Nottingham is much more than just an academic hub. The city is rich in history, culture, buzzing nightlife life and has a ton of undiscovered places waiting to be explored. The natural centre of student activity is bustling around the university campuses with endless options besides libraries and lecture halls. Every new or continuing student should make an active effort to explore the hidden nooks and corners of Nottingham. Doing so would make your experience at the university truly remarkable, rather than just staying at your student halls in Nottingham.
Top Things to Explore in Nottingham as a Student
1. Wander Through History in the Lace Market and Hockley
Lace Market, the oldest section in Nottingham, is an enchanting and evocative neighbourhood brimming with charm. The area, once known for its lace-making industry, is now home to red-brick warehouses and cobbled streets that are being transformed into bars, restaurants, indie shops, art spaces, and cafés.
Just a stone’s throw away is Hockley, also known as the “Creative Quarter” of Nottingham. This is the go-to place for denim-clad vintage junkies, caffeine enthusiasts, and other enthusiasts of unique art. Visit Braderie on a Saturday to hunt for retro wear and then take a break to munch at the deli-style Homemade café.
2. Explore Nottingham Castle and the Caves Below
Every trip to the city is incomplete without a glimpse of the legendary castle. Nottingham Castle recently underwent a renovation, restoring its historic charm while introducing modern advancements. England’s heritage seamlessly blends with modern enhancements at this medieval fort. Following its renovation, visitors can explore historical exhibits, topographic views, tri-scope experiences, immersive tourist participation, and viewing decks of the city from its tower edifice.
The true exploration lies in the underworld. Literally. The over 800 caves beneath Nottingham that are a result of sandstone carving are shrouded in the secrets of medieval savers. Notable features include a WWII submarine refuge, forbidden passageways to smugglers’ areas. If you’re up for an adventure, the City of Caves tour is mandatory.
3. Enjoy Nature and Green Spaces
For students seeking a gateway from the hustle and bustle of university life, Nottingham offers several peaceful escapes into nature. For instance, Wollaton Park, which is home to a stunning Elizabethan mansion (which Batman fans might recognise from The Dark Knight Rises) and a herd of deer, is one of the city’s most iconic green spaces. It is ideal for a weekend picnic, as well as an afternoon jog.
The Arboretum is a lovely Victorian-themed park located closer to the city centre, known for its beautiful upkeep. Often overlooked, it is perfect for studying outdoors on a sunny day or simply hanging out with friends between classes.
4. Nightlife and Live Music
Nottingham is often recognised for the diversity of their nightlife, which caters to its diverse students. From karaoke bars to pubs, high-end cocktail lounges and everything in between, there is plenty to do after dark.
Rock City is a student staple—this legendary venue hosts club nights, live gigs, and themed events all week long. The Bodega and Rescue Rooms are more alternative, making them an excellent place to catch up-and-coming bands for those looking to discover new favorites.
5. Expand Your Palate with Global Flavours
Nottingham has something to offer for everyone. The Nottingham Street Food Club, located in the Victoria Centre, has ready-to-eat authentic street food. On the weekends, the Sneinton market is perfect for getting local products and freshly baked goods, with pop-up food stands adding to the lively atmosphere.
Off the main avenues, you will find Vietnamese Pho restaurants, Korean BBQ joints, Persian Stir establishments, and places selling Caribbean jerk chicken. Everywhere you look, there are eateries offering international delights.
6. Find Community in Creative Spaces
If you’re a creative head in Nottingham, this city has plenty of opportunities for you. The Contemporary Art gallery hosts free exhibitions and holds public workshops and talks. Besides showing independent films, Broadway Cinema acts as a community centre, where various events and film festivals take place.
Whether you are into writing, music, photography, or any other art, clubs and open mic events for your favourite activity can be found all over the city. Getting involved with local non-university-affiliated creatives can help build friendships and unlock new opportunities.
7. Your Base: Where You Stay Matters
Your base location can greatly impact how you experience the city. For Nottingham, being located centrally is quite a big advantage. A lot of students tend to choose accommodation that’s optimally located near public transportation or in walking distance to the city centre, facilitating exploration.
Modern housing options like Hydrogen student accommodation, Nottingham offer more than just a bed to sleep in. This property is considered luxury as it comes with tastefully designed comfortable living spaces as well as onsite facilities such as gyms, lounges, and study rooms that encourage studying along with socializing. Being located in the city also allows one to enjoy the hustle and bustle it offers.
Final Thoughts
Nottingham students get to enjoy life outside of classes and coursework. The city has a lot to offer, which makes it join the list of dynamic cities in the UK. There are a lot of options, such as checking out cool bookstores and cafes, catching concerts, taking a stroll through historic streets, and many other new activities that are available in the city at all times. Exploring as a student in Nottingham is something that one should definitely do!
Source: The Nottingham Student Explorer: Discovering the City Beyond Campus
