Fun things to do in Nottingham
From delicious food spots to historical attractions and sporting events, there is no shortage of fun things to do in Nottingham for university students.
Our guide will cover everything you need to know about exploring the city of Nottingham in between classes, so you can make sure to hit all the must-see Nottingham attractions while sticking to a student budget.
Free things to do in Nottingham
For students looking for free things to do in Nottingham, there are so many ways you can explore the city without breaking the bank. Let’s explore some of the best things to do in Nottingham for free, including art galleries, parks and more.
Free museums and galleries
There are a few free museums and galleries to add to your list when visiting Nottingham, including the Nottingham Contemporary art gallery. This is one of the largest contemporary art galleries in the UK, and entry is completely free. You’ll find a range of changing exhibitions, along with film screenings and performances.
Located in the picturesque Wollaton Park, Wollaton Hall is home to the Natural History Museum. Inside you can find over 750,000 objects, including fossils, plants and animal eggs. Even better, entry is free.
Parks and outdoor spaces
Strolling through a park or green space is one of the best free things to do in Nottingham, and there are plenty to choose from throughout the area.
The Attenborough Nature Reserve and Centre, opened by David Attenborough, is home to hundreds of species of birds, plants, otters and more. It’s located on the edge of the city, so it’s great to escape the hustle and bustle for a few hours. Highfields Park is another great option, with various walking paths and a picturesque lake.
Tourist attractions in Nottingham
Nottingham features a few famous attractions and landmarks that are not to be missed if you’re a new student who’s just moved to the city.
Explore the legend of Robin Hood at Nottingham Castle, along with other fascinating tidbits of Nottingham’s medieval history. Make sure you snap a picture with the iconic Robin Hood statue while you’re there. Admission is only £15 for adults and provides entry all year round if you want to visit again.
One of the most famous areas in Nottingham, the Lace Market is a must-see for days out in Nottingham. This is the oldest part of the city, and holds over a thousand years of history of the renowned lace industry in Nottingham. Now, it’s a buzzing, vibrant area with a range of bars and restaurants.
Fun activities
For students looking for ideas on what to do in Nottingham on a budget, there are plenty of fun activities to be found in the city.
- Visit The Cornerhouse for food, drinks and a variety of exciting activities like indoor adventure golf, axe throwing and bowling
- Watch a cricket match at Trent Bridge Cricket Ground during the summer months
- Head to the iconic Castle Rock Brewery for a pub quiz, tasting, or tour around the space
Places to eat in Nottingham
Nottingham has a buzzing food scene, with plenty of options to choose from depending on what you’re craving.
A classic choice for days out in Nottingham is a roast, and you can find one of the best at Nottingham’s oldest pub, The Ye Old Trip to Jerusalem, which was built in 1189. For other lunch options, Fox Cafe has an extensive selection of choices, including vegetarian and vegan options.
Annie’s Burger Shack is another great option for dinner or takeaway, offering delicious Rhode Island inspired bites.
Things to do in Nottingham city centre
Nottingham town centre is jam-packed with attractions, restaurants and bars - so it’s definitely somewhere you’ll want to spend a lot of time as a student.
Old Market Square is a must-see in the city centre, as one of the largest public squares in the UK. Throughout the year, you’ll find different markets, performances and gatherings in the square, along with a range of restaurants and bars all year round.
If you want to do some shopping, Victoria Centre has all the essentials. This shopping centre has over 115 shops and food options, so spending a day here is definitely one of the best things to do in Nottingham.
Things to do near Nottingham
Now you should be covered for things to do in Nottingham, but for students in surrounding cities, there are still plenty of fun activities. If you’re looking for things to do near Nottingham, the nearby cities of Leicester and Sheffield are great for students too.
FAQs
What is Nottingham best known for?
Nottingham is widely known for its history and culture, but it’s perhaps best known for its connection to Robin Hood and there are many places throughout Nottingham where you can explore this iconic folklore.
Is Nottingham a walkable city?
Nottingham’s city centre is easily walkable, as many of the main spots, like restaurants, bars and attractions are relatively close together. For further away sites that aren’t as easy to access on foot, Nottingham’s public transport system has good connections, so a car isn’t necessary.
What is the nicest area of Nottingham?
You can find several beautiful areas in Nottingham, which are each favoured by different people depending on what you’re looking for. The Park is a well-known affluent area, along with Wollaton and Mapperley.
There’s no shortage of fun things to do in Nottingham as a student, both during the day and at night. Whether you’re looking for restaurants, attractions, or green spaces, Nottingham truly has something for everyone.
If you’re a student living in Nottingham, check out our affordable and convenient accommodation options and get ready to make the best move yet.
