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Parks #3 in Nottingham

Arboretum

4.6 · 2,989 reviews
A quiet Victorian-style urban retreat
Arboretum, Waverley St, Nottingham NG7 4HF, United Kingdom
Interesting facts
1

The park was designed to mimic the layout of the Royal Botanic Gardens at Kew.

2

The collection of trees includes several 'Champion Trees', which are the largest or oldest of their species in the county.

3

It is historically linked to the Crimean War, featuring a captured Russian cannon on display.

4

The Arboretum held the 'Nottingham Forest Exhibition' in 1890, which attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors.

5

The park features a designated 'Chinese Garden' section inspired by historical orientalist trends of the 19th century.

6

The site includes a bell tower that was relocated from the medieval Lenton Priory.

Overview

Nottingham Arboretum is the city's oldest public park, opened in 1852. The site contains over 800 trees and shrubs, many of which are original specimens from the 19th century. It features a Grade II listed landscape designed by landscape gardener Samuel Curtis. The park is home to a Victorian-era bandstand and a collection of ornamental ponds. It serves as a significant local green space for botanical study and recreation near the city center. The grounds host several historical monuments, including statues and memorials from the Victorian era. The park maintains a Victorian layout with winding paths and formal garden beds.

Photo spot

The Victorian-era bandstand, which provides a classic architectural frame for photos of the park.

Insider tips

Check the local events calendar, as the park occasionally hosts festivals and community gatherings.

Follow the designated tree trail to identify some of the oldest botanical specimens.

Keep to the paved paths to protect the historic landscape and flower beds.

What to avoid

Do not attempt to climb or carve into the older trees, as many are fragile heritage specimens.

Etiquette

Respect the historic monuments and keep dogs on leads in designated zones.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Late spring for blooming flora, or autumn for the colorful foliage of the historic tree collection.
52.961, -1.157
Get directions
Details
Botanical FeaturesOver 800 species of trees and shrubs
Heritage StatusGrade II listed historic park

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Late spring for blooming flora, or autumn for the colorful foliage of the historic tree collection..

The Victorian-era bandstand, which provides a classic architectural frame for photos of the park.

Close by you'll find Forest Recreation Ground, Nottingham Castle, City of Caves.