Shepherd's huts near Nottingham with a private bathroom

Situated in the county of Nottinghamshire, in the East Midlands, Nottingham is a popular tourist destination, offering lots of attractions—many of which relate to the city's ties to the legend of Robin Hood. Popular attractions include Nottingham Castle, which features plenty of Hood-themed activities for children, and the City of Caves, an ancient system of caves that weave below the city centre. There are plenty of beautiful natural areas in and around the city, from the Attenborough Nature Reserve—a popular spot for birdwatching—to the famous Sherwood Forest, a national nature reserve.

With a mix of coniferous and deciduous groves, heathland, wetlands, and farmland, Cannock Chase—an hour’s drive of Nottingham—is the place to go if you wish to see a lot of different types of flora in one place. Cycle paths weave through the area, making it an excellent spot to visit on two wheels. Many landowners in and around the area offer campsites and glamping.

Nottingham has typical English weather, with cool—but rarely freezing winters—warmish summers, and a persistently high chance of rain. The weather is at its finest from May through September, and you're best off visiting during this period if you plan to do much tent camping or walking. If you come during the first week of October, however, you'll be able to attend the Nottingham Goose Fair, a funfair that traces its origins to the 13th century.