Explore Nottingham, One Of Britain's Most Haunted Cities

Discover Nottingham's haunted history, from the 14th-century National Justice Museum and underground cave networks to historic pubs and spooky hotels.

NationPulse Desk

Oct 31, 2026 · 2:01 PM 2 min read

Key takeaways

The National Justice Museum dates back to 1375 and is frequently reported to have paranormal sightings.

The City of Caves was first constructed over a thousand years ago during the Anglo-Saxon Era.

Wollaton Hall and Deer Park spans 500 acres and is rumored to be haunted by Lady Middleton.

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem has been serving drinks since 1189 and claims to be Britain's oldest inn.

Bestwood Lodge Hotel is located a 25-minute drive from the city centre and costs from £75 per night.

Celebrating the Halloween season, our Spotlight On series examines Nottingham, ranked among the most frightening places in the United Kingdom regardless of the visiting month.

MUST SEE/DO

Fans of the supernatural should prioritize a visit to the National Justice Museum. Operating as a court and prison from 1375, the building witnessed numerous grim events. Lawbreakers faced justice here and spent time in dungeons prior to public executions. Visitors frequently report paranormal activity, with ghost hunters detecting basement cold spots and distant screams. Alternatively, visitors can join the Original Nottingham Ghost Walk, functioning as one of Britain's oldest tours of its kind. The two-hour tour visits chilling sites inside the historic Castle Quarter.

HIDDEN GEM

Nottingham features an extensive underground network of caves. Residents started building this City of Caves over a millennium ago during the Anglo-Saxon era. The soft rock and unique geology of Nottingham allowed workers to carve out shelters safe from harsh weather. Later generations expanded the subterranean spaces for use as cellars and Second World War bomb shelters. Visitors frequently report strange sounds underground. Family admission costs start at £62 for two adults and two children.

BEST VIEW

Finding the finest views requires a short trip outside the urban center to Wollaton Hall and Deer Park. Covering 500 acres, the park shines during autumn as trees shed their leaves. Guests seeking scares can enter the main manor house, previously occupied by Lady Middleton. Following an 18th-century horse riding accident that caused a stroke, local legend claims her white-robed ghost still roams the interior.

RATED RESTAURANT

The city center eatery Taquero serves acclaimed tacos, including pork brisket with pickled red cabbage and apple salsa, alongside baja options featuring fried fish, chipotle aioli, and coriander. The Mexican establishment recently refreshed its seasonal autumn menu.

BEST BAR

Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem operates as Britain's oldest inn, serving drinks since 1189. Folklore states that crusaders and Knights Templar drank ale here prior to traveling to the holy land. Modern amenities include local ales, contemporary beers, wines, and classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned, complemented by small, charming rooms.

HOTEL PICK

Visitors seeking supernatural experiences can stay at Bestwood Lodge Hotel, located a 25-minute drive from downtown. Formerly a Victorian hunting lodge within 700 acres of parkland, the hotel is said to experience hauntings by King Charles II mistress, Nell Gwynn. Guests report unexplained footsteps and flickering lights. The property features dark wood details and roaring fireplaces, with nightly rates beginning at £75.

Questions and answers