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Discover what's going on, make plans for what's around the corner and stay up to date with everything Nottingham city centre – all in one place. Whatever your vibe, Nottingham's got it – and 

A dirty burger and chips being served in a takeaway container. The server is wearing blue catering gloves.

Nottingham Restaurants: The top city centre spots

DHP family celebrates 100 years of dancing at The Palais

Renowed Nottingham photographer to launch new exhibition celebrating Nottinghamshire

Christmas Market at Nottingham Castle - Applications now open!

The Duckies: The first-ever It’s in Nottingham business awards

Become a Nottingham Clean Champion – and play Litter Bug Bingo!

Nine must-visit Indian restaurants in Nottingham city centre

Robin Hood's Adventure Trail - free fun for families!

A woman biting into a cookie, in a restaurant with friends and a table of food and wine.

Nottingham Restaurant Week

Nottingham retains prestigious Purple Flag award for another year!

Make Mum's day in Nottingham city centre

Nottingham Best Bar None assessments are now open!

, there’s a spot for every kind of business in Nottingham city centre to showcase their hard work, innovation, and impact.

bricks-and-mortar, high-street businesses

, carefully selected by our independent judging panel, and can’t wait to celebrate them at the awards ceremony.

Award categories and shortlisted businesses

⭐️ Independent Bar and Pub - sponsored by Hickman James

⭐️ Entertainment and Leisure Venue - sponsored by Fancy Entertainment

⭐️ Health, Wellness and Beauty - sponsored by Boots UK

⭐️ Professional Services - sponsored by Nottingham College

⭐️ Independent Retailer - sponsored by Loqiva

⭐️ Visitor and Culture Venue - sponsored by E.on

Thank you to all the businesses that entered 

 Your passion, dedication, and creativity truly showcase what makes Nottingham’s business community so special. You made this event possible, and we’re grateful for your involvement!

, all entries were carefully reviewed and shortlisted by an 

. From there, the winners were chosen by a panel of 

The Duckies wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of our sponsors - 

Boots, E.ON Energy, Fancy Entertainment, Hickman James, HSBC UK, Loqiva and Nottingham College.

Your commitment to Nottingham’s business community is invaluable, and we couldn’t do this without you. Thank you for helping us make this celebration a reality!

filled with gourmet dining, live entertainment, and the excitement of unveiling Nottingham’s finest.

Let’s give Nottingham’s best the celebration they deserve. See you at 

The very first It’s in Nottingham Business Awards – The Duckies are here, and we’re rolling out the red carpet for the incredible businesses that make our city thrive.

Nottingham is a foodie’s dream, offering a huge variety of cuisines from around the world. From the incredible flavours of Pho (my personal favourite) to independent eateries, street food spots and hidden gems - there's so much to explore.

Whether you're a lifelong local or just here for the weekend, there's always something new to try. We've pulled together a guide to some of the best places to eat in Nottingham city centre - I hope you're hungry!

Not-to-be-missed: Nottingham Restaurant Week

 is back this June, and it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy some incredible meals! You’ll find exclusive deals and mouthwatering offers ranging from £10 to £30.

Whether you’re returning to a favourite or trying somewhere new, it’s a brilliant way to explore the best of Nottingham’s food scene for less.

Nottingham’s city centre is bursting with international cuisines, offering everything from cosy 

. It’s easy to take your tastebuds on a world tour—without ever leaving the city.

Across the city centre, you'll find plenty of authentic options with mouthwatering handmade dishes and cosy atmospheres.

The Cornerhouse, 12 Trinity Sq, Nottingham NG1 4DB

Casual dining and comfort food - Nottingham's laid back food scene

Want to combine great food, great company and the opportunity to kick back and relax? You'll find plenty of great spots in Nottingham that hit the spot: bold flavours, big portions and great vibes.

 fresh from the oven, these casual restaurants in Nottingham are ideal for unfussy, feel-good food. Many also offer late-night service - perfect for a spontaneous bite or chilled evening out.

Plant-based dining: Nottingham's top veggie & vegan spots

The plant-based scene in Nottingham is thriving, with creative, colourful, and satisfying dishes popping up across the city centre. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to cut down on meat, you’ll find plenty of flavour-packed options.

