19 fun things to do in Nottinghamshire

Nottinghamshire is a county in the East Midlands region of England that is steeped in history and culture. Home to the legendary Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men, Nottinghamshire is a place of myths and legends. With its stunning countryside, historic castles, and vibrant cities, Nottinghamshire offers something for everyone. Visitors can explore the ancient Sherwood Forest, visit the iconic Nottingham Castle, or enjoy a night out in the city of Nottingham, which is known for its lively nightlife scene. Nottinghamshire is also home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, making it a great destination for tourists.

Firstly, Nottinghamshire is home to one of the most famous legends in English history – the legend of Robin Hood. Robin Hood is a heroic outlaw who roamed Sherwood Forest, stealing from the rich to give to the poor. Visitors can explore the legend at the Robin Hood Experience, located in the heart of Nottingham city centre. This interactive museum takes visitors on a journey through time, allowing them to explore life in medieval Nottinghamshire, learn archery skills, and even meet Robin Hood himself.

Nottinghamshire is also home to some of the most stunning countryside in England. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing walk along the River Trent, which runs through the heart of the county. The Trent is a great place to spot local wildlife, such as otters, herons, and kingfishers. For more adventurous visitors, the Peak District National Park is just a short drive away. The park offers a range of outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling to rock climbing and caving.

For those interested in history, Nottinghamshire has a wealth of fascinating landmarks to explore. Nottingham Castle, located in the heart of the city, was built in the 11th century and has been a key site in English history. Visitors can explore the castle’s fascinating history, from its role in the Norman Conquest to its use as a royal residence. The castle also offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside.

In addition to Nottingham Castle, visitors can explore the history of Nottinghamshire’s mining industry at the National Mining Museum, located in the town of Mansfield. The museum tells the story of coal mining in the county, from its beginnings in the 19th century to its decline in the 20th century. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibitions, take a guided tour of the underground mine, and even try their hand at coal mining techniques.

For those looking for a taste of modern culture, Nottinghamshire has a thriving arts scene. The city is home to a number of theatres and art galleries, including the Nottingham Playhouse and the Nottingham Contemporary. The Playhouse is one of the most famous theatres in England, and regularly hosts productions from some of the country’s top actors and directors. The Nottingham Contemporary, on the other hand, showcases the work of modern artists from around the world.

Finally, no trip to Nottinghamshire would be complete without sampling some of the county’s famous cuisine. Nottinghamshire is known for its delicious local dishes, such as Stilton cheese, Bramley apples, and pork pies. Visitors can sample these dishes at local pubs and restaurants throughout the county, and even visit the source of the produce at one of the many local farmers’ markets.

In conclusion, Nottinghamshire is a county full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the legend of Robin Hood, walk along the River Trent, visit historical landmarks such as Nottingham Castle, and sample the county’s famous cuisine. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a cultural experience, Nottinghamshire has something for everyone. So why not plan a trip to this charming county and discover all that it has to offer?

Here are some of the best things to do in Nottinghamshire

• Visit Nottingham Castle: Nottingham Castle is one of the most iconic landmarks in Nottinghamshire. The castle has a rich history, and visitors can explore the castle’s grounds and exhibitions, which showcase Nottinghamshire’s history and heritage.
• Explore Sherwood Forest: Sherwood Forest is a legendary woodland that is said to have been the home of Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men. Visitors can explore the forest on foot, bike or horseback, and visit the Major Oak, a giant oak tree that is said to be over 1000 years old.
• Go on a brewery tour: Nottinghamshire is known for its local breweries, and visitors can take a tour of some of the county’s most famous breweries. Castle Rock Brewery, Blue Monkey Brewery, and Navigation Brewery are all located in Nottingham and offer guided tours.
• Enjoy the nightlife in Nottingham: Nottingham has a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, pubs, and clubs to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a quiet pint in a traditional pub or a night of dancing in a nightclub, Nottingham has something for everyone.
• Visit Wollaton Hall and Deer Park: Wollaton Hall is a stunning Elizabethan mansion that is set in 500 acres of beautiful parkland. Visitors can explore the house and its exhibitions, which include natural history specimens, artwork, and memorabilia from the Batman movie The Dark Knight Rises, which was filmed there. The park is also home to a herd of wild deer, which can be spotted grazing in the parkland.
• Go on a canal boat ride: Nottinghamshire is home to a network of canals, which are a great way to explore the county’s countryside. Visitors can take a canal boat ride from the historic market town of Newark or Nottingham, and enjoy the scenery and wildlife along the way.
• Experience the Robin Hood Festival: the Robin Hood Festival takes place every year in Sherwood Forest and celebrates the legend of Robin Hood. Visitors can enjoy live music, medieval reenactments, food and drink stalls, and even try their hand at archery and other medieval activities.
• Visit the Galleries of Justice Museum: the Galleries of Justice Museum is a fascinating museum that explores the history of crime and punishment in Nottinghamshire. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibitions, which include the courtroom, the prison cells, and the execution chamber.
• Take a hot air balloon ride: Nottinghamshire’s countryside is beautiful from the ground, but it’s even more stunning from the air. Visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the county, and enjoy panoramic views of the landscape below.
• Go shopping in Nottingham: Nottingham is a great place to shop, with a variety of high street and independent shops to choose from. The city’s main shopping area is the Victoria Centre, which has over 120 shops, restaurants, and cafes.

Overall, Nottinghamshire has plenty of fun things to do and see, whether you’re interested in history, nature, nightlife, or shopping. So why not plan a trip to Nottinghamshire and experience all that this county has to offer?