A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Nottingham vs. Cairngorms National Park for Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Nottingham and Cairngorms National Park can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Nottingham

Nottingham is a livable, cultural, and authentic city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a serene, picturesque, and tranquil national park. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for food and hiking.

Nottingham and Cairngorms National Park: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good public transit
  • Very walkable
Pros
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nottingham than Cairngorms National Park, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nottingham is better known for its museums, nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Cairngorms National Park is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Cairngorms National Park is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its impressive hikes, scenic natural beauty, and nice mountains. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Also, Nottingham is famous for Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Cairngorms National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cairngorms National Park and Nottingham. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Nottingham is very good for its museums and history. However, Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Nottingham. You'll find history and culture around town. Some of the notable landmarks include Wollaton Hall, the National Justice Museum, Nottingham Castle, and Old Market Square.

Cairngorms National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Both Nottingham and Cairngorms National Park offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Nottingham offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. You'll find a diversity of restaurants around town that range from local fish and chips shops to international options. Pubs, cafes, and fine dining are all available in town.

Cairngorms National Park has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. There are a variety of cafes, pubs, and restaurants in the area that offer hearty dishes to fill a hungry hiker.

Is Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Nottingham is very good for its evening party scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

With a handful of venues, visitors can find a fairly lively vibe in Nottingham. Head to the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, for a pint or check out one of the trendy clubs around town. The city is also a big sports town, so see if there are any sporting events going on while you're visiting.

Cairngorms National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Music?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Nottingham is very good for its music scene. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a live music destination.

Music lovers will find a few good venues in Nottingham. Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Cairngorms National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Hiking?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Cairngorms National Park. There are hikes for every skill level. You'll find waterfalls, open glens, mountains, and beautiful lakes. Some of the best hikes include the Falls of Bruar, Morrone, and the Seven Bridges Trail.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Nottingham is a very popular place for its shopping areas. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Many visitors explore the shopping areas in Nottingham. Head to the Lace Market, which is a popular shopping area. You can also wander around the center of town on foot and head to the pedestrian streets that are often lined with independent shops or international chains.

Cairngorms National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Families?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Cairngorms National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. The outdoor wilderness, natural lakes, and fun activities make for a great family holiday. Head to the beach at Loch Morlich or go for a pony trek. You can also take a ride on the Strathspey Steam Railway or if the kids are craving a bit more excitement head to Landmark Forest Adventure Park.

Nottingham offers lots of family activities. There are a number of parks and play areas that younger kids will enjoy. You can check out Wheelgate Park, White Post Farm, Rufford Abbey, or Sherwood Pines. Sundown Adventureland is a small theme park that's designed for younger kids under 10. If your kids are into museums, head to the Newark Air Museum.


Is Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is well known for romance. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Cairngorms National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The hiking, natural beauty, and stunning setting make for a wonderful couples getaway. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the serene setting and it's not uncommon for some couples to get engaged in this beautiful park.

Nottingham makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. You'll find the typical date night activities around town like arcades, minigolf, and some interesting restaurants. There are also parks where you can enjoy a stroll in nature.

Is Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Cairngorms National Park is a national park with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Cairngorms National Park is a good national park to visit for backpackers. Transportation without a car is basically impossible, but camping is a great way to experience the park to its fullest without breaking the bank.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Is Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Nottingham is a very popular place for times when you don't have a car. However, Cairngorms National Park is lacking in good options for its public transit.

Nottingham offers a very effecient public transportation network. There are buses and trams around town that connect into the rail network. The multi-operator system is organized by the Robin Hood Network.

Public transit is generally limited in Cairngorms National Park. To fully explore the park, you really need to have your own vehicle, but there are local buses and trains that travel to the park.


Is Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Cairngorms National Park

Nottingham is a very popular place for its ease of walking around. However, Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

Nottingham is a very walkable destination. It is trying to transform itself into a pedestrian-friendly city, and you'll find some areas that are particularly walkable. The city center is very compact and generally walkable.

Cairngorms National Park is not a walkable destination.

