the equally chic Hart’s Hotel. The menu, designed by Michelin-starred executive chef Aaron Patterson, is just as impressive as the setting.
Come here for a swish afternoon tea or splash out and go for an intimate dinner out. The menu changes regularly but you could find yourself tucking into a velouté of wild garlic with poached egg and morel mushrooms, pan-fried calves’ liver with tartar mash or vanilla panna cotta with gariguette strawberries.
If you’re looking for the finest gourmet food in the county, you can’t get much better than Restaurant Sat Bains, which has been awarded two coveted Michelin stars. The food is experimental and unique, and Sat, former winner of The Great British Menu, offers a tasting menu that’ll have you salivating at the sight of it – think smoked eel, Anjou pigeon and veal sweetbreads. You’ll have to contend with eye-watering prices, and bookings need to be made well in advance, but for something this special, it’s well worth that extra effort.
Set in a grand 17th-century townhouse on one of Nottingham’s ancient, cobbled streets, World Service Restaurant is stylish, sensuous and blessed with an offbeat menu that’ll knock your socks off. Dishes include treats such as citrus cured sea trout with wasabi and anchovies; cured pork belly and black pudding; and hake with mussels and samphire. It also boasts a gorgeous little garden terrace for when the weather permits al-fresco dining, as well as a fantastically eccentric list of signature World Service cocktails.
Pan-Asian food is on the agenda at the Park Plaza hotel’s Chino Latino restaurant. This supremely stylish AA Rosette-winning dining room serves up small plates of sushi, tempura and Asian-inspired tapas, followed by heartier grills of fish and meat. Make sure to wash it all down with some of their tempting cocktails.
For high-end Indian food in elegant surroundings, get down to MemSaab. It’s the only Indian restaurant in the area to make it into The Michelin Guide, and rightfully so – everything is impeccable, from the menu choice and service to the light, elegant surroundings.
Just down the road is Alchemilla, one of an elite selection of Michelin-starred restaurants in Nottingham, and a previous winner of the fine-dining category in the Nottinghamshire Food and Drink Awards. Innovative tasting menus, with a strong focus on plant-based dishes, are served in a cavernous dining space – once part of a Victorian coach house.
Just outside a quaint little village near Bingham, Langar Hall is an eccentric 19th-century manor hotel with one of the most elegant restaurants in the county. The food is locally sourced and seasonal and includes game from nearby Belvoir and Blackberry Farm beef. An inventive menu includes veal sweetbread katsu curry and wild sea bass with charred lettuce.
Tom Browns Brasserie in Gunthorpe has been a staple of the Nottinghamshire dining scene for some time, and the owners’ hard work has been rewarded with two AA Rosettes. As well as a menu of solid British and European classics they serve afternoon tea and Sunday lunch.
Whether you’re craving a spicy Indian curry, a gourmet pizza or good old English pub grub, you’ll find a menu to suit you in Nottinghamshire. At the heart of the county’s global dining scene is Nottingham, whose dynamic
“LOOKING FOR THE FINEST GOURMET FOOD IN THE COUNTY? YOU CAN’T GET MUCH BETTER THAN RESTAURANT SAT BAINS, WHICH HAS BEEN AWARDED TWO COVETED MICHELIN STARS”
and diverse population is reflected in its multitude of international restaurants.
For years Nottingham had no Vietnamese food options but now there are several to choose from. To visit Coco Tang on Byard Lane is to take a remarkable trip back to old Saigon, including original 1950s salvaged floor tiles and wooden French windows from the days when Hanoi was known as the ‘Paris of the East’.
For a more down-to-earth but no less authentic café experience, featuring Vietnamese classics such as pho and summer rolls, check out Viet 80s on Friar Lane, or Wonder Pho on Thurland Street.
Japanese specialist Kushi-ya shot straight to the A-list when it opened in 2019, scooping up the best newcomer prize at the 2019 Nottinghamshire Live Food and Drinks Awards. It’s located down an inconspicuous alley just off Angel Row, in the city centre. Just around the corner is a fantastic Korean joint called Miss Korea, as well as Sushimania, which serves up some of the best Japanese food in the city. And tucked down an alley linking Maid Marian Way and Angel Row is a fantastically lively Thai street-food restaurant, Zaap Thai.