Across Nottingham city centre, you'll find restaurants offering a wide range of 

Make sure you don't miss No. Twelve, Nottingham's award-winning entirely plant-based restaurant, right in the heart of the city centre.

 - Nottingham has some excellent places to relax and refuel.

Here's a couple of our must-try experiences:

Combine delicious treats with a new hobby with a Crafternoon Tea at Debbie Bryan

Enjoy bottomless brunch in a beautiful converted church at Pitcher and Piano

Explore the heart of Nottingham's indie scene with breakfast at yolk

Nottingham is a fantastic city for families, and you'll find plenty of 

 throughout the city centre. From menus designed especially for little ones to welcoming, relaxed spaces where parents can unwind - there are loads of great options to choose from.

You'll find loads of great-value kids meals, from pizzas to katsu curry - and tried-and-tested favourites like fish and chips. Whether you're popping in for lunch during a day out or enjoying a 

 together, Nottingham’s family-friendly restaurants have got you covered.

For somewhere tried, tested and truly loved by locals, 

 are a great place to start. These are the places that have been feeding the city for years - in some cases, decades - with consistent quality, friendly service and loyal customers.

From tandoori restaurants to historic British pubs, these gems have stood the test of time and become woven into the fabric of the city. Whether it's the nostalgia, the reputation, or just a cracking good meal, you can't go wrong with one of Nottingham’s most trusted favourites.

Team picks: our favourite restaurants in Nottingham

With so many amazing places to choose from, it's hard to pick just a few - but we've given it our best shot! Our team has handpicked a selection of restaurants that we've tried and loved - and think you'll enjoy too.

Whether it's for unbeatable value, atmosphere or a dish we can't stop thinking about, here are some of our favourite places to eat in the city centre:

If you're on the hunt for a stylish Italian restaurant in Nottingham city centre, then Piccolino is the place to be! There’s the option to dine outside on the terrace and it’s a pretty nice spot for a date night!

Browns Nottingham offers an elegant and bar experience - all within easy reach of the city’s castle, theatre, cinema and shops. Open all day from breakfast and brunch through to lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, they offer fresh seasonal dishes and classic British comforts. It’s a great place to take your family…

Grey skies call for a steaming hot bowl of Pho. Formed after the owners fell in love with Vietnamese food, Pho is the best spot for a healthy and heartwarming dish. Most well known for their Vietnamese noodle soup, you can also choose from a selection of Vietnamese salads, curries and rice bowls. Also offering a selection of juices and fresh sides, Pho tastes good and makes you feel good.

Stationed just outside Broadway cinema, Fat Hippo’s Broad Street restaurant has been widely celebrated by the city's burger fans. Self-described as ‘good old fashioned roll up your sleeves and get it all over your face food’, the Fat Hippo burgers are exactly what you think of when you imagine a sloppy delicious stack. Serving beef, chicken and vegan options, there’s plenty to choose from, plus a plentiful selection of dirty fries are also available.

Looking for something different to do? Then gather your mates and head to Gusto for an interactive pizza-making experience at the Chef’s Table. You’ll get a drink on arrival, an antipasti board and dough petals to share before learning how to ball dough and pin a pizza, as well as making your own cannolis for dessert. Ideal for birthdays, work nights out, hen dos and special celebrations.

29 Upper Parliament St, Nottingham NG1 2AR

At Zaap, the unique and vibrant decor combined with an authentic menu will transport you to the bustling streets of Bangkok. The restaurant’s menu has a lot of yummy options to choose from, like drunken udon, crispy pork belly, papaya salad, and grilled whole sea bass in a special Zaap sauce. And if you're a vegetarian, no worries - they've got loads of options for you too! They also have a great selection of drinks, including bubble tea, cocktails, smoothies, and wine. Enjoy your meal!

Discover a vibrant oasis where brunch meets craft beer, DJs meet live bands, and mates meet diverse cravings. Jamcafé has it all, from adventurous vegan dishes to Bloody Marys over brunch. Come day or night, your perfect spot awaits.

