Nottinghamshire's heritage is rich and varied. Our heroes are legendary and our innovations have helped change the world. From well loved outlaw Robin Hood to literary great Lord Byron and influential Pilgrim Fathers. From footballing hero Brian Clough to international designer Paul Smith.

The city of Nottingham has a notorious past, from ancient underground caves and famous lace industry, to the turbulent and dramatic history of the castle with its links to monarchs and legends. From the legend of the infamous outlaw Robin Hood to the adventurous Pilgrim Fathers, from the passionate verse of Lord Byron to the working-class heroes of DH Lawrence, Nottinghamshire is proud of its contribution to world heritage.

The origins of Nottingham have been shrouded in mystery for centuries. In 1820, a prominent historian concluded that “perhaps there is no other town in the kingdom whose origin is hid in greater obscurity than Nottingham”. However, Neolithic, Iron Age and Bronze Age artefacts have all been discovered in the River Trent and the city’s remarkable series of caves are believed to date back to the medieval period.

Many centuries on, Nottingham was granted city status by Queen Victoria and this once small fortified town finally came of age. As a county, Nottinghamshire is steeped in heritage, taking pride in its rich and varied history. The English Civil War began in Nottingham when Charles I raised his standard here in 1642 and also ended in the county, in Newark. Interesting attractions remain, such as the Queen’s Sconce, which is an original civil war fortification.