Nottingham Hotels

Best places to stay in Nottingham

Nottingham's city centre is compact and easily walkable, but it also has a great tram and bus system. This makes it the perfect city break to leave your car behind and arrive by train. For city centre activities, you’ll want to stay in the centre itself or just north, by the Nottingham Trent University campus, or in the historic and quiet castle district. Although small, the centre has several distinct areas. The main, modern shopping and entertainment area is around and north of Lower Parliament Street, while Old Market Square hosts markets and Christmas markets. Lace Market and Hockley are the heart of the cool and independent scene, bustling on weekend nights. Outside the city centre, Lenton is the main student area, centred around the University of Nottingham’s green campus. West Bridgford is a gentrified area south of the river, with its own high street, and is usually very peaceful apart from when Trent Bridge stadium fills for the cricket.

Where to stay to be near the popular attractions

For shopping, dining and drinking – as well as the Christmas markets, theatre shows and concerts – pick a city-centre location for ease and atmosphere. If you’re heading to the Motorpoint Arena or to watch ice hockey, your most convenient options are in the east of town, in Lace Market or Sneinton. For football or cricket, West Bridgford is ideal, although parking is tough on match/game days, so you may prefer to arrive by tram. If you’ve come to enjoy the tennis or a variety of other sports, or visit the University of Nottingham and stay on or around the campus. It’s also the best place for exploring historic Wollaton Hall and its extensive parkland.

Where to stay with your family in Nottingham

Families visiting Nottingham will find the petite city pleasantly walkable – especially if you pick a city-centre or canalside stay. If you’re in town to watch tennis, you’ll want to be near the tennis centre next to Nottingham University Campus, and if you’re here for football or cricket, you might prefer to stay in laid-back West Bridgford. For a budget-conscious option that couldn’t be more central, try a family room at the Ibis Nottingham Centre. Or, if you prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle, you can head to peaceful Castle Marina, on the canalside. There are convenient family-friendly chain restaurants and a handy supermarket, plus hotels like the Holiday Inn.

Where to find cheap hotels in Nottingham

Conveniently, you can find cheap hotels all over Nottingham, especially in the centre, which has something for every budget. The Travelodge Nottingham Central, on Maid Marian Way, is conveniently located and budget-friendly with compact, modern rooms for as little as £35, and usually under £100. Another cheap way to stay here is in a hostel, like the Igloo Hybrid Hostel. It seeks to provide travellers cost-effective accommodation with a few more amenities than a traditional hostel – and it has private rooms as well as colourfully decorated dorms.

Where to stay as a solo traveller

As a solo traveller visiting Nottingham, you’ll probably want to be as central as possible. Much of the best and coolest nightlife, as well as cafes, restaurants and independent stores, can be found in Lace Market or Hockley, so these are good areas to look for a vibrant weekend away. If you prefer a peaceful district for your accommodation, you could look at Castle Marina or the leafy Castle District. For city centre stays on a budget, you can’t beat the Leonardo Hotel, just steps from the train station, with convenient amenities like a work space, gym and coffee bar. Also in the centre, next to the famous venue Rock City, you’ll find Roomzzz Aparthotel, the perfect spot for solo travellers seeking a more upscale stay. These spacious and modern mini apartments give you the feeling of a home-from-home; perfect for longer stays.

Party and nightlife in Nottingham

Nottingham's nightlife is vibrant and diverse, with a host of venues to dance the night away, experience live music, and uncover hidden gems.

Night clubs: For those looking to hit the dance floor, clubs like Pryzm offer a multi-room experience catering to a variety of musical tastes, from chart-toppers to R&B. Stealth is another hotspot known for its electronic beats and DJ sets that attract a lively crowd.

Concert halls: Live music enthusiasts should check out Rock City, a legendary venue that has hosted a range of international acts and local bands, ensuring a night of high-quality entertainment. The Motorpoint Arena also brings in big-name artists for those looking to enjoy a concert on a larger scale.

Secret party spots: Nottingham is full of secret and intimate venues for those in the know. Look out for bars with hidden entrances like The Hockley Arts Club, which offers a quirky, eclectic space for a memorable night out.

