10 long-gone Nottingham events and attractions we wish we could bring back

It doesn’t matter if you’re 25, 55 or 85, we all have fond memories of things that no longer exist. 

Like all cities across the UK, Nottingham has changed quite a bit over the past few decades, with some areas such as Broadmarsh completely unrecognisable from how they looked even 10 years ago. 

There are enough things to worry about in the present, which is why at Nottingham World we’re always keen to take you back to the good old days.

We wanted to know the iconic Nottingham attractions and events you’d bring back from a time gone by.

Ranging from lost theme parks to Santa’s Grotto in the Victoria Centre, we received some brilliant answers. 

Below we’ve rounded up the top 10 most popular responses. 

Let us know in the comments how many you remember!

1. Santa Claus in Upper Parliament Street Co-Op 

We can’t say we’ve ever heard of this, so feel free to enlighten us!

2. The Emett Clock on the lower mall of the Victoria Centre

The decision to move the Emett Clock to the Victoria Centre’s upper mall in 2015 sure was a contentious one.

For more than 40 years the clock was used by thousands as a meeting place on the ground floor.

3. Fountains in Old Market Square

In December last year it was confirmed that the fountains in Old Market Square would be permanently turned off as part of the City Council’s cost-cutting plans.

Hopefully one day we will see them return.

4. The Tales of Robin Hood

Popular with families, The Tales of Robin Hood experience ran between 1989 and 2009.

The attraction was forced to close in 2009 due to problems with its tenancy.

5. The Fountain Pub

The Fountain opened in Bridlesmith Gate in 1962 and closed in 1999.

It’s sadly one of many city pubs we’ve lost over the years.

6. American Adventure theme park

The American Adventure theme park near Ilkeston, Derbyshire, operated between 1986 and 2006.

The former family fun site is now a housing estate.

7. Santa’s Grotto in the Victoria Centre

Thousands of now-grown-ups will have fond memories of visiting Santa in the Victoria Centre.

Fingers crossed that the big man will return this Christmas.

8. Bonfire Night on the Forest

The free Bonfire Night event at the Forest Recreation Ground was cancelled last year due to rising costs.

A decision on this year’s event has not yet been announced.

9. Armed Forces Weekend at Wollaton Park

Wollaton Park has not hosted an Armed Forces Weekend for several years.

Previous events featured live music and historical re-enactments.

The Robin Hood Pageant at Nottingham Castle was always a popular family event.

The event used to involve knights on horseback jousting, sword fights – and the chance to meet Robin Hood.