11 historic places to visit in Nottingham from the castle to Lace Market

Step back in time with us and take a tour of Nottingham's historic sites
George Green's Windmill (Green's mill and Science Centre), NottinghamGeorge Green's Windmill (Green's mill and Science Centre), Nottingham
George Green's Windmill (Green's mill and Science Centre), Nottingham

As far as UK cities go, we'd say Nottingham is one of the most 'historic'.

With embedded links to Medieval England and a rich past with the textile industry, we'd consider Nottingham to be a bit of a 'one-off'.

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As you explore its streets, you'll find a treasure trove of historic sites that tell tales of time gone by.

READ MORE: What's On in Nottingham? From the commanding walls of Nottingham Castle to the quaint corners of the Lace Market, each cobblestone holds echoes of the city's vibrant past.

Below you will find a list of places to visit for the ultimate 'historic' day out in Nottingham.

1. Nottingham Castle

Robin Hood and Nottingham CastleRobin Hood and Nottingham Castle
Robin Hood and Nottingham Castle

The site of Nottingham Castle has a long history, dating back to the medieval era. The current castle, built in the 17th century, houses a museum and art gallery.

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Want to know more about Nottingham Castle? Check out these little-known fun facts.

2. Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

Claimed to be the oldest pub in England, Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem is located at the base of Nottingham Castle. It has a fascinating history and a unique interior.

You can find out more about how this quirky inn got its name here.

3. Wollaton Hall and Park

A stunning Elizabethan mansion set in a large park, Wollaton Hall is known for its impressive architecture and houses the Nottingham Natural History Museum.

4. St. Mary's Church

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This medieval church is located in the heart of the city and has a beautiful interior with stained glass windows and intricate carvings.

5. The Lace Market

Once the centre of the world's lace industry, the Lace Market is now a historic district with well-preserved 19th-century industrial architecture.

6. Galleries of Justice Museum

This Nottingham museum of crime and punishment brings historical re-enactments to life and features a Victorian courtroom, Georgian gaol, and cells that date back hundreds of years.This Nottingham museum of crime and punishment brings historical re-enactments to life and features a Victorian courtroom, Georgian gaol, and cells that date back hundreds of years.
This Nottingham museum of crime and punishment brings historical re-enactments to life and features a Victorian courtroom, Georgian gaol, and cells that date back hundreds of years.

Housed in the old Shire Hall and County Gaol, this museum explores the history of crime and punishment in Nottingham.

Rumour has it this part of the museum is home to a few resident ghosts too. You can read more about its spooky history here.

7. Green's Windmill

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A fully restored and working 19th-century tower windmill that offers insights into Nottingham's industrial past.

8. Brewhouse Yard Museum

Part of Nottingham Castle, this museum focuses on the history of Nottingham and its people, showcasing artefacts from various periods.

Note: Brewhouse Yard is only open at weekends, on bank holidays and during school holidays.

9. Nottingham Industrial Museum

A ploughing engine at Nottingham Industrial MuseumA ploughing engine at Nottingham Industrial Museum
A ploughing engine at Nottingham Industrial Museum

Located in Wollaton Park, this museum displays a wide range of exhibits related to Nottingham's industrial heritage.

10. Newstead Abbey

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Just a short drive from Nottingham, Newstead Abbey was the ancestral home of the poet Lord Byron. The beautiful estate includes a historic mansion and picturesque gardens.

Another historic church in Nottingham, St. Peter's dates back to the medieval period and features impressive architecture.