Old Market Square
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Old Market Square

4.5
·1k reviews·Nottingham, United Kingdom

Nottingham's historic heart, a grand public square featuring iconic architecture, fountains, and vibrant seasonal events.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Old Market Square

Old Market Square

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Nottingham's historic heart, a grand public square featuring iconic architecture, fountains, and vibrant seasonal events.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful place with impressive architecture, perfect for a day out and photography."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Photography Hotspot

The Council House and stone lions are perfect for photos. Visit early for fewer crowds!

📅 Check Event Schedule

The square hosts markets, Christmas events, and summer beaches. Plan around these for unique experiences!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Nottingham Council House

Nottingham Council House

North side of the square

Iconic landmark with impressive architecture, a symbol of Nottingham's civic pride.

The Stone Lions

The Stone Lions

Central area of the square

Majestic stone lions that are a popular spot for photos and a symbol of the city.

Seasonal Events

Seasonal Events

Throughout the square

From the magical Winter Wonderland to the summer Beach in the City, experience the square transformed.

Modern Fountains

Modern Fountains

Central area of the square

Interactive fountains that add a refreshing and playful element to the urban landscape.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Old Market Square buzzes with activity, especially during seasonal events like the Christmas Market or Nottingham Beach. For a more relaxed experience, aim for weekdays outside of peak event times. Check local listings for any upcoming festivals or markets to plan your visit accordingly.

Embrace the Events

This square is a hub for Nottingham's vibrant event scene, from festive winter wonderlands to summer beach setups. If you're visiting during these times, expect crowds but also a fantastic atmosphere. Book any associated attractions or dining in advance.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
During seasonal events
Why
Vibrant atmosphere, festive fun
Crowd
High
When
Evening strolls
Why
Beautifully lit, charming ambiance
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Huge St George's flag unfurled in Nottingham's Old Market Market Square #eNGLAND #STGEORGESDAY2024
@bonnielad20
63.8K likes • 783.9K views

📸 Photography Hotspot

The Council House and stone lions are perfect for photos. Visit early for fewer crowds! TikTokReddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

The square hosts markets, Christmas events, and summer beaches. Plan around these for unique experiences! TikTok+1

Nottingham attacks: Vigil begins in Old Market Square in memory of three killed #nottingham #vigil #uk
@itvnews
23.9K likes • 289.9K views
🎄 @Nottingham Winter Wonderland Returns!🎄 The countdown to Christmas is on! 🎅🎁 Get your Santa hat ready and head down to Old Market Square from Wednesday 13th November as Nottingham Winter Wonderland returns for festive fun until New Year’s Eve! ⛸❄️ 🎄What’s in store this year: 🏙️Sky Skate Ice Path – Glide above the city and take in the stunning views! 🐧⛸Family & Kids' Ice Rinks – Perfect for skat...
@visitnottinghamshire
2K likes • 81.5K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

It's a great starting point for exploring Nottingham's caves and historic pubs. Reddit

💧 Fountains Fun

The modern fountains are a hit, especially with kids. Be prepared to get a little wet! TikTok

Part of Old Market Square cordoned off following reports of people inside former Debenhams building #nottingham #crime #police
@nottinghamshirelive
1.7K likes • 41.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Photography Hotspot

The Council House and stone lions are perfect for photos. Visit early for fewer crowds! TikTokReddit

📅 Check Event Schedule

The square hosts markets, Christmas events, and summer beaches. Plan around these for unique experiences! TikTok+1

🚶‍♀️ Explore Nearby

It's a great starting point for exploring Nottingham's caves and historic pubs. Reddit

💧 Fountains Fun

The modern fountains are a hit, especially with kids. Be prepared to get a little wet! TikTok

🛍️ Shopping Hub

Surrounded by shops, it's ideal for a day of retail therapy and people-watching. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Old Market Square is a historically significant and visually appealing public space in Nottingham, praised for its architecture, central location, and vibrant seasonal events like the Christmas Market and Nottingham Beach. While many enjoy its lively atmosphere and surrounding amenities, some visitors have expressed concerns about cleanliness and public order issues.

