A little venture off the beaten track can lead to unique encounters and rewards, so indulge your curiosity with a trip to Nottingham’s lesser known, but ever-so-intriguing attractions. Too often these hidden gems remain the reserve solely of those in the know, and while you may not have heard of them before, we’re certain that once you visit, you’ll be glad you did.
The Hockley Arts Club
Tucked away down an unassuming allerway in the characterful independent district of Hockley, lies an impossibly beautiful, Garde II listed building that houses The Hockley Arts Club – a creative space for social eating and drinking. Elaborately and impeccably decorated, it’s a great spot for delectable cocktails, boozy brunches, an express lunch, intimate dinner, or a private party.
Bromley House Library
In the heart of the city lies a little-known oasis of calm, hidden away from the rush and hustle of Angel Row. Established in 1816, Bromley House Library brims with classic charm, with cosy reading nooks and curious antique features throughout, including a gorgeous original spiral staircase straight out of a storybook. Outside their tranquil and secluded walled garden is the perfect place for quiet reflection or to soak up some inspiration. Discover the delights of this hidden gem on one of their regular tours, Wednesdays at 2.30pm, or seek out their programme of thought-proving talks and inspired events.
Cave Escape
Nottingham’s curious cave network may be relatively well-known, but the latest addition to the escape room scene, Cave Escape, utilises our subterranean sandstone labyrinth with unique charm. Descend below ground for a truly immersive escapology experience, full of riveting twists and turns, cryptic tasks, conundrums, and puzzles.
Papplewick Pumping Station
Located in the scenic Nottinghamshire countryside lies a stunning feat of Victorian architecture and engineering – Papplewick Pumping Station, which is the most spectacularly preserved water works in Britain. Built in the late 19th century, ornate and elaborately decorated structures of polished mahogany and brass shine with light that streams through stained glass. Regular steam days and special events give visitors the opportunity to see the imposing boilers and impressive pumping engines at work, and to take in a tour of the underground reservoir.
Creswell Craggs
Follow in the footsteps of Ice Age man to explore the majestic landscapes of Creswell Crags and discover a world shaped by nature and carved by our ancestors. Hidden away in a picturesque limestone gorge, honeycombed with caves, lies Britain’s only known Ice Age rock art. Wander round the central lake to admire the abundant flora and fauna or be amazed by the curious discoveries that helped us understand times past on a cave tour.
Welbeck Estate
Nestled nearby you’ll find the grand Welbeck Estate, a treasure trove of brilliant attractions, and among the most intriguing of all the traditional landed estates in Nottinghamshire.
The original Abbey dates back further than the Domesday Book and has been home to the Dukes of Portland since 1607, including the eccentric ‘burrowing Duke’, who commissioned a maze of underground tunnels, along with a Gas Works to light his excavations. The building now houses the award-winning Harley Gallery – which this year celebrates 25 years of delivering engaging and intriguing exhibtions by leading artists – hosting contemporary exhibitions by leading visual artists, and the Portland Collection, showcasing the paintings, jewellery and other art collected by the Dukes over 400 years.
With a wonderful farm shop selling the best in locally sourced produce, and The School of Artisan Food offering creative cooking courses, Welbeck estate is a must-visit for lovers of art and foodies alike.