The City of Caves in Nottingham is one of Britain’s most unusual underground attractions, revealing a hidden world carved into the soft sandstone beneath the city streets. This guide explains its history, what to expect on your visit, how to book tickets, and practical information on opening times and parking.
History and overview of the City of Caves
Beneath Nottingham’s city centre lies a network of more than 800 man-made caves, some dating back over a thousand years. These were carved into the easily worked sandstone bedrock and used for a wide range of purposes — from homes and storage areas to tanneries and air-raid shelters. The City of Caves attraction showcases part of this network, offering an atmospheric journey through the layers of Nottingham’s past.
The caves were first mentioned in the 13th century, when local records referred to them as “Tiggua Cobauc”, or Place of Caves. Over the centuries, they became vital to city life, providing cool, damp conditions for brewing and tanning. In the Victorian era, overcrowded workers’ families even lived underground, using the caves as makeshift housing during times of poverty.
During the Second World War, parts of the cave system were converted into air-raid shelters to protect Nottingham’s residents from bombing raids. Visitors can still see benches, bunk beds and wall markings from that time. These remnants make it one of the most tangible surviving links to the city’s wartime experience.
Today, the site is managed by the National Justice Museum and operates as a heritage attraction. Visitors can explore the original passageways with guided or self-led audio tours, discovering how the caves evolved from medieval workshops to modern-day museum exhibits.
What to see and experience underground
Visitors enter through the Broadmarsh area, descending beneath the streets to discover atmospheric chambers and winding tunnels. Exhibits highlight how the caves were once used for tanning leather, brewing ale, and housing some of Nottingham’s poorest residents. Displays and sound effects bring the stories vividly to life, revealing the darker and more practical sides of life beneath the city.
Interactive displays and a detailed audio guide explain the archaeological discoveries made during excavations, while illuminated chambers make the sandstone walls glow with an amber light. The experience typically lasts 45 to 60 minutes, though visitors are free to explore at their own pace.
Ticket prices, opening hours and how to book
Tickets can be booked online through the official City of Caves website. As of October 2025, ticket prices are as follows:
- Adults: £11
- Children (5–17): £9
- Under 5s: Free
- Family ticket (2 adults + 2 children): £29.95
Opening hours are generally 10am – 5pm every day, with last entry around 4pm.
Getting there and parking near the City of Caves
The entrance to the City of Caves is located at the bottom of Garner’s Hill, next to Nottingham Contemporary art gallery, and just a short walk from Old Market Square. Nottingham Station is about 10 minutes away on foot, making public transport the easiest option.
For those arriving by car, the nearest parking is available at the Broadmarsh Car Park on Canal Street (NG1 7EL), which is less than two minutes’ walk from the entrance. Alternative options include the Lace Market and Trinity Square car parks.
Accessibility and visitor tips
- The caves are reached via steep steps and uneven ground, so the attraction is not accessible for wheelchairs or pushchairs.
- Wear sturdy shoes and a light jacket — the caves remain cool and damp even in summer.
- Photography is permitted, but flash is not recommended as it can affect lighting conditions underground.
- Visitors can combine their ticket with the National Justice Museum for a discounted joint entry.
- Guided tours run at set times and are included in the ticket price.
Frequently asked questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does the tour take? | Allow around 45 – 60 minutes to explore the full underground trail. |
| Are the caves suitable for children? | Yes, but the uneven surfaces may not suit very young children or prams. |
| Can I visit without booking in advance? | Walk-up tickets are sometimes available, but advance booking is advised at weekends and holidays. |
| Is it cold underground? | Yes, temperatures stay cool year-round, so bring a jacket even in summer. |
| Can I visit both the City of Caves and the National Justice Museum? | Yes — combined tickets are available at a reduced rate when booked together. |
More East Midlands travel
Other East Midlands travel stories on Planet Whitley include:
- 9 reasons to visit Nottingham.
- The extraordinary sacrifices of the Eyam plague village.
- Planning a visit to the Cromford Mills in Derbyshire.
- Twycross Zoo visitor guide.
- A practical guide to visiting Ashby-de-la-Zouch Castle.
