Cheap Things to do in Nottingham
Known as the 'Queen of the Midlands,' Notts is a proper good day out. But, with everyone a bit strapped for cash, we wanted to let you in on some cheap things to do in Nottingham, scroll down and check them out!
Date published: 10th Aug 2022
If you find yourself visiting Nottingham, then you're in for a treat, the city has a diverse range of amazing things to do and see, and you'll struggle to fit it all in. But, bills can quickly rack up, especially if you're with kids. So, we wanted to put together a list of cheap things to do in Nottingham, so you can have a great time without breaking the bank.
Whether you want to explore historic castles and tunnels, you want to see some side-splitting live comedy, or you just want to relax and most around a stunning medieval victorian estate, there are all sorts you can get up to without splashing the cash. So get yourself off trip advisor, and check out our list instead, you won't regret it!
Traverse subterranean Notts at City of Caves
Price: Adult £8.75, Child (5-17) £7.65, Concessions £7.65, Under 5s Free, Joint ticket deals also available
Where: Garner's Hill, Nottingham NG1 1HF
One of the coolest things that Notts has on offer, and all for under a tenner, the City of Caves is the UK's largest network of caves and is fascinating to explore. The over 800 caves carved out of sandstone have had varied purposes over the years as a tannery, public house cellars, and even as an air raid shelter. The tunnels that run under the streets are one of the best cheap things to do in Nottingham and are also very popular with the kids. They'll love exploring the nooks and crannies and may even learn a thing or two whilst they're at it. A word of warning for the giants amongst us, however... watch your head!
Find tickets for events at City of Caves - here
See some up and coming Comedians at Canal House Bar
Price: £2 entry free on Comedy nights, prices may differ for billed acts
Where: 48-52 Canal St, Nottingham NG1 7EH
Who doesn't love a good laugh eh? Well, whilst all your attention for comedy in Nottingham may be at The Glee, the regular comedy nights at the Canal House definitely deserve your attention too. For just £2 you get a night full of up-and-coming comics on the local circuit. Who knows you may see the next Matthew Horne or Sarah Keyworth, and even if you don't, it's a raucously good night that rarely fails to deliver (and even when it doesn't there's a morbid excitement when a comic dies on stage). For so little money it's a no-brainer if you're in the city and have a night to spare. Plus, the Canal house is a pretty great pub in its own right.
Find tickets for comedy at Canal House Bar - here
Relax in one of the many Rooftop Bars or Beer Gardens
Where: All around the city, check our lists below for our recommendations.
For those of you more inclined to chill out and have a boozing session when you're visiting another city, then, when looking for cheap things to do in Nottingham, there are few better things to do than relax in one of its rooftop gardens, or beer gardens. Whether you're after stunning skyline views of the city or a quaint canal-side bevvy, Notts has you covered. It's the perfect place to relax for an afternoon and then realise quite just how much you've had to drink when you eventually stand up and it all rushes to your head.
Find our list of the best Rooftop Bars in Nottingham - here
Find our list of the best Beer Gardens in Nottingham - here
Price: Side Circle Tickets are always £9.99, Tuesdays all tickets are £9.99 (£3 additional for premium ringside)
Where: Forest Recreation Ground, Gregory Boulevard, Nottingham, NG7 6AQ
When was the last time you went to the circus? We imagine it was probably quite a while back, well, that longing to watch people covered in feathers and sparkles get thrown around the stage in death-defying stunts can finally be satisfied when next looking for cheap things to do in Nottingham. Right, so you may not have any longing... but Gandys Circus is still very much worth your time, plus with tickets available for under a tenner, there's no reason for you not to give it a go, plus, the kids will absolutely LOVE it. It's a ton of carefree fun, and should not be missed if you can catch a show. (Just try going on a Tuesday when it's super cheap!)
Find tickets for Gandys Circus - here
Explore the historic grounds of Nottingham Castle
Price: Adult £13.00, Child (5-17) £9.50, Senior / Concession, £12.00
Where: Lenton Rd, Nottingham, NG1 6EL
Indulge in the history of the city at the famous Nottingham Castle, a site where rebellions, riots and royal rows have all played out across its over 1000-year history. Whether you want to learn about its construction by William the Conqueror or you want to discover who Robin Hood really was and all about his clashes with the Sheriff of Nottingham. Well, whether you know Robin Hood as a cartoon Fox or Taron Edgerton, they'll be something for you all to enjoy on your visit. It works really well as a day out alongside the caves, as they are next to each other!
Find tickets for events at Nottingham Castle - here
Get competitive at Ludorati Boardgame Cafe
Price: Can choose between 4 hours plus/day block – £7.50 per person, or an hourly rate of £2.20 per person
Where: 72 Maid Marian Way, Nottingham, NG1 6BJ
There's not much more nostalgic and comforting than sitting down with some friends or family and playing a board game. If you want to capture that feeling, but also maybe try out some cool new board games that you've never heard of, then you've got to check out Ludorati. The board game cafe serves up drinks and cakes to boot alongside their wall of board games that range from the quick and simple to the day-spanningly complex. No matter what type of game you're into they'll have an option, and the lovely staff will even recommend them based on your interests; such a wholesome and fun day out, and a great option when looking for cheap things to do in Nottingham.
Test your innocence at The National Justice Museum
Price: Adult £12.05, Age 5 - 17 £8.75, Under 5s Free, Concessions £10.95
Where: National Justice Museum, High Pavement, Nottingham NG1 1HN
One of the best educational and historical journeys you can go on in the city, the National Museum of Justice is such a cool and unique place to visit. The building is steeped in history, with a court on the site since at least 1375 and a prison since at least 1449. you can journey through how the justice system has changed in this country over the years, and be horrified by some of the injustices of the past. It's great to see how far we've come and is also a great place to take inquisitive kids. One of the best educational cheap things to do in Nottingham.
Find tickets for events at the National Justice Museum - here
Wander around the gardens of Newstead Abbey
Price: Gardens free, just a £6 per car parking charge. Abbey Hosue admission: Adults £12, Children free
Where: Newstead Abbey, Ravenshead, Nottinghamshire, NG15 9HJ
This beautiful historic house is found amidst a beautiful landscape of gardens and parkland and is only a short drive from Nottingham. Founded as a monastic house in the late 12th century, the Abbey was also home to the poet Lord Byron between 1808 - 1814, and you can look around his former study amongst other stunning rooms. Covering over 300 acres, the gardens and parkland include picturesque walks near lakes and waterfalls. Plus the Abbey gardens feature a Japanese garden that is simply one of the most stunning you'll see. A must-visit, and all for under a tenner per car (a bit more if you want to go inside).
Find tickets for events at Newstead Abbey - here
Check out our What's On Guide to discover even more rowdy raves and sweaty gigs taking place over the coming weeks and months. For festivals, lifestyle events and more, head on over to our Things To Do page or be inspired by the event selections on our Inspire Me page.
