Caves and Castle Tour

A comprehensive 2.5-hour tour combining above-ground castle exploration with below-ground cave access, revealing Nottingham's layered geology and history. You'll descend into medieval and Victorian-era caves, see the castle's defences, and understand how rock-hewn spaces shaped settlement patterns. The contrast between medieval fortress and underground passages offers a complete picture of the city's development. Best for adventure seekers wanting the full experience. This is a moderate activity lasting 2.5 hours. Group size: 2-12. You meet at Nottingham Castle gatehouse. Key highlights: Nottingham Castle exterior and defensive architecture, Medieval caves with original medieval carvings, Victorian-era cave spaces and industrial uses.

Price: £15

Duration: 2.5 hours

Difficulty: moderate

Group size: 2-12

Minimum age: 8+

Best for: adventure seekers wanting the full experience

Best time: May to September for comfortable cave temperatures and visibility; avoid January-February for slippery cave floors; book 5-7 days ahead in summer.

Meeting point: Nottingham Castle gatehouse

Languages: English

Here is how the experience unfolds:

0:00 Meet at Nottingham Castle gatehouse - Guide explains the castle's Norman construction (1068) and its strategic position above caves.

0:20 Explore castle grounds and defensive features - See walls, gateways, and panoramic city views; learn about medieval warfare and siege tactics.

0:50 Descend into medieval caves beneath the castle - Navigate low ceilings and narrow passages carved from sandstone for medieval defence and storage.

1:25 Explore Victorian caves and industrial history - See 19th-century carved spaces used for beer storage, mushroom cultivation, and informal housing.

2:00 Return to surface and discuss geology - Learn why Nottingham's sandstone geology enabled both caves and castle construction.

The whole experience takes 2.5 hours. Difficulty: moderate. You meet at Nottingham Castle gatehouse.

• Nottingham Castle exterior and defensive architecture
• Medieval caves with original medieval carvings
• Victorian-era cave spaces and industrial uses
• Panoramic city views from castle ramparts
• Complete history from Norman conquest to Victorian times
• Accessibility: Caves require stooping/crawling through 2-3 low passages (height restriction ~5'6"). Multiple steep steps in and out. Not wheelchair-accessible. Those with claustrophobia should reconsider.

What is included: 2.5-hour guided tour, Cave entry fees, Expert guide, Castle grounds access.

Not included: Nottingham Castle interior museum (can be added for £12), Food or drinks, Transport. You will need to arrange these yourself.

What to bring: Warm layers or jumper (caves stay 10-12°C year-round), Sturdy closed-toe walking shoes, Torch or headlamp (dim caves, though guide provides lighting), Camera with flash off (low light conditions). Having these with you makes the experience smoother.

Best time to go: May to September for comfortable cave temperatures and visibility; avoid January-February for slippery cave floors; book 5-7 days ahead in summer..

Tip: Includes cave entry fees

Tip: Dress warmly for underground sections

Accessibility: Caves require stooping/crawling through 2-3 low passages (height restriction ~5'6"). Multiple steep steps in and out. Not wheelchair-accessible. Those with claustrophobia should reconsider..

Operator: Experience Nottinghamshire

After this activity, these are within easy reach:

• Nottingham Castle (2 min walk)
• The Caves of Nottingham (5 min walk)
• Trip to Jerusalem pub (8 min walk)

This activity is run by Experience Nottinghamshire.

Cancellation policy: Free cancellation 24 hours before; non-refundable within 24 hours..

Accessibility: Caves require stooping/crawling through 2-3 low passages (height restriction ~5'6"). Multiple steep steps in and out. Not wheelchair-accessible. Those with claustrophobia should reconsider..

Best time to go: May to September for comfortable cave temperatures and visibility; avoid January-February for slippery cave floors; book 5-7 days ahead in summer..

Are the caves safe? Do I need to be fit?

Caves are safe with a guide, but involve low ceilings, narrow passages, and steep steps in/out. You need moderate fitness and no claustrophobia. Those under 5'2" may struggle with heights; those over 5'8" must duck through sections.

What if I'm claustrophobic?

Several passages require stooping or crawling through tight spaces. If you feel trapped in enclosed areas, this tour may cause distress. Consider the above-ground castle tour instead, or ask the operator about abridged cave sections.

Can children do this tour?

Yes, ages 8+. Children enjoy the adventure element. Younger children (under 8) may find cave passages intimidating or crawling difficult. Ensure they can follow instructions in low-light conditions and don't have claustrophobia.