City of Caves Nottingham
Explore Nottingham's hidden underground world, a network of ancient caves used for shelter, industry, and survival for centuries.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
City of Caves Nottingham
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Nottingham's hidden underground world, a network of ancient caves used for shelter, industry, and survival for centuries.
"A must-see in Nottingham! The caves are fascinating, and our guide was fantastic."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ground can be uneven, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the caves safely.
🧥 Dress for Cooler Temps
It's always cooler underground, so bring a light jacket or sweater, even on warm days.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Medieval Caves
Various locations within the cave network
Explore ancient man-made caves used for shelter, storage, and even medieval tanneries. Discover the hidden history beneath Nottingham's streets.
The Georgian Dungeon
Part of the guided tour route
Step into a chilling Georgian dungeon, a stark reminder of the city's past. Hear stories that bring this historical site to life.
The Wartime Anderson Shelter
Within the cave system
See an authentic Anderson shelter, offering a glimpse into life during WWII. Understand how these caves provided refuge.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Underground
Tour Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ground can be uneven, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the caves safely.
🧥 Dress for Cooler Temps
It's always cooler underground, so bring a light jacket or sweater, even on warm days.
👨👩👧👦 Check Age Suitability
Tours can be fascinating for older kids (9+), but may be challenging for toddlers.
⏳ Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on a guided tour, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment.
What to do in the city centre?
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The ground can be uneven, so sturdy, comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the caves safely.
🧥 Dress for Cooler Temps
It's always cooler underground, so bring a light jacket or sweater, even on warm days.
👨👩👧👦 Check Age Suitability
Tours can be fascinating for older kids (9+), but may be challenging for toddlers.
⏳ Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot on a guided tour, especially during busy periods, to avoid disappointment.
💡 Listen to Your Guide
Guides are knowledgeable and entertaining, sharing stories that bring the caves to life.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the City of Caves for its fascinating history and the engaging, knowledgeable guides who bring the underground world to life. The cool temperatures make it a welcome escape on hot days, and the unique experience is highly recommended for those interested in local heritage. Some reviewers note that it may not be ideal for very young children due to the terrain and historical content.
"These Guided tours are very informative and interesting, great on a hot day as it's lovely and cool down there.
We visited with the intention of us all going in, however it's not ideal for toddlers. Our 1 and a 1/2 year old son would have found it very frustrating had he gone down.
Our kids between 9-13years loved it as a lot of the tour was about children!
Would recommend a visit with kids or as a couple of you are Into hidden history of cities!"
Ed Cameo-Crowther
"Lovely little hour tour. Pur tour guide Evie was full of energy and told the stories and histories with such fun and theatre. Very interesting and worth every penny and a donation."
Leha Green
"Dave our guide put on an entertaining tour with fun and drama to keep the younger members of the group entertained. It’s great when someone puts so must effort into making this tour so memorable in the forty five minutes time frame. Thanks for giving me an insight into life in the caves as I’d no idea so much took place there."
Stephen Wright
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The City of Caves is centrally located in Nottingham city centre, easily accessible by public transport. Many bus routes stop nearby, and Nottingham train station is a short walk away. If driving, there are several car parks in the vicinity, though they can be pricey.
Yes, there are several car parks close to the City of Caves, including the Lace Market Car Park and St James's Street Car Park. However, parking in the city centre can be expensive.
Absolutely! Nottingham train station is about a 10-15 minute walk from the City of Caves. It's a straightforward walk through the city centre.
Numerous bus routes serve the city centre, with stops very close to the Broadmarsh Shopping Centre area where the City of Caves is located. Check local bus timetables for the most convenient routes.
Due to the nature of the underground caves and uneven terrain, the City of Caves may not be fully accessible for individuals with significant mobility issues. It's best to contact them directly to discuss specific needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but typically an adult ticket is around £8-£10, with concessions available for children, seniors, and families. Booking online in advance is often recommended.
It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends, to guarantee your entry and preferred tour time.
