A Breath of Fresh Air

Nottingham is known for its beautiful green spaces. With over twenty percent of the city devoted to public parks and gardens, a relaxing stroll or bike ride is never too far away. From stunning nature reserves to rolling hills, here’s our pick of the best places to chill – in and immediately outside of the city.

Brackenhurst Campus

Surrounded by water, woodlands and elegant gardens, Brackenhurst is the perfect place to find some peace and quiet. It’s a great escape from the city, and – if you're not already studying here – your chance see a little more of what NTU has to offer. With stunning views, some adorable wildlife and the picturesque market town of Southwell nearby, there's little to rival Brackenhurst on a sunny summer's day.

The Arboretum

Nottingham's oldest public park is also one of its best-kept secrets. Tucked away minutes from our City Campus, it's a treat in every season – from springtime blossom blizzards, to some gorgeous winter snowscapes. Generations of artists and writers have drawn inspiration from this lush, serene park, including Peter Pan author J.M. Barrie. Rest your head on the Arbo's beautifully manicured lawns, and city life will quickly seem a world away.

Wollaton Park

The granddaddy of Nottingham's public spaces, Wollaton Park is a sprawling, deer-filled estate, capped by an iconic centrepiece — the 16th Century triumph of Wollaton Hall, which has been described as "the architectural sensation of its age." So impressive is the building that Batman Begins director Christopher Nolan adopted the Hall as the new Wayne Manor, with the Dark Knight's logo illuminating our skies throughout the summer of 2012. This stunning park is a haven for dog walkers, joggers, picnickers, festival-goers, and – whenever it snows – sledgers and skaters. A true Nottingham institution!

Don't just take our word for it – explore Nottingham and our stunning campuses at one of our open days. One short walk around Nottingham and you'll fall in love.

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Holme Pierrepont

Built to facilitate the training of elite athletes, Holme Pierrepont Country Park has so much more to offer. You can enjoy a walk or cycle along the lakeside paths in the 270 acre country park. Located just to the South of Nottingham City Centre and only 20 minutes away from Clifton, it won’t take you long to connect to nature.

Attenborough Nature Reserve

Named by BBC Wildlife magazine as one of the top-ten 'eco places in the world', the Attenborough Nature Centre stands where the River Erewash meets the Trent. Opened (coincidentally) by Sir David Attenborough, this sprawling reserve of lakes, wetlands, grasslands and scrub is a hugely popular destination for Nottingham's runners, walkers and cyclists. Enjoy the wildlife, drink in the famous pink-skied sunsets, and then treat yourself to a slice of cake at the gorgeous Lakeside Café.

The Peak District

What can we say about the Peak District that hasn't been said already? Whilst it's actually in Derbyshire as opposed to Notts (well, we've got to give them something), the Peaks are a perennially popular attraction for our students, who've been enjoying the walking, riding and climbing on offer here for years. At the weekends, a number of NTU's outdoor societies head straight for the same rolling hills that inspired the Bronte sisters, Lord Byron, and – most importantly – the inventor of Bakewell tarts.

Unforgettable Nights

Nottingham’s nightlife is legendary. You’ll be spoilt for choice in a city that’s stuffed with pubs, clubs, bars and live music venues.

Streets with Style

Nottingham’s a top shopping destination. It has all you need and more, from popular high street chains to unique independent little jewels.