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

Should you visit Nottingham or Lake District 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 Lake District 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 live music, food, and shopping.

Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is a beautiful, spectacular, and relaxing national park. The famous beauty of this place is one of the main draws. It's also known for food and hiking.

Nottingham and Lake District 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 Lake District National Park?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Nottingham than Lake District 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 Lake District National Park is more popular for its food, hiking, and impressive beauty. Lake District National Park is more touristy than Nottingham and is popular for its mountains, lakes, stunning natural beauty, and amazing hikes. Nottingham is well known for its authenticity and local cuisine. Also, Nottingham is famous for Old Market Square.

How is Nottingham different from Lake District National Park?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Lake District 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 Lake District National Park?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Nottingham is a good destination for its museums and history. However, Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is well known for its restaurant scene. Also, Nottingham is still popular, but not quite as popular for its local flavors and cuisine.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Lake District National Park makes for a great culinary experience. There's a long history of culinary arts in the region and you'll enjoy locally sourced ingredients at many restaurants. There are also a number of Michelin starred restaurants to choose from.

Nottingham has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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.

Is Nottingham or Lake District National Park Better for Nightlife?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Nottingham is a good destination for its evening party scene. However, Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Nottingham or Lake District National Park Better for Music?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

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

You don't have to look far to find a unique music venue 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.

Lake District National Park is not a live music destination.


Is Nottingham or Lake District National Park Better for Hiking?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is very popular for its hiking experiences. However, Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Around Lake District National Park visitors will find world-class hiking trails. There's a huge selection of hikes to choose from in the area, ranging from easy strolls to more strenuous climbs. The park offers some of the best hiking in the country and you can spend days exploring. Some of the favorite hikes in the area include Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, and Catbells.

Nottingham is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Nottingham or Lake District National Park?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Nottingham is an excellent place to visit for its shopping areas. However, Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Nottingham or Lake District National Park Better for Families?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy getting out in nature as much as the adults do. They can stretch their legs and run around, or you can check out some of the family-friendly activities in the area. Popular options include the Lakeside and Haverthwaite Railway, the World of Beatrix Potter, Wray Castle, and the adventure park Brockhole on Windermere. There's also Lakes Aquarium, Lake District Wildlife Park, and Lake District Coast Aquarium for animal lovers.

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 Lake District National Park Better for Couples?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

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

Couples visit Lake District National Park frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. One of the most impressive national parks in the country, couples will enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring this stunning setting. Whether you're watching the sunset from a mountaintop or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the water, this park is a perfect place to relax.

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 Lake District National Park Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Lake District National Park is very popular for backpackers. However, Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

Lake District National Park is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of camping options throughout the park with a range of hookup facilities to meet everyone's needs. Waterfront campsites are also available.

Nottingham is not a backpacker-friendly destination.

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

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Nottingham is an excellent place to visit for times when you don't have a car. However, Lake District National Park is lacking in 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 Lake District National Park. There are shuttlebuses in parts of the park.


Is Nottingham or Lake District National Park a more walkable city?

Nottingham
Lake District National Park

Nottingham is an excellent place to visit for its ease of walking around. However, Lake District 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.

Lake District National Park is not a walkable destination.

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

Should I spend more time in Lake District National Park or Nottingham?

How long in Nottingham or Lake District National Park?

Both Nottingham and Lake District National Park have a number of activities to choose from. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Lake District National Park than in Nottingham. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Nottingham, and 3-7 days is enough time in Lake District National Park.

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


  • How many days in Nottingham or Lake District National Park? Ideal Length of Stay
    Nottingham 1-2 
    Lake District National Park 3-7

One day in Nottingham or Lake District National Park?

Many travelers enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the livable destination of Nottingham. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

With food around the spectacular national park of Lake District National Park, there's plenty to do. Anyone can find something fun to do here. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. 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 Lake District National Park?

Many people visit Nottingham for a weekend. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities.

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


Five days in Nottingham or Lake District National Park?

The cultural destination of Nottingham offers nightlife and live music. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

Lake District 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 Lake District National Park?

