Muddy Stilettos


<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Nottingham-Castle-1000x667.jpg" alt="Exterior of Nottingham Castle" class="wp-image-109214" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Nottingham-Castle-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Nottingham-Castle-600x400.jpg 600w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Nottingham-Castle.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /></figure>



<p>Nottingham might be known for bows, arrows and a man in tights, but trust us, there’s far more to this city than Robin Hood tours and trendy hang-outs (though you’ll find plenty of both). Think swoon-worthy architecture, swooshy galleries, and fork-droppingly delicious dining. There’s quirky, cool, and quietly fabulous tucked in every corner &#8211; if you know where to look that is. So strap into your summer sandals and join Muddy’s insider guide to where to scoff, quaff, shop and snooze in style.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-eat">EAT</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" loading="lazy" width="1000" height="667" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-2025-06-26T140751.239-1000x667.jpg" alt="alchemilla nottingham" class="wp-image-113941" srcset="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-2025-06-26T140751.239-1000x667.jpg 1000w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-2025-06-26T140751.239-600x400.jpg 600w, https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Untitled-design-2025-06-26T140751.239.jpg 1500w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 1000px" /><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Alchemilla Nottingham is a must visit but book early</figcaption></figure>



<p>Nottingham’s foodie scene is having a serious moment right now and your taste buds are invited. The city boasts not one, but two <a href="https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/eat-out/restaurants/nottingham-michelin-star-restaurants-2024/">Michelin-starred restaurants</a>, plus a pair of Bib Gourmands for those who like their fine dining with a friendlier price tag. Book well in advance (we mean it) for a seat at the legendary two-Michelin-starred <a href="https://www.restaurantsatbains.com/">Restaurant Sat Bains</a>, where daring tasting menus meet boutique bedrooms &#8211; ideal if you plan to roll upstairs after the final course. Over at <a href="https://www.alchemillarestaurant.uk/">Alchemilla</a> is a Michelin starred treat of a restaurant where innovation is the name of the game. If you’re after something a little less spendy, <a href="https://www.ibericotapas.com/">Ibérico World Tapas</a> and Japanese&nbsp;<a href="https://kushi-ya.co.uk/">Kushi-Ya</a> both hold Michelin Bib Gourmands and deliver big flavours and big value with zero fuss.</p>



<p>Craving something a little less formal but just as fabulous? <a href="https://www.bustlermarket.co.uk/nottingham">Bustler Market</a> in buzzing Sneinton is your go-to for street food that seriously delivers &#8211; think indie stalls dishing up drool-worthy bites, craft beers, cocktails with a kick, and DJs spinning a soundtrack fit for a foodie adventure. If you like a bit of a queue with your curry, <a href="https://zaapthai.co.uk/locations/nottingham/">Zaap Thai</a>’s door-stretching popularity proves it’s well worth the wait, while loved by the locals, <a href="https://anniesburgershack.com/">Annie&#8217;s Burger Shack</a> is brilliant for burgers and breakfasts.</p>



<p>Fresh to the Notts foodie scene is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.raymondsnottingham.co.uk/">Raymond’s</a>, which is durning heads with specials that sound downright divine &#8211; think dry-aged sirloin still on the bone (yes, please) or a cheeky speck and grilled peach salad. Meanwhile, another newcomer <a href="https://www.piccalillinottingham.co.uk/">Piccalilli</a>&nbsp;is cracking the code on British and European small plates &#8211; homely, hearty, and seriously share-worthy</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-drink">DRINK</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/03/magic-garden.jpg" alt="The Magic Garden Nottingham" class="wp-image-8340"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The Magic Garden serves up colourful and quirky sips</figcaption></figure>



<p>With Nottingham’s bar scene blossoming, there’s no shortage of stylish sips to delight every cocktail queen. Our top picks include mood-boosting, Muddy Award-winning <a href="https://thehockleyartsclub.com/">Hockley Arts Club</a> in Hockley (the &#8216;Soho&#8217; of Nottingham) where every sip feels like a celebration. Then lose yourself in the colourful creativity of the <a href="https://themagicgardennotts.com/">Magic Garden</a> (pictured), or head to <a href="https://www.pogonottingham.com/">Pogo</a> for a premium pour. For cocktails that truly push the boundaries, <a href="https://thealchemistbars.com/venues/nottingham-king-street/">The Alchemist</a>&#8216;s quirky concoctions are off-the-scale madness in a glass. And fresh on the scene, <a href="https://loose-ends.uk/">Loose Ends</a>, is serving up punchy cocktails perfect for summer lounging on its chic al fresco terrace, complete with stunning views of Nottingham Castle.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/02/lost-property-hockley.jpg" alt="lost property speakeasy bar hockley" class="wp-image-8004"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Lost Property delivers secret speakeasy vibes</figcaption></figure>



