Legends and fantasy in Nottinghamshire

MEDIA RELEASE: Nottingham, 13 February 2014

With the East Midlands Sci-Fi & Fantasy Conference only weeks away, taking place at the Albert Hall on the 16 March 2014, what better time to take a look at some of the county’s internationally renowned legends.

From fashion gurus, skating sensations, literary greats and folk tales, here is a round-up of some of our top mesmeric marvels.

The legend of Robin Hood

Arguably the most infamous of them all is our heroic outlaw, Robin Hood. His adventures have been retold down the generations, from medieval ballads to Hollywood blockbusters. His legendary existence is forever associated with Nottinghamshire and Sherwood Forest and the well-loved veteran oak tree, the Major Oak.

Explore Nottingham with Robin Hood himself on a Robin Hood Town Tour. Strike a pose next to the iconic statue outside the historic Nottingham Castle. Visit the pretty village of Edwinstowe to see Robin and his love, Maid Marian, holding hands close to St Mary’s Church, supposedly where the two tied the knot. As well as attractions, make sure to visit the famous Robin Hood Festival and the annual Robin Hood Beer Festival.  

Fashion guru, Sir Paul Smith

Britain’s foremost designer, Sir Paul Smith, was born in Beeston, Nottingham, and his original outlet remains to this day on Byard Lane.

Make sure to visit his latest retail venture in Nottingham; Willoughby House, a five floor, Grade II listed building showcasing both men’s and women’s collections. Elsewhere, at Langar Hall Hotel, the owner is good friends with Sir Paul and so he has assisted in the interior design of the hotel. Visitors can also take away small Sir Paul Smith treats too, such as Paul Smith toiletries.

Peter Pan’s Neverland

Everyone knows the story of Peter Pan, a character created by novelist Sir James Matthew Barrie. It is said that J. M Barrie found inspiration for the Neverland he created in his famous book having lived in the area known as the Arboretum, an inspiring green haven in the heart of the city. J.M. Barrie worked for the local paper, the Nottingham Journal, in 1883 – 1884 and no doubt would have enjoyed exploring the city’s park in his spare time.

Literary legends, D.H. Lawrence and Lord Byron

David Herbert Lawrence was arguably one of the most controversial novelists of the 20th century. He was raised in the small mining community of Eastwood, in Nottingham, referred to as D.H. Lawrence country. His life and works are celebrated at the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, in his home town, and at the annual D.H. Lawrence Festival.  

Romantic poet, Lord George Byron, is one of England’s greatest literary heroes. His first poem was written at the age of 10 and was about Nottingham. His connection to the county is well documented. Visitors can choose to stay in the Byron Suite at Colwick Hall Hotel, a former ancestral home to Lord Byron’s family. Historic Newstead Abbey was also once the home to Byron, from 1808 – 1814. The beautiful house is set in a glorious landscape of gardens and parkland which covers more than 300 acres.

Skating sensations, Torvill and Dean

The county’s biggest skating accolade was achieved 30 years ago this year when Jayne Torvill and Christopher Dean became world famous at the Sarajevo 1984 Winter Olympics.

Enjoy the city’s skating facilitates at the National Ice Centre, which was officially opened on 1 April 2000 by Jayne Torvill. In the following year an additional Olympic Rink was opened and made the Centre the first twin Olympic-sized (60m x 30m) ice rink facility in the UK.

The pair will skate on their last ever Dancing on Ice UK Tour when they glide into the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham on 8 – 10 April 2014.