Watson Fothergill Walk: Architecture of Victorian Nottingham Guided Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Why did the Victorians think a mortgage was like a monkey?
How can one architect have two names on one building?
What links one of Nottingham's foremost Victorian architects with Mick Jagger and Thomas Hardy?
All these and more questions will be answered on an entertaining and informative guided walk around the buildings of architect Watson Fothergill in Nottingham City Centre. Learn about the buildings of one of Nottingham's most prominent Victorian architects, his signature style and the influence of the Gothic on the city's buildings. A walk of approximately 3km (1.86 miles). There will be an opportunity for refreshments at the end of the walk.
Participants are asked to come prepared for appropriate weather eventualities and to wear footwear suitable for city walking.
Meet outside Nottingham Tourism Centre on Smithy Row (next to Council House).
Available options
Tour of Victorian Architecture
Duration: 2 hours: Just over 2 hours with opportunity to see inside Fothergill's pub at the end of the route.<br/>Watson Fothergill Walk: Explore the buildings of architect Watson Fothergill in Nottingham.
What's included
Walking tour of Nottingham looking at the architecture of Watson Fothergill
Detailed itinerary
1
View the exterior of one of Nottingham's most unusual buildings and learn about its architecture and history.
2
The walking tour covers Nottingham's historic city centre including the Market Square, Lace Market and Castle Quarter.
3
The exterior of this building is well worth a look (you can come back later and look inside as it's now a Sports Bar)
4
Another building by the architect Watson Fothergill, there is the option to go inside the pub and restaurant at the end of the walk.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
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Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Wheelchair and scooter users are welcome but please check with organiser as some steps involved at end of walk. Otherwise is on pavements and pedestrian streets.
Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
Please contact organiser if you wish to bring children under 16
Meeting point
Meet outside the Tourism Centre, next to Patisserie Valerie, beside the Council House off the main Market Square.
Important notes
Show tickets to the guide (Lucy) on arrival at meeting point.
About Nottingham
Nottingham is a historic city in the East Midlands of England, famous for its association with the legendary outlaw Robin Hood. The city offers a rich blend of history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty, including the famous Sherwood Forest. Nottingham's caves, medieval architecture, and lively arts scene make it a unique and appealing destination.
Top Attractions
Nottingham Castle
Nottingham Castle is a historic site with a museum and art gallery. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich history, including its connection to the legend of Robin Hood.
Historical
2-3 hours
£10-£15
Sherwood Forest
Sherwood Forest is a famous woodland area known for its association with the legend of Robin Hood. The forest offers beautiful walking trails, wildlife spotting, and the iconic Major Oak.
Nature
Half a day to a full day
£7-£10 for the visitor centre and park entry
Nottingham City of Caves
Nottingham City of Caves is a network of over 500 man-made caves beneath the city. The caves have been used for various purposes throughout history, including as dwellings, tanneries, and even air-raid shelters.
Historical
1-2 hours
£8-£10
Wollaton Hall and Deer Park
Wollaton Hall is a grand Elizabethan mansion set in a beautiful deer park. The hall houses the Nottingham Natural History Museum, while the park offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
Historical/Nature
2-3 hours
Free entry to the park, £5-£8 for the hall and museum
Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall
The Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall are Nottingham's premier venues for live performances, hosting a wide range of shows, including theatre, comedy, and music.
Entertainment
Varies depending on the performance
Varies depending on the event
Must-Try Local Dishes
Nottingham Pudding
A traditional Nottingham dessert made with layers of jam, sponge, and custard, baked together and served with cream or ice cream.
Dessert
Contains gluten, dairy, and eggs. Vegetarian.
Stamin' Stan's Famous Pork Pies
A local specialty made with a hot water crust pastry and filled with seasoned pork. These pork pies are a popular snack in Nottingham and can be found in various shops and markets throughout the city.
Snack
Contains pork and gluten. Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans.
Nottingham's Craft Beer
Nottingham has a thriving craft beer scene, with several local breweries producing a wide range of beers. Be sure to try some of the city's craft beers at one of its many pubs or beer festivals.
Drink
Contains gluten. Not suitable for those with gluten allergies or intolerances.
Popular Activities
Hiking in Sherwood Forest
Cycling in Clumber Park
Rock climbing at the National Indoor Arena
Walking in Wollaton Park
Picnicking in the Arboretum
Enjoying a spa day at the Notts Spa and Retreat
Visiting the Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery
Exploring the Lace Market Museum
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the warmest time of the year with long daylight hours, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions. The city hosts various festivals and events during these months.
15-25°C
59-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
British Pound (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (Greenwich Mean Time) or GMT+1 (British Summer Time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Nottingham is generally a safe city for visitors, with low levels of violent crime. However, as with any city, petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas or on public transport. Take precautions to protect your belongings and be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or on public transport.
- • Use licensed taxis or rideshare services, and avoid getting into unmarked or unlicensed vehicles.
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Getting there
By air
- East Midlands Airport • 20 miles (32 km)
- Nottingham Airport • 6 miles (10 km)
By train
Nottingham Station
By bus
Nottingham Station Street, Nottingham Broad Marsh
Getting around
Public transport
NCT operates a comprehensive network of buses throughout the city and surrounding areas. The buses are frequent, reliable, and affordable, making them a convenient way to get around.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
The Lace Market
Hockley
Sneinton
West Bridgford
Day trips
Derby
15 miles (24 km) • Half a day to a full day
Derby is a historic city in the East Midlands, known for its rich industrial heritage and cultural attractions. The city is home to a number of museums, galleries, and historic sites, as well as a vibrant food and drink scene.
Lincoln
35 miles (56 km) • Full day
Lincoln is a historic city in the East Midlands, known for its stunning cathedral and medieval castle. The city is home to a number of museums, galleries, and historic sites, as well as a vibrant food and drink scene.
Chatsworth House
20 miles (32 km) • Half a day to a full day
Chatsworth House is a stunning stately home located in the heart of the Derbyshire countryside. The house is home to a number of art collections, as well as beautiful gardens and parkland.
Festivals
Goose Fair • October
Nottingham Shakespeare Festival • July
Nottingham Beer Festival • June
Pro tips
- Visit Nottingham Castle and the City of Caves to learn about the city's rich history and unique underground network.
- Explore Sherwood Forest and the Major Oak to experience the natural beauty and legendary stories of Robin Hood.
- Stroll through the Lace Market and Hockley areas to discover independent shops, cafes, and street art.
- Sample the city's diverse food scene, from traditional British pubs to international cuisine and craft beer.
- Take a day trip to nearby towns and cities, such as Derby, Lincoln, or Chatsworth House, to explore the wider region.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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