Vagabond Heart: Nottingham, England

An August 2001 trip to Nottingham by Stephanie701

After exhausting London's postcard landmarks, it was time to venture further than the Eye (ferris wheel) could see. I set of to Nottingham to find out if Robinhood and his Merry Men really did wear tights....

  • 5 reviews
Not surprisingly, Nottingham boasts of its legendary hero with a museum, a castle and a church that all claim intimate knowledge of Robinhood. The picturesque town also offers a wealth of English history.

Quick Tips:

The adventure begins at home when you pop in a video of "Robin & Marian" and "Robin Hood: Men in Tights".

Best Way To Get Around:

A bus from Victoria Station will let you spend the day in Nottingham, and still be back in London in time to hit the pubs. The main attractions in Nottingham are all within walking distance from the bus station.
When you get to Nottingham, you'll quickly realize its two biggest selling points: 1) Robinhood, and 2) lace. Which leads me to ponder - if Robinhood wore tights, who's to say he didn't wear lace?

The Lace Market Centre offers a lovely introduction the age old trade. The black and white photographs and artifacts will transport you to an era where people took the time to appreciate beautiful craftmanship. You may want to pick up a copy of Webb's "History of Trade Unionism" to better contextualize the economic impact of the lace industry. Either way, be sure to bring some extra spending money to purchase the exclusive designs at the Centre.

  • Member Rating 3 out of 5 by Stephanie701 on April 12, 2002

The Lace Market Centre
3 - 5 High Pavement Notthingham, England

Nottingham Castle GroundsBest of IgoUgo

Attraction | "Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery"

As you approach Nottingham Castle, you'll see magnificent flower gardens through the looming gates. Friendly guards will entice you to take a look around the place where Richard the Lionheart lived. The museum offers the Story of Nottingham, an art gallery, and an exhibit on England's military history. Furthermore, the museum shop is THE place to get your souvenires -- delicately drawn postcards, maps of Sherwood Forrest, Robinhood costumes galore. There's also a cafe within the Castle walls. Be sure to have film in your camera because there are abundant photo opportunities.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Stephanie701 on April 12, 2002

Nottingham Castle Grounds
Castle Road Nottingham, England

Victorian HousesBest of IgoUgo

Attraction

Without even trying, you're bound to come across Nottingham's Victorian houses. Strolling the streets is a wonderful way to acquaint yourself with England's rich architectual past. A slow-paced walk through this charming town relaxes your mind from the hustle and bustle of contemporary London, and gives your wallet some time off. It's a great walk for romantics and artists.
  • Member Rating 2 out of 5 by Stephanie701 on April 12, 2002

Victorian Houses
Throughout Notthingham Notthingham, England

"Step back in time and live the legend," entices The Tales of Robinhood Museum. An interactive exhibit, there is something for everyone: a wax representation that comes to life for those unfamiliar with the tales; film archive for the media savvy; and etymological research for the historian. This should be your first stop when you get to Nottingham so you can really enjoy and understand the legend of the town.
  • Member Rating 4 out of 5 by Stephanie701 on April 10, 2002

The Tales of Robinhood
30-38 Maid Marian Way Notthingham, England NG1 6GF
+44 0115 948 3284

About the Writer

Stephanie701
Stephanie701
Closter, New Jersey
  • "Inspired by the Beat writers, I carry a journal wherever I travel."
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