By final year, most of us have generally spent most of our student lives at home, in Hallward (fun times), and probably know Lace Market and Hockley better than we should. But how much of Nottingham have you really explored? For most people, coming to uni here was the first time ever visiting the city – how many times will you be back after, to see friends maybe? Notts has so many exciting features and things to see and do, so take advantage of that student freedom (and student discount) while you can!
– See Wayne Manor/Wollaton Hall
This is a standard one and we’d hope that most students would have been here by now. If not, this impressive building is located bang in the middle of Wollaton Park, right next to campus, and got its movie debut as the luxury home of a certain Dark Knight!
– See Nottingham Castle
Yes – we have a castle. If you did not know this by now, we’re assuming you’ve been distracted by all your studying (or Ocean-ing). It’s a feature of medieval Nottingham – but we’re not going to give you a history lesson, there’s a museum there to do that!
– Travel down to the river
The River Trent is a bit of a trek from Lenton but well worth it if you visit on a lovely day. The area near Trent Bridge is particularly great for a picnic, and it is right next to the football and cricket stadiums for you sports nuts.
– Campus 14
Shouldn’t really have to explain this one. Unofficial campus tradition for us UoN-ers. Deemed more successful if you’re in costume.
– Galleries of Justice
This may seem random, but in 2013 Nottingham was named the UK’s ‘Most Haunted City’ – meaning it has the most ghost sightings. Trent Bridge is known for its supernatural visitors, but you can have a truly spooky time on a ghost tour if you dare.
http://www.galleriesofjustice.org.uk/afterdark/ghost-tours/
– See a concert
The Notts music scene is lively and varied, so try and experience it in some form if you can. From a big arena show at Capital, or something a bit smaller at places such as Rock City, Rescue Rooms or The Maze, there’s something for everyone.
http://www.ents24.com/hub/search/genre/music/near/Nottingham
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– Ride a tram
Nottingham is one of 8 places in the UK that has a tram system – which you’ve probably noticed if you’ve ever walked across Market Square and had one nearly run you over. Being one of the strangest modes of public transport you’ll probably ever come across (like a train on a road – what?), you may as well take the chance to experience it while you can.
– Visit SB campus
Generally viewed by everyone else as the place full of farm animals in the middle of nowhere, it is easy to forget Sutton Bonington is a part of the university. With its own arboretum, it’s perfect for a relaxed afternoon away from the city. And you’re technically still at uni, so you wouldn’t be wasting time at all…
– Savoy Cinema
A little gem in Lenton, the Savoy is not just any old cinema. With its love seats and student-friendly prices, it’s the perfect place to take a break from studying.
– Explore main campus
Topping the GreenMetric World University Rankings in 2013, as well as winning many other awards for its natural scenery, it’s hard to deny that University Park is one of the most beautiful campuses around. Take a walk around the lake or hire a boat, visit the Millennium Garden near LASS or the rockery near the Architecture building. If nature really isn’t your thing, have a go at finding the secret Portland-Trent tunnel!
– Sherwood Forest
If you’ve got a car or are happy to brave the long public transport, Sherwood Forest is a must-visit. Home of the legend of Robin Hood, the country park is full of nature trails and references to the famous archer – or if you’re too lazy, you can always go see the Robin Hood statue in the city instead.
– Pitcher & Piano
This is a random addition to this list, but a bar in a converted church? Seems incongruous but it works so amazingly well. Not an experience you’ll find in many other places – and if you’re going to drink, you may as well do it in style!
Is there anything you think we’ve missed on our list? Let us know @HCNottingham!