Nottingham combines a lively city atmosphere with stories that go back centuries. It’s a place where legends like Robin Hood blend seamlessly with Victorian lace industries and modern attractions. What makes Nottingham stand out for tours is its rich mix of history, culture, and small-town charm, all within easy reach. We especially like the Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide for its friendly guide and deep dive into key sights. It’s a great way to get a personal feel for the city, especially if you’re short on time but want a thorough overview. For something different, the Nottingham: City Walking Tour & Exploration Game offers a fun, interactive way to explore at your own pace, solving puzzles and uncovering secret spots. Whether you prefer guided storytelling or self-guided challenges, Nottingham has options to suit.
Quick Overview
This list covers a variety of tours including traditional city walks, private options, self-guided adventures, and hands-on workshops. You’ll find experiences that appeal to history lovers, puzzle enthusiasts, art fans, and those looking for a personalized visit. Each tour offers something unique, and all are designed to give you a richer understanding of Nottingham’s character. Now, let’s explore each option in detail.
1. Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide
At number 1, the Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide ranks high thanks to its engaging guide and comprehensive coverage of the city’s main sights. It’s a 1.5-hour walk every day at 10:30am, starting from Nottingham Council House, where you’ll meet your friendly local guide. This tour is all about connecting with someone who lives in Nottingham and hearing about its past and present firsthand. You’ll see landmarks like Old Market Square, the Lace Market, and Robin Hood’s statue, with insider stories along the way. The guide shares insights into Nottingham’s rebellious spirit and its ties to Robin Hood, making history feel alive.
What makes this tour special is its balance — it’s brisk enough to cover a lot without feeling rushed. Reviewers love the friendly guide and the mix of architecture, local lore, and practical tips for the rest of your day. Priced at just $18.86 per person, it’s an excellent value for those who want a guided introduction without breaking the bank. Perfect for first-timers or those who want a quick overview with a personal touch. The main drawback? The pace is steady, so if you have mobility issues, make sure to ask about accessibility.
Bottom Line: A budget-friendly, well-rounded tour ideal for first-time visitors wanting to meet a local and see the highlights.
2. Nottingham: City Walking Tour & Exploration Game
Next, the Nottingham: City Walking Tour & Exploration Game takes a playful spin on sightseeing. Using the Go Quest Adventures app, up to five people can solve puzzles, complete challenges, and uncover Nottingham’s secrets at their own pace. It’s a flexible, self-guided experience that lasts for a full year once purchased, so you can start whenever suits you. This tour is perfect for families or groups seeking an interactive way to explore without a strict schedule.
What sets this apart is its unique blend of treasure hunt and city guide. You’ll visit landmarks like the Castle and Robin Hood’s statue, but also discover lesser-known spots and insider facts. It’s priced at $39 for the entire group, making it an economical choice for families or friends traveling together. The big advantage is that you control the pace, avoiding the crowds or rushing through. Plus, kids under 8 go free, which makes it particularly family-friendly. Some might find the reliance on an app less personal than a guided walk, but for tech-savvy explorers, it’s a hit.
Bottom Line: An engaging, flexible way to see Nottingham’s sights at your own pace, especially great for tech-loving families or groups.
$39.00 per group up to 5
3. Nottingham: Express Walk with a Local
At number 3, the Nottingham: Express Walk with a Local offers a quick, 1 to 2-hour glimpse of the city, perfect if your schedule is tight. Starting at Nottingham Station, you’ll explore Robin Hood’s statue, Old Market Square, and St Mary’s Church, finishing nearby. This tour is led by a local who shares insights into Nottingham’s architecture, culture, and best local spots for food and drinks.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on maximizing your time. It’s ideal for travelers who want a taste of Nottingham without committing to a longer tour. Guests praise the small group size, which ensures a more personal experience. The tour is especially suited for those arriving in Nottingham and wanting a quick orientation or for cruise ship passengers with limited time ashore. The only caveat: if you’re looking for an in-depth history, this quick tour might leave you wanting more.
Bottom Line: A perfect short introduction to Nottingham, offering local tips and highlights in a compact format.
