Admittedly, Nottingham is far from being the most popular city in the UK. It definitely can't hold a candle to the likes of London, Manchester, Oxford, and York. But that doesn't mean it's any less of an exciting and beautiful city overall. In fact, many would argue that, compared to the more famous places within the UK, Nottingham is one of the best for living an idyllic life. One that's not so strained by today's hustle and bustle but also not as quiet that it'd be boring. In a nutshell, Nottingham is a city that's just right! Wait until you learn more about the neighborhoods here!
Aspley
With a general population of les than 20,000 people, Aspley is one of those Nottingham districts that's quiet and reserved. It's also a council estate, making it one of the cheaper neighborhoods in the city as well. Entirely suburban at every corner, it's the type of place that's best for settling down in, especially for those with kids. There are a few mom-and-pop stores here and there to ensure that everything is provided, but for the most part, it's the peace that will draw the people in!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Bakersfield
Another largely suburban area in Nottingham is Bakersfield, a residential area just east of the city center. Because of its close proximity to the latter, it's safe to say that people who stay here get the best of both worlds. They can
still work and live the city life during the day but they, at least, get to go home to a peaceful suburban area at night. It's all the convenience and the comfort rolled into one. What's not to love?
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Beeston
Beeston, on the other hand, is a lot livelier than the first two mentioned districts. With its own array of big and small businesses, you can live just as comfortably here as you would in the more urban areas of Nottingham or even in London. While the vibe isn't as busy as the latter—therefore the costs here are also a lot more affordable than
in the British capital—you'll still see more of large supermarkets and big retail chains here rather than small family-owned businesses.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
City Centre
As you probably may expect, the City Center of Nottingham is, without a doubt, its busiest district. It's also one of its grander and beautiful areas. With the stunning Greco-Roman City Hall building as the epicenter, the place looks more like it's Brussels or Vienna or something, not Nottingham! Of course, apart from the array of fine restaurants, swanky bars, lively pubs, upscale shopping outlets, and the like, you can also
rent a luxury apartment here for you to have a comfortable stay!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Mapperley
A cluster of red-bricked houses with dark gray roofs makes Mapperley look like the quintessential English countryside village. But make no mistake, this area is not 100% rural. Though yes, it's another suburban area, it's far from being a boring neighborhood in the city. There are still some commercialized areas here where people can hang out and have a good time. As well as a number of bars and pubs for an exciting nightlife scene. Overall, the place is very comfortable!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Park Estate
An affluent residential area, The Park Estate is, as one would expect, reserved for the upper class. Posh homes that look straight out of Kensignton or Oxford street—two of the most sophisticated
neighborhoods in London—line the Estate, further proving its class and status. You might see even celebrities owning a home or two here. That's how exclusive and swanky the Nottingham suburb is. Though, if you prefer to have fun, you'll want to go to another district for that.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Lace Market
Despite its name, lace isn't what makes this Nottingham district so beautiful. It's the series of red-brick Victorian and Georgian-style buildings that looks straight out of a Charles Dickens novel. If you thought the likes of Paris and Prague are the only ones that can charm your pants off with their nostalgic classical beauty, think again. The Lace Market in Nottingham may not compare as much, but it's certainly beguiling in its own right! And just like those cities, this area also has its fair share of museums, galleries, and the like.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
West Bridgford
If you have a free day and you'd just want to hang out, maybe even go shopping with friends, then you'll enjoy spending time in West Bridgford in Nottingham. Close to the City Center, it's one of the busier neighborhoods on this list. But while the latter is a lot more crowded, the vibe here is more relaxed and laid-back. You won't feel like you need to rush what you're doing; you can simply take your time and enjoy shopping, eating, and hanging out with your loved ones.
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Wollaton
Finally, there's Wollaton! Similarly to West Bridgeford, this is a highly commercialized area where people can shop, eat, and hang out to their hearts' content. And they won't feel the need to rush themselves either! But what separates the two is that Wollaton is also home to Wollaton Hall, a slightly Gothic-looking Victorian manor that almost looks like Downton Abbey! The park where it's located is one of the best you'll ever see in the UK, arguably even better than
those in London! Just be careful when you see deer walking by! They're not exactly Bambi!
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Nottingham is, without a doubt, one of the most underrated cities in the UK. And while it's far from the likes of London, York, Manchester, and more, it still has a certain charm and serenity to it that you mustn't overlook! You'll regret it if you do!
