Think Nottingham, and possibly for many people, the first image that pops into mind is Robin Hood and the Sherwood Forest. Nottingham’s legendary folk hero still forms an important part of the city’s fiber with several statues or images of him. The city attracts many visitors, especially during the annual Robin Hood Pageant but that’s not all there is to the city. Since Nottingham’s city center is the beating heart of the city, you’ll find plenty of hotels in Nottingham city center that cater to travelers of all kinds. A little distance away from here is the famous Lace Market, once the center of the world’s lace industry. Hotels in Nottingham Lace Market reminisce the area’s industrious past.
The city center boasts one of the largest surviving town squares in the United Kingdom, the Old Market Square. It’s also home to Nottingham Tourism Center, an important place to start your explorations of the city. Another big draw to the city is the numerous sandstone caves that lie underneath. The most spectacular of these is the 322-foot-long Mortimer’s Hole directly below the castle. There’s plenty to keep you occupied if you choose to stay at one of the hotels in Nottingham city center. A buoyant student population adds to the vitality of the city, known for its pulsating nightlife.
However, if you’re in the city for a little longer, you could make a day trip to Birmingham, just 72 km away. Birmingham holds the distinction of being one of the most beautiful canal cities in the world, along with Venice and Amsterdam.
Where to Stay in Nottingham
Since Nottingham receives a fair share of visitors throughout the year, you’ll find plenty of hotels in and around the city. First-time visitors will do well to stay in one of the hotels in Nottingham city center or in hotels in Nottingham Lace Market. Both these areas are steeped in history and have plenty around to keep you occupied. Another vibrant area to base yourself is in the artsy Hockley district.
While the city isn’t big on luxurious five-star hotels, you’ll find a diverse choice of accommodations for your comfort. From expansive and tastefully designed city apartments and hotels to tranquil homestays or quaint B&Bs, accommodation in the city caters to all budgets.
Roomz Nottingham City
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If you love your music you’re definitely going to love Roomzzz Nottingham City with its proximity to the iconic Rock City. However, if you’d prefer some peace and quiet, you could request a room on the other side of the hotel on the ground floor. The aparthotel is one of the more affordable hotels in Nottingham city center, popular with business professionals. The location puts you close to the Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham Trent University, and plenty of shopping. Motorpoint Arena is a 15-minute walk from here so if you’re looking to head the area, you may want to check out hotels in Nottingham near Motorpoint Arena.
Guests can choose from three types of accommodation; Smart Studios, Grande Studios, and the Penthouse Suite. Depending on the kind of accommodation, you’ll get either a full or partial kitchen. All ensuite bathrooms feature a heated floor, power shower, and de-mist mirrors.
Predictably, the Penthouse Suite comes with a few more perks such as complimentary drinks and snacks on arrival. A complimentary grab-and-go breakfast is provided to all guests between 6:30 am and 10:30 am. Though the hotel doesn’t have an in-house restaurant, you’ll find plenty of pubs and restaurants in the vicinity. Guests can also obtain day passes to a nearby fitness center.
Mama’s Inn Boutique Guest House
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Sitting on the northern fringes of Nottingham city center, you’ll find Mama’s Inn Boutique Guest House. The guest house is spread across two Victorian villas built in the19th century. It’s one of the more unique hotels in Nottingham city center with its opulent interiors and quirky accommodations.
Guest rooms are unique with specific themes that represent some of the most beautiful cities in the world. You can either choose to stay in Paris, Vienna, New York or other popular cities that the 10 rooms are named after. The Loft is the only room with a different name, chosen to reflect the significant industrial style. All rooms come equipped with flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee-making facilities, bathrobes, and complimentary toiletries. Guests can also order a freshly cooked breakfast which includes breakfast favorites from around the world. Additionally,
The location of the B&B is convenient for exploring the main attractions. You’ll find a wide range of city shops, attractions, and various businesses within easy walking distance of the property.
SACO Nottingham – The Ropewalk
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If you’re in Nottingham on an extended stay, a good idea would be to check out a serviced apartment. Just a short walk from the city center near Park Estate you’ll find SACO Nottingham – The Ropewalk. Unlike standard hotels in Nottingham city center, this one has spacious serviced apartments. Guests can choose from one, two-and-three bedroom apartments.
These spacious apartments come with ensuite bathrooms with a bath or shower. You’ll also find a fully equipped kitchen with an open-plan living/dining area. Two-bedroom apartments can accommodate up to four guests. However, a cot can also be added on request. Although the apartments are not cleaned every day, guests can request more cleaning at an additional charge. One thing to note is the serviced apartments are not pet friendly so if you’re traveling with your furry friend, you’ll have to look elsewhere.
Park Plaza
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With spacious rooms, an award-winning Pan Asian restaurant, and a great location, the Park Plaza is a good hotel to consider if you’re interested in hotels in Nottingham Lace Market. The hotel is hardly five minutes’ walk from the lively Lace Market area and a stone’s throw from the Old Market Square. The Motorpoint Arena is also easily accessible from here. A number of Asian restaurants are also in proximity to the hotel.
