About Nottingham Station
Nottingham Station is a major railway station and tram stop located in Nottingham, England. It is an important transport hub, serving over seven million customers annually. While there used to be several train stations in Nottingham, Nottingham Station is the only significant station left. Nottingham Station connects the city with destinations across the UK, including London, Liverpool, and Birmingham.
Nottingham Station first opened in the mid-1800s, under the operation of Midlands Railway. Within 60 years, the station had to be expanded and renovated due to increased passenger demand. The station was again remodeled in 2010 to modernize facilities and amenities. In 2018, the station was badly damaged during a fire.
Today, Nottingham Station is an excellent base from which to explore Nottingham's best attractions, due to its central location and range of facilities.
Things to do in and around Nottingham Station
Nottingham Station is surrounded by many of Nottingham's best attractions, so you won't be short of activities. Whether you're trying to kill time before your next train, or you're just looking for a fun way to spend the day, you’ll be able to find several options near Nottingham Station. Here are a few of the best things to do nearby.
- Grab a drink or bite to eat at one of Nottingham Station's cafes or bars. Enjoy a pint at BeerHeadZ, or sit down with a coffee and cake at Pumpkin Cafe or Costa Coffee.
- Escape the busy train station at Wollaton Park. The largest public park in Nottingham, Wollaton Park covers over 500 acres and is home to herds of wild deer.
- Go on a shopping spree at the intu Victoria Centre. One of the largest shopping malls in Nottingham, the intu Victoria Centre hosts over 120 stores and restaurants.
- Strap on your skates at the National Ice Centre. This Olympic-sized ice rink is the first of its kind in the UK. All ages can learn an array of winter sports, including ice hockey and figure skating.
- Learn about modern art at Nottingham Contemporary. Advertised as one of the largest contemporary art galleries in England, Nottingham Contemporary hosts an array of world-class temporary exhibits, including works by David Hockney and Frances Stark.
Transit options at Nottingham Station
- Local tram services (Nottingham Express Transit)
- Local bus services (Nottingham City Transport)
- Taxi ranks (DG Cars, Nottingham Taxis)
Luggage storage at Nottingham Station
Known for its association with folk legend Robin Hood and its array of ancient historical attractions, Nottingham is a popular vacation destination. Before taking a tour of the best sights in Nottingham, find a convenient place to stow your bags. If you're arriving by train, you'll find several luggage storage services near Nottingham Station, operated by Bounce. Located at nearby businesses, just download the Bounce app and check-in at a convenient facility that meets your needs. You can even cancel free of charge, in case your train was delayed, or you have a change of plans.
Attractions and activities near Nottingham Station
- Nottingham Castle: One of Nottingham's most famous landmarks in Nottingham Castle. Built upon 'Castle Rock', Nottingham Castle has been an important stronghold since the Normans, with rugged cliffs to the south and west making the castle difficult to invade. The castle was originally built under the orders of William the Conqueror. Famously, it was the location of the legendary showdown between the Sheriff of Nottingham and Robin Hood. The castle has been demolished and rebuilt several times, with the current structure dating back to the late 19th century.
Since reopening, Nottingham Castle has become a prominent museum and art gallery, featuring artwork by the likes of Edward Burra, Paul Sandby, and Edward Wadsworth. You can also learn about the castle's original structure, hear the legends of Robin Hood, and explore the caves underneath the castle. You won't be able to bring any large bags into Nottingham Castle, so stop by a Nottingham Station luggage storage service first. - National Justice Museum: The Nottingham Justice Museum is a unique museum, showcasing the city's 15th-century gaol and Victorian courtrooms. The museum itself is home to over 40,000 objects relating to jails and law. Some interesting sights include Oscar Wilde's old cell door, gibbet irons, and evidence from the Great Train Robbery. The National Justice Museum is said to be haunted, and those looking to experience the supernatural can book a ghost tour.
While visiting the National Justice Museum, ensure you book a tour of the City of Caves. These vast sandstone caves are man-made and are said to date back well over 1,000 years. There are over 800 caves, many of which were used as houses until the mid 19th century. During the 15th and 16th centuries, the caves were an underground tannery. They were also famously used as an air-raid shelter during the Second World War. - Sherwood Forest: Tourists looking for the true Robin Hood experience should plan a trip to Sherwood Forest. Located about an hour north of Nottingham, Sherwood Forest covers over 900 acres of ancient forests. While exploring the trails, stop by Sherwood Forest's oldest tree, Major Oak, which is around 1,000 years old. Sherwood Forest has a strong association with Robin Hood, who is said to have lived in the forest with his Merry Men. If you're visiting in early August, make sure you check out the Robin Hood Festival. You'll want to travel light while exploring Sherwood Forest, so check in at a luggage storage service near Nottingham Station before visiting.
