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You are here > Explore > Nottingham
Known throughout the world for the famous legend of Robin Hood, today Nottingham is one of the UK’s most thriving and creative cities. A destination alive with dynamic culture; our castles, caves and cultural attractions unite the past and present, providing a fascinating place to explore, whatever your interests.
Presiding over the city on a rocky cliff, the legendary Nottingham Castle Museum & Gallery has been called the ‘Jewel in Nottingham’s Crown’. The castle is currently closed until early 2021 for an exciting redevelopment, but there's plenty to see and do in the area to get a taste of Nottingham's fantastic history. Carved into the craggy rock face below, you’ll find the 800-year-old Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, said to be England’s oldest inn. It's an excellent traditional pub for procuring fine local ales. Venture deeper down and you can explore Nottingham’s subterranean cave network at the City of Caves, with the thrilling National Justice Museum nearby presenting an extensive and grisly history of crime and punishment.
Back above ground, the city centre is largely pedestrianised and compact, making Nottingham perfect for relaxed strolling, sight-seeing, and shopping. Nottingham Contemporary is our free modern art gallery, with compelling exhibitions from international artists to explore, while Debbie Bryan’s studio merges heritage and modern arts and crafts in the Lace Market. You can also enjoy glorious tea, cake and mouthwatering sandwiches in the award-winning tea room.
Along with intu Victoria shopping centre and Broadmarsh shopping centre (currently undergoing an exciting £250m redevelopment), and a great selection of high street favourites and independent boutique shops, Nottingham's rapidly growing independent retail scene is alive with talent, ensuring you can find unique and inspiring treats and gifts.
Take an evening stroll and you’re sure to come across a spot of entertainment to suit your tastes. Whether you fancy art house movies at Broadway Cinema, gin tasting in The Malt Cross caves, a spectacular concert at Motorpoint Arena, or a spot of crazy golf at The Lost City there’s always something going on – or just take your pick of shows at one of the four city centre theatres. For music lovers, Nottingham has some of the best venues in the country, and with a booming literary scene there are performances to be caught most nights of the week!
If all that excitement is making you hungry, finding delicious food and drink in Nottingham has never been easier. A medley of fine dining, friendly cafes and award-winning eateries fill the streets, with choices from Michelin starred Sat Bains with Rooms to Annie’s Burger Shack to quench your hunger.
Whether you visit for a whistle stop cultural crawl or settle in for the weekend, there’s no doubt you’ll leave inspired and delighted by Nottingham’s unique charm. You may not want to go home!
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