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Uncovering Nottingham: Hidden Gems and Local Treasures
Nottingham and Nottinghamshire are renowned for the legacy of Robin Hood, rebels, pioneers and the infamous Sherwood Forest. However, take a little adventure off the beaten track and you can discover some of Nottinghamshire’s hidden gems that you won’t want to miss on your next UK getaway or staycation.
Creswell Crags
Tucked away in North Nottinghamshire, Cresswell Crags is a breathtaking limestone gorge filled with caves, crevices, and a history that will send shivers down your spine! Not only is it a prehistoric wonder, but it also holds the largest collection of ‘witches’ marks’ ever found in British caves. These mysterious "apotropaic" symbols, carved into the rock in the 17th and 18th centuries, were meant to ward off evil spirits lurking in the underworld. Discovered in 2018, they add a magical (and slightly eerie) twist to this already fascinating site. Explore its secrets through themed guided tours, from Ice Age adventures to spellbinding witchcraft tales—you never know what you might uncover!
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Rufford Abbey Country Park
Step into history and nature at Rufford Abbey Country Park, a breathtaking estate built around the ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian monastery and former country house. Nestled in the heart of the Sherwood Forest area, this hidden gem is a must-visit for history buffs, nature lovers, and families alike. Wander around the serene lake, explore beautifully landscaped gardens brimming with 870 years of history, and soak in the peaceful surroundings. But it’s not just about quiet strolls—kids (and kids at heart) can enjoy the adventure playground, try their hand at archery, embark on interactive trails, or even set sail on the boating lake. Whether you're after a relaxing escape or an action-packed day out, Rufford Abbey has something for everyone!
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Nottingham Arboretum
Some of Nottingham’s hidden gems lie in the heart of Nottingham City Centre. Nottingham Arboretum, designed by botanist and horticultural publicist Samuel Curtis in 1850, remains beautifully maintained and bosts an important collection of more than 800 trees. Nottingham Arboretum is also thought to have been the inspiration for J.M Barrie’s Neverland! Immerse yourself in the park’s rich history with a variety of walks around Nottingham’s oldest park with the Tree Trail and Heritage Trail.
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City of Caves
Hidden beneath Nottingham’s bustling streets lies a secret world waiting to be explored—the incredible City of Caves! This underground labyrinth is packed with history, from its days as a Medieval tannery, where animal hides were turned into leather, to its role as lifesaving air raid shelters during World War II. Step into the darkness, feel the damp air, and uncover the fascinating stories carved into the sandstone over centuries. Whether you're a history lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a unique day out, this hidden gem is a must-visit for the whole family!
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Naturescapes Wildlife Farm
Step into a world of color and wildlife at Naturescape Wildflower Farm, a hidden gem spanning 44 acres of breathtaking meadows, woodland edges, and vibrant cottage gardens. Since opening in 1990, this nature lover’s paradise has been dedicated to preserving and promoting wildflowers, offering expert advice, demonstrations, and a stunning variety of native plants and seeds. Wander through butterfly and bee gardens, take a peaceful stroll across the meadows, and soak in the sights and sounds of nature all year round. Whether you're a gardening enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or just in need of a tranquil escape, Naturescape is a must-visit!
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Hanwell Wine Estate
Set in the beautiful countryside of South Nottinghamshire, visit Nottingham’s charming local vineyard of Hanwell Wine Estate. Learn how the grapes from Hanwell’s vines produce English Sparkling Wine. Scheduled tours are available from February to September which includes a talk, tour as well as wine tasting. Explore the range of wines you can purchase, from Hanwell Wine Estates own wine to wine from neighbouring vineyards, there is so much to discover with this quirky hidden gem.
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Our Expert Recommendation
We asked Verity, one of our amazing staff members at the Nottingham Travel and Tourism Centre and expert in recommending activites, to share her top suggestion for visitors to explore some of Nottinghamshire's Hidden Gems. She said: 'Stonebridge City Farm is a slice of countryside in the heart of the city. With lots of animals, lovely gardens and a great play area it's a brilliant place for families on a budget.'
For more local and expert recommendations, visit our Travel and Tourism Centre located just off Market Square and talk to our friendly staff.
This blog was written by Laura Lee, Marketing Intern at Visit Nottinghamshire.
Related
Creswell Crags, in North Nottinghamshire is a limestone gorge honeycombed with caves and smaller fissures. Stone tools and remains of animals found in the caves by archaeologists provide evidence for a fascinating story of life during the last Ice Age between 50,000 and 10,000 years ago. Further evidence came to light in 2003 with the discovery of Britain’s only known Ice Age rock art.
Rufford Abbey Country Park is the estate and grounds of a former 12 century Cistercian Monastery and country house.
A historic, beautifully maintained park that is home to an important collection of over 800 trees, award winning Nottingham Arboetum is Nottingham's oldest public park and the closest park to the city centre.
Enter and explore a whole new world in the caves underneath Nottingham city and descend into the dark depths of the original Anglo-Saxon tunnels, meeting real cave-dwellers from its dramatic hidden past.
Our wild flower farm visitor centre is situated on Coach Gap Lane, Langar, Notts. It Opened in 1990 and fulfills our objective to provide a site open for demonstration, information and personal advice, allied to sales of wild flower.
Set amongst the rolling countryside of South Nottinghamshire, the vines of Hanwell Wine Estate are being hand-tended to grow grapes for English Sparkling Wine.
Stonebridge City Farm offers a rural escape in the heart of Nottingham City, providing a free-entry experience that welcomes visitors every day.
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