Photo of Nottinghamshire

About Nottinghamshire

Real or fictitious, Robin Hood is definitely Nottinghamshire's most famous son. And Nottinghamshire doesn't do anything to clear up this debate, visitors will find all sorts of Merry Men related sights and attractions outside of Sherwood Forest, in amongst Nottinghamshire’s other beautiful green woods and vales. Nottinghamshire also has numerous genuine historic treasures, among them the castle of Nottingham, in the region’s lively hub. Our recommendations for the best places to stay in Nottingham can be found close to Sherwood, in central Nottingham, or in a collection of pretty Midlands villages, and range from Michelin-starred restaurants with rooms, to simple city break hotels and atmospheric pubs with rooms.

If you’re visiting Nottinghamshire for Robin Hood related fun, then Sherwood is definitely your pin in the map. Whatever you feel about the man in green, Sherwood is a spectacular sight, an ancient forest, surrounding the pretty village of Edwinstowe. Within the forest is the Major Oak, a real, and rather magical tree, between 800 and a thousand years old, and said to mark Robin’s hideout. There are numerous Robin Hood festivals held in the forest each year, culminating in one lasting through much of August, where you can see jousting, medieval crafting and smithing, hear storytelling and music, and have all sorts of Merry fun.

If you’re planning to stay in Nottingham, we recommend visiting the castle, and the tunnels underneath it, which the castle's inhabitants needed for their daring escapes. Nottingham is also home to one of the pubs claiming to be England's oldest, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem Inn, off Maid Marian Way in Brewhouse Yard, which is also where some of the tunnels from the castle come out. This pub is at least 800 years old. Outside of Nottingham, the county has a number of very lovely stately homes, including Lord Byron's Newstead Abbey and architecturally fascinating Wollaton Hall.

This county is a busy destination for business as well as leisure travellers. So if you want to guarantee a room in one of the best places to stay in Nottinghamshire (especially the smaller ones), get organised and book ahead.

The Best Places to Stay in Nottinghamshire

For a Rural Escape

  • Langar Hall is a mildly eccentric, but quite magical apricot coloured Georgian stately home in the beautiful green Vale of Belvoir. It has been in the family of the current owner since 1860, and it's been gradually turned into a really charming, family friendly, 12 room hotel. Add to this great food and stunning grounds and what more could you need?
  • Converted from a Georgian-built rectory, Glebe House, Nottinghamshire is now a very pleasant B&B set on beautifully sprawling grounds. There are just four guest rooms, the most romantic with four-poster beds, and all of them are uniquely decorated in keeping with the historic feel of the home. Expect patterned wallpaper, antiques with graceful ankles, a piano in the salon, and a charming dining room.

For a City Break

  • Heritage Mews is another stylishly comfortable self-catering option, this time a collection of 12 studios and one bedroom apartments in the Lace Market district of Nottingham. Even the smallest studios have their own kitchenettes, and luxurious touches, and some of the one bedroom apartments would work for families. Some apartments even have outdoor space.
  • Also in the same area, the Lace Market Hotel is a sophisticated, romantic choice, with a range of 42 rooms and suites, all uniquely decorated and designed, and offering colour and space. The hotel restaurant is an award winner, but there’s also a more relaxed pub, and a chic cocktail bar.
  • Centrally located for Nottingham, the Mercure Nottingham is a boutique-style hotel with a friendly, eclectic atmosphere, and a good range of rooms and suites — 76 in all. Expect statement wallpaper and furniture, and a retro-style that includes banker’s lamps and metal boxes. There’s a hip bar, and two restaurants, and you’re close to many more and great nightlife.
  • Hart's Hotel is just outside of the centre of Nottingham, in the "parks" area, close to the castle and the university, but you’re just a short walk from the busier part of town. There are just 32 rooms, all smartly decorated in a rather masculine style, with great prints on the walls — our favourites have private terraces. The hotel has a leafy garden and courtyard too. The restaurant serves a daily changing menu to a strong local following.

Best Restaurants and Pubs-with-Rooms

  • Restaurant Sat Bains with Rooms is a two Michelin-starred restaurant, with just seven, rather moodily decorated rooms and suites. The restaurant serves a seven, or ten course menu, with a focus on organic, local produce, some produced as locally as the hotel garden. The decor riffs on local stone and natural materials. Very smart.
  • Retford’s Ye Olde Bell has been a convivial coaching house since the 17th century, though now its stables have been converted into additional rooms and it’s swelled to 59 rooms and suites in all. The atmospheric pub and restaurant has gone a bit upmarket, and there’s also a rather fancy onsite spa.

For Golfers

  • The Residence at The Nottinghamshire is a collection of 18 rooms and suites, on the edge of a beautifully maintained, 340 acre golf course and country club. The rooms and suites offer classic hotel decor, with golf course views, and there’s a spacious country club style restaurant and bar, with larger reception spaces for weddings and events.

