Council House and Exchange Arcade
Elegant Victorian shopping arcade with stunning glass domes, housing high-end boutiques and a charming café.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Council House and Exchange Arcade
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Elegant Victorian shopping arcade with stunning glass domes, housing high-end boutiques and a charming café.
"A beautiful arcade full of high-end selective shops with wonderful architecture and light."
🛍️ Browse Unique Boutiques
Explore high-end and independent shops for unique fashion and gifts. A must-visit for curated finds!
🍰 Sweet Treats at Patisserie Valerie
Enjoy delicious, freshly made cakes and a friendly atmosphere. Perfect for a mid-shopping break.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Architecture
Throughout the arcade
Marvel at the stunning Victorian architecture, featuring elegant glass domes that bathe the arcade in natural light.
Boutique Shopping Experience
Various shops
Discover a curated selection of high-end and independent shops, perfect for unique finds and special gifts.
Patisserie Valerie
Inside Exchange Arcade
Indulge in freshly made cakes and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere at this popular café.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Nottingham's Architectural Gem
Beyond Shopping: Art & Eats
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Browse Unique Boutiques
Explore high-end and independent shops for unique fashion and gifts. A must-visit for curated finds!
🍰 Sweet Treats at Patisserie Valerie
Enjoy delicious, freshly made cakes and a friendly atmosphere. Perfect for a mid-shopping break.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
Take time to appreciate the beautiful Victorian design and natural light from the glass domes.
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible in the city center, making it a convenient stop during your day out.
Fun things/activities to do in city centre
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Browse Unique Boutiques
Explore high-end and independent shops for unique fashion and gifts. A must-visit for curated finds!
🍰 Sweet Treats at Patisserie Valerie
Enjoy delicious, freshly made cakes and a friendly atmosphere. Perfect for a mid-shopping break.
🏛️ Admire the Architecture
Take time to appreciate the beautiful Victorian design and natural light from the glass domes.
📍 Central Location
Easily accessible in the city center, making it a convenient stop during your day out.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Exchange Arcade for its beautiful Victorian architecture and the unique selection of high-end and independent shops, offering a more relaxed shopping experience than larger malls. The charming Patisserie Valerie is a highlight for refreshments. Some note that shop access can sometimes feel a bit disconnected from the main arcade interior.
"It's a beautiful arcade that is full of high end selective shops. The architecture and light is wonderful.
The shops are really worth browsing around for curiosity or that special gift.
Good access to all and very central.
A must pop in on your visit."
Robert Bull
"There’s a great selection of high-end and independent shops, and it’s usually much quieter than the busier malls like Victoria Centre"
James Thompson
"A few shops, I was especially excited about the cheese one, it's got lots of interesting stuff, even hot sauces, funky chocolate bars etc"
Valeriia Ryzhova
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Council House and Exchange Arcade are centrally located in Nottingham's Old Market Square. You can easily reach them by public transport, with numerous bus routes stopping nearby. If driving, several car parks are within walking distance, though they can be pricey. It's a great spot to explore on foot once you're in the city center.
Yes, there are several car parks close to the Exchange Arcade, including the Lace Market Car Park and the Broadmarsh Car Park. However, these can get busy, especially on weekends. Consider public transport if possible.
Absolutely! Nottingham train station is a short and pleasant walk (about 10-15 minutes) to the city center where the Exchange Arcade is located. It's a good option if you're arriving by train.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Exchange Arcade itself is free. It's a public shopping arcade, so you can wander through and browse the shops without needing a ticket.
The arcade's general opening hours usually align with the surrounding shops, typically from around 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, with shorter hours on Sundays. Individual shop hours may vary.
The Council House itself is a working civic building. While you can admire its exterior and the surrounding Old Market Square, access to specific areas or tours might require booking or have associated fees. The Exchange Arcade, however, is free to enter.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The Exchange Arcade is known for its selection of high-end and independent boutiques. You'll find fashion retailers, gift shops, and specialty stores offering unique items not typically found in larger malls.
Yes, Patisserie Valerie is a popular café located within the Exchange Arcade, offering cakes, pastries, and light refreshments. It's a great spot for a break.
Definitely! The arcade's focus on independent and high-end shops makes it an excellent place to find unique gifts, from artisanal food items to distinctive fashion accessories.
Many visitors find the Exchange Arcade to be a more relaxed and less crowded shopping experience compared to larger malls like Victoria Centre, making it ideal for a peaceful browse.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The Exchange Arcade is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture, characterized by its elegant design, ornate details, and distinctive glass-covered roof that floods the space with natural light.
The arcade is generally flat and accessible, with entrances from the street. However, some individual shops might have their own specific accessibility features. It's always a good idea to check with individual stores if you have specific needs.
The Council House is an iconic landmark in Nottingham's Old Market Square, serving as the city's administrative center. Its grand architecture and prominent location make it a focal point of the city.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that the shops are primarily high-end boutiques, so it might be more of a 'look, don't touch' experience for very young children. However, the overall atmosphere is pleasant and less chaotic than larger shopping centers, which can be a plus for families seeking a calmer outing.
🛍️ Shoppers Seeking Unique Finds
Take your time to explore each shop; many visitors find hidden gems by browsing thoroughly. The relaxed atmosphere allows for a more personal shopping experience, and the beautiful surroundings add to the enjoyment of finding that perfect item.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer lighting conditions. Don't forget to frame shots that include both the architecture and the vibrant displays of the shops for a dynamic composition. It's a visually rich environment that rewards a keen eye.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Victorian Elegance
Stepping into the arcade feels like stepping back in time, with its intricate detailing and classic shopfronts. It's a place where curiosity is rewarded, with shops offering a carefully selected range of goods. The arcade's central location in Old Market Square makes it easily accessible and a perfect spot to duck into for a moment of calm amidst the city bustle.
While the arcade is primarily known for its shopping, its historical significance and aesthetic appeal make it a destination in its own right. It’s a reminder of Nottingham’s past and a charming space that continues to thrive today, offering a distinct shopping and visual experience.
Curated Shopping and Culinary Delights
One of the standout culinary spots within the arcade is Patisserie Valerie. This popular café is frequently mentioned for its freshly made cakes and pastries, offering a delightful respite for shoppers. Visitors praise the friendly and welcoming service, making it a perfect place to enjoy a coffee and a sweet treat while soaking in the arcade's ambiance.
Beyond the specific shops, the overall shopping experience is described as quieter and more relaxed than busier malls. This allows for a more leisurely exploration of the boutiques, making it ideal for those seeking a less overwhelming retail environment. The arcade truly offers a blend of distinctive shopping and pleasant dining.
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