Medieval to Modern: A Self-guided Tour of Nottingham's Heritage

Step through nearly a thousand years of history on this self-guided audio walking tour of Nottingham. Over 32 stops and 1.8 miles, wander from medieval lanes to striking modern landmarks, with GPS-triggered narration playing to your headphones, so you go at your own pace and pause anytime. Begin at The Lacehouse in the historic Lace Market, then explore St. Mary's Church, the City of Caves, and the legendary Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem, one of England's oldest inns. Discover a pub hidden inside a converted church, admire the bronze Robin Hood statue, and pass Nottingham Castle and the Theatre Royal. The route finishes in the leafy Arboretum park. Key takeaways: - Nottingham's Lace Market was once a global hub of the 19th-century lace industry, shaping the city's skyline. - The City of Caves and Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem trace back to medieval Nottingham. - The route spans centuries of architecture, from medieval churches to Victorian and modern civic buildings. No crowds, just you!

1. 1

   The Lacehouse

   Pass by

   Kick off the tour at this stylish cocktail bar located in Nottingham’s historic lace and textiles hub. Learn about the city’s industrial past and how it transformed Nottingham into a significant player during the industrial revolution.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   Pass by

   Explore one of the oldest religious sites in Nottingham, offering a glimpse into the city’s medieval roots. St. Mary’s Church stands as a testament to the city's rich history and architectural heritage.

3. 3

   National Justice Museum

   Pass by

   Discover Nottingham’s legal history at this museum, housed in a former courthouse and goal. Learn about the city’s judicial past and its role in shaping contemporary law enforcement.

4. 4

   Pitcher & Piano

   Pass by

   Visit this unique pub housed in a converted historic church. Enjoy the ambiance while learning about the creative repurposing of Nottingham’s historic buildings.

5. 5

   Nottingham Contemporary

   Pass by

   As you walk, on your right is the Nottingham Contemporary Museum, which opened in 2009 and features a green design by Caruso St John Architects. This RIBA Award-winning building, inspired by the city's Lace Market quarter, boasts a concrete facade embedded with a mid-19th-century cherry blossom lace design by Richard Birkin, unearthed from a time capsule buried on the building’s site.

6. 6

   Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

   Pass by

   Step into one of England’s oldest inns, with a history that dates back to the 12th century. This iconic pub is steeped in legend and tradition, providing a charming stop on your tour.

7. 7

   Robin Hood Statue

   Pass by

   Admire the statue of Nottingham’s most famous folk hero, Robin Hood. Learn about the legend and the historical context that made Robin Hood an enduring symbol of the city.

8. 8

   The City Of Caves

   Pass by

   Delve into Nottingham’s underground network of caves that date back to medieval times. These ancient caves offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s hidden history and its early inhabitants.

9. 9

   Stop 9

   Pass by

   Situated near Nottingham Castle, its location is steeped in centuries of rich heritage. The pub itself exudes a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere, offering a warm welcome to locals and visitors alike. Inside, patrons can enjoy a wide selection of beers, ales, and spirits, accompanied by delicious pub fare crafted from locally sourced ingredients. It boasts a traditional yet stylish interior, adorned with vintage accents and cozy seating areas, making it perfect for hearty conversations with friends and family.

10. 10

    Maid Marian Way

    Pass by

    This historic location is named after the legendary character Maid Marian from Robin Hood folklore. Constructed in the mid-1900s as part of a major redevelopment project aimed at improving traffic flow and urban connectivity in the city. Before the construction of Maid Marian Way, the area was a mix of narrow streets and older buildings. The new road, completed in the 1960s, provided a modern thoroughfare connecting the southern and northern parts of Nottingham, significantly easing traffic congestion in the city center. Today, Maid Marian Way serves as a vital artery in Nottingham's transportation network, accommodating high volumes of traffic and linking key areas such as Nottingham Castle, the Lace Market, and the city's commercial district.

11. 11

    Stop 11

    Pass by

    This old street in the middle of town has a fascinating history dating back centuries, originally part of Nottingham's medieval town plan as a thoroughfare linking parts of the settlement. Its name points to the wheelwright trade, suggesting it was a hub for craftsmen who built wagon wheels. As Nottingham grew, the street evolved into a bustling commercial and residential area, with merchants and tradespeople setting up shops and homes along its length. Over the centuries it witnessed major events, including the English Civil War and the Industrial Revolution. By the Victorian era it had become a thriving commercial center lined with shops and warehouses, its architecture reflecting the styles of the time. Through the 1900s it kept adapting to changing conditions, including the impact of World War II and later urban renewal. Today the street is a mix of old and new buildings, home to all kinds of shops selling clothes, food, and more, plus plenty of places to grab a bite to eat.

12. 12

    Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall

    Pass by

    Take in Nottingham’s premier venues for live performances. Learn about the cultural significance of these institutions and their contributions to the city’s artistic landscape.

13. 13

    Old Market Square

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    Explore the heart of Nottingham’s city center, surrounded by historic buildings, shops, and eateries. Old Market Square is a bustling hub of activity and a perfect place to experience the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

14. 14

    The Arboretum

    Pass by

    Conclude your tour at Nottingham’s first public park. Enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility of The Arboretum while reflecting on the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Service animals allowed
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.