There’s a Lot More to the City of Nottingham Than Robin Hood
Photo Credit: By Jennifer Fishbein
When one thinks of the legend of Robin Hood and his escapades in Sherwood Forest, it’s difficult to picture Nottingham as a thriving cosmopolitan city – but that’s exactly what it is – a city brimming with multi-cultural and contemporary arts events; lively pubs, top class restaurants and fashionable shops.
Situated in the heart of the UK, Nottingham boasts two excellent theatres, namely The Royal Centre, which stages classical ballets, operas and plays fresh from London’s West-End; and the Nottingham Playhouse, which runs contemporary and established works. Then there is the Royal Concert Hall, which hosts a wide range of musical styles, ranging from chart-topping acts to world famous orchestras.
Throughout the year there are regular events taking place in the city centre. Dance 4, a contemporary dance agency, celebrates the best in dance during the NOTT Dance Festival in May, whilst the APNA Festival enjoys Asian art and culture in August. Other events worth checking out include the City Extravaganza, Robin Hood Festival and Goose Fair.
If you’re in the mood to explore, check out The Caves of Nottingham, a maize of 700 year old caves hidden beneath a modern day shopping centre, where you will see the only underground medieval tannery in England and discover the remains of one of Nottingham’s oldest streets. Alternatively, the award winning Galleries of Justice leads you through 250 years of crime, punishment and law, by showing you the splendour of a Victorian courtroom and allowing you to interact with warders of the old county gaol.
Situated in a magnificent ducal mansion on a high rock, with breathtaking views of the city, Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery is an absolute must see. Here you can wander through galleries displaying wonderful collections of glass, silver, ceramics and paintings, before exploring hidden rooms and passageways beneath the Castle, which are rich in 1,000 years of history.
Of course Robin Hood and his Band of Merry Men are never too far from mind. The Tales of Robin Hood visitor experience offers an ideal opportunity to relive the legend, and Nottingham Castle is teeming with history and intrigue.
There’s always plenty going on in the city after sundown. You can enjoy a pint in the world famous Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, the oldest inn in England, or the recently renovated Malt Cross Music Hall; and there are also hundreds of clubs and restaurants to be found throughout the city.
So, if you’re interested in the present and future of art, or you are fascinated by England’s myths and legends, Nottingham is the perfect place to explore local culture while having plenty of fun and relaxation at the same time.
Samet Bilir writes about antiques and collectibles, book reviews, holiday shopping and a lot of other things, such as vintage art posters. To read more articles from him click this link.
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