Nottingham Castle

About

Historic site at the heart of the Robin Hood legend and the starting point for the English Civil War.

Situated on a high rock, Nottingham Castle commands spectacular views over the city and once rivalled the great castles of Windsor and the Tower of London.

Its history is chequered with sieges, murders and intrigue. Totally destroyed after the Civil War, the medieval castle was replaced by a magnificent ducal mansion in 1674. Then in 1875 it was converted into the first municipal museum and art gallery outside London. Award-winning cave tours tell this history and take you down into the passageways and tunnels beneath the building.

Museum and Gardens

The museum, recently refurbished, now contains spectacular fine and decorative arts galleries, as well as galleries telling the story of Nottingham, the Sherwood Foresters Regimental Museum and an exciting programme of art exhibitions. The museum also has a shop, a cafe and a medieval playground within its grounds.

Whilst on your visit you can also enjoy the six acres of Victorian inspired grounds and gardens.  The grounds boast magnificent views of the city and beyond.  The Castle Green, with its medieval style playground and covered picnic area, provides the ideal spot for a family day out.

Accessibility:

Parking available on site for Blue Badge holders (subject to availability) please call us in advance to book a space on 0115 876 1400

2 universal access toilets on site

Wheelchair and electric scooter also available (prior notice required) – we only have one of each

Ramped areas marked and lifts to all floors available

While we do have a no dog policy at Nottingham Castle assistance dogs are always welcome to the site

Hearing Loop available, please contact us for more details

The Museum of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard is open every weekend and Bank Holiday 12pm - 4pm, plus for some special events. A joint admission ticket for Nottingham Castle and The Museum of Nottingham Life is available at weekends, this covers both museums for the admission prices above.

Cave Tour Times and Prices

Take a tour to experience the caves for yourself, learning on the way the gruesome tales of Roger Mortimer, King David II of Scotland or you may be able to take a tour with Robin Hood himself...

With some of the caves dating back to medieval times, the tour is strenuous with LOTS of steep steps. However, for those who wish to descend through hundreds of years the tour is a must.

£5 per person (on top of Castle entry fee) - Cave Tours take place daily at 12noon, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm.

Please note: places on our cave tours are allocated on a first come, first served basis and are subject to availability and weather conditions.

No advance bookings are taken. Tickets go on sale 30 minutes before the tour is due to leave.

Please note: Due to a fantastic £29.8m Heritage Lottery Funded grant, Nottingham Castle will be closed from 1 July 2018 until 2020. Please visit their website for updates and information.