Nottingham, a popular city, is full of activities for travelers. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Lake District National Park is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have one week, this national park makes for a great vacation. One of the main draws to the area is the hiking. One week should give you a good understanding of everything this national park has to offer. 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, Lake District 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 Lake District National Park is £81. 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 Lake District National Park in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Nottingham £64
    Lake District National Park £39
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Nottingham £128
    Lake District National Park £78
Compare Hotels in Nottingham and Lake District National Park

Looking for a hotel in Nottingham or Lake District 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 Lake District 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.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Nottingham £21
    Lake District National Park £33

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Lake District National Park

Also for Lake District National Park, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Lake District Ski Club to Manchester Airport - Departure Transfer: $43
  • Lake District Ski Club to Newcastle Airport - Departure Transfer: $33

Is it cheaper to fly into Nottingham or Lake District National Park?

Prices for flights to both Lake District 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
    Lake District National Park £21

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Nottingham £28
    Lake District National Park £20

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 Lake District National Park

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

  • Ghyll Scrambling Water Adventure in the Lake District: $89
  • Guided Canoeing Experience on Coniston Water - Half Day: $89
  • 3-Hours Via Ferrata Experience in Keswick: $139

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Nottingham £7.10
    Lake District National Park £4.64

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 we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Nottingham and Lake District National Park, we can see that Nottingham is more expensive. And not only is Lake District National Park much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Lake District National Park would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Lake District National Park and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Nottingham would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Nottingham than you might in Lake District National Park.

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



When is the best time to visit Nottingham or Lake District 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 Lake District National Park in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Nottingham as well as Lake District National Park. The city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Nottingham this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Lake District National Park for the hiking and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Nottingham is generally a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 16°C (62°F), and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 15°C (59°F).

In the summer, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Nottingham gets 196 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 159 hours of full sun.

Nottingham usually gets less rain in July than Lake District National Park. Nottingham gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Nottingham 16°C (62°F) 
    Lake District National Park 15°C (59°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Lake District National Park in the Autumn?

Both Lake District National Park and Nottingham are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Nottingham for the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the music scene. Also, many visitors come to Lake District National Park in the autumn for the hiking trails and the natural beauty of the area.

Nottingham is a little warmer than Lake District National Park in the autumn. The daily temperature in Nottingham averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 10°C (49°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during autumn. Nottingham gets 112 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 69 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Lake District National Park. In October, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Nottingham 11°C (52°F) 
    Lake District National Park 10°C (49°F)

Should I visit Nottingham or Lake District National Park in the Winter?

Both Lake District National Park and Nottingham during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Nottingham in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Lake District National Park for the cuisine during these months.

Lake District National Park can be very cold during winter. Nottingham can get quite cold in the winter. In the winter, Nottingham is a little warmer than Lake District National Park. Typically, the winter temperatures in Nottingham in January average around 4°C (39°F), and Lake District National Park averages at about 3°C (38°F).

In the winter, Nottingham often gets more sunshine than Lake District National Park. Nottingham gets 61 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Lake District National Park receives 40 hours of full sun.

Lake District National Park gets a good bit of rain this time of year. Nottingham usually gets less rain in January than Lake District National Park. Nottingham gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 165 mm (6.5 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Nottingham or Lake District National Park in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Nottingham and Lake District National Park. Most visitors come to Nottingham for the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Lake District National Park because of the natural beauty.

In April, Nottingham is generally around the same temperature as Lake District National Park. Daily temperatures in Nottingham average around 8°C (46°F), and Lake District National Park fluctuates around 7°C (45°F).

Nottingham usually receives more sunshine than Lake District National Park during spring. Nottingham gets 151 hours of sunny skies, while Lake District National Park receives 134 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Nottingham usually receives less rain than Lake District National Park. Nottingham gets 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Lake District National Park receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Nottingham 8°C (46°F) 
    Lake District National Park 7°C (45°F)

Typical Weather for Lake District National Park and Nottingham

Nottingham Lake District National Park
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 165 mm (6.5 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 111 mm (4.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 136 mm (5.4 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in) 10°C (51°F) 95 mm (3.7 in)
Jun 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 13°C (56°F) 93 mm (3.7 in)
Jul 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in) 15°C (59°F) 99 mm (3.9 in)
Aug 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 15°C (58°F) 132 mm (5.2 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (54°F) 150 mm (5.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 10°C (49°F) 163 mm (6.4 in)
Nov 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 151 mm (5.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 4°C (39°F) 164 mm (6.5 in)