Best neighbourhoods for going out: The Lace Market is the heart of Nottingham's nightlife with its collection of bars, pubs, and clubs set against the backdrop of historic buildings. Hockley, often referred to as Nottingham's creative quarter, is another vibrant area where the city's youthful and artistic spirit shines through its range of unique and independent venues. For a more relaxed vibe, the West Bridgford area offers a selection of upmarket bars and gastropubs perfect for a more laid-back evening.

Going shopping in Nottingham

Whether you're in search of the latest fashion trends, unique crafts, or bargain deals, Nottingham's shopping scene has something to entice every shopper.

Trendy shopping area: Head over to the Hockley area and explore the Lace Market, where you'll find an array of independent shops set amidst historic industrial buildings. This area is brimming with character and is the go-to spot for cutting-edge fashion, vintage finds, and unique accessories.

Cheap shopping area: For those looking to stretch their pounds further, the Intu Victoria Centre is home to a variety of high street brands offering seasonal sales and deals. Alternatively, wander through the stalls of the Victoria Market for budget-friendly purchases, from clothing to household goods.

Craft shops: Nottingham is rich in artisanal heritage. Delve into shops like Handmade Nottingham on Kings Walk or Focus Gallery on Derby Road to discover handcrafted jewellery, homeware, and gifts made by local artists.

Markets in Nottingham

Nottingham's markets are a treasure trove of local produce, vintage goods, and international cuisine.

Traditional markets: Nottingham's Old Market Square is a historic spot that frequently hosts traditional market stalls, especially during events and seasonal festivities, offering a variety of local produce and goods.

Local weekly farmers markets: Sneinton Market is a must-visit for foodies every Saturday, boasting fresh, locally-sourced fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses.

Trendy markets: For a blend of traditional and contemporary, the monthly Malt Cross Craft Market offers everything from vintage clothing to artisan eats in a vibrant atmosphere.

Flea markets: The Thieves Market is Nottingham's famous flea market, perfect for bargain hunters looking for vintage clothes, second-hand books, and unique antiques.

Where to buy holiday souvenirs

For holiday mementoes that capture the spirit of Nottingham, the Nottingham Tourism Centre is your first port of call. Situated at the edge of Old Market Square, it offers Robin Hood hats, local crafts, and other Nottingham-themed keepsakes.

Shopping malls

Nottingham boasts several shopping malls that cater to every shopping need. The Intu Victoria Centre and the Intu Broadmarsh Centre are the city's prime retail destinations, housing numerous shops ranging from high-end fashion to everyday essentials. For a more upscale shopping experience, the Exchange Arcade, housed in an elegant Grade II listed building, offers a selection of designer stores amidst architectural grandeur.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

Harts Hotel, in Nottingham’s elegant and peaceful castle district, is the epitome of modern luxury. It’s serene, understated and comes complete with a fabulous restaurant. There are just 32 well-appointed rooms and suites, some of which have direct, private access to the quiet gardens – a real retreat from the bustle. Hart’s Kitchen has two AA rosettes and serves exquisitely presented multi-course dinners, as well as dainty afternoon teas, breakfast, brunch and next-level room service. Their Sunday lunch books up well in advance too.

Spa hotels in Nottingham

For a stylish city centre stay, you can’t beat the Crowne Plaza, conveniently located near a tram stop and many of Nottingham’s bars, restaurants and shopping streets. It also boasts an on-site spa, for some post-retail-therapy relaxation. There’s a spacious pool, a modern fitness centre, steam room and jacuzzi, as well as bookable massages, facials and beauty treatments. There’s both an a la carte and buffet restaurant for evening meals, and you can grab a hearty buffet breakfast too.

Luxury Hotels

Set to the east of the city centre, steps from Nottingham racecourse and the National Design Academy, Colwick Hall is a space of classic luxury. It’s conveniently close to the Motorpoint Arena, town centre and even Holme Pierre Point Water Sports Centre, but it feels like it’s poised in another, altogether more elegant century. The characterful bedrooms are large and tastefully decorated, with signature and luxury rooms boasting original fireplaces, four-poster beds and freestanding bathtubs, as well as views over the charming stately home gardens. You can dine in the upscale Byron’s Brasserie or book a Sunday lunch or afternoon tea (including a Bridgerton-themed menu).