In the Lace Market area, there’s Japanese restaurant Bonzai; traditional Thai restaurant Paste Thai; The Mandarin Restaurant, one of the most authentic and stylish Chinese restaurants around; and Shanghai, which
serves what aclaimed food critic Giles Coren described as “without question the best Sichuan cooking I have had outside China”.
The area around Mount Street has some of the finest Indian restaurants in Nottingham. High-end MemSaab is the cream of the crop, but it has plenty of worthy rivals, including 4550 Miles From Delhi, a chic place with a buzzing, contemporary feel; Laguna Tandoori, a traditional clay-oven restaurant specialising in North Indian dishes; and Calcutta Club, a comfortable down-to-earth place which scooped the Best Newcomer award at the British Curry Awards when it opened in 2014. If hip vibes and small eats are more your bag, head to Hockley and Mowgli Street Food, where you can swap your chair for a swing and tuck into wraps, tiffin boxes and spicy chip butties.
The Lace Market area, with its imposing former lace factories and narrow cobbled streets, boasts one of the finest eateries in the city – tapas bar and restaurant Iberico. Follow the stairs down to the basement of the old law courts on High Pavement and you’ll be greeted by a stylish dining room and tapas of the highest order. For something more intimate and less formal, try Iberico’s sister restaurant – Iberico World Tapas – in Hockley.
Back in the city centre on Broad Street, Italian restaurant Botti di Mamma pulls in a lively crowd to sample traditional Italian eats such as arancini and Tuscan sausage and lentils. The same owner also runs the fabulous Sexy Mamma Loves Spaghetti just around the corner, a stylish Italian tapas bar
and deli. Between them, the two restaurants are among the most popular in Nottingham, both bursting with little details straight out of the owner’s vivid imagination.
Up on Alfreton Road, there’s a whole gallery of amazingly diverse restaurants from all over the world, including some of the best Turkish and Kurdish food in the city. Of the Turkish restaurants on the street, it doesn’t get much better than Bosphorus Restaurant or the legendary Tipoo Restaurant. Both open late on weekends and serve fantastic traditional meat and fish dishes, grilled over hot coals in an open kitchen.
If you want a whole host of world-food options all under one roof, head to COSMO Nottingham – Authentic World Kitchen on Milton Street. Choose from a range of cooking stations offering everything from a carvery to teppanyaki to curries. It’s all-you-can-eat so remember to wear that elastic waistband!
Also make time to check out the Nottingham Street Food Club. Set within the Victoria Centre it hosts an eclectic and ever-changing range of hip street food options, from vegetarian Indian to tacos to burgers. Just around the corner from Nottingham Castle is the gem that is Fothergills. Named after one of the city’s most famous architects, it serves everything from gourmet burgers to plates of steaming mussels and has a healthy selection of plant-based dishes.
“OF THE TURKISH RESTAURANTS ON THE STREET, IT DOESN’T GET MUCH BETTER THAN BOSPHORUS RESTAURANT OR THE LEGENDARY TIPOO RESTAURANT”
A short stroll away, past the city’s ancient walls and monuments, you’ll find The Roundhouse, an excellent pub set in a former hospital building, serving delicious and hearty meals including Sunday lunch and afternoon tea.
If you’re a serious foodie, make sure to get down to Delilah Fine Foods, an exquisite café, deli and restaurant, set in a stunning duplex space on Victoria Street. For elegant cakes, tea and other gourmet treats, soak up the quaint elegance of the White Rabbit Teahouse on Bridlesmith Walk. Follow the river down to West Bridgford for an upmarket catwalk of foodie delights, all clustered around Bridgford Road.
There’s hit Barcelona-inspired tapas joint escabeche, a Michelin Guide entry, Thai restaurant Giggling Squid, which serves Asian tapas and cocktails and The Botanist Bar & Restaurant which offers a playful menu including their famous hanging kebabs and an impressive brunch selection. To make your decision that little bit harder, there’s also oriental tapas and dim-sum specialist Yumacha, and minimalist Japanese eatery Uchi, which specialises in Ishiyaki Stone grills. Just down the road, you’ll also find family-friendly food and cocktail bar
Portello Lounge, which serves burgers, sandwiches and tapas as well as a hugely popular brunch.
If you find yourself around these parts on a Sunday, take note that Larwood & Voce is a former winner of the national Best British Roast Dinner award. Sitting within a cricket ball’s throw of the pitch at world-renowned Trent Bridge, this laid-back pub/restaurant is the perfect place to spend a lazy Sunday afternoon.