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Cairngorms National Park Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Cairngorms National Park or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

In either Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park, you'll find plenty of activities to fill your time. Most visitors tend to spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Nottingham because of the overall number of sights and activities. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 3-5 days is enough time in Cairngorms National Park.

Families should spend more time in Cairngorms National Park than Nottingham. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Cairngorms National Park, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Nottingham than Cairngorms National Park. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Nottingham that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Nottingham than Cairngorms National Park if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Nottingham.


  • How many days in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Cairngorms National Park 3-5

One day in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

With nightlife and live music around the livable city of Nottingham, there's plenty to do. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then one day is just the right amount of time to spend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

With food around the beautiful national park of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than one day exploring.

A weekend in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

With live music and food around the authentic destination of Nottingham, there's plenty to do. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation.A weekend is usually enough time to experience most activities. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

With food around the destination of Cairngorms National Park, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. With so much to do, a weekend is probably not enough time to see everything.


Five days in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

You'll find food and shopping around the cultural city of Nottingham. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Cairngorms National Park, a popular national park, is full of activities for travelers. This is a popular place to visit for five days. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. In five days, you should have a good grasp of this national park. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Nottingham is a great place to explore. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

Cairngorms National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 3-Day Tours in United Kingdom, The Best Bicycle Tours in United Kingdom, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in United Kingdom, and The Best Coach Bus Tours in United Kingdom.


Which place is cheaper, Cairngorms National Park or Nottingham?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Nottingham is £117, while the average daily cost in Cairngorms National Park is £119. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Nottingham and Cairngorms National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Cairngorms National Park £56
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Cairngorms National Park £112
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Cairngorms National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Nottingham


Hotels in Cairngorms National Park


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Nottingham Hotel Prices and Cairngorms National Park Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Cairngorms National Park £53

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $223
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $96
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Prices for flights to both Cairngorms National Park and Nottingham change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Nottingham £36
    Cairngorms National Park £30

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Cairngorms National Park £26

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

Here are a few actual costs in Nottingham for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Gems of Boston (UK) – Private Walking Tour for Couples: $222
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Men's Yellow Belly Half-Day Spa Experience: $203
  • Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour: $294
  • Nottingham Private Walking Tour with a Professional Guide: $278
  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour: $151
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19

Tours and Activities in Cairngorms National Park

For Cairngorms National Park, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Private Walking Tour to Ben Macdui Scotland: $114
  • Cairn Gorm Mountain Adventure Private Hike: $168
  • Private Guided Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $177
  • Private Guided Ridge Scrambling Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Rock Climbing Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountain Walking Experience in the Cairngorms: $202
  • Private Guided Winter Mountaineering Experience in the Cairngorms: $222

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Cairngorms National Park £8.41

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

  • Bar Maid-led Pub Crawl for Special Events: $47


When comparing the travel costs between Nottingham and Cairngorms National Park, we can see that Cairngorms National Park is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Nottingham Expensive? and Is Cairngorms National Park Expensive?.



When is the best time to visit Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Cairngorms National Park. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Cairngorms National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Nottingham is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

In the summer, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 147 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in July than Cairngorms National Park. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park in the Autumn?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Cairngorms National Park because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Nottingham is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 9°C (49°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 84 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Cairngorms National Park. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 9°C (49°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park in the Winter?

Both Cairngorms National Park and Nottingham during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the cuisine are the main draw to Cairngorms National Park this time of year.

It's quite cold in Cairngorms National Park in the winter. The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. In the winter, Nottingham is a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Cairngorms National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cairngorms National Park receives 42 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than Cairngorms National Park. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 53 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 3°C (38°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Cairngorms National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Cairngorms National Park. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cairngorms National Park for the natural beauty.

In April, Nottingham is generally a little warmer than Cairngorms National Park. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Cairngorms National Park fluctuates around 7°C (44°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Cairngorms National Park during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Cairngorms National Park receives 136 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives more rain than Cairngorms National Park. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Cairngorms National Park receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Cairngorms National Park 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Cairngorms National Park and Nottingham

Nottingham Cairngorms National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (50°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (58°F) 55 mm (2.2 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (49°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (42°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)


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