Hotels and Travel

Destination - Nottingham

It is difficult to imagine that the thoroughly modern county of Nottinghamshire was once submerged under the tree-topped canopy of Sherwood Forest, or that its most revered inhabitant was the green-clad outlaw Robin Hood.
A small part of the immense forest still survives – including the ancient oak beneath which legendary Robin asked Maid Marion to marry him – but there’s much more to this region than folklore.

Built on agriculture, lace, chemistry and coal it’s awash with literary brilliance and an industrial heritage that few of its rivals can equal.

It was also the birthplace of writer D.H. Lawrence, the abode of the club-footed poet Lord Byron - who lived here for a time at his ancestral home, Newstead Abbey.

Nottingham Castle - a magnificent 17th century ducal mansion built on the site of the original Medieval Castle, with spectacular views across the city, is only a 10 minutes walk from the City centre, with easy access from train and bus stations.

Robin Hood Nottingham's most popular tourist attraction 'The Tales of Robin Hood' is just a two minute walk from The Castle - making it an ideal full or half day experience . Enter the dark and romantic world of legend and adventure. Flee through the forest to escape the evil Sheriff of Nottingham and jump on the magical travel back in time ride to join in the quest.

Once you've had your fill of Robin Hood there is plenty more in Nottingham to enjoy. There are museums and attractions to suit all tastes including a museum of costume and textiles, a museum celebrating the history of the Nottingham area and several galleries showcasing both classic and contemporary art. Attractions include the Museum of Nottingham Lace, the Museum of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard Museum and the Nottingham Transport Heritage Centre. Nearby is Woollaton Hall and the University of Nottingham's outstanding Lakeside Art Centre.

Nottingham is a shopper's paradise with over 1300 shops from which to choose. There are six major department stores and two major shopping centres, the Victoria and the Broadmarsh centres, offering all-weather shopping. The elegant Flying Horse Walk and Exchange Arcades are a must for top quality clothing, arts, furniture and accessories. many specialised shops.

Extensive pedestrianisation and splendid floral displays around the city in summer make city centre shopping a real pleasure. So too the abundance of hotels, restaurants, cafes, pubs and bistros around the city which, when weather permits, bring al fresco dining for a real continental feel. Not surprising therefore that Nottingham has been voted one of the most "vital and vibrant" city centres in the UK.

At the end of the day, Nottingham is still buzzing with life as the choice of entertainment on offer brings people of all ages to the city to sample what is becoming a legendary nightlife. Dining out is not to be missed Nottingham has over 200 restaurants from which to choose. Pubs and bars in the city include what is reputedly England

Those in search of culture are well served by excellent theatres The Victorian Theatre Royal and modern Royal concert Hall bring a year round programme of drama and music to the city. Nottingham Playhouse is one of the country's premier venues for contemporary theatre and the Malt Cross Music Hall, fully restored to its 19th century glory, offers live entertainment that brings the spirit of the 1870's to the present day. The Broadway is the first branch of the National Film Theatre and is acclaimed for its innovative programming. Nottingham's greatest new venue is the fantastic ice arena which is home to ice hockey and speed skating.

For a wide selection of Nottingham hotels visit the Direct Hotels website.