Nottingham isn't the prettiest of English cities, but it's always danced to the beat of its own drum. Its history — including the legend of Robin Hood — is a thrilling ride, and there are numerous Hood relics, both real and imagined, to discover in Nottingham, and the surrounding forests of Nottinghamshire. Today’s Nottingham is a lively town, thanks in part to its large student population, and all the familiar hotel brands can be found here. But if you're looking for something a bit more unique, our Gurus tend to think the best places to stay in Nottingham are to be found either in its historic heart (some even boast parking), or else the green hills surrounding the city.
Nottingham’s castle is one of its highlights. These days it’s more of a grand manor house, built atop a warren of tunnels nobles needed to escape the revolting peasants. It has been converted to an art gallery and museum, and the tunnels now lead to one of the pubs claiming to be England's oldest: Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem Inn, off Maid Marian Way in Brewhouse Yard — it’s definitely 800+ years old!
Just outside Nottingham is the region's most famous spot: Sherwood Forest. This lush, green expanse is home to Major Oak — which according to local folklore is where Robin Hood hid-out — and surrounds the pretty village of Edwinstowe. Whether you're a fan of Robin Hood or not, the oak is an incredible sight — it's between 800 and a thousand years old with a vast network of branches, some of which are now held up by scaffolding.
Due to its popularity both with business and leisure visitors, the best places to stay in Nottingham can get very busy. So do your homework and book ahead to avoid disappointment.