Discover the exquisite flavours and stunning ambience of MemSaab, the true gem of Nottingham's food scene. Indulge in their award-winning menu featuring the mouthwatering tandoori ostrich and the delightful rasmalai dessert. Immerse yourself in luxury surrounded by maroon feature walls, Indian craftwork, and plush leather sofas.

12-14 Maid Marian Way, Nottingham NG1 6HS

Download our app to find more amazing places to eat and indulge in Nottingham

 which is loaded with the latest shops, restaurants, bars, venues and events across the city centre - plus Google maps to help you get around easily.

Whether you're a foodie, music fan, cultural vulture, or looking for a great night out or things to do: our app will point you in the right direction and help you enjoy your time in our city.

Download it free today on Apple or Android.

If you're looking for great restaurants in Nottingham city centre, you're in luck. From elegant Italian pasta dishes to stacked American-style burgers, this guide rounds up some of our favourite places to eat across breakfast, lunch, dinner - and everything in between.


So get that next shopping trip booked in the diary and get ready to explore!

Nottingham's most well-known shopping destination is undoubtedly the 

 This indoor shopping centre is home to over 120 stores, including heaps of household names! Here you can browse the department stores John Lewis & Partners and House of Fraser. They're joined by dozens of brands including Levis, Boots, H&M, River Island, Urban Outfitters, Yours Clothing, and many more.

 is a key part of the offering, you'll also find plenty of lifestyle shops. Stock up on movies and music at HMV, pick up some new homeware at Flying Tiger or Søstrene Grene - or find something great for the kids at The Entertainer! For that special purchase, there are jewellers galore including Beaverbrooks, Ernest Jones, Austen and Blake, H. Samuels, and Goldsmiths.

And once you're ready for a break, you can drop into one of the many eateries throughout the centre!

If big brand shopping isn't your thing, head for Hockley and the Lace Market. These neighbouring areas form the cultural quarter of Nottingham and are teaming with quirky, independent brands. They're Nottingham's home of 

There's a host of treasurers to find as you wander the streets, including 

, crafts, pre-loved books, jewellery, and more. Popular shops include vintage clothing store, Cow, and alternative fashion store Ice Nine.

The shops are intermingled with independent cafes and bars, with plenty of outdoor seating - giving this area a real European vibe.

Situated in the heart of the city centre, this 

 runs from Cheapside (alongside the Council House) through to St Peter's Gate.

Inside you'll find a host of unique shops - from fine art to designer fashion, including Vivenne Westwood and Clarendon Fine Art. Multiple businesses are independents, including The Cheese Shop, Brew Cavern, and Cathy Stephens Jewellery. You'll also find Bar Gigi and 200 Degrees coffee if you're in need of a rest!

Bridlesmith Gate has been around since the Middle Ages - and was once Nottingham's main shopping street. It was previously known for its high-end fashion shops, but after a post-pandemic revival, it's now a key hub for 

The shops aren't the only thing to enjoy on this street. Enjoy wandering through beautiful historic buildings - and keep an eye out for the bright murals that were part of the area's revival!

Shops you'll find here include vintage clothing store Garms, Stick & Ribbon, a women's clothing boutique, and just around the corner, on Low Pavement, is Paul Smith. You'll also find Bravissimo, formal wear at Cavani Nottingham, and an eclectic mix of music, film, and books at Fopp.

Once you're ready for a break, rest your weary feet and enjoy a spot of people-watching from one of the street's cosy cafes. Caffè Nero offers fresh bakes and sandwiches during the day - or enjoy some West Country vibes and grab a window seat at the Cornish Bakery.

In the heart of Nottingham, you'll find Old Market Square - a bustling hub and key focal point in the city. It's the second largest space of its kind in the UK - second only to London's Trafalgar Square.

The square is predominantly surrounded by restaurants, bars, and cafes. There are markets here throughout the year, stocking everything from gifts to food, plants, crafts, and more. From here, you can quickly access all the key shopping areas - including The Exchange, Flying Horse Walk, Bridlesmith Gate, and Victoria Centre (around a 5-minute walk).