If you want to feel more like a local than a visitor, Sherwood, just north of the city centre, has some excellent options for dinner. One of the longest-standing and most popular is bistro Le Mistral. You’ll find excellent coffee, cakes and French-inspired snacks any time of the day, but its dinner menu is truly special, as is the restaurant’s signature beef bourguignon.
From high-end plates of veal sweetbreads to hip Indian tapas, there’s nothing you can’t eat in Nottinghamshire! And you can sample the goods at everything from laid-back cafés to atmospheric country pubs to slick Michelin-starred restaurants. Get out there and dig in!
ONLY HERE FOR THE WEEKEND? HERE ARE SOME IDEAS FOR A MEMORABLE SHORT BREAK TO NOTTINGHAMSHIRE
If you’re pressed for time, don’t fret – Nottingham city centre is compact and easy to get around. A unique way to feed your cultural side and see a lot of the city in a day would be to take a tour of Nottingham’s art scene, by tram. Buy a very reasonably-priced, all-day ticket or an even better value family ticket – your admission to a journey through a rich and vibrant cultural landscape.
Then you’re free to flit between the superb Nottingham Contemporary art gallery, the New Art Exchange in Hyson Green, Lakeside Arts at the University of Nottingham and the Bonington Gallery at Nottingham Trent University as you please.
If your appetite for culture hasn’t been sated by all that, there’s another little treat in store for you. Bromley House Library off Angel Row is a magical little place with a tranquil garden that makes you feel like you’re in a different world.
Or if you fancy something a bit less cerebral, a tour of the Castle Rock Brewery is the perfect thing to whet your appetite (check website for details). The step out for a few drinks in the evening followed by dinner – just stroll around and let one of the city’s restaurants pull you in.
You don’t want to confine yourself to the city, and one of the best ways to see more of Nottinghamshire is to drive out to Newark and Southwell. The pretty towns are both filled with charm, and you could start with Newark where the ancient, cobbled streets reveal a host of little shops, galleries and, on Saturdays, the excellent market. There’s also Newark Castle, a must-see if you’re visiting.
A short drive away is Southwell, a beautiful town with the magnificent 900-year-old Minster standing proudly in its centre. Within the ground of Southwell Minster there is also the remains of a Roman house complete with mosaics and wall paintings. Southwell is so picturesque you don’t need too much of a plan for the place; just walk around those old streets and lanes and take it all in. But if you’re in the mood for shopping, the Bookwise book and classical music store is a real treat – there’s also one in Newark.
Close by is the striking former Workhouse building that’s been converted into a museum. Touring the inside is quite an eerie experience, especially when you see the worn-down patches on the hard stone floor where the poor inmates’ beds lay. And if you’re in the area, you surely can’t resist stopping into the Newfield Dairy Ice Cream Parlour and Café to sample one of their delicious ice creams, made on site?
To round off your second day here, you could spend an idyllic few hours ambling along the River Trent on a boat. You can hire one yourself or join a public river tour, leaving from Gunthorpe. In the evening light the river is just mesmeric – a perfect way to end your brief time in this part of the world.
“YOU DON’T WANT TO CONFINE YOURSELF TO THE CITY, AND ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO SEE MORE OF NOTTINGHAMSHIRE IS TO DRIVE OUT TO NEWARK AND SOUTHWELL”
CULTURE VULTURES ASSEMBLE! THIS COUNTY OFFERS THE PERFECT
MIX OF GALLERIES, MUSEUMS, EXHIBITIONS AND FESTIVALS
If galleries, theatre and literary trails get you going, you won’t leave Nottinghamshire disappointed. This lively and picturesque county has attracted cultural luminaries for centuries. Add to that the vibrant city of Nottingham, home to a diverse and multicultural arts scene, and you’ve got a cultural break of dreams.
