Many British holidaymakers are looking to cut the cost of their holidays this year thanks to the global economic downturn. Many are choosing to holiday closer to home this year at fantastic British holiday cities like Nottingham. There are plenty of free and cheap activities in Nottingham to keep the whole family entertained on holiday too.
Look out for free events that take place regularly throughout the city. Regular highlights include City Pulse, Light Night, the Goose Fair, Bonfire Night and the lovely Riverside Festival. Check local listings before you book your trip to see what is on.
A great place to pop by on your arrival in Nottingham is the local tourist information centre. Here you can find out about all of the free and low cost attractions in and around the city, as well as special offer entry, discounted public transport passes and affordable accommodation options in the area.
If you are looking to make savings on your accommodation and travel costs, then be aware that Nottingham is at its busiest at weekends. At these busy times, hotel and travel costs are at their highest, so if you can be flexible, try booking through the week to access the cheapest prices.
Many hotels, travel agents and bus and train companies offer package deals where you book your travel and accommodation together through the same company. You can pick up some great offers this way, cutting the price of your accommodation costs especially.
Nothing beats a summer picnic for a relaxing, and cheap, afternoon in the sun. Nottingham has over one hundred parks to choose from, and all of them are free to access. The oldest park in the city is also the most popular. Arboretum Park dates back to the 1800s and features stunning landscaped gardens, architecture, ponds and lakes.
For a fun day out with the kids, without having to spend a single penny, head just a mile out of Nottingham City Centre to the Greens Windmill and Science Centre in Sneinton. George Green was a respected scientist and mathematical genius who built the centre in 1807. Today it educates children and teaches them that maths can be fun through a series of fascinating exhibits and exciting hands-on experiments and displays.
Newstead Abbey Historic House and Gardens is one of the most striking stately homes in the country and was once home to the infamous Lord Byron. With 300 acres of grounds to explore, there is much to see, including lakes, ponds and the house itself. Children under 4 go free, while cyclists pay just 50p.
Our guide to cutting the cost of your holiday to Nottingham was written by Lenita Carpinello, an experienced travel guide. They recommend checking the Octopus Travel website for the latest
Nottingham hotels and accommodation deals all year round.