Known for

Robin Hood, Nottingham Castle, Warhammer World, Caves, Universities, Sport, Lace…

This is Nottingham.

Welcome to Nottingham, a dynamic city nestled in the heart of England’s East Midlands. Renowned for its storied past, vibrant present, and promising future, Nottingham beckons visitors with its captivating blend of history, culture, and modern charm. From the legendary tales of Robin Hood echoing through the ancient streets to its thriving arts scene and bustling shopping districts, Nottingham offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be discovered.

In this comprehensive guide, whether you’re embarking on your maiden voyage to this enchanting city or returning to unearth its hidden treasures, you’ll find everything you need to make your Nottingham adventure unforgettable. Navigate with ease through the maze of attractions, uncover insider tips on navigating public transport, and delve into the pulse of Nottingham’s dining and nightlife scene. So, prepare to immerse yourself in the allure of one of England’s most captivating cities and uncover why Nottingham is a true jewel of the East Midlands.

Seeking something specific? Utilise the quick links below to swiftly navigate to your desired section.

Nottingham Metro

Metro Tickets

Operating Hours

Accessibility

Alternative Transport

Things to do in Nottingham

Weather

Currency

Tipping

Internet

Nottingham Metro

The Nottingham Express Transit (NET) is a modern tram system serving the city of Nottingham and its surrounding areas in the East Midlands region of England. Here are some key points about the Nottingham tram system:

History: The Nottingham tram system began operation in 2004, with the initial line running from Hucknall to Nottingham city center. Since then, the network has expanded with additional lines and extensions.

Network: The NET system consists of several tram lines that connect various parts of Nottingham and its suburbs. These include lines to Hucknall, Phoenix Park, Toton Lane, and Clifton South, with plans for further expansion.

Metro Tickets

The Nottingham Express Transit (NET) offers a variety of ticketing options to cater to different travel needs. Here’s an overview of ticketing on the Nottingham tram system:

Single Tickets: Passengers can purchase single journey tickets for immediate travel. These tickets are valid for a single journey between two tram stops and must be used within two hours of purchase.

Day Tickets: Day tickets are available for unlimited travel on the tram network for a full day. They offer flexibility for passengers who plan to make multiple journeys within Nottingham and its surrounding areas.

Group Tickets: Group tickets are available for groups of up to five people traveling together. These tickets offer discounted rates compared to purchasing individual tickets and are ideal for families or groups of friends exploring the city together.

Robin Hood Pay As You Go Card: The Robin Hood Pay As You Go card is a smart card that can be topped up with credit for use on trams, buses, and trains in Nottinghamshire. Passengers can tap their card on the validator when boarding the tram, and the fare will be deducted automatically.

Season Tickets: Season tickets are available for regular commuters who use the tram system frequently. These tickets offer unlimited travel for a specified period, such as a week, month, or year, and can provide cost savings for passengers who travel regularly.

Concessionary Passes: Concessionary passes are available for eligible passengers, including seniors, disabled individuals, and students. These passes offer discounted or free travel on the tram network, depending on the passenger’s eligibility criteria.

Mobile Ticketing: Passengers can purchase and store tram tickets on their mobile devices using the NET mobile app. This convenient option allows passengers to buy tickets in advance and use them whenever they need to travel.

Operating Hours

The operating hours of the Nottingham tram network vary depending on the day of the week and the specific tram line. However, here is a general overview of the operating hours:

Monday to Thursday: Trams typically operate from early morning until around midnight. The first tram services usually start around 5:30 AM, with the last trams departing around midnight. However, it’s essential to check the specific timetable for your tram line, as there may be variations in operating hours.

Friday and Saturday: On Fridays and Saturdays, tram services may operate later into the night to accommodate passengers traveling for leisure or nightlife activities. The last trams on these days may run until around 1:00 AM or later, depending on the specific line and the time of year.

Sunday and Public Holidays: Tram services on Sundays and public holidays generally have slightly reduced operating hours compared to weekdays. Trams may start running later in the morning and finish earlier in the evening, with the last trams typically departing around midnight.

It’s important to note that these operating hours are subject to change, and passengers are advised to check the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) website or consult the latest timetable information for the most up-to-date details on tram services and operating hours. Additionally, during special events or engineering works, there may be alterations to tram schedules, so passengers should plan their journeys accordingly.

