Nottingham is a city famous for being the home of the legendary outlaw Robin Hood, but it’s more than just a city steeped in history. If you venture outside the city, there are plenty of attractive towns, charming villages, pretty parks, gorgeous gardens, fantastic forests, and relaxing nature reserves in the surrounding Nottinghamshire area that are perfect for a road trip around.
1 – Sherwood Forest
If you’re visiting Nottingham, you can’t leave without taking a drive to Sherwood Forest, the legendary home of Robin Hood. The forest covers 1000 acres and is located near the village of Edwinstowe. At the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, you can learn all about Robin Hood and his Merry Men, as well as the forest’s natural wonders.
Directions: Head north from Nottingham on the A614 and you’ll arrive at Sherwood Forest in approximately 45 minutes.
2 – Ashbourne
Ashbourne, in nearby Derbyshire, is a picturesque market town just south of the Peak District National Park’s southern boundary. It’s renowned for its elegant Georgian townhouses and winding cobbled streets. The area is filled with natural beauty, from the stunning White Peak with its unique limestone formations to the lush Dovedale valley and its pyramid-shaped Thorpe Cloud. The town proper also has plenty to offer, with Tudor buildings and bustling markets.
Directions: Take Brian Clough Way/A52 west from Nottingham and you’ll reach Ashbourne in around 40 minutes.
Credit: https://www.geograph.org.uk/photo/5835568
3 – Sheringham
If you’re looking for a seaside day trip, head to Sheringham on the North Norfolk Coast. This charming town has a pristine beach where you can take a leisurely stroll and soak up the sea breeze. The Sheringham Museum has fascinating exhibits on everything from folk art to wind energy, and an observation tower that offers stunning views of the area.
Directions: Take the A52/A148 east from Nottingham and you’ll arrive in Sheringham in approximately three hours.
4 – Lincoln
Lincoln is rich in history, with the city being under the control of both Romans and Vikings during different periods. Today, it boasts stunning architecture, breathtaking historical sites, and a diverse range of cafes and restaurants. The main attraction is Lincoln Castle, which has been restored to its former glory as originally built by William the Conqueror.
Directions: To get to Lincoln, take the A46 from Nottingham, which is approximately an hour’s drive away.
5 – Melton Mowbray
Melton Mowbray, a traditional town in Leicestershire, is known for its charming St. Mary’s parish church, weekly livestock market, and famous delicacies such as Melton Mowbray pork pies. Melton Carnegie Museum offers a glimpse into the town’s history, culture, and inhabitants through its exhibits.
Directions: To reach Melton Mowbray, drive southeast on the M1 from Nottingham for approximately one hour and 15 minutes.
6 – Newark-on-Trent
Newark-on-Trent, a market town in the Newark and Sherwood district, offers a manageable and scenic road trip from Nottingham. In addition to the charming surroundings, the town is rich in cultural and historical attractions. Home to Newark Castle, a stunning park with a commanding Norman gate, labyrinthine underground chambers, and passages. The Old Bakery Tea Rooms offer a superb Tudor atmosphere to refuel.
Directions: Newark-on-Trent is about a 40-minute drive from Nottingham via the A46.
Credit: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Newark_Castle,_2008.jpg
7 – Skegness
Set on the Lincolnshire coast, Skegness is a traditional English seaside town that is always worth a visit. Along the seafront, you can enjoy everything from classic funfairs to crazy golf and ten-pin bowling. There’s also some lovely scenery along the coast, including Mablethorpe, Sutton-on-Sea, and The Wolds.
Directions: Drive east from Nottingham along the A46 and A158 for about two hours to reach Skegness.
8 – Mam Tor
Mam Tor, an iconic 517m high hill near Castleton, is set in the Hope Valley in the Peak District. If you’re willing to do a bit of walking to experience the best views, you’ll love this Nottingham day trip through stunning scenery. Mam Tor borders the gritstone Dark Peak and limestone White Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Winnats Pass gorge, one of the highlights of the Peak District National Park.
Directions: Take the A610 from Nottingham to reach Mam Tor in about one and a half hours, passing through beautiful scenery on the way.
9 – Bolsover Castle
Bolsover Castle, located near the town of Bolsover, is a splendid example of a Stuart mansion that looks like a fairy-tale illustration come to life. Walking around the castle takes you on a journey back in time, and the views over the Derbyshire countryside are spectacular. The Little Castle’s luxurious rooms are sure to impress, and the wall walk offers breathtaking views.
Directions: Take the M1 north from Nottingham, and you’ll arrive at Bolsover in just 35 minutes.
10 – Hardwick Hall
Hardwick Hall, an elegant Elizabethan country house in Derbyshire, was created by Bess of Hardwick, Countess of Shrewsbury and one of the most powerful women of her time, in the 16th century. Now operated and maintained by the National Trust, the house and surrounding grounds offer plenty for visitors to see and do. The highlight is the hall itself, which features striking Elizabethan tapestries, furniture from across the ages, and an extensive collection of paintings, ceramics, and unique objects.
Directions: Hardwick Hall is about a 30-minute drive from Nottingham on the M1, making it a short hop but a world away.
Depending on your location in the East Midlands, some of these destinations may require a slightly longer drive. When the weather is nice and the sun is shining, consider taking a road trip to one of these destinations to make the most of it! Be sure to stay up to date with our latest news.
