Nottingham is a compact East Midlands city where the main sights cluster tightly around a walkable centre. The castle, the Old Market Square and the restored industrial buildings of the Lace Market sit within a few minutes of each other, and the city is served by a railway station, a tram network and a large bus network, so the choice of where to base yourself is mostly about which part of the centre you want on your doorstep.
For a visitor, the practical geography is simple. The Old Market Square acts as the focus of the city centre, with the Lace Market and the castle area on either side of it. The railway station and the waterfront lie just south of the centre, and quieter locations sit slightly further out. This guide covers the areas the sources identify as places to stay, what each is like, and which suits different kinds of traveller.
Best areas to stay in Nottingham
1. City centre (around the Old Market Square)
This is the most convenient base for a first visit. The main square is the focus of the city, and staying within a minute or two of it puts you within walking distance of the castle, the Lace Market and the shopping streets. You will find budget hostels, mid-range chain hotels and serviced apartments in this area. One hostel is described as a five-minute walk from the centre of town, and another as a one-minute walk from the main square, so the centre is genuinely compact on foot.
It suits first-time visitors and anyone who wants to step out of their accommodation into the life of the city. Be aware that some central hostels have reports of noisy parties at night, so light sleepers may prefer a quieter spot.
2. Station Street and the waterfront
The area around Station Street, south of the centre, is a practical base with shops and restaurants close by. It is well placed for arriving and departing by train, and the tram and bus networks connect it to the rest of the city. Accommodation here is mainly mid-range hotels.
It suits travellers who value easy rail connections and a slightly calmer setting than the immediate centre, while still being within reach of the main sights.
3. Maid Marian Way and the Ropewalk area
This area sits on the western edge of the centre, near the surviving stretch of the old town wall at the northern end of Maid Marian Way. It is close to the city centre but slightly removed from the busiest streets. You will find mid-range hotels and serviced apartments here, including apartments suited to longer stays.
It suits visitors who want to be near the centre without being in the middle of it, and those staying for more than a few nights who want self-catering facilities.
4. Castle Marina
Castle Bridge Road and the Castle Marina area lie to the west of the centre in a peaceful marina location. This is a quieter, more relaxed base away from the main square. Accommodation here is mid-range.
It suits travellers with a car or those who do not mind being a short trip from the centre in exchange for a calmer setting.
5. Outlying areas and the surrounding countryside
Further out, the sources name Chilwell, to the south-west, and Eastwood, to the north-west, as locations with larger hotels, and Langar, to the south-east, as a rural location with an upscale country hotel. Camping is available in the surrounding area, including at Stragglethorpe and Radcliffe on Trent.
These suit travellers who are driving, attending an event, or who specifically want a countryside stay. They are not convenient for walking to the city's central sights, so treat them as a base only if you have transport.
Where to stay on a budget, mid-range or splurge
- Budget: Hostels in and around the city centre, typically within a short walk of the main square, with shared kitchens, common rooms and free internet. Expect basic but clean facilities and the possibility of noise at night in some central locations.
- Mid-range: Chain and independent hotels in the city centre and just outside it, plus serviced apartments. Rooms generally include private bathrooms, tea and coffee facilities, television and internet access, with some offering parking nearby and adapted rooms.
- Splurge: Larger hotels with extensive facilities such as health clubs, restaurants and conference rooms, and an upscale country hotel in a Georgian mansion outside the city. These are aimed at travellers wanting more space, dining on site or event facilities.
Best area for a first visit
For a first visit, base yourself in the city centre around the Old Market Square. It puts the castle, the Lace Market and the main shopping streets within walking distance, and it is the most straightforward area to reach by tram, bus or on foot from the railway station. Staying here means you spend your time seeing the city rather than travelling across it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a car to stay in Nottingham?
No. The city centre is compact and walkable, and the city is served by a railway station, a tram system and a large bus network. A car is only useful if you plan to stay in the outlying or countryside locations.
Which area is best for nightlife?
The city centre around the Old Market Square is the most convenient base for going out, since it is where the main square and central streets are. Note that some central hostels have reports of noisy parties at night, so if you want nightlife on your doorstep but quiet when you sleep, choose carefully within the centre.
Where should I stay if I want a quiet location?
The Castle Marina area is described as a peaceful marina location, and the countryside locations outside the city are quieter still. Both are less convenient for walking to the central sights.
Is there anywhere to stay for a longer visit with self-catering facilities?
Yes. Serviced apartments are available near the city centre, with facilities suited to a long-term stay, and budget hostels in the centre provide shared kitchens.
Compare live prices for the areas that suit you using the booking tools on this page.