Should You Visit Nottingham?

Are you thinking about visiting Nottingham, UK? Here's what you need to know before planning your trip.


Is Nottingham worth visiting?

This city is a good place to visit for one to two days. Nottingham is often overlooked by visitors to England, but those who venture here will be treated to an authentic and livable city that has a great food and shopping scene as well as plenty of culture and history. You can also check out England's oldest pub, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, while you're in town. Also make sure you check out a sporting event while you're in town.

Nottingham, England Nottingham, England

Reasons to Visit Nottingham

Shopping
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.

Museums
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.

Food
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.

Nightlife
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.

Music
Many of the best music concerts in the UK make there way to Nottingham. Check out Rock City, which hosts all kinds of concerts.

Authenticity
Nottingham has an authentic vibe where you can experience local culture, cuisine, and activities without the large tourist crowds of other popular destinations.




Is Nottingham worth visiting in the Summer?

The high season for travel in Nottingham is the summer, so expect to see more tourists than usual. This destination is somewhat touristy, so in the high season it's usually busier.

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during summer with average temperatures around 16°C (62°F).

You'll also find it quite easy to get around on foot, because this is a very walkable city, especially in the nice weather. During this season it's fun to experience the famous sights and museums, the big city activities, and the nightlife scene.


Summer Weather in Nottingham
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
July 16°C (62°F) 51 mm (2 in)
August 16°C (61°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
September 14°C (57°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)

Is Nottingham worth visiting in the Autumn?

You'll find the weather to be very nice here during autumn with average temperatures around 11°C (52°F).

Autumn is the shoulder season for travel in Nottingham, which means slightly less visitors than in the peak season. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

This is a great time of year to browse the museums, enjoy the city's energy, and enjoy the live music scene.


Autumn Weather in Nottingham
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
October 11°C (52°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
November 7°C (44°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
December 5°C (40°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)

Is Nottingham worth visiting in the Winter?

Winter is the low season for travel in Nottingham. This destination is fairly touristy, but in the low season you can find fewer crowds and better deals.

The weather in Nottingham can be quite cold during winter, and averages around 4°C (39°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

You'll like that you can take public transit easily in the winter, too. You can get around quickly while avoiding bad weather if needed. You'll find plenty to do during winter, as you'll be able to spend time at the museums, dine out at amazing restaurants, and enjoy an evening out. Also, you can listen to some live music and discover the big city activities.


Winter Weather in Nottingham
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
January 4°C (39°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
February 4°C (39°F) 38 mm (1.5 in)
March 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)

Is Nottingham worth visiting in the Spring?

This is the shoulder season for travel in Nottingham. This destination is somewhat busy with tourists, but in the shoulder season you'll find less crowds and better deals.

The weather in Nottingham can be quite cold during spring, and averages around 8°C (46°F). But be prepared for much lower temperatures, too.

During this season it's fun to experience the shops and boutiques, the museums and landmarks, and the live music scene. Also, you can check out the nightlife.


Spring Weather in Nottingham
Avg Temp
(°C/°F)
Avg Rain
(mm/inches)
April 8°C (46°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
May 11°C (53°F) 50 mm (2 in)
June 15°C (58°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)

Related

What is Nottingham most famous for?

Nottingham is most famous for its authenticity and local cuisine. The city is very popular for its shopping. It is also known for its great museums, food, nightlife, and music. It is often described as dynamic, livable, cultural, and authentic.

What is the most famous sight in Nottingham?

The most popular sight in Nottingham is Old Market Square. You can see prices and costs for this and other sights in Nottingham on our travel costs page.

Or, see tickets, activities, and tours for Old Market Square and other attractions here.

How touristy is Nottingham? Is it a popular city to visit?

Nottingham is more popular with local tourists than with international visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities and tours. (Prices in US Dollars)

  • Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour: $25
  • Baroness Bolsover's Town Tour with Afternoon Tea: $31
  • Nottingham Treasure Hunt Adventure - Robin Hood's Secret Stash: $9.44
  • Private Immersive Play Wall Experience in Nottingham: $88
  • Stamford Town Guided Tours: $13
  • Unique Scavenger Hunt Experience in Chesterfield by Operation City Quest: $10
  • Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide: $18
  • Stamford and Oakham Private Tour: $113

How long should I spend in Nottingham?

The ideal length of time for a trip to Nottingham is one to two days. Since Nottingham has activities such as shopping, many visit for up to two days.

If you have a specific amount of time for your trip, see our advice about how much time to spend here: Should I spend 1, 2, or 3 days in Nottingham? and Should I spend 3, 4, or 5 days in Nottingham?.