For Great Value

  • The Mour Hotel is a sleek, city-style option in the Sherwood Business Park, which is in Newstead Village, between Nottingham and Mansfield. This looks and feels very ‘business hotel’, but in the best possible sense of that phrase, with chic, but simple detail, interesting contemporary art and fantastic facilities.

Best B&Bs

  • Willoughby House is a traditional village home, in pretty Norwell, turned into a characterful collection of five B&B rooms. Each has been decorated uniquely, with note taken of the house’s original beams, fireplaces, and other features. Expect chintz and antiques, and indulgent home-made breakfasts.

Prefer a Private Apartment or Cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel Information

  • The closest major international airport to Nottinghamshire is East Midlands, just half an hour south of Nottinham. Birmingham Airport is close, about an hour away by car or taxi, or an hour and 45 minutes by bus, Manchester Airport is around an hour and a half from Nottingham by car or taxi, or around three hours by train, or London Luton Airport is an hour and 45 minutes by car or taxi, or two and a half hours away by train. If you’re travelling from London, you’re two and a half hours away by car or taxi, or and hour and 45 minutes by train from St. Pancras Station.
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • If you’re trying to plan your visit to Nottinghamshire to correspond with nice weather, the best time to visit will be between April and August, when you’re likely to get the most sunshine and the warmest days. There are also some great summer festivals held in Nottinghamshire, the headliners being those in Sherwood Forest. As with most of the UK, Nottinghamshire can get rain at any moment, so pack your waterproofs whenever you’re planning to visit.

Still not sure?

Weather

Monthly Weather in Nottinghamshire

Best Hotels in Nottinghamshire

  • Mercure Nottingham Nottingham 76 rooms from AU$130

    Local exploring  -  Well positioned in the heart of the city centre with shops, theatres, eateries, and attractions within walking distance
    Boutique  -  The epitome of a boutique with its unique and playful design and personalised service
    Restaurant  -  The Curious Tavern serves the likes of dressed oysters in an atmospheric setting while The Brasserie serves modern European fare
    Full of character
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParking

    A characterful boutique hotel located in the heart of the city centre. Individually designed rooms and suites have studded headboards, statement wallpaper, and retro-style furniture. Downstairs are a choice of two atmospheric bars and restaurants. A hip stay in a convenient location. See More

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  • Mour Hotel Nottingham 92 rooms from AU$177

    Business meetings  -  With its location in Sherwood Business Park and its three well-equipped meeting and event suites — this is ideal for business
    City Style  -  A sleek modern hotel with moody rooms, a stylish bar, and elegant restaurant — this is chic city pad
    Sights nearby  -  Wollaton Hall, an impressive 16th-century Elizabethan house, and Nottingham Castle are a must visit
    Great walks  -  Take a stroll around Highfields Park — a 121-acre green space
    Air conditioningRestaurantPet friendlyParking

    Sleek both inside and out, this four-star hotel is well located in Sherwood Business Park. Stylish rooms are very modern with clean lines, dark hues, and large works of contemporary art. With great facilities including a gym, a bar, and a restaurant — this is ideal for business or leisure. See More

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  • The Residence at The Nottinghamshire Nottingham, Nottinghamshire 18 rooms from AU$209

    Weddings  -  A popular choice for luxurious countryside wedding celebrations. The Tiffany & Co Bridal Suite adds a special touch
    Business meetings  -  Designed for conferences, meetings & business retreats. Delegates will love airy function rooms & fab golf on-site
    Golf  -  With two 18-hole courses, the property's golf & country club is Nottinghamshire's only 36-hole golf complex
    Restaurant  -  With it's convivial club house feel, the light-filled open-plan restaurant & bar serves contemporary classics
    Air conditioningRestaurantGardenDisabled accessParking

    Contemporary boutique rooms & suites on beautifully-maintained 340-acre golf course & country club a short drive from Nottingham. Spacious & colourful rooms work especially well for groups or families. Well set-up property for weddings & events with golf, function space & sociable restaurant & bar. See More

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  • Willoughby House Notts., Nottinghamshire 5 rooms from AU$225

    Country Escape  -  A charming village property surrounded by beautiful walking country.
    Local markets  -  Wander through Newark's farmer's market held in the town on the fourth Thursday of every month.
    Sights nearby  -  Visit the 11th century Minster in nearby Southwell.
    Great walks  -  Take long walks through Robin Hood country.
    Pet friendlyDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Sawdays

    A traditional rural house in the pretty village of Norwell. A handful of individually styled rooms are brimming with character. Expect beamed ceilings, chintz fabrics and fireplaces. Homemade breakfasts are an indulgent affair and the welcome is ever warm. See More