Opening hours can vary seasonally, but generally, the City of Caves is open daily from around 10 AM to 5 PM, with the last tour usually starting an hour before closing. Always check their official website for the most up-to-date information.
The primary way to experience the City of Caves is through guided tours, which are led by knowledgeable guides who share the history and stories of the caves.
No, access to the City of Caves is exclusively via guided tours. This ensures visitors get the full historical context and safety guidance.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most guided tours of the City of Caves last approximately 45 minutes to an hour, providing a comprehensive yet concise exploration of the underground network.
The caves maintain a consistently cool temperature, typically around 13-15°C (55-59°F), regardless of the weather outside. It's advisable to wear a light jacket.
While older children (9+) often enjoy the tours, the uneven terrain and historical narratives might be challenging or scary for very young children or toddlers. Use your discretion.
Guides share fascinating tales about the caves' history, from their use as medieval homes and tanneries to their role as air-raid shelters during WWII. They often use humor and drama to engage visitors.
Photography is generally permitted inside the City of Caves, but it's always a good idea to check with your guide. Be mindful of others and avoid using flash if it might disturb the atmosphere or other visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
No, there are no food or dining facilities within the City of Caves itself. However, the surrounding city centre offers a wide array of cafes, pubs, and restaurants.
The area around the City of Caves, including the Lace Market and Hockley, is packed with dining options. You can find everything from traditional pubs to international cuisine. The Hand & Heart pub is known for its unique cave dining experience.
It's generally not recommended to bring food and drinks into the cave tour areas to preserve the historical environment. Water bottles might be acceptable, but check their policy.
Yes, Nottingham is famous for its pubs built into the cave system. The Hand & Heart on Derby Road is a well-known example where you can enjoy food and drinks in a subterranean setting.
Nottingham city centre offers diverse culinary options, including British pub fare, Italian, Indian, and various international cuisines. You'll find options for all tastes and budgets.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the City of Caves. However, it's polite to ask your guide and be considerate of other visitors.
The unique architecture of the caves, the historical artifacts, and the atmospheric lighting offer many great photo opportunities. Look for interesting textures and shadows.
While generally permitted, it's best to avoid using flash photography, as it can be disruptive to the atmosphere and other visitors. Some areas might have specific signage regarding photography.
Given the potentially low light conditions, consider using a camera with good low-light performance or a tripod if permitted. A wider aperture can also help capture more light.
Filming is usually permitted, similar to photography. However, be mindful of tour group flow and avoid obstructing others. TikTok and Instagram creators often capture snippets of their tours. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, it's important to note that the terrain can be uneven and damp, which might be difficult for toddlers or very young children to navigate comfortably.
🏛️ History Buffs & Curious Explorers
This attraction offers a unique perspective on how people lived, worked, and survived beneath the surface. It's a chance to connect with the tangible remnants of history that lie hidden beneath the modern city. The experience is both educational and deeply atmospheric, making it a standout attraction for anyone interested in local heritage.
couples
Consider combining your visit with a meal at a nearby restaurant or a drink at a historic pub, perhaps even one with its own cave system like The Hand & Heart, for a complete Nottingham experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rich History of Nottingham's Caves
During the medieval period, the caves were crucial for industries like tanning, where the cool, damp environment was ideal for processing hides. They also served as cellars for alehouses and storage for goods. Later, during the Victorian era and into the 20th century, some caves were adapted as air-raid shelters during wartime, providing vital refuge for citizens. The City of Caves attraction allows visitors to walk through these layers of history, from ancient dwellings to wartime shelters, offering a tangible connection to Nottingham's past.
Exploring these subterranean spaces provides a unique perspective on urban development and the ingenuity of past generations. The guided tours are essential for understanding the context and stories behind each cave, as the guides bring the history to life with engaging narratives. It's a journey through time, right beneath the bustling streets of modern Nottingham.
Navigating the City of Caves: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Booking your tour in advance is highly recommended, especially if you're visiting during peak times or on weekends. This ensures you get a spot on your desired tour and avoid disappointment.
Photography is usually allowed, but it's courteous to check with your guide and avoid using flash, which can detract from the atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit