Nottingham: Robin Hood Town Tour

If you’re wandering through Nottingham and want to get a real sense of the city’s legendary connection to Robin Hood, this Robin Hood Town Tour offers a lively, immersive way to do just that. It’s a well-regarded experience that combines storytelling, history, and a touch of adventure, making it ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone wanting to feel a bit like they’ve stepped into a storybook.

What we particularly like about this tour is how much it manages to pack into 2.5 hours. You’re not just listening to a guide; you’re visiting actual sites, exploring underground caves, and soaking in Nottingham’s diverse architecture. Plus, the guide’s role as Robin Hood himself adds a fun, theatrical element that keeps things lively. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues, thanks to the underground caves and some uneven paths. Overall, it’s a great pick if you want an engaging, informative overview of Nottingham with a legendary twist—perfect for anyone interested in Robin Hood’s lore or just looking for a different way to explore the city.

Key Points

• Engaging storytelling from a costumed guide playing Robin Hood himself
• Explores both historic sites and lesser-known underground caves
• Priced at around $23, offering good value for a guided experience with entry to notable sites
• Ideal duration of 2.5 hours makes it manageable without feeling rushed
• Highlights Nottingham’s architecture and landmarks, including Old Market Square and the Lace Market
• Designed for those interested in Robin Hood, local history, or unique city explorations

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Robin Hood Town Tour

What’s the overall vibe of this tour?

Think of this experience as a blend of history, legend, and light theatrics. The tour’s main draw is the costumed guide portraying Robin Hood, which makes the storytelling more immersive and fun. We loved how this guide seamlessly combined humor, historical facts, and local legends, keeping the energy up while making complex stories easy to follow. The group atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, allowing for questions and spontaneous humor, which makes the 2.5-hour journey quite enjoyable.

The tour’s highlights and stops

The adventure kicks off at The Cross Keys pub, a little gem just a short walk from Nottingham’s Lace Market tram stop. Robin Hood himself (the guide) greets you inside the pub with a warm welcome, setting the scene for the adventure ahead. Arriving early is encouraged, giving you a chance to grab a drink or use the facilities before the storytelling begins.

The first part of the tour takes you through Nottingham’s streets, where you’ll encounter landmarks like the Council House, Old Market Square, and the Theatre Royal. These are not just pretty sights but are woven into the Robin Hood legend, helping you understand how the city’s history complements the famous tales. The guide does a good job of sharing stories behind these spots, which makes them more memorable.

One of the most fascinating aspects is the visit to the Saxon caves. These underground tunnels, carved into the city’s history, add a tangible sense of the past. The caves aren’t just an add-on—they’re a highlight that offers a glimpse into Nottingham’s medieval roots. However, since they involve some walking and uneven surfaces, this part isn’t suited for those with mobility impairments.

Next, you’ll explore St Mary’s Churchyard, a peaceful spot where you can catch your breath and hear about the more tranquil aspects of Nottingham’s past. The tour then continues to Old County Gaol, which, despite the name, isn’t a castle but a historic jail with a slightly eerie atmosphere. It’s one of those places that make you think about the reality of life in olden times.

The storytelling and guide

What elevates this tour is the guide’s performance as Robin Hood. Multiple reviews praise the guide’s knowledge and engaging delivery. One reviewer mentioned, “Robin Hood made history come alive,” emphasizing how the actor-guide’s enthusiasm adds a layer of authenticity and fun. The guide also shares historical facts, helping you understand what’s legend and what’s rooted in fact.

More Great Tours Nearby

The ending at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem

The tour wraps up at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem, a historic pub supposedly built into the rocks beneath Nottingham Castle. Here, Robin Hood invites everyone to enjoy a drink—although food and drinks are not included in the tour price, you’re welcome to stay and soak in the atmosphere a little longer. It’s a cozy, authentic finish that leaves you with a feeling of having connected with Nottingham’s history on a personal level.

Value for money

At around $23 per person, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck. It combines guided storytelling, access to caves, and an exploration of key sites—all in a compact session that’s perfect for a half-day adventure. The inclusion of entry to the Saxon caves and St Mary’s Church makes it more than just a walking tour; it’s a mini archaeological and historical experience.

Practical Details We Found Helpful

Duration and timing

The 2.5-hour length is manageable, especially for those who prefer not to spend an entire day on one activity. Starting times vary, so it’s worth checking availability in advance. The tour begins at The Cross Keys pub, which is easy to find near the Lace Market tram stop, making it convenient for visitors using public transport.

Group size and guide

While exact group sizes aren’t specified, reviews suggest a friendly, manageable number of participants, allowing for interaction and questions. The live tour guide, speaking English, makes the experience feel personal and engaging.

Accessibility and considerations

Since the tour includes walking through streets and underground caves, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments. Be prepared for some uneven surfaces, especially in the caves. As no food or drinks are provided, you might want to plan for a snack before or after the tour.

Meeting and ending points

The tour starts and ends at the same spot, making it straightforward to plan your day. The meeting point at The Cross Keys pub is well-located and has parking options, including an NCP car park across from the pub.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Robin Hood tour is particularly suited for history lovers who enjoy a storytelling approach, fans of medieval history, or those wanting a lively introduction to Nottingham’s sights. It’s also ideal if you want something brief yet full of local flavor—perfect for travelers with limited time or families (depending on children’s interest and mobility). While not designed specifically for children, older kids who enjoy stories and history could really get a kick out of the mix of legends and underground caves.

If you’re after a more in-depth or private experience, there are other options listed in the same category, but for a fun, accessible, and reasonably priced tour, this one checks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

The Nottingham Robin Hood Town Tour offers a friendly, engaging way to connect with the city’s legendary past. With a knowledgeable, theatrical guide, you’ll explore both the familiar sights and some hidden underground gems, all while learning what’s fact and what’s folklore. It’s a well-paced experience that balances storytelling with site visits, making it a solid choice for travelers wanting a meaningful, fun introduction to Nottingham.

While it’s not suitable for everyone—particularly those with mobility issues—the tour’s lively presentation and the chance to see key landmarks make it a worthwhile addition to any Nottingham itinerary. It’s especially good if you’re curious about Robin Hood or want to explore the city beyond the usual tourist spots.

If you enjoy stories, history, and a touch of theatre, this tour is a great way to spend an afternoon. Just remember to check availability beforehand, arrive early to enjoy a drink, and be ready for some walking and underground exploration. For the price, it offers a memorable snapshot of Nottingham’s legendary and historic side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is not specifically designed for children, older kids with an interest in Robin Hood or history may find it entertaining. Keep in mind there’s some walking and underground caves involved, so suitability depends on the child’s mobility and interest.

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes an official Robin Hood guide in costume, entry to the Saxon caves, and entry to St Mary’s Church. Food and drinks are not included.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Cross Keys pub, located near the Lace Market tram stop, and concludes back at the same spot.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 2.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a half-day schedule.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No, it isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and underground cave access.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time to guarantee availability, especially during busy seasons.

If you’re curious about Robin Hood’s Nottingham or want a guided walk that combines history, legend, and underground adventures, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s practical, entertaining, and offers a genuine feel for both the city and its most famous outlaw.

You can check availability for your dates here: