A Travel Price Comparison for United Kingdom Nottingham vs. Dover for Couples, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Nottingham or Dover?

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 Dover 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 dynamic, livable, and cultural city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. Other popular activities here include shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Dover

Dover is a rustic, stunning, and natural town. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food, hiking, and museums.

Nottingham and Dover: 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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Nottingham or Dover?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nottingham than Dover, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Nottingham is better known for its nightlife, music, shopping, and big city activities, while Dover is more popular for its hiking and impressive beauty. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Also, Nottingham is famous for Old Market Square. Dover is well known for the famous White Cliffs of Dover as well as the ferry connection to mainland Europe.

How is Nottingham different from Dover?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Dover 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 Dover?

Nottingham
Dover

Both Nottingham and Dover have notable landmarks and museums for visitors.

Nottingham is a good place to visit if you're interested in museums or other recognizable sights. 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.

Dover offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Aside from the iconic White Cliffs of Dover, there is the Dover Castle, the South Foreland Lighthouse, and the Grand Shaft.


Is the Food Better in Nottingham or Dover? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Nottingham
Dover

Both Nottingham and Dover 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.

Dover has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The town has a growing food scene that includes waterfront restaurants and local dishes. Find a restaurant with a view to make sure you take full advantage of the setting.

Is Nottingham or Dover Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Dover

Nottingham is very good for its evening party scene. However, Dover is not a good town for nightlife.

There's a variety of activities in the evening 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.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Dover. The nightlife has a relaxed atmosphere with wine bars and microbreweries.

Is Nottingham or Dover Better for Music?

Nottingham
Dover

Nottingham is very good for its music scene. However, Dover 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.

Dover is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Dover Better for Hiking?

Nottingham
Dover

Dover is well known for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

You'll find a nice variety of hiking trails around Dover. There are many beautiful countryside walks that take you through the rolling hills and along the iconic white cliffs. Some of the best hikes in the area include The England Coast Path, The North Downs Way Saxon Shore Way.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Dover?

Nottingham
Dover

Nottingham is a well-known place for its shopping areas. However, Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Browsing through shops is a popular activity 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.

Dover is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nottingham or Dover Better for Families?

Nottingham
Dover

Both Nottingham and Dover are notable to visit with kids.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Nottingham. 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.

Dover offers lots of family activities. There are a few kid-friendly museums like the Dover Transport Museum and the Dover Castle. Also make sure you check out the South Foreland Lighthouse.


Is Nottingham or Dover Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Dover

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

Couples visit Dover frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. The White Cliffs of Dover are an iconic sight and perfect for a romantic trip away. Also make sure you check out St. Margaret's Bay Beach and the Kearsney Abbey Gardens.

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 Dover Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Dover

Dover is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Dover is a good town to visit for backpackers. You'll find several nice hostels to choose from in the town.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Nottingham
Dover

Nottingham is a well-known place for its public transit. However, Dover is not a good town for times when you don't have a car.

The public transit in Nottingham can get you to most places easily. 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 mostly limited in Dover. There are public buses through the district.


Is Nottingham or Dover a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Dover

Nottingham is a well-known place for its ease of walking around. Also, Dover is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its walkability.

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.

Dover is somewhat walkable. You can wander around the countryside, but prepare for rolling hills and great views.

For even more information, also check out Is Nottingham Worth Visiting? and Is Dover Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Dover or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Dover?

It's fun to spend time in either Nottingham or Dover. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Dover due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 2-4 days is enough time in Dover.

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


  • How many days in Nottingham or Dover? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Dover 2-4

One day in Nottingham or Dover?

In Nottingham, many people enjoy the live music and food that this dynamic destination offers. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

With museums and food around the breathtaking town of Dover, 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 Dover?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Nottingham. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.

With food and museums around the destination of Dover, there's plenty to do. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.


Five days in Nottingham or Dover?