<p>Secret speakeasy more your style? Dimly lit penny-top bar, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LostPropertyNottingham/?locale=en_GB">Lost Property</a> ticks that box, eclectically-decorated with parrots, glitter balls and suitcases. For historical bragging rights look no further than <a href="https://www.greeneking.co.uk/pubs/nottinghamshire/ye-olde-trip-to-jerusalem">Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem</a>, built in 1189 and England&#8217;s oldest surviving inn.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-coffee-culture">COFFEE CULTURE</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/01/dispatch-notts.jpg" alt="DISPATCH COFEE SHOP NOTTINGHAM" class="wp-image-7785"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Dispatch dispelling the rumours that pink and green should never be seen</figcaption></figure>



<p>Like your coffee cool and contemporary? Duck into <a href="https://www.blendnottingham.co.uk/">Blend</a> (the East West branch, moments away from the Market Square is a Muddy WFH fave) or try Scandi-inspired <a href="https://www.okende.com/">Okende</a>. Pink-walled, pretty-as-a-picture <a href="https://www.dispatchcoffees.co.uk/">Dispatch</a> will deliver a dopamine hit with the caffeine, while <a href="https://200degs.com/pages/nottingham-shop-flying-horse-walk">200Degrees</a> flagship coffee shop in a beautiful 17th Century coaching in Flying Horse Walk is a calming haven just steps away from the hustle and bustle of&nbsp;the Market Square.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-stay">STAY</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2022/11/Harts-1024x683.jpg" alt="harts hotel nottingham at night" class="wp-image-2230"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Hart&#8217;s Hotel is a boutique dream</figcaption></figure>



<p>Nottingham isn&#8217;t actually that flush for fancy hotels, but the few boutique beauties it does have pack some serious punch. With stylish interiors and stonking views, <a href="https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/travel/uk/hotels-inns/review-harts-hotel-kitchen-nottingham/">Hart’s</a> Hotel is a brilliant base for exploring the city. Tucked away quietly on the edge of the serene Park Estate, you’re just a five-minute stroll from Nottingham’s buzzing heart. Don’t miss booking a table at the intimate Hart’s Kitchen &#8211; whether it’s breakfast, light bites, or a showstopping Sunday roast, the fab food and chilled vibe make it a local favourite (and you might even spot a celeb or two passing through town).</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/05/lacemarket-hotel-exterior.jpg" alt="lace market hotel nottingham" class="wp-image-9078"/></figure>



<p>Champagne taste with a crémant budget? Pas de probleme. The <a href="https://www.lacemarkethotel.co.uk/">Lace Market Hotel</a> is another four-star gem with purse-friendly prices. Housed inside a gorgeous Grade II-listed Georgian townhouse in the prettiest part of town, the arty yet stylish rooms in this city centre hotel are a boutique bargain. Roll out of your opulent, oversized bed and gaze out of the sash windows at St Mary’s church and the handsome old law courts (now the National Justice Museum). While there&#8217;s no restaurant, down-to-earth pub, the Cock &amp; Hoop, dishes up brunch, lunch and all day pizza.</p>



<p>Just outside the city centre (but within easy reach), <a href="https://nottinghamvenues.com/hotels-accommodation/rooms-orchard-hotel?gad_source=1&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwmYCzBhA6EiwAxFwfgNxKVlVb8wI0maOhH0WgZL0Qce8ZFrX2wtCsKS6MqyT8hQVwYp-KOhoCjv4QAvD_BwE">The Orchard</a> is another style without the splurge stay. Nestled in the lush, parkland beauty of the university campus, it’s a peaceful little pocket of loveliness. Check out <a href="https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/travel/uk/hotels-inns/review-signature-suite-orchard-hotel-nottingham/">Muddy&#8217;s review of the swish new Signature Suite</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-shop">SHOP</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/03/handmade-nottingham.jpg" alt="handmade nottingham shopfront" class="wp-image-8335"/></figure>