Accessibility

The Nottingham tram network is designed to be accessible to passengers with disabilities and those with mobility challenges. Here’s how the tram network ensures accessibility:

Low-Floor Trams: All trams operating on the Nottingham tram network are low-floor, making them easily accessible for passengers with mobility aids such as wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and strollers. The absence of steps facilitates easy boarding and alighting for all passengers.

Step-Free Access: Tram stops along the network are equipped with platforms that provide step-free access to tram doors. This allows passengers with mobility challenges to board and disembark from trams safely and independently.

Priority Seating: Priority seating areas are designated on trams for passengers with disabilities, elderly passengers, and pregnant women. These seats are clearly marked and are located near tram doors for easy access.

Accessible Tram Stops: Tram stops are designed to be accessible to passengers with disabilities, with features such as tactile paving, accessible ramps, and clear signage. Information boards at tram stops display real-time tram arrival times and service updates, ensuring that passengers have access to important information.

Assistance for Passengers: Tram staff are available to provide assistance to passengers with disabilities or those who require additional support. Passengers can request assistance with boarding, alighting, or navigating the tram network by contacting tram staff or using the help points located at tram stops.

Accessibility Information: The Nottingham tram network provides comprehensive accessibility information on its website and through other communication channels. This includes details about accessible tram stops, tram services, and facilities available to passengers with disabilities.

Overall, the Nottingham tram network is committed to ensuring that all passengers, regardless of their mobility abilities, can travel safely, comfortably, and independently on the tram network. Accessible features such as low-floor trams, step-free access, and priority seating contribute to making the tram network inclusive and welcoming to all passengers.

Alternative Transport

In addition to the tram network, Nottingham offers a range of other forms of public transport to help residents and visitors navigate the city and its surrounding areas:

Buses: Nottingham has an extensive bus network operated by several companies, including Nottingham City Transport (NCT) and Trent Barton. Buses serve various routes throughout the city and surrounding areas, providing comprehensive coverage and connectivity.

National Rail: Nottingham is served by Nottingham railway station, which offers regular train services to destinations across the UK. The station is located in the city centre and provides connections to major cities such as London, Birmingham, and Manchester.

Cycling: Nottingham is bicycle-friendly, with dedicated cycle lanes and paths throughout the city. The city council promotes cycling as a sustainable and healthy mode of transport, and bike rental schemes are available for short-term use.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Nottingham, providing convenient door-to-door transportation options for passengers who prefer a more personalised travel experience.

Things to do in Nottingham

Uncover Nottingham’s rich history, eclectic cultural offerings, and scenic surroundings. Whether you’re exploring medieval castles, immersing yourself in the city’s dynamic arts scene, or venturing into Sherwood Forest, Nottingham promises an array of memorable experiences for every visitor. Delve into this section to discover the top attractions and activities that make Nottingham a captivating destination.

Nottingham Castle

Originally constructed as a Norman castle beginning in 1068 and greatly expanded during the Middle Ages, Nottingham Castle is a ducal house dating from the Stuart Restoration era. During this time, it served as a significant royal stronghold and occasionally as a residence for royalty. The ancient castle, which had declined by the 16th century, was destroyed in 1651 during the English Civil War, removing all its walls and gates. The location is atop “Castle Rock,” a natural peninsula that dominates the city skyline and has cliffs rising to the west and south that are 130 feet (40 metres) high.

Old Market Square

Old Market Square acts as a hub for both locals and tourists, serving as a place where people meet, shop, and start many memorable days and evenings. It is the biggest public area in the UK after Trafalgar Square in London, and serves as a significant centre for the city’s transit system and social scene.

The Arboretum

Originally established on May 11, 1852, Nottingham Arboretum is the city’s oldest public park and is the closest park to the city centre. It is a beautifully maintained historic park with over 800 trees, some of which date back to the original collection planted in the 19th century.

The City of Caves

Nottingham has the UK’s largest network of caves – over 800 are hidden beneath its streets. The greatest portion of this extensive subterranean network that is open to the public may be seen at The City of Caves. Enjoy a memorable adventure in history at the heart of this subterranean wonder.

Wollaton Hall and Park

Situated on 500 acres of stunning parkland, Wollaton Hall is one of the finest Grade One listed Elizabethan palaces in England. Discover breathtaking architecture, exhibits, a packed schedule of activities, and a variety of wildlife. Take one of the many guided tours that are offered all year long and on demand for groups.