In the surrounding streets, you’ll also find many household favourites - including Primark on Long Row, Zara on High Street, and Lakeland on Wheeler Gate.

 was Nottingham’s first shopping centre, and has been at the heart of the city for over 90 years. It's part of the historic Grade II listed building which also houses the city's Council House. Inside, the elegant glass domed ceiling creates an atmospheric shopping experience.

Today, The Exchange is home to a range of lifestyle retail stores, including Bubble Vintage, Gauntlet’s Fine Wine, and Sweaty Betty. If you’re in need of a break from shopping, you’ll also find Pret A Manger, Gong Cha, or Dunkin’ Donuts for a well-earned drink and bite to eat!

Derby Road is one of the key routes out of the city centre - but don’t leave town without a browse through its range of stylish independent shops! Here you’ll find some unusual offerings and real gems. At the Danish Homestore, you can browse iconic vintage Danish furniture that has been carefully restored. The Little Plant Guys offer a range of smaller homewares - and for your outdoor spaces, head to The Worm That Turned, who stock outdoor lighting, furniture, firepits, and more.

Nottingham loves independent businesses, and 

 is another home to them. These colourful avenues boast a unique mix of artists, makers, designers, and creatives - alongside cafés and pubs. Sneinton Market is only around a five-minute walk from Hockley, so is easily accessible from the city centre.

The Avenues are another historic area of the city. They first opened as a fruit market back in 1938, before falling into disrepair. Back in 2015, the site was redeveloped as a hub for independent businesses in Nottingham, and has thrived ever since.

Here you'll find an eclectic mix of unusual shops. At Bonearrow, you'll find handmade, alternative jewellery. Be inspired with bright, colourful festival wear at Get Crooked. Enjoy local gin at The Redsmith Distillery - and add some zen to your space with houseplants from The Watered Garden. When you're in need of a break, try out Blend - one of Nottingham's artisan coffee shops.

Looking for all the best places to shop in Nottingham?

 to find our city's fantastic retail offering - and plenty of spots for a coffee or cocktail during your shopping spree!

When it comes to shopping, Nottingham knows how to deliver. From big-name brands to unique independents, the city is full of delights. We tour the key areas to show what there is to discover...

Shopping in Nottingham

Whether you've got toddlers or teenagers to entertain, Nottingham's got heaps to offer for the whole family.

Here you’ll find plenty of budget-friendly activities, spots to hide from the weather - and opportunities for fresh air when the sun’s shining!

Here we've pulled together our favourites - from the free Robin Hood Adventure Trail to pack in those steps, through to action-packed ice skating and retro arcade gaming!

Take a look at our top picks - and for even more inspiration, download our 

Great for: Getting some steps in while you explore the city centre

The good news is, our Robin Hood's Adventure Trail is completely 

! You’ll be hunting out locations around the city centre to help Robin Hood find his merry friends. But beware - there might be some of Robin’s arch-enemies lurking nearby! Sounds exciting, doesn’t it?

There are plenty of city centre locations where you can pick up your free trail map, including Broadway Cinema, Nottingham Castle and the Theatre Royal & Royal Concert Hall. And once you’ve found all of our local legend’s friends and foes, you’ll earn a special Robin Hood badge as a memento for completing the trail!

Robin Hood's Adventure Trail is a great way to get the kids out and about to burn off a bit of energy - while the adults get to enjoy the beautiful architecture, history and atmosphere of Nottingham city centre!

Find out more about how to do the trail here.

Great for: Sensory experiences for younger children

★ Free family day out ★ Wet weather friendly

We’re lucky to have one of the largest contemporary art galleries in the UK here in Nottingham, and even more lucky that Nottingham Contemporary regularly hosts loads of family-friendly activities!

The gallery's regular kids activities will be restarting during February half term.

In the meantime, the gallery is free to enter and has family explorer resources and sensory bags available to use during your visit. The Toast Cafe also has a sensory-friendly menu for younger children.

So whether you’re diving in to escape the weather, or looking for a way to add some culture and creativity to your day out in the city, Nottingham Contemporary is a great place to visit!

