Nottingham Castle

Historic site at the heart of the Robin Hood legend and starting point for the English Civil War

Situated on a high rock, Nottingham Castle commands spectacular views over the city and once rivalled the great castles of Windsor and the Tower of London.

Its history is chequered with sieges, murders and intrigue. Totally destroyed after the Civil War, the medieval castle was replaced by a magnificent ducal mansion in 1674. Then in 1875 it was converted into the first municipal museum and art gallery outside London.Award-winning cave tours tell this history and take you down into the passageways and tunnels beneath the building.

Museum and Gardens

The museum, recently refurbished, now contains spectacular fine and decorative arts galleries, as well as galleries telling the story of Nottingham, the Sherwood Foresters Regimental Museum and an exciting programme of art exhibitions. The museum also has a shop, a cafe and a medieval playground within its grounds.

Whilst on your visit you can also enjoy the six acres of Victorian inspired grounds and gardens.  The grounds boast magnificent views of the city and beyond.  The Castle Green, with its medieval style playground and covered picnic area, provides the ideal spot for a family day out. 

Opening Times and Entry Prices

Open Tuesday - Sunday:

• 10am - 5pm March - September
• 10am - 4pm October - February
• last entry 30 minutes before closing

Please note the castle is now closed on Mondays.

Weekends and bank holidays: Adults £5.50, Concessions (including students) £4.00

Group rate - one free admission for every 10 people. No limit on size of group.

City residents with a valid Citycard or Nottingham Student ID holders (includes university and college students) can gain entry Tuesday - Friday for just £1. NB £1 tickets are valid only on the day of purchase.
Carers accompanying disabled visitors will remain free of charge.

Prices may be subject to change.

Useful information

Length of visit: 1 to 3 hours. Tickets give joint admission to Nottingham Castle and the Museum of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard (situated approximately 5 minutes walk away on Castle Boulevard). Tickets may be used for one entry to The Museum of Nottingham Life at Brewhouse Yard within 7 days of purchase. The joint ticket does not apply for special events.

Wheelchair & electric Scooter are available (prior notice required).

Cave Tours

Beneath the Castle a labyrinth of manmade caves and tunnels continue to tell the turbulent story of this historic site. Come along for a memorable tour and discover the secret passageways, King David's legendary dungeon, the Duke of Newcastle's Wine Cellar and Mortimer's Hole.

Due to the amount of steps involved, caves tours are strenuous and not recommended for all.  Please note that Cave Tours are on a first come first served basis and are subject to availability and weather conditions.Cave tour times and admission prices

Tuesday - Saturday 11am, 2pm, 3pm (subject to availability).
Sunday - during winter months (November to Easter) at 2pm, or during the summer months (Easter to end of October) 12pm, 1pm, 2pm 3pm (subject to availability).

Tour admission prices are in addition to the normal admission fee.Adults - £2.50, Concessions/ Children - £1.50.

Please call 0115 915 3700 for confirmation of the latest tour times and dates prior to your visit to avoid disappointment.