Nottingham is crammed full of galleries and art centres, celebrating everything from historic masterpieces to contemporary sculpture. Head further afield and you can wander in the footsteps of the county’s literary greats. One of the most important stops on any arty Nottingham
tour is the Nottingham Contemporary, a serious arts centre worthy of a place in any European city. The striking venue attracts some 200,000 visitors a year with a carefully curated blend of challenging contemporary exhibitions and live performances of music and theatre. The café and bar space downstairs is a great hangout spot in itself. Another exciting venue that would be a real shame to miss – especially as it’s a short tram ride from the city centre – is the New Art Exchange (NAE) in Hyson Green. It’s no accident that NAE was conceived in one of Nottingham’s most diverse and characterful areas. Its charismatic manager has done more to highlight Nottingham’s rich diversity than almost anyone, and NAE
reflects that drive. The contemporary exhibitions are always challenging, and they’re celebrated with verve by the community of local artists.
The distinctive black-brick building is more than an art gallery – special events, debates and screenings are regularly held in the smaller rooms upstairs. And on the ground floor, there’s a lovely café serving up a delicious menu of world foods. A real diamond hidden in a gritty part of town, it’s a must for anyone who’s serious about contemporary art and culture.
Also flourishing is Lakeside Arts, part of the University of Nottingham. A small cluster of buildings on the university campus, Lakeside is home to two galleries, a theatre, a recital hall and a museum. Contemporary art, photography, lectures, workshops and live music are all on the menu.
If you’re near Nottingham Castle, it’s well worth stopping at the Nottingham Society of Artists on Friar Lane. It’s a small-but-serious venue which doesn’t shout about itself too much but is a fantastic place to see some local artists’ work.
Among the streets where Nottingham rebel writer Alan Sillitoe grew up, a unique space has developed for artists and creatives. Based in a former school on Radford Road, not only does Primary host some fantastic artists and media professionals, but members of the public can take
part in creative workshops and classes on a weird and wonderful range of topics.
Hockley has become the trendy hub of the city and includes the media venue Confetti Institute of Creative Technologies, as well as some quirky, one-off creative spaces for freelancers. The area is also home to a lively multi-purpose art space for Nottingham’s creative community called The Carousel. It houses a wide range of workshop and exhibition spaces and is well worth a look in.
Sneinton has long been associated with the city’s creative scene, especially since Shane Meadows, director of gritty drama This Is England, set up shop here. In Meadows’ own words: “I basically turned Sneinton into my own film studio”. And you can see why – it’s something of a scrappy area, but it has a unique energy that breeds creativity.
Surface Gallery is one of the area’s success stories – a collectively owned exhibition space that’s played host to some gorgeous, shocking and funny shows in its time, and is constantly in demand from young artists wanting to show their work.
Also bursting with energy is the once dilapidated Sneinton Market. It’s become a wonderful ragbag of creative businesses to wander around, including designers, fashionistas and hipster types.
If you want to get your arty kicks outside the city, head on up to The Harley Gallery in Welbeck, near Worksop. It’s a real treat, and proudly independent from the
Nottingham scene. March 2016 saw the opening of The Portland Collection building, representing an exciting new chapter for the gallery. The magnificent building houses paintings by Sir Anthony van Dyck and a rare drawing by Michelangelo.
Now officially recognised as a UNESCO City of Literature, Nottingham has a habit of producing the rebels of the art world – DH Lawrence was born here, for example. His Birthplace Museum in Eastwood is a fascinating stop-off, and there are dedicated Lawrence walking tours around what he described as the “country of my heart”.
Alan Sillitoe is one of the most famed writers of the modern era, and any reader of his most noted work, Saturday Night and Sunday Morning, will recognise many of the stop-offs in a virtual literary trail that has been put together around the city in his memory.
And, of course, there’s the ‘mad, bad and dangerous to know’ Lord Byron. The St Mary Magdelene Church, where he is buried, is an excellent site for a pilgrimage to the infamous poet, or you can visit Newstead Abbey, where he lived out his rakish lifestyle with some verve.
Theatre and music buffs are spoilt for choice in Nottinghamshire. Whether you’re into classical, rock or contemporary plays, you’ll find something to suit you.
Nottingham Playhouse is a distinctive contemporary
building set in the gorgeous Playhouse Square, flanked by the stunning Anish Kapoor Sky Mirror installation and an elegant fountain.
Right next door is the Albert Hall, and from there, it’s a short walk to the grand Victorian Theatre Royal and its more modern neighbour, the Royal Concert Hall. For less high-brow activities, there’s the Cornerhouse just over the road, where the Cineworld Cinema pulls in the crowds. If you prefer cinema of the art-house variety, get down to trendy Hockley and the Broadway Cinema. It screens a carefully chosen blend of arty independent films, with some mainstream hits thrown in. In the summer, the seating area and steps outside are the place to go to sip a nice cold beer or just watch the hipsters go by.
