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6 Ways to Discover Nottinghamshire’s Historic Heritage

At the Centre of England: 6 Ways to Discover Nottinghamshire’s Historic Heritage

Take yourself on a trip to the centre of the action with Nottinghamshire’s greatest legends. Discover the largest cave network in the UK and visit the home of Robin Hood.  

Tunnel into the centre of Nottingham’s Oldest Stories

Descend beneath Nottingham’s city centre and explore the UK’s largest cave network, with over 800 hand-carved sandstone caves concealed beneath the city streets. Explore Nottingham’s unique underground labyrinth and uncover the fascinating tales of those who lived, worked and sought shelter inside the City of Caves.

Get to the heart of the National Justice Museum

Step into the centre of Britain’s law and justice history at the Grade II-listed Shire Hall, home to Nottingham’s iconic National Justice Museum. Experience crime, punishment and social justice of the time as you meet the characters, take part in interactive activities, and discover the history spread over five floors of the former Victorian courtroom, prison and police station. Explore historic collections, venture into centuries old underground cells, and stand inside the courtrooms where real trials once took place. To make your visit unforgettable you can even witness a gripping re-enactment of a live execution.

Top Tip: Enjoy a reduced admission price to the National Justice Museum and City of Caves when you book a joint ticket.

Immerse yourself in art and creativity at Nottingham Castle

A short 15-minute walk from the National Justic Museum, perched high on Nottingham’s iconic sandstone cliffs providing a 360-degree view of the city, Nottingham Castle is famous worldwide for being the backdrop to the legendary tales of Robin Hood and his rivalry with the Sheriff of Nottingham. Inside, you can explore over 1,000 years of history through immersive exhibitions, art galleries and craft displays that bring the castle’s rich heritage to life. Check out the new rebellion gallery which explores Nottingham’s inherent rebel spirit and notorious protests that played a major role in the castle’s dramatic story. Can’t stop thinking about the view? Stay overnight at Castle House with a breathtaking rooftop terrace featuring a hot tub and panoramic views of the castle.

Thirsty for more, visit Nottingham Castle on Friday 24^th and Saturday 25^th April for a beer festival like no other. Sip on quality beers from Nottingham’s independent breweries, enjoy live entertainment and soak up the historic atmosphere for an unforgettable experience with unbeatable views across the city.

Wollaton Hall, explore the real Wayne Manor

Just 8 miles from Gotham, Wollaton Hall is world-famous as Wayne Manor in Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight Rises. This magnificent Elizabethan mansion is one of Nottingham’s most iconic landmarks, home to the Natural History Museum and Nottingham Industrial Museum, featuring over 750,000 artifacts and working steam engines. Outside, explore the 500-acre deer park and gardens, spot wildlife around the lake and spot deer living in the woodlands, and for families enjoy trails packed with fun activities. A must-visit for film fans and history lovers alike.

Don’t miss out on a weekend of festivals in May with The Ibiza Orchestra Experience, Sausage and Cider Festival and Summer in Nashville festival with live music from dance anthems to the best tribute bands for rock and country music on 29^th – 31^st May.

Wander through Hockley and Lace Market

Part of Nottingham’s vibrant Creative Quarter, Hockley and Lace Market blends Nottingham’s rich fashion history with modern culture. Once the city’s beating industrial centre, the area is famously known for its towering red-brick warehouses, hidden alleyways and rebellious spirit that dates to the Luddites. Today, the city’s oldest area is filled with charming and elegant independent restaurants, bars, markets and vintage stores that articulate Nottingham’s creative culture.

Home to the largest live entertainment venue in the East Midlands, make sure to get tickets to see Nottingham Forest Netball and Nottingham Panthers Ice Hockey Team play at Motorpoint Arena, alongside other touring superstars.

Nottingham Contemporary

Adorned with a delicate lace pattern, Nottingham Contemporary is one of the UK’s largest contemporary art galleries in the UK, hosting regular international art exhibitions which are free for the public to view.

Highlights for 2026 include multiple enchanting candlelit concerts that explore the Best of Hans Zimmer, Tributes to Coldplay and Queen, the Spring 2026 Exhibition Launch party and the first European solo exhibition by multi-disciplinary artist Shahana Rajani: Lines That World a River لکیروں سے دریا تھامنا.

Top travel tip:  You can get to all of these incredible attractions without a car! Jump on a tram with the Nottingham Express Transit as your direct connection across the city centre. Travel to Wollaton Hall car-free with the Nottingham City Transport.