Great for: Plenty of indoor fun to keep the kids occupied

Looking for an action-packed afternoon with the family? Embrace your competitive streak at Disco Bowl! This family-friendly venue has a bowling alley and a unique indoor golf course inspired by Nottingham’s landmarks.

Make the most of it with their Combo Deal, including one game of bowling and one game of golf - £14 for adults and £11 for kids. Still looking for more? Then dive into the karaoke box, where you can sing your heart out!

★ Wet weather friendly (wear sensible shoes and warm clothing)

Here in Nottingham, we have the UK’s largest collection of caves - with over 800 hidden beneath our city streets! At the City of Caves - part of the National Justice Museum - you can explore the biggest publicly accessible section of this incredible cave network. These original sandstone caves date back to the Dark Ages - keep an eye out for a WW2 air raid shelter and a medieval tannery as you explore! Enjoy the breathtaking experience as you see where people lived and worked under our city.

Great for: de-stressing and enjoying the quieter side of Nottingham city centre

This rejuvenated area of the city centre hosts the iconic British Waterways building (since converted into apartments) and shows a different side to Nottingham’s heritage.

See what wildlife you can spot - feed the ducks! - and watch the boats go by.

Fancy an unusual stop on your day out? The Canalside pub is famous for having a canal that extends inside the building, complete with a footbridge and resident narrow boats! This award-winning venue is family-friendly and boasts a large terrace, perfect for a relaxing refreshment break as you explore our amazing city centre!

Great for: Affordable family movie afternoons

★ Wet weather friendly ★ Cheap family day out

Broadway Cinema is a nationally-recognised independent cinema - yet another amazing cultural venue that we’re lucky to enjoy in our city!

Their Family Film Club runs every Saturday afternoon - showing a popular family favourite from contemporary to classic!

It runs on a 'Pay What You Feel' model to prevent the price from being a barrier to families, with prices ranging from £2 to £10 a ticket. Each week is a different film, with previous screenings including Toy Story 2 and Mary Poppins!

Book your tickets for the Family Film Club here. 

Great for: Testing out your balance skills!

The National Ice Centre is a great spot for all ages - and they've got a whole heap of activities to keep the whole family entertained. There’s ice equipment that can be hired to help children get their balance on the ice, and year-round lessons - even for tots! 

During school holidays, you’ll find loads of extra holiday activities and a holiday club. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, grab some affordable, kid-friendly grub from the on-site café and restaurant.

to view all the activities and timetables.

Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as 

 comes to life at Nottingham Playhouse! Running from Friday 29 November 2024 to Saturday 18 January 2025, this family-friendly pantomime promises laughter, magic, and plenty of surprises.

 for a holiday experience filled with wonder!

Great for: Action-packed activities under one roof

The Cornerhouse is a hive of activity and has a bounty of entertainment all under one roof - from a cinema, to restaurants, and even an adventure golf course!

 is a vibrant family-fun centre, full to the brim with activities for everyone to enjoy. It offers carnival games along with a miniature bowling alley to keep everyone entertained. Enjoy old favourites like Pacman, Space Invaders, and video games - and you can even pull out your best moves on the dance machine!

. Described as ‘epic fun for the whole family’, it’s a great activity that immerses you into a tropical storm with two courses full of obstacles to complete. There’s even a Tiki Bar to quench your thirst along the way – adventuring in the Lost City is thirsty work!

Need a bit of time out? Nottingham’s royal-themed salon, Beauty Temple, offers a ‘Mummy & Me’ package, where you can indulge in one adult treatment and two children’s mini treatments. Once you’re pampered out, round up your session with a hot chocolate and a cake, and leave with a gift for your little one.

Great for: Sharing your retro gaming memories with the kids!

Popular games bar, Penny Lane, is located in the historic Lace Market area of the city centre. It’s packed full of retro arcade games, including air hockey, 2p machines, table football and a ‘Donkey Derby’ among many others. Food and drink is available, so it’s a great spot for an extended lunch - or to hang out for an afternoon!

Penny Lane is open from midday all week throughout the school holidays, and under 18’s are welcome until 6pm every day when accompanied by a parent.