If you want to catch a performance outside the city, the historic Mansfield Palace Theatre is the place to be. Described as “the last word in electric theatre... refinement and novelty” when it opened in 1910, this unique venue has benefited from a careful redevelopment programme and retains the grandeur of its heritage.
If you’ve come to Nottingham to rock out, get yourself to Rock City, one of the best places for live music anywhere in Britain. Its hall of fame would make any rock lover’s eyes water – Nirvana, David Bowie, Black Sabbath, The Killers, Iron Maiden, Guns N’ Roses, The Kinks, The
Smiths and R.E.M. have all played there over the years.
Prefer a big concert experience? The Motorpoint Arena at the bottom of the Lace Market is a regular stop on the tour for big names, and in recent years has seen the likes of Paul Simon, Bob Dylan and Elbow perform. For a more intimate feel, there are some excellent smaller venues. The Bodega on Pelham Street has hosted some of the biggest names in indie music, often before they hit the big time – Coldplay played there just before their breakthrough album Parachutes. Rescue Rooms in Masonic Square is also worth a look in if you’re in town and hankering for some live music, as is the Tap & Tumbler if you like a bit of metal in your rock.
Nottingham hosts several urban music festivals, including Hockley Hustle, Dot to Dot, and Beat the Streets, a charity fundraiser. If you’re lucky enough to be in town while they’re happening, grab yourself a wristband and take part. There’s also the legendary Waterfront Festival in July, which all takes place in one venue, the Canalhouse bar, but packs in the bands across several stages for one incredible day of music.
If you want to surround yourself with creativity Nottinghamshire is a fantastic place to be. You can listen to live music of all kinds, catch experimental theatre productions and learn about Nottingham’s diverse communities through art and performance. Make sure you don’t miss this vibrant county’s cultural highlights.
“YOU CAN LISTEN TO LIVE MUSIC OF ALL KINDS, CATCH EXPERIMENTAL THEATRE PRODUCTIONS AND LEARN ABOUT NOTTINGHAM’S DIVERSE COMMUNITIES THROUGH ART AND PERFORMANCE”
THE NIGHTLIFE IN NOTTINGHAMSHIRE IS THRIVING, PACKED WITH CLUBS, PUBS, BARS AND LIVE MUSIC VENUES
There’s no single Nottinghamshire night out. Maybe you prefer a quaint old pub with a dog asleep by the fire and a folk band plinking away in the corner. You might like something wilder – a night of moshing to heavy metal in a darkened underground bar. Or perhaps you’re looking to dance the night away to pop classics and sip sweet cocktails into the small hours. Whatever you’re into, this lively county is sure to oblige!
If it’s atmosphere you’re after, you’ve got everything you need in Nottingham city centre. There’s a massive selection of chilled-out pubs, live music venues, slick cocktail joints and clubs where you can dance your socks off until the small hours.
In the mood for a cocktail? Head to King Street and The Alchemist, which boasts an extensive drinks list, or a little further to the stylish Cast bar, part of Nottingham Playhouse theatre. There are also several hidden gems tucked away in the alleyways off Angel Row, including a decadent joint called 400 Rabbits, famed for its impressive selection of mezcal and tequila.
If you want to hang with the cool kids, make it a night out in Lace Market and Hockley. Notable names are long-standing cocktail bar Brass Monkey and the Pitcher & Piano bar over the road, a former church turned temple to a very different religion.
Head down an inconspicuous alleyway in Hockley and you’ll be taken aback by the multi-storey grandeur of The Hockley Arts Club, which could easily keep you occupied for an entire night. Over on Carlton Street is a
small but swanky cocktail bar called Lost Property, which is furnished with antiques, maps and old suitcases. If it’s not too busy, you can take your martini into the atmospheric ‘caves’ below.
Broad Street is always jumping on a Saturday night, with the ever-popular Revolution bar pulling in exuberant crowds. For something a little less mainstream, the bar above legendary record store Rough Trade is achingly cool and hosts some excellent live music and film screenings.
Always heaving at weekends, Jamcafé on Heathcoate Street has oceans of appeal, thanks to regular live music acts, DJs and its famous open mic night. It’s both stylish and understated – it feels as if you’re dropping round to the pad of your coolest mates while they’re having a party.
