A night on the town in Nottingham

• When to go:
  

  the city centre-great for shopping

If you are looking to visit some of the historical sites, going in the summer or autumn is advised. You don’t need to worry too much about crowds in the summer because it isn’t too touristy. It is a big university city, so if you go during the term times, be expecting to run into the university crowd.

• Getting there:

It's very simple to get to Nottingham from York. I personally took a train and had to make a few changes to get there. Still, if you book ahead, Nottingham is not very far away, so it is easy to find a cheap ticket. When you’re in the city, the bus systems are quite good, and it only cost £3 for a day pass. Also, if you are out late on a Friday or Saturday, getting a ride home is no problem - the bus runs until 3 am on select routes.

• Where to stay:

I stayed with a friend, but there are a few hostels to choose from if you are looking for a cheap place to crash for the night. The Igloo Backpackers Hostel isn’t a five-star hotel by any means, but it is clean and inexpensive, and is close to a bus stop.

• What to do:

During the day, there are many attractions that can keep you occupied until the night hours. If it's a nice day, Sherwood forest is only half an hour away and is also a nice park, complete with the history of Robin Hood! The Nottingham Castle Museum is mainly for families, but still holds some interest with its architecture from the 17th century and its unique art gallery. It does have an admission price of £3.50 per adult, but you won’t be bored! Shopping is always another way to spend the day, and Nottingham has a multitude of shops to choose from.

* Where to eat and pubs:

If you’re looking for a place to eat, you don’t have to look too far. There are multiple cheap chain restaurants, so if you have a favorite, it will most likely be there. If you are willing to spend a bit more money, you can also get a nice meal at the Curry House.

As I stated before, Nottingham has some of the most unique pubs in all of England, and each one has its own drink deal. The Pitcher and Piano is a beautiful pub with a unique atmosphere set in an old church! Unfortunately, I was unable to go inside because it was being refurbished, but now it is open and more beautiful than ever.

If you’re looking for a dark atmosphere, look no further than the Pit and the Pendulum, with many different dungeon motifs, frightening faces on the wall, and horror movies playing on every screen, and a bathroom hidden behind a secret bookshelf!

The Malt Cross is a coffee house by day and a pub by night, with live music every Saturday night, and is definitely not something you want to pass by. It serves some delicious food as well as the best cup of hot chocolate I’ve had in England, and turns into quite a lively place at night.

the Malt Cross

* Nightlife:

You won’t have a problem finding huge clubs in Nottingham, all multi-levelled and fun. I went to Gatecrashers, and its three stories were all interesting, although each had rather similar music of either techno or hip-hop. Other places that have been recommended are Halo and Oceana. Don’t forget to bring your student ID, as admission prices aren’t cheap but they will sometimes give a student discount.

* The Bottom Line:

If you are looking a truly unique pub crawl before running off to party at clubs, this is a great place for you. I never ran into any dangers or felt vulnerable, but when wandering the streets of Nottingham always keep safety in mind. Still, this is a place that can be a great experience!

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