Top Things to do in Nottinghamshire
Top Hotels in Nottinghamshire
- 1. Mercure Nottingham City Centre George Hotel
- 2. Premier Inn Nottingham City Centre (Chapel Bar) hotel
- 3. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Nottingham - Gateway
- 4. Premier Inn Nottingham Arena (London Road) hotel
- 5. Jurys Inn Nottingham
- 6. The Orchard Hotel & Restaurant
- 7. Park Plaza Nottingham
- 8. Mercure Nottingham Sherwood Hotel
- 9. Premier Inn Nottingham West hotel
- 10. Premier Inn Nottingham City Centre (Goldsmith Street) hotel
Top 10 Free Things to do in Nottinghamshire, England
Discover the best top things to do in Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom including North Leverton Windmill, The calvie gallery, Green's Windmill, Rufford Abbey Country Park, Wollaton Hall and Park, Southwell Minster, Newark Castle, The Harley Gallery, Idle Valley Nature Reserve, Rushcliffe Country Park.
Restaurants in Nottinghamshire
1. North Leverton Windmill
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 23 reviews
Reviewed By Martin1959 - Kirkby-in-Ashfield, United Kingdom
On a cold and miserable November day , what would we expect ? A 200 year old working windmill and a miller who had time and a great deal of knowledge about the history and workings of this classic piece of engineering Very rustic and interesting, plus we were also able to purchase oats and flour produced on site A very worthwhile tour which doesn’t require a huge amount of time to enjoy
2. The calvie gallery
3. Green's Windmill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 308 reviews
Green's Windmill is a restored 19th Century tower mill, once home to mathematical physicist George Green. Turning again since 1986, climb to the top of our windmill and see how our sails turn grain into flour. In our interactive Science Centre discover the remarkable story of George Green, and experiment with light, electricity and magnetism. There's something for all the family!
Reviewed By salks - Sheffield, United Kingdom
This may be small, but between the science centre and the windmill itself, it kept my two boys (8 and 4) happy for a couple of hours. We paid a couple of pounds for the age-targeted treasure hunts which they each enjoyed completing. I found it really interesting too, George Green is the most influential mathematician you've never heard of and I loved climbing up through the working mill - how often do you get the opportunity to see a traditional mill grinding flour? Really impressive. Excellent value for money - and there is a big children's playground on the same site so they can go for a run around and a leg stretch afterwards.
4. Rufford Abbey Country Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 938 reviews
A beautiful country park set around the 12th-century ruins of Rufford Abbey. Gardens, lakeside walks & woodland, shops, cafe, restaurant, tea shop, and a small exhibition about the life of the medieval monks who once lived here. Play area for young children. Good access for prams, pushchairs, mobility scooters and wheelchairs. Accessible loos. We open every day except Xmas Day and it's free to enter. Car park charge. Dogs welcome on a lead. A relaxing and magical place to visit.
Reviewed By 786carolb - Birmingham, United Kingdom
Friday 29 November 19, my friend and I visited historic Rufford Abbey. It was a really cold wintery day with a lovely winter sun. In 1146 Gilbert de Gaunt, Earl of Lincoln, founded the Cistercian abbey of St Mary the Virgin. The monks of this order, also known as the ‘white monks’ because of their habits of undyed wool, believed in the value of an austere life based upon prayer and hard work. Rufford Abbey was moderately wealthy and able to sustain a community of monks between its completion in about 1170 and its suppression in 1536. Rufford was one of the first abbeys in England to be affected by the Suppression of the Monasteries, and the whole estate was quickly acquired by George Talbot, 4th Earl of Shrewsbury. The conversion of the west range of monastic buildings into a house (1560–90) was undertaken by the sixth earl, who was the fourth and final husband of the indomitable Bess of Hardwick, from whom he was then bitterly estranged. In 1610, a new projecting wing was added to the northern end of this range. The estate was inherited in 1626 by Mary Talbot, sister of the 7th and 8h Earls of Shrewsbury, and it passed to her husband, George Savile. William Savile, George’s successor, made Rufford Abbey the seat of the Savile family after he burnt down the Saviles’ original home in order to prevent its being occupied by a Parliamentarian garrison during the Civil War. In 1679, the Savile family constructed a new north wing on the site of the abbey church, containing reception rooms and a long gallery. They also built the large stable block to the right of the house. The surviving roofed southern service wing (currently used as offices) was also added by the Saviles in the 17th century. In 1938, the 3rd Baron Savile inherited the Rufford estate as a minor, but his trustees split it into lots and sold it off. In the 20th Century the abbey and park were bought by Nottinghamshire County Council in 1952, and the north and east wings were demolished in 1956. The remaining west range and south service wing were put into the care of the Ministry of Works at the same date. My friend and I walked round this lovely abbey and then we strolled through the lovely sculpture gardens and took some wonderful photographs. I even found inspiration here for I wrote a poem call 'The Rose In Winter'. My friend and I then looked round the lovely Xmas Craft Shops and I purchased some 'Foxy' Xmas tree decorations, some Xmas cards and a classic book 'Cider With Rosie'. Afterwards, My friend and I then visited 'The Coach House' Café, where we had hot fish finger butties and a latte for me and tea for my friend. We spent a nice hour here getting warm after our lovely walk round the abbey and grounds. If you want a lovely place to visit or walk at any time of the year, then Rufford Abbey is a must.