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  • Hart's Hotel Nottingham (Park Row) 32 rooms from AU$235

    Sights nearby  -  The impressive Elizabethan mansion, Wollaton Hall and Park is certainly worth visiting.
    Great walks  -  The Arboretum is a peaceful oasis in the midst of a city.
    Designer  -  Uniquely designed interiors.
    Local markets  -  Good for local colour.
    RestaurantGardenPet friendlyDisabled accessParking
    Recommended by  -  Good Hotel Guide

    Located in the quieter 'Parks' area of town, Hart's is walking distance from the city centre. Rooms are small but unique with fur throws and some with private terraces. The restaurant serves a daily changing menu and there is an extensive beverage list. Make use of the leafy garden and courtyard. See More

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  • Glebe House, Nottinghamshire Nottinghamshire 4 rooms from AU$244

    Country Escape  -  Located in the beautiful Vale of Belvoir in Leicestershire.
    Sights nearby  -  The historic town of Lincoln with its magnificent castle and cathedral is well worth a visit.
    Great walks  -  Take a wander round the extensive grounds or in Muston Meadows Nature Reserve.
    Local markets  -  The market towns of Melton Mowbray, Stamford and Newark are close by.
    GardenViewsParking

    Georgian former rectory B&B with extensive grounds and gardens. Guests have a choice of rooms - some with four poster beds - with great views of the local village and countryside. Dinners can be arranged on request, while the local pub serves a good menu. A great location for truly relaxing. See More

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  • Ye Olde Bell Retford, Nottinghamshire 59 rooms from AU$254

    Great walks  -  The surrounding countryside is full of beautiful walking trails.
    Local markets  -  Browse the wares at Retford Market.
    Traditional
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    SpaRestaurantGardenParking

    Set in a lovely 17th century coaching house, Ye Olde Bell is an excellent hotel in Nottinghamshire. The lovely rooms are adorned with ornate beds and tasteful antique furniture. The atmospheric restaurant is a great place to relax and enjoy some delicious cuisine and there is a fantastic spa. See More

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  • Langar Hall Langar, Nottinghamshire 13 rooms from AU$263

    Garden  -  Set in lovely private parkland
    Romantic  -  Good for couples.
    Traditional
    Quirky  -  An experience!
    RestaurantGardenPet friendly
    Recommended by  -  I Escape, Good Hotel Guide

    Mildly eccentric, magical Georgian private home turned hotel in the Vale of Belvoir, run with panache, quiet, in beautiful parkland. Good food, child friendly. See More

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  • Heritage Mews Nottingham 12 rooms from AU$295

    Families  -  All suites are one bedroom but can comfortably sleep between 3 - 5 people, making this a great value option
    City Style  -  Trendy & well-located base boasting all modern conveniences; ideal for both short visits or longer stays
    Local exploring  -  Formerly Nottingham's industrial centre, Lace Market has been transformed into a chic heritage district
    Sights nearby  -  Walk to Nottingham Castle & the city's famous Robin Hood statue
    Air conditioningNo pets

    Upmarket self-catered boutique hotel in Nottingham's happening Lace Market area. An all-suite property, plush & well-designed units come with small kitchenettes, spoiling relaxation areas & outdoor space. On-trend decor & deluxe amenities make this a luxurious yet very affordable city-centre pad. See More

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  • Lace Market Hotel Nottingham 42 rooms from AU$297

    City Style  -  A sleek and sophisticated bolthole in Nottingham’s vibrant Lace Market district.
    Sights nearby  -  Just a two minute walk from the City of Caves.
    Traditional
    Restaurant  -  Recommended.
    RestaurantNo pets

    A hip hotel right in the centre of Nottingham. The urbane chic rooms are fronted by large floor-to-ceiling windows and boast excellent views. With an awarding winning restaurant, a trendy cocktail bar and more down-to-earth pub, the hotel has all the components for a great weekend in Nottingham. See More

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  • Restaurant Sat Bains with Rooms Nottingham 7 rooms from AU$338

    Romantic Break  -  With atmospheric rooms and fine dining, this is the ideal option for a romantic weekend getaway
    Foodies  -  This hotel is all about the food — and it shows — having been awarded two Michelin stars
    Sights nearby  -  Visit Wollaton Hall a grand Tudor house dating back to 1580 or Nottingham Castle
    Restrictions on children  -  Children over eight are welcomed but it is really more of an adult stay
    RestaurantGardenParking

    What may seem unassuming at first glance is in fact a stylish boutique with a two-star Michelin restaurant. A handful of moody rooms have a dark colour palette, carved wood beds, & sleek bathrooms with Aesop products. The restaurant serves seven & ten-course dinners and is well worth the trip alone. See More

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