As the largest public space in the UK after London’s Trafalgar Square, it’s fair to say that Old Market Square is the centrepiece of the city.
Host of some of Nottingham’s most popular annual events, including the Riviera Beach and Winter Wonderland, Old Market Square has played a major part in city life for centuries.
Dating back more than 800 years, the square was home to a large, functioning market between the 11th century and 1928.
Old Market Square as we know it originated from 1929, following the completion of the Council House that year.
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Over the past century the square has undergone major changes, although the backdrop of the Council House has remained unchanged.
Perhaps the most controversial change to Old Market Square over recent years was the decision to permanently turn the fountains off in June 2022.
Others have also criticised the lack of greenery in the square, with floral displays prominent in the 1980s and ‘90s no longer in place.
We’ve picked out a few photos which lay bare how different Old Market Square looked before the millennium.
Do you think it's changed for the better? Let us know in the comments.
1. Old Market Square in 1984
Here we have Old Market Square in 1984 | John Baker Photo: John Baker
2. Old Market Square 1998
This photo, from 1998, is how many of us remember the square. With much more greenery than is present today, it’s hard to believe this photo was taken just 26 years ago. Notice the Christmas decorations being put up! | Nick Macneill/Geograph Photo: Nick Macneill/Geograph
3. Old Market Square 1956
Here we have Old Market Square in 1956. This photo was taken 27 years after the Council House was built. | Ben Brooksbank/Geograph Photo: Ben Brooksbank/Geograph
4. Old Market Square 1969
This photo, taken in May 1969, shows two buses in Long Row. As we all know, today Long Row is one of the city’s pedestrianised streets. | David Hillas/Geograph Photo: David Hillas/Geograph