Visiting Nottingham, the home of Robin Hood
November 11th, 2008 at 02:05pm Under Travel and Leisure
Nottingham is the largest city in the East Midlands. Over the years, it has seen many varied settlers. n Anglo Saxon times it was home of a Saxon chieftain named Snot and was dubbed Snotingaham. Then in 867 AD Vikings from Denmark captured the town and they held onto the fortified town along with 4 other similar towns.
Although the city was renowned for producing wonderful lace, earlier on, in the 15th century, the city was also famous for alabaster religious sculptures that were exported across the world. At the time of the industrial revolution again it was renowned for the textiles that were manufactured in it. However, during the Second World War this came to an end as no longer were they able to compete with the textiles being produced in South Asia and the Far East. In recent times, the buildings associated with the textile industry have been restored to their former glory.
So just what is there for you to do when you visit Nottingham?
1. The Tales Of Robin Hood – Go back in time to the medieval forests that were reputedly used by Robin Hood and his Merry Men. There is not only wonderful films and live shows to watch and enjoy but there is a ride available in 7 languages and you could even have a try at some archery as well.
2. The Galleries Of Justice – On this historic site you can learn about 300 years of crime and punishment that occurred in the city. Situated at the heart of the Lace Market which is located in the very centre of the city. The site was used as a prison and court until around 20 years ago. One of the “displays” is an actual reconstruction of a Victorian trial and see the prisoner be sentenced and then taken down to the cells. You also have a chance to explore the medieval caves below the courts and cells as well.
3. Wollaton Hall & Park – Also has a natural history museum and is situated 3 miles west of the city of Nottingham. The House which dates from the Elizabethan times was the brainchild of Robert Smythson and was completed back in 1588. You can look around the house and the Natural History Museum there are also some five hundred acres of parkland surrounding the house. You can also explore the fascinating Tudor kitchens in the hall.
Find your Nottingham hotel or guest house here.
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