Nottingham has a lot more to shout about than University Park Campus and the streets of Lenton, lined with student housing. So try something different this semester and explore what the city has to offer beyond the legend of Robin Hood.
Why not visit the Lace Market, the alleged Soho of Nottingham? We don’t just mean for an alcohol-fuelled night at Market Bar, dancing to hip-hop classics. Once the heart of the world’s lace industry during the days of the British Empire, it is now a protected heritage district full of impressive examples of 19th century industrial architecture. Take a stroll through the quaint cobbled streets. Oozing with charm, they offer an array of boutiques and high street shops to explore, as well as trendy cafes, tearooms and alehouses to sample.
Nottingham boasts a fascinating network of caves, with around 400 situated bellow the city’s streets. Make sure to check out the history beneath your feet the next time you are hunting for student friendly bargains in the Broadmarsh Shopping Centre. A guided tour, located on the first floor, will take you underground to explore some of Nottingham’s hidden gems: a set of man-made caves dating back to 1250 lie underneath the premises. Although rather gimmicky, this tourist attraction is inexpensive, fun and informative, allowing you to discover how the caves were formed and what they have been used for over the years. And, the best part? You get to wear a hard hat!
A visit to England’s oldest pub, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, established in 1189, needs to be put on your to do list. The pub grub is absolutely delicious and you will feel as though you have been swept back to the medieval ages. Make sure to bring your camera because this historical inn is worthy of a few instagrams. If you are still thirsty, another great place to explore is Pitcher & Piano. Set within a 19thcentury deconsecrated chapel, complete with ornate stained glass windows and church candles, there is nothing quite like this religious venue in which to enjoy yourself with a bunch of friends. A bar in a church…yes, you heard right!
Celebrate Nottingham’s literary pedigree by visiting D.H Lawrence’s birthplace in Eastwood (his Sons and Lovers turns 100 this year) or Lord Byron’s ancestral estate, Newstead Abbey. Fancy something more interactive? The Festival of Words will also be taking place from February 9th- 24th, hosting an array of distinguished authors, poets and artists at different venues across Nottingham. The events are open to everyone so don’t think that they are just aimed at bookworms or those studying English Literature. Details of events and exhibitions can be found at: http://nottwords.org.uk/
Once the weather settles down and the sun decides to show its face, head to Wollaton Hall and Deer Park with a picnic. You will probably already recognise this stately home, which starred as Wayne Manor in the most recent Batman film, The Dark Knight Rises. Scenes from The Duchess, Pride and Prejudice and The Wolf Man were also shot here. The Natural History Museum inside is nothing special (there is a creepy room full of stuffed birds, animals and insects), but on the whole the estate is an architectural marvel and it is completely free. (You only need to pay for parking.) The park is beautiful and relaxed- perfect for a leisurely walk- and you should be able to spot red deer roaming the grounds.
There is plenty to see and do in Nottingham, which is rich in culture and history. Some of these attractions are centred in the heart of the city and are in walking distance from one another. With great transportation you could also opt for the bus or make use of the tram system. So what are you waiting for? Go and discover Nottingham!