Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour

The Nottingham and Robin Hood Private Guided Walking Tour offers a detailed exploration of this vibrant city for just $178.19 per person. Spanning approximately 4 to 5 hours, this tour is perfect for those eager to uncover Nottingham’s unique sights and stories with an experienced guide. Led by Ye Olde England Tours, the tour promises an intimate experience, as it is exclusively for your group, ensuring personalized attention.

What makes this tour particularly compelling is its blend of outdoor city highlights and underground adventures. The route takes visitors from the historic Nottingham Castle to the medieval city walls, and beneath the streets into nearly 1,000 known caves in the City of Caves. The tour also includes visits to iconic sites like the Robin Hood Statue and the Old Market Square, making it ideal for history buffs and Robin Hood enthusiasts alike.

While the tour covers a lot of ground, including a descent into underground caves and walks through fashionable districts, participants should be prepared for a fair amount of walking. The tour starts at Nottingham Railway Station and concludes back there, making it convenient for travelers arriving by train. This tour is a well-rounded introduction to Nottingham’s history, legends, and modern life, catered to groups seeking an engaging and informative experience.

Key Points

• Private guided tour lasting 4 to 5 hours for a personalized experience.
• Includes visits to Nottingham Castle, City of Caves, and Robin Hood landmarks.
• Underground cave exploration with admission included.
• Stops at historic sites like the Old Market Square and medieval town walls.
• Led by knowledgeable guides with high praise for expertise and storytelling.
• Accessible from Nottingham Railway Station, with free cancellation available.

Exploring Nottingham’s Castle and Royal Roots

The tour begins with a visit to Nottingham Castle, one of the four most important royal castles in England. Here, visitors learn about its storied past as a royal stronghold and its significance in Robin Hood legends. The castle grounds offer a glimpse into royal history, and the guide details its role through the ages.

After exploring the castle, the route takes travelers to Standard Hill, the location where King Charles I planted his Royal Standard, marking the start of the English Civil War. This spot offers a historic perspective on Nottingham’s role in national conflicts and royal history.

Discovering the Hidden City of Caves

A major highlight is the visit to the City of Caves, where nearly 1,000 caves lie beneath Nottingham’s streets. The tour includes a 45-minute descent into these underground passages, some dating back centuries. Visitors see highlights of the cave network, which served as dwellings, workshops, and wartime shelters, including WW2 air-raid shelters.

The underground journey reveals how residents lived and worked beneath the city, and new caves are still being discovered regularly. The experience offers a fascinating glimpse into Nottingham’s subterranean history and how it intertwined with the city’s development.

The Historic Lace Market and Fashionable Hockley

Moving above ground, the tour explores the Lace Market, Nottingham’s famed textile district. This area once thrived on lace production, and walking its streets offers insight into the city’s industrial heritage. The guide shares stories of lace makers and the economic boom they contributed to Nottingham.

Next, visitors walk through Hockley, a lively district often compared with London’s Soho. Its trendy shops, pubs, and restaurants make it a vibrant part of the city, showing Nottingham’s modern character and creative spirit.

Nottingham’s Central Square and Medieval Walls

The tour continues at Old Market Square, one of the largest city squares in the UK, covering about 13,000 square feet. Here, the historic town hall dominates the scene, and the square hosts numerous local events. The guide points out the square’s significance as the city’s hub since medieval times.

Just nearby, the medieval town wall ruins remain as the only visible part of Nottingham’s ancient defenses. This short stop provides a tangible connection to the city’s medieval past and its historic fortifications, many of which no longer stand.

Religious and Secret Passages

The next stops include St Mary’s Church, a medieval church with ties to Robin Hood stories, and St Barnabas Cathedral, which features beautiful interiors and has links to the Houses of Parliament. These sites illustrate Nottingham’s religious history and architectural heritage.

A unique feature is the Park Tunnel, a Victorian-era tunnel connecting the city center to the Park Estate. The tunnel is flat, but the visit involves walking up steps, which should be considered by those with mobility concerns. The Park Steps are also part of the tour, showcasing Victorian craftsmanship over an older pathway.

Robin Hood’s Iconic Statue and the Oldest Pub

No Robin Hood-themed tour would be complete without seeing the Robin Hood Statue, located near Nottingham Castle. The guide discusses the legendary hero’s connection to Nottingham and his enduring cultural presence.

The tour wraps up at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, claimed to be Britain’s oldest pub. Partially built into the rock beneath Nottingham Castle, this historic pub has welcomed crusaders and locals alike for centuries. It’s an excellent spot to relax, enjoy a drink, or stay for a meal after the tour.

Practicalities and Booking Details

This private tour starts at 10:00 am from Nottingham Railway Station at Carrington St. and ends at the same location. The group size is limited, ensuring a personalized experience, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, with most participants able to participate comfortably.

Booking the tour typically occurs 52 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The price includes all admission tickets for underground caves and several key sites, providing good value for a comprehensive experience. Plus, the free cancellation policy allows flexibility for changing plans.

Nottingham’s Rich History and Modern Vibrancy

This tour provides a balanced overview of Nottingham’s historical sites and lively neighborhoods. From medieval walls and royal castles to the bustling Lace Market and Hockley area, participants gain a sense of how the city has evolved over centuries.

The tour’s highlight is the underground cave exploration, which offers a unique perspective on daily life and wartime history. The guide’s expertise ensures engaging storytelling, making complex history accessible and interesting.

While the route involves a fair amount of walking and some steps at the tunnel and stairs, most visitors find these manageable. Travelers interested in Robin Hood lore, medieval history, or urban exploration will find this tour particularly rewarding.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This private tour suits history enthusiasts, Robin Hood fans, and those eager to explore Nottingham’s underground secrets. It’s ideal for groups or individuals who appreciate guided storytelling and want an in-depth look at key landmarks.

The inclusion of both outdoor and underground sites provides variety, and the personalized attention enhances the experience. If you prefer structured, informative walks with knowledgeable guides, this tour offers excellent value and insight.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves some walking and stairs, most participants can enjoy it. It’s best for children who can handle walking tours and are interested in history.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at Nottingham Railway Station, located at Carrington St..

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Are the cave visits included?
Yes, admission tickets are included for the City of Caves exploration.

Is there any time spent inside churches?
Yes, St Mary’s Church and St Barnabas Cathedral are visited, with the church closed on Saturdays.

How much walking is involved?
The tour involves plenty of walking, including some steps at the Park Tunnel and stairs at the Park Steps. Participants should be comfortable with walking moderate distances.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $178.19 per person, which includes all site admissions and guided commentary.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it is a private experience, meaning only your group participates, providing a tailored and intimate atmosphere.

This Nottingham and Robin Hood tour offers a thorough, engaging way to explore the city’s most iconic locations, both above and below ground. With expert guides, well-chosen stops, and a captivating itinerary, it stands out as a highly recommended experience for anyone eager to connect with Nottingham’s rich heritage.