Highlights
- A collection of more than 800 trees, some from the original 19th-century planting
- The Edwardian bandstand of 1907
- The Circular Aviary, opened in 1889
- The statue of the Chartist leader Feargus O'Connor (1859) and Crimean War cannon
- Tree trails and self-guided walks
About Nottingham Arboretum
The Arboretum was Nottingham's first designated public park. It was opened on 11 May 1852 by the Mayor in front of a crowd of around 30,000 people, and its design was overseen by the botanist and horticultural publisher Samuel Curtis. In its early years entry was free on some days of the week and charged on others.
Today it is a Green Flag award-winning park and is listed Grade II* on the national register of historic parks and gardens. It is still valued above all for its trees: a collection of more than 800, some of them survivors of the original Victorian planting. A friends' group helps with bulb planting, tree walks and fundraising.
What to see
- The tree collection: native and rare non-native species, with downloadable tree trails.
- Bandstand: built in 1907 by Frank Beckett Lewis to replace an earlier one moved from the Castle green.
- Circular Aviary: opened in 1889 and Grade II listed.
- Monuments: a statue of Feargus O'Connor from 1859 and cannon, two of them captured at Sebastopol in the Crimean War.
Planning your visit
The Arboretum is just north of Nottingham city centre, with entrances on Waverley Road, Arboretum Street, North Sherwood Street and Addison Street. Trams run along Waverley Street and stop about 150 metres from the park, and local buses also serve the area.
Most of the park is accessible on surfaced paths. The café opens seasonally, and the council's parks team posts updates on its Facebook page. The park hosts events through the year, including the Green Festival.
Frequently asked questions
Is Nottingham Arboretum free?
Yes. The Arboretum is a public park run by Nottingham City Council and is free to visit.
How do I get to Nottingham Arboretum?
The park is the closest to the city centre and easy to reach on foot. The tram runs along Waverley Street with a stop about 150 metres from the park, and there are four entrances: Waverley Road, Arboretum Street, North Sherwood Street and Addison Street.
Is Nottingham Arboretum accessible?
Yes, mostly. Surfaced paths give disabled access to most of the park.