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| The castle's gatehouse and bridge (the bit that does look like a castle!), showing the original medieval masonry topped by Victorian renovation. |
"It's not a castle, it's just a small scale 'heritage' centre that is in dire need of update. Parking is a nightmare. Avoid." - Pete B, Tripadvisor, Feb 24th 2013
Nottingham Castle isn't that bad. But for as long as I've visited, it's been a funny old place.
"Where's the castle?" many ask after buying their ticket. They have a point. The 17th century Ducal palace high on the rocky outcrop hardly looks like one. Its full title even suggests a need to justify itself. Google it and 'Nottingham Castle Museum and Art Gallery' comes up. It's true - there's a good art gallery, a rather esoteric museum collection and other displays. It does what it says on the tin - just about.
But it's not the brooding, medieval home of the nasty Sheriff of Nottingham beloved of myth-hunters.
All this, however, might be about to change. Development plans are on the table which would see it transformed into a primarily Robin Hood-themed attraction. 17th century buffs are familiar with the site as the place where Charles I raised his standard in 1642 - but will there be a place for the Nottingham's role in the English Civil War in the new narrative? And what about all the other things the city's famous for?