Nottingham Industrial Museum

Learn about the individuals, businesses, and sectors that helped Nottingham gain international recognition. The five galleries of the Nottingham Industrial Museum are dedicated to the primary industries of Nottinghamshire, which include mining, textiles, transport, communication, and power.

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is a Grade II listed public house which claims to have been established in 1189. The pub claims to be the oldest in England, it is believed that the name comes from the belief that pilgrims would stop at the Inn on their journey to Jerusalem. “Ye Olde” is properly pronounced “the old” and “trip” refers to a stop on a journey, rather than the journey itself.

Highfields

Located in the western region of Nottingham, Highfields Park is a Grade II listed park including 121 acres of green space. There’s a lake for boating in the park, and you may rent boats there in the summer. The Tottle Brook, a tributary of the River Trent, flows south of the lake; for a large portion of its course, the brook is culverted. There are play areas for kids and a cafe in a pavilion at the eastern end.

Games Workshop Warhammer World

Warhammer World is the home of the Warhammer hobby, Games Workshop’s global headquarters and visitor centre, a haven for collectors and gamers from across the globe! Look through the retail stores, which provide a wide selection of Black Library and Forge World products in addition to exclusive Warhammer World items.

St Mary’s Church

This is Nottingham’s oldest Christian Foundation, located in the historic Saxon settlement known as Lace Market. The church is open everyday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in addition to Sunday services and Wednesday choral evensong.

Nottingham Contemporary

Nottingham Contemporary opened its doors in 2009 and has hosted over 50 exhibits and two million visitors since then. An architectural accomplishment, the RIBA-awarded structure is a testament to the art gallery’s unique research and learning activities.

Robin Hood Statue

Standing proudly atop a two-and-a-half-ton block of white Clipsham stone, the seven-foot-tall effigy of Nottingham’s famed outlaw is cast in eight pieces of half-inch thick bronze (which is said to have a lifespan of 6,000 years). Small sculptures of Will Scarlett, Friar Tuck, Alan A. Dale, and Little John surround it, and wall plaques depict scenes from the stories of Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

Lace Market

The City Centre’s Lace Market, formerly the centre of the British Empire’s lace industry, is home to Victorian redbrick warehouses that have been transformed into stylish shops, gastropubs, and creative agencies.

Weather

In Nottingham, the weather showcases a typical British climate, featuring mild summers and cool winters. Rainfall is spread evenly throughout the year, with occasional snowfall in the winter months. Overall, Nottingham experiences temperate weather with moderate temperatures and a mix of sunshine, clouds, and precipitation across all seasons.

Average monthly temperatures

Currency

The Currency in the UK is the Great British Pound.

Symbol: £

ISO Code: GBR

Bank notes come in £5 £10 £20 and £50, but £50 notes are rarely used.

There are 100 pence in a pound and the coins are in units of 1p, 2p, 5p, 10p, 20p, 50p £1 and £2.

Some nicknames you might hear for notes:

fiver – £5

tenner – £10

Tipping

It’s less common to tip in the UK than it is in other countries and in most cases tipping is done out of politeness. If you go to a restaurant, especially if there is a large number of you, there may be a gratuity charge added on top of your bill. If there is no gratuity charge you can tip 10% – 15% if you think the service was good. Tipping in bars, pubs and clubs isn’t usually done unless you’re receiving table service.

Internet

Getting access to internet in Nottingham is pretty straight forward. Free Wifi can be found in most coffee shops, fast food restaurants and hotels. Free public Wi-Fi provided by GovWifi is available in all Nottingham City Libraries and many other Nottingham City Council buildings.

Alternatively, you can use this map of free Wifi hotspots available in Nottingham which is available for download on iOS and Android.

A travel guide to

Nottingham.

Known for

Robin Hood, Nottingham Castle, Warhammer World, Caves, Universities, Sport, Lace…

This is Nottingham.

Nottingham Metro

Metro Tickets

Operating Hours

Accessibility

Alternative Transport

Things to do in Nottingham

Nottingham Castle

Old Market Square

The Arboretum

The City of Caves

Wollaton Hall and Park

Nottingham Industrial Museum

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

Highfields

Games Workshop Warhammer World

St Mary’s Church

Nottingham Contemporary

Robin Hood Statue

Lace Market

Weather

Average monthly temperatures

Currency

Tipping

Internet