Nottingham Castle

The castle’s origins date back to the Norman Conquest. Originally built in 1068 by William the Conqueror, the castle served as a defensive fortress and a symbol of Norman power. Under Henry II, the original wooden structure was replaced by a stone castle in the late 12th century. The castle played a pivotal role in various historical events throughout the medieval period, including the conflict between King Richard the Lionheart and his brother, King John.

In the 17th century, it was a royalist stronghold during the English Civil War before being captured and subsequently demolished by Parliamentarian forces. The current building, constructed in the 1670s, is a ducal mansion built by the Duke of Newcastle, reflecting the architectural style of the Stuart Restoration period. Today, Nottingham Castle is not only a historical monument but also a cultural hub, housing a museum and art gallery that celebrate the city’s artistic and historical heritage.

What to see at Nottingham Castle

Visitors can expect a multifaceted experience that combines history, art and stunning views. The castle grounds provide panoramic vistas of Nottingham and the surrounding countryside, and inside, the castle houses an extensive museum and art gallery, featuring a diverse collection of exhibits. You can also visit the caves below the castle.

The museum

The ducal mansion is a museum that offers a journey through Nottingham’s history, with displays ranging from medieval artefacts to contemporary art pieces. The museum’s displays include exhibits about the city’s early crafts, including alabaster, pottery and lace, exhibits about the Mercian Regiment and, of course, a display about Robin Hood.

The Art Gallery, also known as the Long Gallery, was established in the 1870s with support from Nottingham’s lace industry and Sir Henry Cole. Housed in the remodelled ducal palace, it became the Midland Counties Art Museum in 1878. The gallery, featuring historical and contemporary art, was designed to inspire local lace designers.

The Rebellion Gallery highlights Nottingham’s tumultuous history, featuring three key uprisings: the Civil War in 1642, when Nottingham supported Parliament against King Charles I; the Luddite protests of 1811 against industrialisation’s threat to textile workers; and the 1830s Parliamentary Reform riots, which led to the burning of Nottingham Castle in protest against electoral corruption.

Robin Hood Adventures, an extension of the Rebellion Gallery, features immersive and interactive games where visitors can imagine themselves as Robin Hood, with activities that include aiming a bow and arrow. Here you can explore medieval Nottingham through the Castle tunnel, listen to Robin Hood ballads in a forest setting, and engage in mixed-reality games like digital archery and quarterstaff sparring with Little John. Interactive tables offer insights into 14th-century Nottingham life.

Brewhouse Yard

Brewhouse Yard, located at the foot of Castle Rock, is a historical site with 17th-century cottages that illustrate the lives of residents over 400 years. It has been a place of economic fluctuation, urban growth and industrial change. The area is known for its brewing history, association with Nottingham Castle, and as a tax-free hub for non-conformists. The museum at Brewhouse Yard showcases the daily lives of families connected to Nottingham’s textile industry.

The castle and grounds

One of the castle’s most intriguing features is the network of caves beneath it. These ancient tunnels, some of which predate the castle, have been used for various purposes over the centuries, including as dungeons and storerooms. Guided tours of the caves are available for an additional £5 charge, providing a unique perspective on the castle’s history.

The grounds also include a bronze statue of Robin Hood, one of Nottingham’s most famous legends. While the historical accuracy of the Robin Hood tales is debated, the figure remains an enduring symbol of the city’s folklore. The statue is a popular photo spot and serves as a reminder of Nottingham’s rich cultural mythology.

Visiting Nottingham Castle

Nottingham Castle is conveniently located at the southwestern corner of the city centre.

The castle is open daily and admission gives you entry to all attractions within the castle, with the exception of cave tours, which come with an additional charge.

Most visitor facilities, including a gift shop and cafe, are located in the visitor centre near the entrance to Nottingham Castle. The café offers a range of refreshments, from light snacks to more substantial meals, and provides indoor and outdoor seating with views of the castle grounds. The gift shop sells a variety of souvenirs, including books, local crafts and Robin Hood-themed merchandise.

We may earn a small commission if you book after clicking the links below.