
Old Market Square
Nottingham's historic heart, a grand public square featuring iconic architecture, fountains, and vibrant seasonal events.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Old Market Square
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Nottingham's historic heart, a grand public square featuring iconic architecture, fountains, and vibrant seasonal events.
"A beautiful place with impressive architecture, perfect for a day out and photography."

📸 Photography Hotspot
The Council House and stone lions are perfect for photos. Visit early for fewer crowds!
📅 Check Event Schedule
The square hosts markets, Christmas events, and summer beaches. Plan around these for unique experiences!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nottingham Council House
North side of the square
Iconic landmark with impressive architecture, a symbol of Nottingham's civic pride.

The Stone Lions
Central area of the square
Majestic stone lions that are a popular spot for photos and a symbol of the city.

Seasonal Events
Throughout the square
From the magical Winter Wonderland to the summer Beach in the City, experience the square transformed.

Modern Fountains
Central area of the square
Interactive fountains that add a refreshing and playful element to the urban landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Photography Hotspot
The Council House and stone lions are perfect for photos. Visit early for fewer crowds!
📅 Check Event Schedule
The square hosts markets, Christmas events, and summer beaches. Plan around these for unique experiences!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
It's a great starting point for exploring Nottingham's caves and historic pubs.
💧 Fountains Fun
The modern fountains are a hit, especially with kids. Be prepared to get a little wet!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Photography Hotspot
The Council House and stone lions are perfect for photos. Visit early for fewer crowds!
📅 Check Event Schedule
The square hosts markets, Christmas events, and summer beaches. Plan around these for unique experiences!
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
It's a great starting point for exploring Nottingham's caves and historic pubs.
💧 Fountains Fun
The modern fountains are a hit, especially with kids. Be prepared to get a little wet!
🛍️ Shopping Hub
Surrounded by shops, it's ideal for a day of retail therapy and people-watching.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Old Market Square is a historically significant and visually appealing public space in Nottingham, praised for its architecture, central location, and vibrant seasonal events like the Christmas Market and Nottingham Beach. While many enjoy its lively atmosphere and surrounding amenities, some visitors have expressed concerns about cleanliness and public order issues.
"Old Market Square, officially established in the 11th century, is the historic and cultural centerpiece of Nottingham. As one of the largest public spaces in the UK, it has served as a marketplace, gathering place, and civic heart for nearly a thousand years.
The square is beautifully designed, with modern fountains, open seating areas, and a great view of the iconic Nottingham Council House. It's a lively space surrounded by shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it ideal for both tourists and locals. Throughout the year, it hosts seasonal events such as the Christmas Market, Beach in the City, and cultural festivals that bring energy and color to the city.
Easily accessible by foot or public transport, it’s also a great meeting point or starting place to explore Nottingham. The mix of history, architecture, and activity makes it a must-visit spot in the city.
A wonderful place to relax, or learn about Nottingham's rich heritage."
MUSTAFA FARAJ
"Went here the other day for site seeing as I am new to the area and visiting. Overall very beautiful architecture and found myself wanting to take pictures of the area as I do photography as a hobby. The area is accessible and has lots of shops and restaurants nearby. Perfect for a day out."
Josh Buxton
"Unfortunately, I always see so many litters, trash, homeless people and young people who are drinking around the city centre that it always feels unsafe to come for me and my girls..."
Edita R
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Market Square is centrally located in Nottingham city centre and is easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from Nottingham train station. If driving, there are several car parks within walking distance, though they can be busy.
Yes, Old Market Square is approximately a 10-minute walk from Nottingham Castle, making it easy to combine visits to both attractions.
Buses are a very convenient option, with many routes serving the city centre. Walking is also ideal if you're already in the city centre. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available.
Nottingham has park and ride facilities on the outskirts of the city, which can be a good option to avoid city centre traffic and parking costs. From the park and ride, you can take a bus or tram into the city centre, getting off near Old Market Square.
The square is generally flat and accessible, with ramps and smooth surfaces. Public transport options also cater to accessibility needs.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Old Market Square is a public space and is free to enter and explore at any time.
As an open public square, it is accessible 24/7. However, individual shops, cafes, and attractions surrounding the square will have their own operating hours.
Entry to the square itself is always free. Some specific events, like the Christmas Market or ticketed attractions within the square, may have associated costs.
Yes, the square is open at night and is often beautifully lit, offering a different ambiance. However, be mindful of your surroundings, as with any city centre at night.
To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on weekday mornings. Weekends and evenings, especially during events, tend to be much busier.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
Key attractions include the iconic Nottingham Council House, the stone lions, and the modern interactive fountains. The square also hosts seasonal events like the Christmas Market and Nottingham Beach.
Absolutely! The square is surrounded by numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a wide variety of food and drink options to suit all tastes.
Yes, it's a very popular spot for photography due to its impressive architecture, the Council House, and the stone lions. The fountains also offer dynamic photo opportunities.
The square is a hub for events, including the Nottingham Winter Wonderland, Christmas markets, Nottingham Beach in the summer, and various civic ceremonies and festivals.
The fountains were temporarily closed due to a faulty electrical system but there are plans for their return. It's best to check local updates for their current operational status.
📸 📸 Photography
The Nottingham Council House provides a stunning backdrop, especially with the stone lions in the foreground. The fountains offer dynamic shots, and the general architecture of the surrounding buildings is also very photogenic.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the architecture without crowds. Evenings can be magical with the square lit up, but may be busier.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permission from the local council.
Drone usage in urban public spaces like Old Market Square is typically subject to strict regulations and may require permits. It's advisable to check with Nottingham City Council before flying a drone.
For the Council House and lions, a wider lens is good. For the fountains, consider a tripod for longer exposures to capture water movement. For evening shots, a higher ISO or wider aperture will be beneficial.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Thousand Years of History
The Nottingham Council House, a prominent landmark on the north side of the square, was completed in 1929 and is a testament to the city's architectural heritage. Its grand design and clock tower are instantly recognizable. The square has also been the site of significant public gatherings, including vigils and celebrations, underscoring its importance in the community's collective memory.
While the square has seen its share of challenges, including concerns about litter and public order, its enduring significance as a public space is undeniable. It continues to be a focal point for both daily life and special occasions in Nottingham, a place where history meets the present.
Seasonal Spectacles: Events at Old Market Square
In the summer, the square is reimagined as Nottingham Beach, complete with sand, deckchairs, and family-friendly activities, offering a unique urban escape. These events draw large crowds and contribute significantly to the city's festive atmosphere, making them a highlight for both locals and tourists.
Beyond these major events, the square also serves as a venue for various other gatherings, from civic ceremonies to cultural festivals and protests. Checking the local event listings before your visit is highly recommended to catch these special occasions and experience the square at its most vibrant.
Navigating the Square: Practicalities and Perceptions
However, some visitors have noted concerns regarding cleanliness, litter, and the presence of homeless individuals or public intoxication, which can detract from the experience for some. While the square is a public space with a lively atmosphere, it's advisable for visitors to be aware of their surroundings, especially during evenings or large events.
Despite these challenges, the square remains a significant landmark, appreciated for its architecture and its role in hosting community events. Many find it a beautiful place for photography and a good base for exploring the city's offerings.
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