5. Wollaton Hall and Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 3,926 reviews
Wollaton Hall is one of the country's finest Grade One listed Elizabethan mansions, set within 500 acres of beautiful parkland. Experience stunning architecture, exhibitions, a packed events program and an array of wildlife. Go behind the scenes on a variety of guided tours available throughout the year and on demand for groups. Other special events include costumed tours, puppet shows, craft fairs, Segway tours and our popular spooky Ghost Nights (not for the faint hearted!). Visit the Cafe in the Courtyard for light refreshments including freshly ground coffee, specialty teas and home made cakes.
Reviewed By davidsH1722LB - Nottingham, United Kingdom
Being Nottingham family we must have visited Wollaton Park literally hundreds of times. And while a little more TLC wouldn’t go amiss from the City Council, or a good deal more respect for the park from its visitors, it’s still arguably Nottingham’s finest visitor attraction. From its small natural history museum (housed in the historic Wollaton Hall which incidentally doubled as Wayne Manor in the Dark Knight Batman blockbuster), to its equally historic Camillia House and gardens, through to its picturesque lake and herds of roaming deer, Wollaton Park is an all things to all people, something for everyone of every age location. Add to this huge swathes of grass, numerous walks, vast expanses of open space, shaded glades, numerous views, adjoining golf course, ample seating areas, a cafe, and farm and souvenir shops and a kiddies adventure playground and it’s just the place to take the kids, walk the dog, take elderly parents or simply walk, sit around and enjoy. Not only that but if you arrive on foot it’s free and even if you park it’s only £3 so hardly breaks the bank. Check the website though because in the warmer months the park hosts numerous events from car exhibitions to huge weekend pop concerts.
6. Southwell Minster
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 801 reviews
Cathedral Church of Nottinghamshire. Set in the picturesque Georgian market town of Southwell, just 6 miles from the A1, this beautiful church dates back to 1108. Home to the world famous 'Leaves of Southwell', medieval stonecarvings dating back to the 13th century and widely regarded as amongst the finest in all of Europe. Beautiful stained-glass windows and woodcarvings throughout. Next door to The Archbishop's Palace, a must-see in itself. Cathedral Gift Shop and cafe. NB: due to COVID-19 restrictions, our opening hours are 11am - 3pm. Unfortunately The Archbishop's Palace is closed until further notice. Please keep an eye on our website for further updates. The wearing of face coverings is now mandatory in all places of worship so please bring a mask or face covering with you unless you have a valid medical reason not to. We have attained Good to Go status and have a full range of COVID-Safety Measures in place. Please visit our website for further details www.southwellminster.org
Reviewed By jeanann1485 - Newark-on-Trent, United Kingdom
I visited to renew my acquaintance with the Minster after many years absence. A lovely warm welcome from the stewards on duty which set the scene for a wonderful visit. This is one of my favourite cathedrals and the Norman architecture and the medieval carvings are breathtaking. It is a must see gem. Lovely cafe selling delicious food and an excellent shop which sells unusual and tasteful gifts.
