Getting Around Nottingham. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental

Public Transportation

Nottingham an integrated public transport network, moving around without a car easy. The system mainly buses (NCT, Trentbarton) and trams (NET).

Buses noted for frequent service. The tram system a fast and reliable travel method, with two main lines to important locations like Nottingham Railway Station and Old Market Square.

Ticketing & Fares

Cash: Pay drivers on buses (exact fare preferred).
Contactless Payment: Simplest way to pay on buses (tap on) and trams (tap on/tap off).
Robin Hood Card: Multi-operator smartcard for buses, trams, local trains. Purchase Day, Week, or Month options.
App Tickets: NCTX Buses app mobile tickets for NCT bus services.

Hubs

Bus Hubs: Broadmarsh and Victoria Centre Bus Stations. Tram Hubs: Nottingham Station, Old Market Square, Lace Market.

Hours & Frequency

Buses from 5 am to midnight (some night services). Trams from 6 am to midnight. Trams frequent, every 7-10 minutes during the day.

Accessibility

Public transport generally accessible. Newer buses and all trams low-floor, wheelchair accessible. Dedicated spaces.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxi Types & Fares

Black Cabs (Hackney Carriages): Hailed on street or at ranks, metered fares.
Private Hire Vehicles (Minicabs): Pre-booked via phone or app, fare agreed upon booking.
Taxi fares in Nottingham regulated. A short journey within city centre about £5-£10.

Ride-Sharing & Safety

Recommended Ride-Sharing: Uber and Bolt are in Nottingham.
Safety: Only licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing apps. Confirm vehicle details.
Share journey details with a trusted friend if traveling alone.

Rental Options

Car Rental

Requirements: Age 21-25+, valid driving license (IDP if not English), credit card. Major companies: Enterprise, Hertz, Avis, etc.

Driving Laws

Drive on the left. Speed limits clearly signposted (30 mph urban). Be aware of bus lanes and traffic cameras.

Parking

Expensive and limited in city centre. Park & Ride facilities for affordable access.

Bicycle Sharing

Lime Bikes: Dockless electric bike-sharing. Download app to locate, unlock, pay. Local shops offer rentals.

Walking & Cycling

Nottingham's compact nature and green spaces walking and cycling enjoyable for experiencing the city. The city centre highly walkable, with many pedestrianized zones and pleasant routes.

Walking Routes

Old Market Square: Pedestrianized, ideal starting point for city walks.
Lace Market: Explore historic area on foot, appreciating cobbled streets and Victorian architecture.
Nottingham Castle Grounds: Pleasant walking paths with city views.
Nottingham Canal & Wollaton Park: Flat paths along canal or extensive deer park for walks.

Guided & Self-Guided Tours

Guided Tours: Various local companies themed walking tours (Robin Hood, historical, ghost).
Check Visit Nottinghamshire website or local tourist information for options.
Self-guided Tours: Download maps or use apps for self-guided walks, often with commentary.
Bicycle Infrastructure: Growing network of cycle lanes. Dedicated paths along River Trent and canals.

Safety for Pedestrians & Cyclists

Nottingham a safe city, but exercise caution in poorly lit or isolated areas late at night.
Stick to well-trafficked and well-lit areas, especially after dark.
Helmets always for bicycle safety.

No-Go Areas: Some industrial or residential estates not typically for tourists.
These areas may lack amenities or lighting; exercise caution.
General UK travel recommendations for changeable weather and urban exploration.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses

Hop-on-hop-off services not widely available in Nottingham. Local tour operators coach trips to nearby attractions.

Water Transport

Pleasure cruises on the River Trent seasonally, offering a different perspective, not for commuting.

Accessibility Services

Public transport generally accessible. Taxis and private hire accessible vehicles upon request. Check with venues.

Efficient Travel Tip

Download the NCTX Buses app and the NET Tram app before you arrive. These apps real-time tracking, route planning, and mobile ticket purchase, making journeys smoother.

Consider a Robin Hood Card if public transport use extensive for several days.

Getting Around Nottingham