My Favourite Spots in Nottinghamshire by Steve Oliver

This week we are sharing Steve Oliver’s favourite places in Nottinghamshire. If you would like to share your ‘favourites’ with us, email us at social@experiencenottinghamshire.com or use the comment section below. You may feature on our blog and our various social media platforms.   Steve presents The Sunday Alternative with co-host Erik Petersen at 9pm on Sundays - Nottingham's only dedicated unsigned/alternative music radio show on trentsound.com. Steve also writes music and comedy reviews for The Nottingham Post, and has self-published two books available on Kindle. A series of children's audio books will also be available soon. anothersteveoliver.webs.com Twitter: @Steve_Oliver76   "I was born in Nottingham but moved away when I was two, my family lived all over but we always came to visit until my granddad sadly passed away in 1986. The place had changed a lot by the time I moved back in 2007, but I instantly felt as if I had come home. My favourite places are a bit of a mix as I tried to avoid the usual choices, I love Wollaton Hall but it has been covered for example. Old Market Square: A lot of people complained about the refurbishment of the square in 2007, but they were wrong. The space is used now for a variety of attractions including the beach in summer. Even when there’s nothing going on you can just sit and watch the world go by. Of course during springtime, Nottingham’s unofficial mascot Ayup the Duck takes over the fountain! Rob’s Record Mart: I don’t know if anyone has ever left this shop empty-handed, a hidden gem right in the city centre, Rob’s is ideal for collectors of vinyl. You do need to be patient though, as the filing system sometimes goes awry. Brewhouse Yard: Every time you go there, you can find something you haven’t noticed before. The replica shops and school rooms are designed with an amazing attention to detail. ‘Secret’ Place near Trent Bridge: My daughter and I were having a bike ride along the Trent when we crossed Wilford Bridge and discovered this spot. Through the undergrowth you’ll find a lake, and a charming picnic area. In fact I almost regret mentioning it, as I want it to remain a secret. The Old General, Radford Road: This pub is closed down and had a less than favourable reputation when it was open, but I have a soft spot for it. The main reason for my affection is the statue of Ben Mayo, a local character who died in 1843. It has been traditional for longer than anyone can remember to dress the statue as Santa at Christmas. Over the last few years the pub has opened and closed with temporary managers, and I have taken it upon myself to maintain this tradition. I’m sure they all think I’m mental, but I don’t care, it won’t be Christmas in Nottingham without the General dressed up for the occasion. ‘The’ Mushy Pea Stall at Goose Fair: I’m sure you know the one I mean. It is a stall that sells real, not tinned, mushy peas made in what look like cauldrons. Peas from any other stall on Goose Fair just aren’t the same. In 2010 they experimented with getting rid of the ladle and bowl method of putting your mint sauce on, in favour of squirty bottles. I wonder if it was just me who complained? Thankfully, the bowl was back the following year."