7. Newark Castle
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 608 reviews
Entry to the castle grounds is free of charge. The Castle has stood proudly on the banks of the River Trent for nearly 900 years. History of the Castle includes the death of King John, Knights Templar and as well as the English Civil War, War of the Roses, Anarchy Wars and Baronnial Wars. Guided tours of the Castle are conducted normally on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Surfaced pathways in the castle and gardens allow suitable access for wheelchairs. During the visit, relax in the quiet garden areas and admire the picturesque views. Entertainment often occurs seasonally, with a bandstand for concerts available, and makes for a great day out. Newark Castle and Gardens offer nearby parking, so it is easily accessible by car. It is also close to historic market places; Southwell market and Newark market, so why not visit the pretty market towns too.
Reviewed By Earlfalcon
A great place to relax, or soak up a bit of historical atmosphere, overlooking the river. If the weather's nice, of course...!
8. The Harley Gallery
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 217 reviews
Situated on the ducal Welbeck estate, the award-winning Harley Gallery shows contemporary exhibitions by leading visual artists. Exhibitions change five times a year, and range from ceramics to photography. The Portland Collection Museum displays works of art from Welbeck’s internationally significant historic collection, which has been built up over the centuries by the Dukes of Portland and their families. There are hundreds of treasures on show including Michelangelo’s ‘Madonna del Silenzio’, Van Dyck’s portrait of the Earl of Strafford, and the pearl earring worn by King Charles I to his execution. The Portland Collection opened in 2016 and has attracted critical acclaim and a national RIBA award for architecture. These two inspiring art galleries are accompanied by an award-winning gallery shop, which specialises in contemporary craft from leading names and emerging makers, Farm Shop and an award-winning Café.
Reviewed By ianbJ6368QG - Kinver, United Kingdom
On a overcast day , we went to welbec as an undercover attraction. The gallery has two parts the first building is mostly modern , not my thing unfortunately. But wait ... you must go to the next building housing the Portland collection . WOW what a fascinating look at the wealth and history of the family collection . Most important of all , the gentleman on security , a retired local officer. Was totally fascinating in his knowledge of the history of the pieces on display , paintings, jewellery, articles, he really brings it to life with his storytelling and facts , you must visit if he’s there . Made the place for us .
9. Idle Valley Nature Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 314 reviews
Reviewed By heeza2106 - Carlton in Lindrick, United Kingdom
Situated along the western bank of the River Idle, Idle Valley Nature Reserve (also known as Lound/Sutton Gravel Pits) is both a Local Wildlife Site and a Site of Special Scientific Interest and is 450 hectares of land consisting of a network of lakes, wetland, grassland, woodland, and scrub. As you can imagine it's home to a diverse range of wildlife, but it's also recognised as a brilliant birding site in the region. In fact, the lakes within the nature reserve were gravel extraction pits 70 years ago, flooded when the land was given to Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and nature reclaimed the land. It's now one of the largest sites for nature conservation in the East Midlands and the multitude of walking routes really reflects that. Today I took my dog for a good four mile walk around the reserve, through all the different terrain. My dog even went for a swim in the River Idle to cool off! It really is a beautiful place to walk, so many different things to look at. Definitely recommend it to anyone who likes a good walk. Just to note - the centre and car park are closed until further notice due to the pandemic situation, but the reserve and it's footpaths remain open to the public. There is ample parking space just outside the car park though for non-locals. The centre (when open) boasts toilets, gift shop, and cafe.
10. Rushcliffe Country Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 412 reviews
Set in the beautiful countryside about half a mile south of Ruddington, Rushcliffe Country Park is an ideal place to get away from it all. With a network of over 8 kilometres of footpaths, grassland, conservation and landscaped areas, the park is excellent for walking, jogging, cycling, spotting wildlife and exercising your dog. Bring your family and a picnic and encourage your children to let off steam in the extensive play area, which has around 20 pieces of modern equipment for children up to the age of 12. The play area includes a swing suitable for less able children (safety equipment is available on request) and part of the equipment is accessible to wheelchair users. For older children there's a skateboard midi half pipe, and a 4X/ BMX cycle track situated nearby. Access to the park is free. The County Park has a visitor’s car park and for just £1, you can park for your whole visit (up to a full day).
Reviewed By Summerlok
Park your car - only £1 for the whole day, and have a wonderful walk around lakes, woodlands and fields witn loads of extra activities. Wildlife includes swans, ducks, grebes, coots, cormorants, doves, robins and plenty more. There's a visitor centre, toilets, play equipment, sensory activities and we found a mobile cafe and an ice cream van. Very good morning out and really can't fault the park. Lovely1