Great for: A party atmosphere with loads of games

 brings a playground under one roof with a wide range of fun games – ten-pin bowling, shuffleboard, American pool, a batting cage, golf, a karaoke room and a photo booth for you to capture your memories!

While it’s advertised as ‘the home of booze and ball games’, children are allowed to join in with the games and enjoy the American-style food on offer - from hotdogs to chicken wings and American-style pizzas. Under 18’s are welcome in the venue until 5pm when accompanied by an adult.

 to browse family-friendly events and activities in the city centre!

Looking for inspiration for some family days out? Nottingham's packed with activities the whole family can enjoy - from exploring historic caves to action-packed gaming! Here are our favourite family-friendly activites in the city centre –

The best family days out in Nottingham

Ay-Up Market 2025 is taking place from Friday 28 March to Sunday 30 March 2025 - get the date in your diary and we'll see you there!

 is a great opportunity to discover new and unique items, support local businesses, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the city. 

 will be taking part, offering a variety of products such as freshly baked goods, sweet treats, fine wine and liquors, vintage clothing, plants, skincare, homeware, arts and crafts, handmade jewellery and pet accessories.

The event is not just about shopping, though. There will be an 

Rastarella – Cultural Vibrations (Unity Through Music)

event with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. You can enjoy traditional hook-a-duck, free face painting, and balloon modelling.

 as limited spaces are available at each workshop.

Mindful clay workshop – Anna Collette Hunt

Hand-stitched to hand-drawn embroidery – Emmy Lupin and Lived-in Clothes

Macrame friendship bracelets – The Bead Shop

Modern calligraphy workshop – KDS Calligraphy

Upcycled LED flower lights – Sarah Turner

Terrazzo keyring casting – Awn Design Studio

Jackson Pollock-inspired tote bag screen printing – The Carousel

, there will be something for everyone - cuisine from around the world as well as tasty treats. For those who prefer something a little stronger, Blue Monkey Brewery will be serving their award-winning beers, spirits, and other refreshments.

Whether you're looking to treat yourself, buy gifts for friends and family, or simply enjoy a free, fun day out, the Ay-Up Market is worth checking out!

And whilst you're here enjoying the bustling market, check out all the wonderful places in Nottingham city centre where you can 

Download our app to find more great places to discover in Nottingham

Whether you're a fan of shopping, a foodie, looking for a great night out or things to do: our app will point you in the right direction and help you enjoy your time in our city.

Get social, follow us @itsinnottingham and use #ayupmarket

This year’s celebration of independent, Nottingham-based retailers and creatives will take place in Old Market Square from Friday 28 to Sunday 30 March 2025 and promises to be even bigger and better than previous years!

Ay-Up Market 2025

Whether you’re after a rich tikka masala, fiery vindaloo, or aromatic biryani, Nottingham city centre has a variety of restaurants that promise to tantalise your taste buds. Here’s our guide to some of the 

 team's favourite places to enjoy a curry in the city.

If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience, 

 is the place to be. Located on Maid Marian Way, this award-winning restaurant blends traditional Indian recipes with modern twists. Known for its elegant interior and impeccable service, MemSaab is perfect for a date night or celebratory meal with the family.

Butter Milk Makhni (marinated tandoor chicken)

Its luxurious interiors, impeccable service, and perfectly spiced dishes make MemSaab a city centre classic.

, on Trinity Square, offers a lively and modern take on Indian street food. With its casual vibe and quirky décor, it’s great for a relaxed meal with friends or family. The restaurant is also famous for its thalis - a platter-style meal offering a variety of small dishes.

Tamatanga Thali (choose from meat or vegetarian options)

Chaat Bombs (crisp bread puffs exploding with seasoned chickpeas)

Affordable prices, delicious food, and a lively vibe makes Tamatanga a favourite with us.

For a traditional curry experience with a hint of nostalgia, head to the 

. This family-run restaurant prides itself on classic Indian recipes cooked to perfection. With its warm and welcoming vibe, the Calcutta Club is a favourite among us.

Nottingham city centre is a haven for food enthusiasts. Among its culinary delights, curry holds a special place. 

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