Modern rooms at the hotel come with tasteful furnishings, free Wifi, and a flat-screen TV. Rooms also have a fridge and tea/coffee-making facilities. Hotel guests can also enjoy a buffet breakfast.
Dining at the hotel is an experience in itself at the award-winning Chino Latino restaurant. You can indulge in some international cuisine at the restaurant or sip Latin-style cocktails at the Chino bar. To work out the extra calories there’s a well-equipped fitness suite complemented by luxury towels and ice-cold water.
Hilton Nottingham
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Housed in a Victorian building in a family-friendly location, Hilton Nottingham puts you within walking distance of many attractions. The Old Market Square, Lace Market, and Nottingham Castle are all within easy walking distance from the hotel. Sherwood Forest is about a 40-minute drive from here.
The Hilton is one of the best hotels in Nottingham city center for families with children. A bespoke Family Experience is offered for kids below the age of 12. From a Kids Menu to other kids’ amenities, your young ones will be well taken care of.
Rooms at the property are typical of most Hilton’s rooms with a wide range of amenities. Flat-screen TVs, tea and coffee-making facilities, and safe are some of the standard amenities you can expect. Ensuite bathrooms feature bathtubs, hand-held showers, and complimentary toiletries.
Other standout amenities at the hotel are an in-house spa, fitness center, and indoor pool. The Bric Bar & Kitchen is a place to unwind with great cocktails and food. You can look forward to enjoying British cuisine with a twist. Besides these facilities, the hotel also has seven meeting rooms. Small pets are allowed at the property at an extra charge.
Hart’s Hotel And Kitchen
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What makes Hart’s Hotel And Kitchen so special is its peaceful location despite being in proximity to the city center. It sits in a tucked-away street on the old ramparts of Nottingham Castle, about five minutes from the city center or Lace Market. If you’re looking out for hotels in Nottingham Lace Market, you may want to consider this one. There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and theaters in the vicinity to occupy your evenings.
However, the hotel is renowned for its restaurant that serves modern British food. You can enjoy a buffet breakfast or relax over brunch with a glass of chilled champagne. Guests can also indulge in a traditional afternoon tea with freshly made treats.
The rooms here are big on comfort with comfy handmade beds dressed in fine cotton bed linen. Large windows allow plenty of natural light into the rooms, making them bright and airy. Amenities in the room include flat-screen TVs and a well-stocked mini-bar. You’ll find a well-lit ensuite modern bathroom with a bath and shower in all rooms. Bathrooms are stocked with L’Occitane toiletries. The most sought-after rooms at the hotel are the garden suites that have a leafy terrace with French doors leading out.
Crowne Plaza Nottingham
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Providing easy access to Nottingham Concert Hall, Nottingham Playhouse, and Tales of Robin Hood, the Crowne Plaza Nottingham is one of the better-located four-star hotels in Nottingham center. Other attractions like the Brewhouse Yard Museum and Galleries of Justice are also easily accessible.
The 210 guestrooms feature complimentary Wifi, refrigerators, and flat-screen televisions. Private bathrooms come with shower/tub combinations and complimentary toiletries. Guests can choose from Deluxe, Standard, and Superior rooms that differ in size.
One thing that makes the Crowne Plaza one of the best in the area is the number of amenities. You can pamper yourself at the spa with a massage or facial or head to the spa tub or steam room. If working out is at the top of your list to do, the indoor pool or fitness center are good places to start. Two restaurants at the hotel provide enough food choices. While the Lace Maker Restaurant serves a full buffet-style breakfast, you can enjoy a range of meals or snacks at the Swatch Restaurant.
Lace Market Hotel
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A standout among the boutique hotels in Nottingham Lace Market, is its namesake, Lace Market Hotel. It’s the ideal location for anyone wanting to experience this historic area first hand. You’re quite spoiled for choice with the large number of things to see and do in the area. From entertainment venues to restaurants and shops, there’s more than enough to keep you busy. The location is also ideal for anyone looking for hotels in Nottingham near Motorpoint Arena. The arena is just a five-minute walk from here.
All 42 rooms at the hotel are luxuriously designed with a good number of amenities for a comfortable stay. Rooms range from standard single rooms to elegantly designed suites. Brand new plush carpets, lighting, and bedroom vanity are the hallmark of all rooms. Other amenities you can look forward to in the rooms are large vented bathrooms, flat-screen televisions, a writing desk, and Natural Remedies.
The cozy onsite pub is a lovely place to hang out with open fires, comfortable armchairs, and excellent ales. You can also feast on classic British pub dishes. What tops the menu here is the Sunday Roast served on the weekends. Another popular space to indulge in at the hotel is the Saint Bar. From Thursday to Saturday guests can also enjoy fresh afternoon tea. However, an advance booking needs to be made for this indulgence. Private dining is also possible for a special event or business meal.