"Old Market Square, officially established in the 11th century, is the historic and cultural centerpiece of Nottingham. As one of the largest public spaces in the UK, it has served as a marketplace, gathering place, and civic heart for nearly a thousand years.

The square is beautifully designed, with modern fountains, open seating areas, and a great view of the iconic Nottingham Council House. It's a lively space surrounded by shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it ideal for both tourists and locals. Throughout the year, it hosts seasonal events such as the Christmas Market, Beach in the City, and cultural festivals that bring energy and color to the city.

Easily accessible by foot or public transport, it’s also a great meeting point or starting place to explore Nottingham. The mix of history, architecture, and activity makes it a must-visit spot in the city.

A wonderful place to relax, or learn about Nottingham's rich heritage."

MUSTAFA FARAJ

"Went here the other day for site seeing as I am new to the area and visiting. Overall very beautiful architecture and found myself wanting to take pictures of the area as I do photography as a hobby. The area is accessible and has lots of shops and restaurants nearby. Perfect for a day out."

Josh Buxton

"Unfortunately, I always see so many litters, trash, homeless people and young people who are drinking around the city centre that it always feels unsafe to come for me and my girls..."

Edita R

What People Like

Impressive architecture
Central location
Vibrant seasonal events

What People Dislike

Cleanliness concerns
Public order issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Old Market Square is centrally located in Nottingham city centre and is easily accessible by public transport. Numerous bus routes stop nearby, and it's a short walk from Nottingham train station. If driving, there are several car parks within walking distance, though they can be busy. Reddit

Yes, Old Market Square is approximately a 10-minute walk from Nottingham Castle, making it easy to combine visits to both attractions. Reddit

Buses are a very convenient option, with many routes serving the city centre. Walking is also ideal if you're already in the city centre. Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. Reddit

Nottingham has park and ride facilities on the outskirts of the city, which can be a good option to avoid city centre traffic and parking costs. From the park and ride, you can take a bus or tram into the city centre, getting off near Old Market Square. Reddit

The square is generally flat and accessible, with ramps and smooth surfaces. Public transport options also cater to accessibility needs. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Old Market Square is a public space and is free to enter and explore at any time. Reddit

As an open public square, it is accessible 24/7. However, individual shops, cafes, and attractions surrounding the square will have their own operating hours. Reddit

Entry to the square itself is always free. Some specific events, like the Christmas Market or ticketed attractions within the square, may have associated costs. TikTok+1

Yes, the square is open at night and is often beautifully lit, offering a different ambiance. However, be mindful of your surroundings, as with any city centre at night. TikTok

To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on weekday mornings. Weekends and evenings, especially during events, tend to be much busier. Reddit

🎫 📍 Onsite Experience

Key attractions include the iconic Nottingham Council House, the stone lions, and the modern interactive fountains. The square also hosts seasonal events like the Christmas Market and Nottingham Beach. TikTokReddit+1

Absolutely! The square is surrounded by numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants offering a wide variety of food and drink options to suit all tastes. Reddit

Yes, it's a very popular spot for photography due to its impressive architecture, the Council House, and the stone lions. The fountains also offer dynamic photo opportunities. TikTokReddit

The square is a hub for events, including the Nottingham Winter Wonderland, Christmas markets, Nottingham Beach in the summer, and various civic ceremonies and festivals. TikTok+2

The fountains were temporarily closed due to a faulty electrical system but there are plans for their return. It's best to check local updates for their current operational status. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The Nottingham Council House provides a stunning backdrop, especially with the stone lions in the foreground. The fountains offer dynamic shots, and the general architecture of the surrounding buildings is also very photogenic. TikTokReddit

Early mornings offer softer light and fewer people, ideal for capturing the architecture without crowds. Evenings can be magical with the square lit up, but may be busier. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permission from the local council. Reddit

