The Best Hotels to Book Near the University of Nottingham

Nottingham has come a long way in the past 10 years when it comes to tourism ‒ and nowhere more so than its Lace Market area, which has rapidly changed from post-industrial zone to sought-after cultural district. Opt for one of the airy suites in this converted school building in the Lace Market and you’ll be right at the heart of all its sights and shops. All 12 suites come with kitchen and living facilities, so you can imagine you’re a local ‒ albeit a very lucky one.

A good-value boutique hotel in Nottingham, the Bentinck also has a location that’s top-notch. As well as being handy for the University of Nottingham, it’s just steps away from the Theatre Royal, Capital FM Arena and, of course, Nottingham Castle. Make a splash at the nearby National Water Sports Centre, or get your skates on at the National Ice Centre, before returning for dinner in the cheerful brasserie and a night in a comfy bed.

The De Vere Orchard Hotel is sustainable and ecofriendly, from the plant-scattered lobby to the bright, modern rooms. It sits within a large area of university parkland, which you can see through the floor-to-ceiling windows. Relax on the terrace or enjoy the university gym and pool, free of charge. Finish your night with a local cheeseboard at the brasserie-style restaurant, where woodland scenes line the walls.

History is turned on its head at these 1845 Victorian villas, as they’ve been renovated into lavishly themed, city-inspired guesthouses. Choose the muralled Venice room for a touch of class, or the fun New York room with a US flag bedspread, Coca-Cola fridge and yellow taxi lampshades. Even the food – served in the opulent bar or the Versace-inspired restaurant – is travel-themed; try the Japanese rolled omelette or Spanish flamenco eggs for breakfast. On-site parking is free, and the city centre is a 10-minute walk away.

This red-brick Georgian townhouse sits in the former industrial hub that is Lace Market. You can feel the history in the classic yet cool rooms, which are elevated by Respa Sublime mattresses, ecofriendly toiletries and – in the superior suites – free-standing tubs. Visit the on-site pub, the Cock & Hoop, to enjoy British classics with a twist, such as Guinness and mushroom pot pie, or book private dining with National Justice Museum views.

Independent hotel Hart’s sits on a section of the old castle ramparts and offers high-up suites with spectacular Nottinghamshire views, and garden-side rooms with French doors leading to private terraces – the ideal brunch spot, perfected with a refreshing mimosa. Sample the restaurant menu created by the Michelin-starred executive chef Aaron Patterson – think pan-fried calf’s liver or roast sirloin of beef alongside global fine wines – and look out for fun hotel events such as courtyard-based barbecues.

You can expect a relaxing stay at St James, where rooms come with aromatic lavender spray and White Company toiletries. Plump for top-tier rooms and you’ll find chandelier-topped jacuzzi baths, antique bespoke furniture and panoramic city views. Evenings are for dinner and stargazing in the glass-roofed restaurant, or signature cocktails – the hazelnut martini is a must – in the bookcase-lined lounge. St James even has an art gallery showcasing local talent.

Quirkiness runs right through this four-star boutique hotel in the Lace Market, from the statement-walled city-inspired room to the luxury suite with a vintage-style lounge and secret sleeping quarters hidden behind a bookcase. Kick back at one of the unconventional bars and restaurants; go on a culinary journey at the Curious Tavern, which serves up unusually dressed oysters (try the gin-soaked version); or enjoy a subterranean drink at the Lost Caves bar, housed in Medieval caverns 8m (26ft) under the city.

Live like a local in this serviced aparthotel that combines the ease and luxury of a hotel stay with the fun of city living. Modern, colourful flats – from studios to two-bedroom penthouses – come with fully equipped kitchens, comfy living spaces and ensuites. On-site 24-hour reception, a late-night essentials shop and grab-and-go breakfasts – with hot drinks, pastries, yoghurts and more – ensure you have all you need to explore nearby landmarks such as Rock City or the Royal Concert Hall.