4. Nottingham: Felting Workshop
For a creative break, the Nottingham: Felting Workshop is a standout. Led by a visually impaired artist, this 2.5-hour workshop is a chance to explore tactile art. You’ll learn how to create felted objects, focusing on touch, color, and expression — no experience necessary. The studio, set in a cozy home environment, encourages you to feel the textures and craft intuitive art.
This hands-on experience is ideal for couples or small groups looking for something different. It’s not just about making art — it’s about experiencing art in a new way, emphasizing sensory perception. Reviewers rave about the guidance from the artist and how accessible and inspiring the session is. At a price that reflects its artisanal nature, it offers great value for a memorable, interactive experience that stays with you long after.
Bottom Line: A unique, sensory-focused workshop that combines creativity with mindfulness — perfect for art lovers and curious travelers.
5. Nottingham: Private City Walking Tour
Moving to a more personalized experience, the Nottingham: Private City Walking Tour allows you to explore Nottingham in your own way. For around $168, up to 15 people can enjoy a tailored 1.5-hour walk with a dedicated guide. This tour shines in its flexibility—your guide can focus on your interests, whether it’s Robin Hood lore, industrial history, or hidden alleyways.
The tour covers major sights like Nottingham Castle, Lace Market, and the caves, with plenty of stories about the city’s evolution from Anglo-Saxon times to today. Reviewers note the guide’s knowledge and the ability to customize the experience makes it well worth the price for groups or travelers with specific interests. It’s best suited for those who want a private, in-depth exploration without the constraints of a larger group.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a personalized, detailed look at Nottingham with a flexible schedule.
$168.37 per person
6. Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour
At number 6, the Nottingham Private Guided Walking Tour offers an intimate, expert-led way to uncover the city’s stories. With a group of up to 15, you’ll spend 1.5 hours exploring Nottingham’s landmarks, from Robin Hood to the lace industry, all with a guide who has 25 years of experience. This tour emphasizes local legends, historic architecture, and Nottingham’s underground cave systems, making it ideal for history enthusiasts.
Guests appreciate the depth of knowledge and the chance to ask questions, resulting in a richer experience. The tour’s focus on local culture and crime and punishment stories makes it more than just a sightseeing walk. The cost per group makes it a good value for families or small groups who want a private, detailed experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for history buffs or those who want a guided tour with expert insights into Nottingham’s past.
$310.54 per group up to 15
7. Nottingham: Robin Hood Town Tour
Finally, the Nottingham: Robin Hood Town Tour captures the legendary outlaw’s story in a lively 2.5-hour walk. You’ll meet Robin Hood and follow the trail of historical facts, seeing how the tales grew from 700-year-old ballads. The guide focuses on telling the story behind the legend and exploring Nottingham’s connection.
This tour is great for fans of folklore and history alike. It’s a fun, engaging way to see the city with a focus on Robin Hood’s myth and reality. Reviews highlight the enjoyable storytelling and the chance to learn what’s true and what’s legend. At $22.90 per person, it’s an affordable way to add some storytelling flavor to your visit.
Bottom Line: An entertaining, story-driven tour ideal for Robin Hood fans and history lovers alike.
$22.90 per person
How to Choose the Right Nottingham Tour
When deciding which tour suits you, consider your budget, interests, and how much time you have. For a quick overview with a local touch, the Nottingham Walking Tour with a Local Guide is hard to beat. If you prefer a self-guided adventure with puzzles, the Exploration Game offers a flexible and fun alternative. For those interested in hands-on experiences, the Felting Workshop provides a creative break.
Group sizes vary from small intimate walks to private tours for larger parties, so choose according to your comfort level. Budget-conscious travelers can find excellent value in guided walks, while families or groups might appreciate the private or exploration options. Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and tour.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a guided introduction, a private deep dive, or a hands-on workshop, Nottingham offers diverse ways to explore its streets and stories. The Walking Tour with a Local Guide and the Robin Hood Town Tour are especially recommended for their storytelling and insight. For a more personalized experience, the Private City Tour provides flexibility and depth. And if you’re feeling creative, don’t miss the Felting Workshop for a memorable hands-on activity.
No matter your interests, Nottingham’s range of tours ensures you’ll leave with a richer understanding of this lively, legendary city. Book early, and prepare for stories, surprises, and a few Robin Hood jokes along the way.