I have been to plenty of market towns in Nottinghamshire but this one is my favourite

The small town is home to just 10,000 people

These days it’s easy to assume that all towns have been taken over by vape shops, charity shops and fast food restaurants.

While that may be the case in some parts of the country, it’s certainly not applicable to all towns here in Nottinghamshire.

There’s no denying that market towns across the country are suffering at present, with ever-reducing footfall and soaring costs for businesses.

Despite this, Nottinghamshire’s market towns have largely managed to retain their charm.

With historic buildings, tasty restaurants and intriguing independent shops, our county’s market towns offer visitors an experience that Nottingham city centre can’t.

Summer is the perfect time to see these towns, particularly when visitors are able to dedicate a whole day to exploring them.

The small town of Bingham, located just east of Nottingham, is an ideal place for city folk to escape and experience a more sedate lifestyle this summer.

Why is Bingham worth visiting?

Home to just over 10,000 people, Bingham is a relatively small town but that only adds to its attractiveness for visitors.

The town centre itself can easily be explored on foot, with the majority of shops, cafes and restaurants located in the vicinity of Market Place.

Bingham’s Market Place hosts a weekly market, which takes place every Thursday between 8am and 2pm.

Bingham's Market Placeplaceholder image
Bingham's Market Place | Jonathan Clitheroe

Those lucky enough to visit Bingham during its weekly market can browse a range of stalls, selling everything from local produce to clothing.

If you fancy spending a day in Bingham, there are hourly EMR services to and from Nottingham, making the town easily accessible to those living in the city.

The train station is just a 10-minute walk from the town centre, with Station Road leading visitors directly into Market Place.

Where are the best places to eat and drink in Bingham?

The town centre hosts several highly rated restaurants and cafes.

A good place to refuel while in Bingham is Number 16 - a bistro, café and bar located in Market Place.

Number Sixteen, Market Place, Bingham: "The coffee, cakes and food are all delicious."placeholder image
Number Sixteen, Market Place, Bingham: "The coffee, cakes and food are all delicious."

A recent visitor said: “The staff are very friendly and welcoming and the food was great.

“I had a burger, but it’s a real burger, not just some mass-produced fast food. The chips were lovely and the tables were in the town square. All in all, a lovely experience.”

Number 16 is a great place to stop for a bite to eat in Binghamplaceholder image
Number 16 is a great place to stop for a bite to eat in Bingham | Number 16

Butler’s Coffee House, in Union Street, is also worth a visit if you’re after a caffeine hit.

Nearby pubs, such as the Horse and Plough and White Lion, are viable alternatives if you fancy something stronger after a day of exploring.

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