Drone usage in urban public spaces like Old Market Square is typically subject to strict regulations and may require permits. It's advisable to check with Nottingham City Council before flying a drone. Reddit

For the Council House and lions, a wider lens is good. For the fountains, consider a tripod for longer exposures to capture water movement. For evening shots, a higher ISO or wider aperture will be beneficial. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Old Market Square is a fantastic spot for families. The interactive fountains are a huge hit, offering a fun way for kids to cool down on warmer days (just be prepared for them to get wet!). TikTok During summer, the Nottingham Beach event transforms the square into a sandy playground, providing hours of entertainment. TikTok The open space is great for little ones to move around, and the surrounding cafes offer convenient spots for snacks and breaks. Keep an eye out for seasonal events like the Winter Wonderland which often has family-friendly activities. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Old Market Square is a dream. The Nottingham Council House offers a grand architectural subject, especially when framed by the iconic stone lions. TikTok The fountains provide dynamic opportunities for capturing movement, and the general streetscape is rich with detail. Visiting during the golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) will yield the best light. Reddit Consider visiting during a seasonal event for unique, vibrant shots, but be prepared for crowds. TikTok

🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies

Old Market Square is the heart of Nottingham's shopping and dining scene. It's surrounded by a wide array of high street brands, independent boutiques, and department stores. Reddit After a shopping spree, you're spoiled for choice with numerous cafes, traditional pubs, and diverse restaurants offering everything from quick bites to full meals. Reddit It's the perfect place to refuel and people-watch.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Thousand Years of History

Old Market Square, officially established in the 11th century, is the historic and cultural heart of Nottingham. For nearly a millennium, it has served as a vital marketplace, a gathering place for citizens, and the civic center of the city. Its longevity means it has witnessed countless historical events and transformations, reflecting the evolving identity of Nottingham. The square's design has changed over the centuries, but its role as a central public space has remained constant. TikTok+2

The Nottingham Council House, a prominent landmark on the north side of the square, was completed in 1929 and is a testament to the city's architectural heritage. Its grand design and clock tower are instantly recognizable. The square has also been the site of significant public gatherings, including vigils and celebrations, underscoring its importance in the community's collective memory. TikTok+1

While the square has seen its share of challenges, including concerns about litter and public order, its enduring significance as a public space is undeniable. It continues to be a focal point for both daily life and special occasions in Nottingham, a place where history meets the present. Reddit

Seasonal Spectacles: Events at Old Market Square

Old Market Square truly comes alive with its diverse range of seasonal events, transforming the urban landscape into something magical. During the winter months, it hosts the much-anticipated Nottingham Winter Wonderland, featuring an ice skating rink, festive markets, and twinkling lights, creating a quintessential Christmas experience. TikTok+2

In the summer, the square is reimagined as Nottingham Beach, complete with sand, deckchairs, and family-friendly activities, offering a unique urban escape. TikTok These events draw large crowds and contribute significantly to the city's festive atmosphere, making them a highlight for both locals and tourists. TikTok

Beyond these major events, the square also serves as a venue for various other gatherings, from civic ceremonies to cultural festivals and protests. TikTok+2 Checking the local event listings before your visit is highly recommended to catch these special occasions and experience the square at its most vibrant.

Navigating the Square: Practicalities and Perceptions

Old Market Square is a central hub, making it easily accessible and a convenient starting point for exploring Nottingham. Its open design and proximity to shops, cafes, and historic sites like the caves and pubs are frequently praised. Reddit+1 The modern fountains add a dynamic element, often enjoyed by visitors, though their operational status can vary. TikTok

However, some visitors have noted concerns regarding cleanliness, litter, and the presence of homeless individuals or public intoxication, which can detract from the experience for some. Reddit+1 While the square is a public space with a lively atmosphere, it's advisable for visitors to be aware of their surroundings, especially during evenings or large events. Reddit

Despite these challenges, the square remains a significant landmark, appreciated for its architecture and its role in hosting community events. TikTokReddit Many find it a beautiful place for photography and a good base for exploring the city's offerings. Reddit