Back in the city centre, rock lovers have a top option in the form of MOJO Bar on Thurland Street. Every wall of this American-style joint is covered with pictures of legends from the rock-and-roll hall of fame. And at weekends the wild party goes on late into the night –you might even find yourself dancing on the table with the rest of the crowd!
The bar within the Theatre Royal has had an excellent makeover and has been rebranded as Yarn; while just over the road, The Hop Merchant is a small but lively place with excellent beers and live sports.
Up towards Nottingham Castle you’ll find an elegant and intimate new bar, French 75, specialising in the eponymous drink, among others. There’s also The Ned Ludd, a great bar offering a bit of everything, including an outrageously fun pub quiz.
There’s a pocket of wonderful pubs in a small but increasingly lively corner of town known as Canning Circus. They include rock music venue Running Horse, the down-to-earth Organ Grinder, the tiny Falcon Inn and the historic Sir John Borlase Warren, which has an idyllic garden at the back.
A cluster of pubs has sprung up by the canal, in the grand, red-bricked former warehouse buildings opposite the Magistrates Court. Castle Rock pub The Canalhouse is arguably the best of the bunch, with its big open space indoors and expansive seating area right by the
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“BROAD STREET IS ALWAYS JUMPING ON A SATURDAY NIGHT, WITH THE EVER-POPULAR REVOLUTION BAR PULLING IN EXUBERANT CROWDS”
water’s edge. Just around the corner, The Navigation Inn is the place to go for live music nights and a friendly, mixed crowd.
No trip to Nottingham is complete without at least one pint in Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem. It’s a mind-blowing place to visit, given that this is where knights used to neck a few beers before heading off to fight in the Crusades, 800 years ago.
If you want something very Nottingham, with just a little bit of edge, wander down through Hockley and into Sneinton. Close to the creative hub of Sneinton Market you’ll find two absolute gems – one old, one very new. There’s no way to do justice to the eccentricity and genuine charm of the King William IV pub, known locally as ‘The Billy’, which manages to attract old folk-music groupies as well as the cool young arty types. Adding to the allure of this tiny corner of the city, is slick but inviting new pub, the Fox & Grapes, which specialises in craft beer. Love a bit of headbanging? Join the serious rock crowd at Tap & Tumbler on Wollaton Street. Expect lots of
black denim, voluminous hairdos, piercings and a weird and wonderful crowd dancing the night away to DJs or live music.
If you’re a solid beer fan stop by Junkyard, just off Fletcher Gate, where you can get coffee and craft beer from all over the world, plus a really nice selection of food to nibble on.
And last but certainly not least is the Malt Cross on St James’s Street. A former Victorian music hall that fell into disrepair, it’s been beautifully restored to showcase the grandeur of its former stage, balcony and intricate ceiling above. There’s nowhere else quite like it in the county.
If you’d rather get your after dark fun outside Nottingham’s hectic centre, head across the river to the posh residential area of West Bridgford, or further afield to sleepy Beeston, which is full of traditional English pubs.
West Bridgford is an excellent option if you’re looking for a lively vibe without the crowds. There’s more than enough
“IT’S A MIND-BLOWING PLACE TO VISIT, GIVEN THAT THIS IS WHERE KNIGHTS USED TO NECK A FEW BEERS BEFORE HEADING OFF TO FIGHT IN THE CRUSADES SOME 800 YEARS AGO”
to keep you entertained all night, thanks to an intimate cluster of pubs, bars and restaurants dotted around the main street, all within a short walk of one another.
Hip tapas bar escabeche has become a fashionable spot for after work drinks, as well as excellent food.
They serve fabulous tapas both traditional and experimental and there are plenty of options for vegans, too (think Korean cauliflower and beetroot and sweet potato tacos).
Cocktail lovers are in for a treat in the form of newly opened bar and restaurant The Botanist – a lush green oasis festooned with plants and flowers that specialises in aromatic, inventive cocktails using ingredients such as yuzu, cardamom and quince. You should also check out old classic The Black Pearl, known for its collection of rum.
If the traditional pub is more your speed, Poppy & Pint, owned by local brewery Castle Rock, is a local favourite thanks to its warm, friendly atmosphere and community spirit. And for a unique and down-to-earth place serving proper beer, Stratford Haven, another Castle Rock pub, offers 14 different real ales to choose from in a relaxed, cosy setting.