St James Hotel
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One of the most prestigious boutique hotels in Nottingham city center is the St James Hotel. You can look forward to unrivaled charm and quality at this four-star hotel. Located at the heart of Nottingham’s Castle Zone, the hotel places you within walking distance of many of the city’s top attractions. It’s just a stone’s throw from Nottingham Castle and a short walk to the train station from here.
Rooms at the hotel are quite charming, with contemporary layouts and designs. This, combined with some quirky décor add to the charm of staying here. Guests can choose from affordable Crash Pads to the more lavish four-poster room and Penthouse Suite. Complimentary Wi-Fi, LED TVs, tea/coffee making facilities, and White Company bathroom products are found in all rooms. Higher-level rooms come with more perks such as luxury bathrobes, slippers, and a Jacuzzi bath in the Penthouse Suite.
The hotel also hosts one of Nottingham’s impressive hidden gems, the No/6 Bar and Lounge. It’s a great place to unwind after a long day with its intimate settings and unique décor. Besides the decor, what is even more impressive is the food. You can kickstart your day with a gorgeous English breakfast or end it with a heady cocktail from the fully stocked bar.
Mercure Nottingham City Centre Hotel
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Conveniently located within The Lace Market, the Mercure Nottingham City Centre Hotel stands out for its decor and style. It’s one of the best-placed hotels in Nottingham city center to begin your explorations of the city. With independent cinemas, vintage stores, and an al-fresco bar scene in the area, you’ll probably spend more time outside the hotel than in it.
However, there’s much to like about the interiors of the hotel too. Uniquely designed bedrooms come with the best in comfort and satisfaction. Apart from the regular amenities, you’re treated to luxurious linen, adorning high-quality mattresses. Guests can choose from small City Pad rooms to the more luxurious George Suite. There are also plenty of interesting offers to choose from.
The hotel also has a few amenities to keep you busy when you step out of your room. The health-conscious can check out the 24-hour fitness center with its state-of-the-art equipment. You’ll also find meeting venues for various occasions. What really stands out about the hotel is its various dining venues. The Curious Tavern is a great place for traditional pub food, burgers, oysters, or pizzas. While the tavern ticks all the right boxes, the ultimate space is the Lost Caves Bar located eight meters beneath the streets of Hockley. That’s not all though. There’s another bar too, Lost Property Bar that’s also under the hotel. For those that prefer more brightness, head to The Brasserie, the hotel’s in-house restaurant.
Colwick Hall Hotel
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Although Colwick Hall Hotel is not in the middle of Nottingham city center, it’s not too far away from all the action either. This magnificent Palladian-style Georgian country house was once the ancestral home of Lord Byron. Spread over 60 acres of parkland, it’s now a popular venue for weddings or events but also excellent for someone who wants to put some distance between themselves and the noisy city.
The historic hotel features uniquely designed rooms that doff their hats to the hotel’s rich history. All rooms come equipped with modern amenities to enhance your stay. Spacious rooms range from luxurious Standard rooms to more opulent Signature Rooms, named after literary greats. Guests enjoy a full English breakfast, included in the rate.
Apart from the novelty of staying at Lord Byron’s former home, another standout of the hotel is Byron’s Brasserie. The afternoon tea here is a hit with new and returning patrons. Dainty sandwiches, homemade cakes, fresh cream scones, and of course, a variety of teas are sure to tempt the skeptics too. The Big Sunday Roast also exceeds expectations with its array of delectable treats. However, if you’d rather enjoy a good evening out, you can wine and dine at the Brasserie in the evening. There’s no doubt your stay here will be quite a memorable one!
Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Nottingham:
- Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem – No trip to Nottingham is completer without visiting this iconic pub that boasts of being the oldest inn in England. The pub was once a well-known pit stop for crusader knights. Today you’ll find several bars, cozy nooks, and snug lounges that tell of Nottingham’s past. It’s one of the best places to enjoy a delicious pub meal.
- The Maharaja’s Retreat – If your tastebuds are hankering for some excellent Indian spices, head over to this restaurant on Maid Marian Way. Dig into your Indian favorites at this renowned restaurant or pick up what you like to eat at your leisure.
- Restaurant Sat Bains – Go with an empty stomach to indulge in a seven or 10-course tasting menu at the popular Sat Bains restaurant. Food doesn’t come cheap at this two Michelin star restaurant so be prepared to burn a hole in your pocket. The restaurant also has accommodation, eight rooms in all, so if you’re looking for hotels in Nottingham city center, you may want to consider this one also.
Recommended Activities in Nottingham:
- Nottingham Private Walking Tour – Discover all that the ‘Queen of the Midlands’ has to offer on this two-hour private guided tour of the city. From The Crusades to tales of its most loved folk hero, there’s much to discover on this walking tour.
- Nottingham Castle – Fresh from a 30 million pound revamp, there’s much to learn about the city’s past at this iconic castle. It may not be among the largest castles in the world but it definitely has plenty to enthrall you.
- The Arboretum – If you’re visiting Nottingham Trent University, you could also visit the oldest park in the city that opened in 1852. It’s a beautiful place to unwind.