<p>Scattered in amongst the High Street faves you&#8217;ll find a smattering of intriguing indie boutiques. Meander down Flying Horse Walk for high end labels at <a href="https://www.gigibottega.co.uk/">Gigi Bottega</a> and Vivienne Westwood, while <a href="https://whiterosefashion.com/pages/contact">White Rose</a> – which has an incredible eight boutiques in the city &#8211; is a must for curated vintage and pre-loved clobber. <a href="https://www.handmadenottingham.com/">Handmade</a> Nottingham is bursting with quirky gifts and one-of-a-kind accessories, while green-fingered types must book onto a plant workshop at <a href="https://thewateredgarden.co.uk/">The Watered Garden</a> or pop into <a href="https://littleplantguys.co.uk/home">The Little Plant Guys</a>, which has <a href="https://www.essen-generalstore.co.uk/">Essen General Store</a> with cheese, charcuterie and natural wine in the basement. Peckish? Pop into drool-worth deli (a Muddy Award winner) <a href="https://delilahfinefoods.co.uk/">Delilah Fine Foods</a> for a post-peruse pick-me-up. </p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-kids">KIDS</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/03/national-justice-museum-1.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-8345"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Interact with characters at the National Justice Museum</figcaption></figure>



<p>Age gap? We got ya! Interactive and hands-on, the Horrible Histories-esque <a href="https://www.nationaljusticemuseum.org.uk/">National Justice Museum</a> is great fun for families with kids of all ages. Step into the dock and take part in a mock trial &#8211; where you’ll be handed your very own prisoner persona, then discover what punishment your ‘crime’ would’ve earned. Spoiler: it’s not community service. Smalls will also enjoy exploring Nottingham’s subterranean cave network at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.visit-nottinghamshire.co.uk/things-to-do/city-of-caves-p354851">City of Caves</a>, or book onto one of the lively <a href="https://www.ezekialbone.com/">Robin Hood Tours</a> where you’ll meet the man himself on a character-led jaunt round the city that’s insightful and fascinating. Right next to the legendary Robin Hood statue, Nottingham Castle is serving up history with a side of high-energy fun. There’s a brilliant castle-themed outdoor adventure play area (tiny knights welcome), plus interactive games and mixed reality madness where kids can test their skills in digital archery and see if they’ve got what it takes to rival Robin himself. Cloaks optional, enthusiasm mandatory.</p>



<p>Just out of the centre you’ll find the stunning <a href="https://wollatonhall.org.uk/">Wollaton Hall</a> which has a quirky (free) natural history museum and seasonal events. There’s an adventure playground and stacks of parkland to plonk down and picnic.</p>



<p>Still got energy? How about a spin on the ice at the<a href="https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/little-black-book/directory/national-ice-centre-nottingham/">&nbsp;National Ice Centre&nbsp;</a>, home of Torvill and Dean and the Nottingham Panthers (who it’s worth trying to catch in action for one of their thrilling ice hockey matches).</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2024/03/nottingham-castle-1024x1016.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-8336"/><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">The adventure playground at Nottingham Castle</figcaption></figure>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-moments-of-calm">MOMENTS OF CALM</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><a href="https://www.chrisdenningphotography.com/"><img decoding="async" src="https://dev.muddystilettos.co.uk/nottsderbyshire/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2023/03/Wollaton-Hall-bluebells-by-Chris-Denning.jpg" alt="deer in the bluebells at wollaton hall nottingham" class="wp-image-4016"/></a><figcaption class="wp-element-caption">Deer at Wollaton Hall. Image by<a href="https://www.chrisdenningphotography.com/"> Chris Denning</a></figcaption></figure>



<p>Despite its buzzy centre, Nottingham also offers serene spots. <a href="https://wollatonhall.org.uk/deer-park-and-gardens/">Wollaton Deer Park &amp; Gardens</a> is the green beating heart of the city, with walking trails, hundreds of deer, a lake and gotta-snap-it views.</p>



<p>Craving a little green escape? <a href="https://www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/events-markets-parks-and-museums/parks-and-open-spaces/find-your-local-park/woodthorpe-grange-park">Woodthorpe Grange Park</a> is one of Nottingham’s biggest and best &#8211; think tropical plant house, perfectly primped gardens, and a cute café for post-walk cake (non-negotiable). Fancy going full nature? Head just outside the city to the dreamy <a href="https://www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org/nature-reserves/attenborough-nature-reserve">Attenborough Nature Reserve</a> &#8211; peaceful, pretty, and perfect for a breath of fresh air. Or keep it classy with a stroll through the leafy, oh-so-lovely <a href="https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/best-places-to-live/best-places-to-live-the-park-nottingham/">Park Estate</a>, where Victorian architecture, cobbled pavements and towering trees create a peaceful pocket that feels miles from the city buzz.</p>



<p><strong>Want more Midlands inside info?</strong>&nbsp;Check out our <a href="https://nottsderbyshire.muddystilettos.co.uk/travel/uk/travel-guides/insider-guide-to-the-peak-district-muddy-stilettos-derbyshire/">Insider Guide to the Peak District</a>.</p>


Muddy’s insider guide to Nottingham

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