If you have 7 days to spend in Nottinghamshire, there's plenty to see and do. Here are some suggestions:
Spend the day exploring Nottingham's compact city center. Visit the historic Nottingham Castle, which has recently been renovated, to get a sense of the city's rich history. Take a stroll through the vibrant streets and check out the lace market, the city's 800-year-old marketplace, and the many shopping areas. If you have time, drop by the famous Nottingham Trent University.
No trip to Nottinghamshire would be complete without a visit to Sherwood Forest, legendary home of Robin Hood, and the Major Oak, a 1000-year-old oak tree that's said to have once housed the famous outlaw. Take a hike through the forest and be sure to stop by the Visitors' Centre as well.
Nottinghamshire is famous for two things: its Robin Hood heritage and its cricket tradition. Spend a day visiting Trent Bridge cricket ground and taking a stroll through the nearby town of West Bridgford. Be sure to check out the local shops and eateries and of course the famous Trent Bridge.
Head west of Nottingham to visit the Elizabethan mansion Wollaton Hall and its surrounding deer park. This hall is one of the country's finest examples of Renaissance architecture, and the park features a 600-acre landscape designed by the famous landscape designer Capability Brown and is home to over 200 deer.
Papplewick Pumping Station is an extraordinary piece of Victorian engineering and a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history of water systems. After that take a fifteen mints drive from Papplewick to Newstead Abbey. The ancestral home of Lord Byron is a must-visit attraction for literature fans and architecture buffs alike.
Enjoy a leisurely day out cycling along Nottinghamshire's National Cycle Network and Canal Towpaths routes. With over 350 miles of traffic-free paths, this is a great way to explore the county's beautiful countryside.
Finally, head to the town of Southwell to visit Southwell Minster, a stunning example of Gothic architecture and one of the area's most beloved landmarks. If you have time, drop by the Workhouse to learn more about the lives of the destitute Victorians who used to live there.
For places to stay in Nottinghamshire, there are plenty of options ranging from large hotel chains to unique B&Bs and vacation rentals. Some popular options include St James Hotel Nottingham, one of the highest-rated hotels in the city; the Nottinghamshire Golf & Country Club, a luxury resort nestled in the heart of the countryside; and The Lace Market Hotel, a boutique hotel in Nottingham city center offering an experience of the city's rich history and culture.