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ottingham offers the best of both worlds - a vibrant city surrounded by serene countryside. And then there is the small matter of everyone’s favourite outlaw, Robin Hood, who still dominates the city. It is also a city that has tastefully reconciled the past with the future, as shopping centre the Lace Market , some award-winning restaurants and a buzzing clubbing scene by night illustrate. Nottingham offers everything an outlaw needs for the perfect short break.

History and Heritage
With prehistoric cave art dating back 13,000 years at Creswell Crags , the city and outskirts has a rich history stretching all the way back to the Ice Age. You can explore the network of medieval caves beneath the city or visit Nottingham Castle , which now houses an impressive collection of art and exhibits.

Wollaton Hall is a spectacular Elizabethan mansion which stands on a natural hill three miles west of the city centre, set in five hundred acres of spectacular gardens and parkland. On site, in addition to the historic hall and its sumptuous grounds, visitors will find the  Natural History Museum and  Industrial Museum .

Arts and Culture
With free art galleries and top festivals to take in, Nottingham has a thriving cultural scene. For the best in international modern art, head to the Nottingham Contemporary before taking a tram to the nearby New Art Exchange , which is dedicated to African, African Caribbean and South Asian artists. The city centre is also full of top venues to catch a live gig or play - fitting for a city that spawned the legendary Heavenly Records.

Food and Drink
With over 300 places in which to eat and drink, you’ll find everything from classic French cuisine to contemporary Lebanese dishes in Nottingham’s city centre. Combine that with a thriving café and deli scene and you can see why Nottingham is a firm favorite with foodies. For a real indulgence, visit the Michelin-starred Restaurant Sat Bains on the outskirts of town.

Shopping
With its pedestrianised streets and tram system, Nottingham is a shopper’s paradise. The compact centre means you can travel from the latest designer collections at local hero Paul Smith and Vivienne Westwood , to the best high street action in just a few steps. To experience the city’s boutiques, explore the Derby Road and Hockley area - and keep an eye out for the very first Boots store, a resplendent, perfectly maintained city centre fixture.

Family Fun
With the legend of Robin Hood enough to bring out the child in anyone, Nottingham’s attractions can be enjoyed by all ages. For an interactive tour through the history of crime and punishment take the Galleries of Justice tour. And teenagers can get an adrenalin fix by tackling the Go Ape! high wire at Sherwood Pines Forest Park .

Sports
With great facilities and a rich sporting history, it’s easy to understand why Nottingham produced Olympians such as Torvill and Dean, and Rebecca Adlington. The city is also home to two historic football clubs and Trent Bridge , where test cricket has been played for over a century, meaning Nottingham can scratch any chronic sports fan's itchiest itch.

Key Events
Nottingham really comes alive in the summer months with a whole range of festivals. For those with their finger on the musical pulse then Dot to Dot is a hotbed for new talent, while Splendour delivers a delirious pop fix. Music aside, you could always dons the tights and quaff a traditional pint in Nottingham Castle at the Robin Hood Beer Festival or take in the foods of the world at the Food and Drink Festival .