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Photo: Cosmicutencil, CC0 via Wikimedia Commons
Visitors with Hollywood expectations of Robin Hood films should be aware that this is not a medieval castle, but a small stately home with only the gatehouse remaining from the original castle. The castle includes grounds with a children’s play area and extensive views over the region, and a museum with various exhibitions inside the house itself (including the country's first municipal art gallery). After a refurbishment the castle reopened in 2021 with a number of interactive exhibits and games. A tour of the caves under the castle can also be booked for an additional fee.
Nottingham Castle is a Stuart Restoration-era ducal mansion in Nottingham, England, built on the site of a Norman castle built starting in 1068, and added to extensively through the medieval period, when it was an important royal fortress and occasional royal residence. In decline by the 16th century, the original castle, except for its walls and gates, was demolished after the English Civil War in 1651. The site occupies a commanding position on a natural promontory known as "Castle Rock" which dominates the city skyline, with cliffs 130 feet (40 m) high to the south and west.
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Off Maid Marian Way, it is one of various pubs claiming to be the oldest pub in Britain, the "Trip" traces its existence back over 800 years. Built into the sandstone caves under the castle, it is charming and well worth a visit if you happen to be in the city. It is located at the Brewhouse Yard, home to the Museum of Nottingham Life which shows the social change in Nottingham that has occurred over the last 300 years.
Statue of Nottingham's most famous hero, just outside of the castle walls.
Opened in 1963 to the designs of Peter Moro and heritage-listed as Grade II*, the Playhouse is one of the most architecturally-striking modern theatres in the UK. Its resident company has acquired a national and international reputation since 1948. Main auditorium seats 750 on two levels, Studio seats 90. Licensed bars and restaurant. Outside the theatre is the 'Sky Mirror' public sculpture by Turner-Prize winner Anish Kapoor.
A visitor attraction accessed from Garner’s Hill, in a temporary entrance created from what used to be a fire exit of the now demolished Broadmarsh Shopping Centre. It consists of a network of caves, carved out of sandstone that have been variously used over the years as a tannery, public house cellars, and as air raid shelters. Nottingham has more man-made caves than anywhere else in Britain.
A paranormal museum which blends witchcraft, haunted objects and pop-culture horror.
A neo-Baroque building where the Nottingham City Council meets. It is in the Old Market Square and tours are free (must be pre-booked)