February Half Term at Nottingham Castle

About

Head to Nottingham Castle and immerse yourself in Nottingham’s history this February half term. From firing a virtual longbow in the innovative galleries, to letting your imagination run wild in Hood’s Hideout – you’ll find no shortage of things to inspire you and your loved ones.

Explore themes of Love, Romance and Friendship in the Creative Galleries

With half term kicking off just in time for Valentines Day they have installed a brand-new trail exploring themes of love, romance and friendship in the Castle’s Creative Galleries. Spot the love notes on the upper floor and discover which items we love from the collection – there’ll even be chance to write your own love letter to take home with you!

Got little ones joining you? The Castle will also be running craft activities, allowing children (or grown ups!) of all ages to make their very own love bugs to take home with them.

Let your imagination run wild in Hood’s Hideout Adventure Play

Set within the dry moat of the Castle, Hood’s Hideout promises hours of fun and discovery for children.

Journey up ‘The King’s Road’ toward the Castle from the secret encampment, wary of those in tree walkways above. Will you storm the Castle, or enforce law and order with the Sheriff of Nottingham? Children love to swing, slide, climb and jump through history on the amazing creative timber play structures.

Lose yourself in the legend in the immersive Robin Hood Adventures

Ever wanted to find out more about Nottingham’s favourite outlaw? Travel through the Castle tunnel into Robin Hood Adventures and experience the ballads of Robin Hood on ‘in the round’ storytelling screens.

In the coach-arch gaming spaces, fire your longbow to defeat your companions in our digital archery competition, or spar with Little John in the depths of Sherwood Forest with our digital quarterstaff game.

Reckon you could survive a day in 14th century Nottingham? Now’s your chance to find out! Discover what life was really like in a medieval town on our exciting interactive gaming tables. Pre-warning… it’s not as easy as it sounds!

Access to Robin Hood Adventures is included in the general admission ticket to Nottingham Castle until 28 February 2022. However, please note that due to limited space in the gallery, pre-booking is essential to avoid disappointment.

Discover the medieval foundations of the Castle in our Underground Adventure Cave Tours

Descend into the remarkable caves that snake through Castle Rock on a 25-minute tour exploring the foundations of the medieval Castle. Bookable in addition to your general admission ticket – find out more here.

Why is Nottingham Castle no longer a medieval Castle? Find out more about Nottingham’s riotous past in the Rebellion Gallery

When is a Castle not a Castle? When it’s in Nottingham, of course! Discover what happened to the medieval Castle that once dominated Nottingham’s townscape in our immersive Rebellion Gallery. Read secret snippets from Lucy Hutchinson’s diary, exposing the truth of the Civil War; learn all about Ned Ludd and how his followers raged against the machines, and watch the Castle burn down in real time on screens recreating the Reform Bill Riots of 1831.

Blink and you’ll miss it! Last chance to See “Hello, My Name is Paul Smith”

Closing on 20 February, “Hello, My Name is Paul Smith” takes you on a journey through the world of Paul Smith, from the company’s beginnings in Nottingham to its international prominence today. 

Treat yourself and your loved ones at the Castle Shop

Before you leave, check out the Castle Shop, which is located at the main entrance of the Visitor Centre. Nottingham Castle’s shop sells a fantastic selection of gifts, art and souvenirs. There’s plenty to delight little ones, too, from bow and arrow play sets, to adorable Robin Hood teddies. Drop in and explore the range before finishing your trip with a brew with a view in the Castle’s Coffee Shop.