Dotted around the iconic Trent Bridge there’s a great cluster of pubs and bars that are heaving on match days but offer a quiet night out off season. The Trent Bridge Inn is a fantastic place to start, especially if you’re a cricket
fan, as is the Waterside Bar + Kitchen, a great spot right by the City Ground, known for its live music. Yet another Castle Rock special is the historic Embankment pub, on the other side of the river. Once a social club for Boots workers, this fine Grade 2-listed building has stood proudly by Trent Bridge for more than 100 years.
TRADITIONAL PUBS
If you’re looking for a night out away from Nottingham itself, head to the charming little bubble that is Beeston, just a short tram or train journey from the city. You’ll find a great selection of traditional pubs and contemporary bars including local favourite The Victoria. Set right alongside the train tracks by Beeston Station, the Vic, as it’s known to locals, has a fabulous choice of beers and food, live music every Sunday and Monday, traditional pub games, a barbecue area and a yearly music festival on site. The only issue? You might not want to tear yourself away!
Once you’ve had your fill of Nottinghamshire’s landscapes and heritage, head out to enjoy its vibrant nightlife. Hang out with the locals in a traditional pub or hit central Nottingham and stay out all night in an experimental bar. Whatever you choose, it’s a fantastic way to finish off your day in style.
ALTHOUGH NOTTINGHAMSHIRE HAS MORE THAN ENOUGH TO KEEP YOU BUSY, A JOURNEY FURTHER AFIELD CAN MAKE FOR AN EXCITING NEW ADVENTURE
Nottinghamshire sits at a crossroads of four counties, each with its own identity and some magnetic cities towns and villages for the visitor. For the walker, two of these, Yorkshire and Derbyshire, are rich with an abundance of natural landscapes.
Not least, the stunning Peak District National Park which straddles both counties as well as Cheshire and Staffordshire. The Peak District contains some of the best walks anywhere in the country, and some of the most inspirational landscapes. Those dramatic hills have been the muse for an illustrious list of writers and artists, including William Wordsworth and Jane Austen, who set parts of Pride and Prejudice there.
At the southern end of the Peak District, near Ashbourne in Derbyshire, sits the mesmerising Dovedale National Nature Reserve. Walking along the luscious green valley carved out by the gentle river Dove, with its ancient trees that overhang the water and wild brown trout that dart through the shallows, is to experience something truly magical. Just ask Derbyshire’s most famous painter, Joseph Wright, who was inspired to produce some of his most dramatic works there.
Another way to appreciate the natural beauty of the area is from the sky. Cue a really unique visitor attraction in the area – the Heights of Abraham. Rising above the pretty town of Matlock Bath, the gateway to the Peak District, a cable car takes visitors over the treetops to a stunning viewing point up in the hills. From here there are a range of activities and mini-attractions, although nothing quite as spectacular as the view when you’re up at the top.
Derbyshire alone is rich with historical landmarks too plentiful to mention. Of these, Bolsover Castle is a fascinating portal to the 17th century and the golden age of chivalry, and for sheer opulence and grandeur, Chatsworth House, near Bakewell, is one of the most captivating stately homes in England.
The seat of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, Chatsworth is home to a remarkable collection of artworks and sculptures dating back as far as ancient Egypt, and visitors can tour some 30 rooms in this lavish 16th-century house. The magnificence of
the house is matched by the elegant beauty of the grounds, through which runs the River Derwent.
It’s a remarkable place built by a remarkable lady – Bess of Hardwick. Not one for sticking to the male-chauvinist conventions of the Elizabethan era, Bess amassed a personal wealth and a power base envied by the men of the day whose disapproval she either scorned or was indifferent to.
As well as building Chatsworth House she also had Hardwick Hall erected as a testimony to her wealth and influence, and this fine Elizabethan building sitting between Mansfield and Chesterfield, is certainly a must-see. For something a bit more kid-friendly, you can’t go wrong with Twycross Zoo in Warwickshire, with the ever-popular Gibbon Forest and Chimpanzee Eden. Or for a more out-of-this-world experience you won’t want to miss the National Space Centre in Leicester.
“FOR A
WORLD EXPERIENCE YOU WON’T WANT TO MISS THE NATIONAL SPACE CENTRE IN LEICESTER CITY CENTRE”
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