Nottingham Town Guide, 11K


Nottingham Town Guide, History of Nottingham, 9K
Nottingham Town Guide, 11K The city of Nottingham dates back to Saxon times when a settlement was first founded at a strategic crossing point of the River Trent.

This original settlement was built on top of a hill overlooking a valley and, believe it or not, was called Snotingham!

Then in 1068 William the Conqueror built a castle on the hill opposite Snotingham, and a town quickly grew up in the valley between the two - and thankfully the name was soon changed to the more familiar Nottingham.

Throughout the medieval era the city played an important defensive role, and the castle was of great strategic importance for many monarchs.

And it was also during the medieval period that the city's most famous legend grew up - the legend of Robin Hood and his Merry Men.

The next significant event in the city's history occurred in the 17th century, for this is where King Charles I was staying when the Civil War broke out.

Then in the 18th and 19th centuries Nottingham, like so many British cities, underwent massive industrialisation and rapid expansion.

And by the time Queen Victoria took the throne it was renowned the world over for its lace making industry.

But with the prosperity of industry came the poverty, deprivation and slums that are so closely associated with 19th century industrial cities.

These conditions in turn led to political radicalism amongst the workers and the first few decades saw numerous strikes and unrest in Nottingham.

Most famously the city was the scene of the Luddite Rebellion, a violent uprising led by a protestor called Ned Ludlam.

By the latter part of the 19th century the uprisings had died down, many of the slums had been cleared and working conditions had improved considerably.

Nevertheless Nottingham still has the definite air of an industrial city, sadly often accompanied by a drab and dreary post-war landscape.

But even so, Nottingham still has a great deal to offer the visitor. With several excellent museums, a thriving lace market and nearby attractions such as Newstead Abbey, there is plenty to see and do.

And of course a visit is a must for any fans of Robin Hood, for the legend is very much alive and well in the city.





Nottingham A-Z

| B | C | D | G | H | J | L | M | N | O | R | S | T |

Nottingham Town Guide

Travel Advice | Accommodation in Nottingham | Other Town Guides