Welcome to Nottingham. This is your city. What will you make of it?
1. It's the perfect city for students
Nottingham bustles with students — we're home to two major universities, attracting over 60,000 students across the city.
We have one of the youngest populations of any major UK city. Our bustling nightlife, safe and diverse culture makes Nottingham a dream destination. Check out our guide to the city for a taste of what to expect.
2. Mouth-watering food and drink
Nottingham's food and drink scene is bursting with flavours from across the world, making it perfect for budget diners or those looking for haute cuisine.
Our restaurants and cafes will transport your taste buds from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the rustic pizzerias of Naples. Pop down to Sneinton Market for delicious street food at the weekend, or swing by Market Square for the yearly German Christmas market.
3. A sporting city like no other
Nottingham boasts Europe's highest number of sports facilities per person and is home to two football teams, including Notts County, the world’s oldest professional club.
With iconic venues like Trent Bridge cricket ground, the National Water Sports Centre, and the National Ice Centre—home of the Nottingham Panthers—there’s something for every sports fan. From tennis and squash to archery and roller derby, Nottingham truly has it all!
4. Getting around is so easy
Nottingham has an extensive bus and tram service that reaches almost anywhere in the city — including all five NTU campuses. Frequent bus services connect Clifton and Brackenhurst directly to the city centre, while modern cycling lanes provide eco-friendly travel options.
Nottingham also offers excellent connections to major cities like London, Manchester and Birmingham via train. For international flights, East Midlands Airport is just a short trip away, easily accessible by the Skylink bus service which runs 24 hours a day.
Join our students for a taste of Nottingham’s famous nightlife.
5. One of the best nights out in the UK
Nottingham has been awarded the prestigious Purple Flag for 13 consecutive years, recognising it as one of the UK’s safest and most enjoyable places for a night out. From chic cocktail bars and hidden alleyway pubs to cosy spots perfect for catching up with friends, the city has something for everyone.
Looking to dance the night away? Clubs like The Palais and Ocean have you covered. Prefer a laid-back evening? Relax with friends at board game cafés and casual venues such as The Dice Cup and Café Sobar.
For a taste of what Nottingham after dark has to offer, check out our nightlife guide.
6. We’re a city for culture vultures
Nottingham has something for everyone. Enjoy world-class performances at the Theatre Royal and Nottingham Playhouse, or immerse yourself in contemporary art at the Nottingham Contemporary gallery.
History enthusiasts can explore Nottingham Castle or visit Wollaton Hall, famously featured as Wayne Manor in The Dark Knight Rises. For film fans, the Broadway cinema in Hockley is a must-visit, offering everything from blockbusters to indie gems and world cinema.
7. Green spaces galore
Nottingham is perfectly positioned for outdoor adventures. A short drive or train ride will take you to some of the world’s most stunning countryside. Don’t miss a visit to the legendary Sherwood Forest or a day exploring the breathtaking Peak District National Park.
Closer to home Nottingham offers plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy. The Arboretum, right next to the City Campus, is perfect for relaxing on a sunny weekend or unwinding after a busy day.
8. A vibrant music scene
For music lovers Nottingham is the place to be. We boat the 10,000-capacity Motorpoint Arena, as well the iconic Rock City and various other intimate venues. Dance enthusiasts flock to Stealth, while Rescue Rooms showcases everything from big-name artists to rising stars.
Summer brings even more excitement with Splendour Festival set against the stunning backdrop of Wollaton Hall & Deer Park. Just a short trip away, Donington Park hosts Download Festival, a must-visit for punks and metalheads worldwide.
9. A city committed to sustainability
As one of the world’s most sustainable universities, NTU leads by example as one of the world's most sustainable universities, and Nottingham shares this vision with its ambitious goal to become the UK’s first carbon-neutral city by 2028.
Nottingham excels in green energy innovation, including a biomass power station at nearby Widmerpool that provides eco-friendly electricity to thousands of homes. The city’s commitment extends to transportation as we boast some of the greenest buses in the UK.
10. We like to shop – a lot!
Nottingham is consistently ranked among the UK’s top shopping destinations, offering a mix of high-street favourites and designer boutiques such as Vivienne Westwood and Paul Smith.
Head to the Victoria Centre to find popular brands like Boots, River Island, and Urban Outfitters, or explore the city’s thriving independent shopping scene. Don’t miss the beloved White Rose charity shops, perfect for discovering second-hand vintage treasures.
From big-name brands to unique finds, Nottingham has something for every shopper.
Join final year student Nicole on a shopping trip around the city.
Find out more about life in Nottingham
Life in Nottingham
Whether you’re looking for a night out or want to relax and unwind in a quiet cafe, Nottingham has something for everyone in its affordable variety of attractions, shopping venues, nightlife, and natural spaces.
Nottingham travel
Two hours from London, three hours from Scotland – Nottingham’s in the centre of England and very well connected to other parts of the country. Find travel advice on getting to Nottingham and getting around the city.
Open days and events
Our open days and events are the perfect way to see for yourself what makes life and learning at NTU so special. We can't wait to meet you.