The city of Nottingham and the countryside around it is full of intriguing, exhilarating and fun things to do. Famed for its association with Robin Hood, Nottinghamshire is home to Nottingham Castle and Sherwood Forest but there’s plenty more to do besides these historic attractions.

From country parks and key places of interest to the latest music, theatre and film, Nottinghamshire will offer plenty of things to do to keep you busy. Below you’ll find a taste of some of the options available and you’ll find an extensive list within our things to do section.

Activities to do in Nottinghamshire

One of the most popular activities for people to do in Nottinghamshire is walking, the picturesque countryside and our undulating landscape makes for a very pleasant stroll. Try our rural routes guide for eight circular walks around the county that take in the Vale of Belvoir, prehistoric caves at Creswell Crags and of course Robin’s home, Sherwood Forest.

If you prefer to raise the pulse rate a little more then try cycling - Sherwood Pines has become a Mecca for off road cycling in the East Midlands and Clumber Park has plenty of traffic free routes to explore too.

There’s adventure sports at the Adrenalin Jungle and One4All group or why not try white water rafting at the National Water Sports Centre. A more popular option is golf and Nottinghamshire is blessed with some truly stunning course including Rufford Park Golf and Country Club.

You can do a full search of activities from our Nottingham activities page.

Nottinghamshire attractions

At Nottingham Castle you’ll find a wealth of international art and exhibitions whilst the stunning view from the terrace takes in the city and out into the surrounding countryside. Other great city centre attractions include the grade II listed Wollaton Hall, Greens Windmill and Science Centre and the NCCL Galleries of Justice, an interactive tour of crime and punishment.

Out in the county you are almost spoilt for choice. Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve is home to the Major Oak and only a short distance away, Sherwood Pines is the largest public forest in the East Midlands. We’re also blessed with two Abbeys - Rufford and Newstead, the latter being home to the poet Lord Byron.

There are three National Trust properties too, as well as Clumber Park (above) there’s a well preserved Workhouse at Southwell and a 1920’s property freeze framed in time at Mr Straw’s House.

You can download or order our essential guide from our Nottingham brochures section and this will give you a comprehensive list of attractions in the region.