Nottingham is a fun place to experience. Travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the destination of Nottingham. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

Dover, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

A week in Nottingham or Dover?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the cultural destination of Nottingham. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Dover 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, Dover 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 Dover is £124. 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 Dover in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Dover £62
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Dover £124
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Dover

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Dover? 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 Dover


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 Dover Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Dover £39

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Nottingham

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Nottingham:

  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Loughborough City Transfer: $35
  • Private Transfer from Loughborough to East Midlands Airport: $35
  • Derby to East Midlands Airport (EMA) - Departure Private Transfer: $38
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $38
  • Nottingham to East Midlands Airport Private Departure Transfer: $38
  • Private East Midlands Departure Transfer- Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $55
  • East Midlands Airport EMA to Leicester-RoundTrip Private Transfer: $76
  • East Midlands Airport to Nottingham City Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Glossop to Manchester Airport (MAN): $80
  • Private Nottingham Departure Transfer - Hotel / Accommodation to Airport: $97
  • Nottinghamshire to Manchester Airport (MAN) Luxury Transfers: $210
  • Private Transfer from Nottingham to Manchester Airport (MAN): $224

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Dover

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Dover:

  • One-Way Taxi Transfer from Dover Seaport to London: $254
  • Dover to Heathrow and London Direct Shared Transfer: $131
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to Gatwick City Hotels: $55
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London Airport (LHR): $66
  • Private Transfer from Dover Cruise Port to London City Hotels: $98
  • Private Transfer from Dover Port to London Gatwick Airport (LGW): $55
  • Private Transfers from Heathrow Airport to Dover Cruise Port: $147
  • Private transfer from Dover to London hotel or airport: $210

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Dover?

Prices for flights to both Dover 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
    Dover £38

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Dover £20

Tours and Activities in Nottingham

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

  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $17
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz Tour App: $19
  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $32
  • Whatsapp Murder Mystery Interactive City Tour: $74
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $89
  • Half-Day Spa Experiences : $103
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $114
  • Lincoln Private Walking Tour: $140
  • Private City Walking Tour: $144

Tours and Activities in Dover

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Dover are as follows:

  • Pilgrims and Pit Stops: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of Canterbury: $5.99
  • The Condensed Canterbury Tour: $13
  • The Canterbury Classic Tour: $16
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 14.00 Tour: $19
  • Canterbury Tour App, Hidden Gems Game and Big Britain Quiz (1 Day Pass) UK: $19
  • Official Canterbury Guided Walking Tour - 11.00 Tour: $19
  • Small-Group City Running Tour in Canterbury: $27
  • Dover Castle Admission Ticket: $29
  • From Dover Cruise Ship; Grand Tour of White Cliffs Country & back: $108
  • Private Guided Walking Tour of Canterbury: $153
  • Dover Shore Excursion:Post-Cruise Tour to London via Canterbury and Leeds Castle: $172
  • Dover Cruise Ship to Leeds Castle via Canterbury, Villages & back: $177

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Dover £7.71

Sample the Local Flavors in Nottingham

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Nottingham:

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

Sample the Local Flavors in Dover

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Dover:

  • Full Day Wine Tour in Sussex and Kent: $178


When comparing the travel costs between Nottingham and Dover, we can see that Dover 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 Dover Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Nottingham or Dover?

Nottingham has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Dover. When comparing the sizes of Nottingham and Dover, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Nottingham or Dover?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Nottingham or Dover in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Dover. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the summer for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, most visitors come to Dover for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Dover. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Dover fluctuates around 17°C (63°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Dover this time of the year. Nottingham usually receives less sunshine than Dover during summer. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 212 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Nottingham usually receives more rain than Dover. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Dover receives 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Dover 17°C (63°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Dover in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Dover. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene during these months. Additionally, the autumn months attract visitors to Dover because of the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Nottingham is around the same temperature as Dover in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Dover fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dover. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 119 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in October than Dover. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dover receives 62 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Dover 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Dover in the Winter?

Both Dover and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The winter months attract visitors to Nottingham because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Dover this time of year.

It's quite cold in Dover in the winter. The weather in Nottingham can be very cold. In the winter, Nottingham is cooler than Dover. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Dover averages at about 4°C (40°F).

Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Dover during winter. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies, while Dover receives 57 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Nottingham usually receives around the same amount of rain as Dover. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dover receives 46 mm (1.8 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Nottingham 4°C (39°F) 
    Dover 4°C (40°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Dover in the Spring?

Both Dover and Nottingham during the spring are popular places to visit. The activities around the city are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Dover for the natural beauty.

In April, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Dover. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Dover fluctuates around 9°C (47°F).

In the spring, Nottingham often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Dover. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Dover receives 162 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets more rain in April than Dover. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Dover receives 42 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Dover 9°C (47°F)

Typical Weather for Dover and Nottingham

Nottingham Dover
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 4°C (40°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 5°C (40°F) 33 mm (1.3 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 6°C (44°F) 41 mm (1.6 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (47°F) 42 mm (1.7 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 12°C (53°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 15°C (59°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 17°C (63°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 17°C (63°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 15°C (59°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 8°C (46°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)