Nottingham Castle is a historic landmark perched on a basalt outcrop overlooking the city. Originally built in 1067, it has a rich history that includes serving as a royal residence and a fortress. Today, the castle offers visitors insights into its centuries-old past, featuring beautifully restored rooms and exhibits showcasing local art and history. The site also includes expansive gardens and picturesque views of Nottingham, providing a perfect backdrop for exploration and discovery.
What each source says
- Google 4.1 5,883
- Tripadvisor 3.5 2,430
Bar length is review volume, so you can see how much weight sits behind each score. Captured 2026-08-26.
What visitors single out
Liked
- Family-friendly activities Features like the medieval play park and the Robin Hood experience cater well to families with children, providing entertainment and educational opportunities for all ages.
- Interactive and engaging exhibits The castle offers a variety of interactive exhibits suitable for both adults and children, including games, displays, and activities related to Nottingham's history and the Robin Hood legend.
- Knowledgeable cave tours Guided tours of the caves beneath the castle are highly recommended, offering a unique and educational experience with knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who bring the history to life.
- Stunning city views The castle grounds provide panoramic views of Nottingham, making it a great spot for taking photos and appreciating the city's landscape from an elevated vantage point.
- Year-long access The entry fee grants you access to the castle for a year, making it an excellent value for locals or frequent visitors to Nottingham.
Criticised
- Additional costs for cave tours While general admission includes access to the castle and grounds, the popular cave tours require an additional fee, increasing the overall cost of the visit.
- Incomplete castle structure Much of the original castle structure is gone, and what remains is primarily a ducal mansion, potentially underwhelming visitors seeking a fully intact castle.
- Limited parking There is no on-site parking available, which can be inconvenient, especially for visitors with mobility issues or families with young children.
- Modern art focus A significant portion of the exhibits is dedicated to modern art, which may not appeal to all visitors, particularly those primarily interested in the castle's history.
- More museum than castle The site functions more as a museum and art gallery than a traditional castle, which may disappoint visitors expecting a more authentic castle experience.
The longer read
Nottingham Castle receives mixed reviews, with many visitors noting that it is less of a traditional castle and more of a museum and art gallery within castle walls. The £15 adult entry fee grants year-long access, which many find valuable, especially for locals planning repeat visits; children's entry is free. A recurring highlight is the cave tour, an additional £5, often praised for its knowledgeable and entertaining guides like Barry and Abbey, who bring the history of the caves and castle to life. These tours are highly recommended for an engaging and informative experience, though some reviewers noted uneven steps and a moderate hike. The Brewhouse Yard exhibit is another point of interest connected to the caves.
While the external views of Nottingham from the castle grounds are widely appreciated, opinions diverge on the internal exhibits. Several reviewers find the art galleries well-presented, occasionally featuring impressive collections, such as Impressionist paintings and Claude Monet's work. However, others express disappointment, feeling that the art overshadows the castle's historical significance. The interactive Robin Hood exhibit is generally considered more suitable for children, featuring dress-up opportunities and games. Some visitors found the rebellion exhibit engaging. A few reviewers suggest the museum could benefit from more traditional castle displays, such as weaponry and armor.
The grounds include a medieval-themed play park for children, enhancing the castle's appeal as a family destination. There are cafes and a gift shop on-site. The staff generally receive positive feedback for their friendliness and helpfulness, with particular mention of volunteers who share their knowledge and passion for the castle's history.
Accessibility is generally good, with lifts and slopes accommodating wheelchairs and mobility scooters, although the site's steep slopes may pose a challenge for some. A few reviewers suggest that the attraction may not be as impressive for those who have visited numerous castles and galleries across Europe. While many enjoyed their visit, some felt that the £15 entry fee was expensive for a single visit, especially considering the additional cost of the cave tour. In conclusion, Nottingham Castle is a blend of historical site, art gallery, and museum, with the cave tours and views being standout features.
A synthesis of published third-party reviews. Not written by Breaks.
Getting there
- Phone
- +44 115 876 3100
- Website
- nottinghamcastle.org.uk
| Mon | 10:00 - 17:00 |
|---|---|
| Tue | 10:00 - 17:00 |
| Wed | 10:00 - 17:00 |
| Thu | 10:00 - 17:00 |
| Fri | 10:00 - 17:00 |
| Sat | 10:00 - 17:00 |
| Sun | 10:00 - 17:00 |
Against the neighbourhood
Rated 3.9 against a median of 4.5 across the 15 venues we hold for Arboretum, where the most-reviewed is Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem.
Still deciding?
- What is the historical significance of Nottingham Castle and its role in English history?
- What are the main attractions and exhibits to see inside Nottingham Castle?
- Are guided tours available at Nottingham Castle, and what do they cover?
- Is Nottingham Castle a good place to visit with children or families?
- When is the best time of year to visit Nottingham Castle for the best experience?
What this page cannot tell you
- Descriptions and review summaries are supplied by the source index and are reproduced as published; they are not independently verified by Breaks.
- Ratings and review counts are point-in-time snapshots and drift constantly. Check the venue's own site or the rating provider for the current figure.
- Opening hours change seasonally and at short notice. Confirm with the venue before travelling.
- Category labels come from the source index and are occasionally wrong — a venue may be filed under a type that does not match how it trades.
- Straight-line distances understate real walking distance, especially where a river or railway sits between two points.