Nottinghamshire
· GB

Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom

Journey to the Heart of England: Discover Nottinghamshire Step into a world of legend and legacy in Nottinghamshire, a county in the heart of England brimming with ancient forests, grand estates, and a vibrant modern spi…

#East Midlands#Historic#Sherwood Forest#Robin Hood#Countryside
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Nottinghamshire.

Top Hotels in Nottinghamshire

Top Flights to Nottinghamshire

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Nottinghamshire.

Tours

Nottingham Castle Tours

Explore the historic Nottingham Castle and learn about its rich history and legends, including the story of Robin Hood.

Shopping

City Shopping Spree

Explore the best shopping destinations in Nottinghamshire including independent boutiques and high-street stores.

Outdoor

Sherwood Forest Adventure

Experience the legendary Sherwood Forest, former home of Robin Hood, with guided walks and outdoor activities.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Nottinghamshire.

Currency
£ | GBP | Pound Sterling
Population
1.2 million
Languages
English, English

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Nottinghamshire.

What people love

Nottinghamshire, located in the East Midlands region of England, offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers. Some of the pros of traveling to Nottinghamshire include:

  1. Rich history: Nottinghamshire is steeped in history, with attractions such as Nottingham Castle, Sherwood Forest (legendary home of Robin Hood), and the historic town of Southwell with its stunning Minster.

  2. Cultural experiences: The county boasts a vibrant arts scene with theaters, galleries, and museums such as the Nottingham Contemporary and the Galleries of Justice Museum.

  3. Natural beauty: Nottinghamshire is known for its picturesque countryside, including the scenic Vale of Belvoir, the River Trent, and the Nottinghamshire Wolds, offering opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.

  4. Shopping and dining: Nottinghamshire's cities and towns offer a range of shopping options, from designer boutiques to independent stores, as well as a diverse culinary scene with traditional pubs, fine dining restaurants, and local markets.

  5. Festivals and events: The county hosts various events throughout the year, including the Nottinghamshire County Show, the Nottingham Festival of Science and Curiosity, and the Robin Hood Festival in Sherwood Forest.

Overall, Nottinghamshire provides a mix of history, culture, nature, and entertainment, making it a great destination for travelers seeking a diverse and enriching experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom, could include:

  1. Weather: Nottinghamshire, like much of the UK, can have unpredictable weather with frequent rain and overcast skies. Visitors should be prepared for damp and cool conditions, especially in the fall and winter months.

  2. Crowds: Popular tourist attractions in Nottinghamshire, such as Sherwood Forest and Nottingham Castle, can get crowded during peak tourist seasons. This may lead to longer wait times and less enjoyable experiences.

  3. Cost: The UK, including Nottinghamshire, can be an expensive destination for travelers, with high costs for accommodation, dining, and transportation. Budget-conscious travelers may find it challenging to stick to their financial plans.

  4. Transportation: While Nottinghamshire has a good public transportation system, visitors may find it difficult to navigate the area if they are unfamiliar with the local bus and tram routes. Renting a car could be an option, but parking can be limited and expensive in city centers.

  5. Safety: While Nottinghamshire is generally a safe destination for tourists, like any other place, visitors should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas and public transportation.

Please note that these are general cons that travelers may encounter in Nottinghamshire, and individual experiences may vary. It's always a good idea to research further and plan accordingly based on your personal preferences and needs.

Nottinghamshire, located in the East Midlands of England, is a county steeped in history, with its roots tracing back to ancient times. Here is an overview of its historical development, significant events, historical figures, and landmarks:

Early History and Roman Period

  • Iron Age and Roman Era: Nottinghamshire's history begins with its settlement in the Iron Age, followed by the Roman conquest of Britain. The Romans established several roads and settlements in the region, including a fort at Margidunum near present-day Bingham.

Anglo-Saxon and Viking Period

  • Anglo-Saxon Era: After the Romans left, Anglo-Saxon tribes settled in the area. Nottinghamshire was part of the Kingdom of Mercia during this time.
  • Viking Influence: The area saw significant Viking activity, particularly during the 9th century, as part of the Danelaw—a region under Viking control.

Medieval Period

  • Norman Conquest: After the Norman Conquest in 1066, Nottinghamshire was incorporated into the feudal system. The Domesday Book of 1086 provides one of the first records of the county.
  • Nottingham Castle: Built by William the Conqueror, the castle became a significant royal stronghold and played a role in various historical events, including the English Civil War.

Robin Hood Legend

  • Robin Hood: Perhaps the most famous association of Nottinghamshire is with the legend of Robin Hood, the outlaw who, according to folklore, lived in Sherwood Forest and "robbed from the rich to give to the poor." Sherwood Forest remains an important cultural and historical site.

Industrial Revolution

  • Industrialization: The 18th and 19th centuries saw Nottinghamshire at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution, particularly in the textile industry. Nottingham became a center for lace-making and hosiery.

20th Century

  • Coal Mining: The county was also known for its coal mining industry, which played a vital role in its economy throughout the 20th century. The decline of coal mining in the late 20th century had a significant impact on the region.

Historical Figures

  • Lord Byron: The famous Romantic poet, George Gordon Byron, 6th Baron Byron, spent much of his early life at Newstead Abbey in Nottinghamshire.
  • D.H. Lawrence: The renowned author D.H. Lawrence was born in the Nottinghamshire town of Eastwood. His works often reflect the life and environment of the region.

Significant Landmarks

  • Sherwood Forest: Famous as the home of Robin Hood, Sherwood Forest is a large royal forest with ancient oak trees, including the Major Oak, thought to be over 1,000 years old.
  • Nottingham Castle: Originally a medieval castle, it was rebuilt in the 17th century and now functions as a museum and art gallery.
  • Southwell Minster: A stunning example of Romanesque architecture, this cathedral is one of the county's most significant ecclesiastical buildings.
  • Newstead Abbey: Once a monastery, it became the ancestral home of Lord Byron and is now a museum and park open to the public.

Nottinghamshire continues to celebrate its rich history through various cultural events and landmarks that attract visitors from around the world.