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Travel to and from Nottingham

Travel to and from Nottingham

The Midlands, England

Air Travel Options

Major Airports Nearby

Nottingham a well-connected regional airport and proximity to other major international airports. East Midlands Airport (EMA): Closest, about 15 miles south-east. Birmingham Airport (BHX): About 50 miles south-west. Manchester Airport (MAN): About 80 miles north-west, a major international hub.

London Airport Connections

  • London Airports (LHR, LGW, LTN, STN) the widest range of international flights globally.
  • International travelers typically fly into larger UK airports, then connect to Nottingham via train or bus.
  • Consider AirHelp for flight compensation for delayed or canceled flights.

EMA Flights & Transfers

East Midlands Airport mainly European and domestic destinations (Ryanair, Jet2.com, TUI Airways). Direct international flights from outside Europe limited. Flight prices generally higher during peak summer (June-August).

Airport to City Centre

  • Skylink Express Bus: Most direct public transport, 24/7, about 40-50 minutes to Broadmarsh Bus Station.
  • Taxi/Ride-share: Taxis and Uber outside the terminal, costing £30-£40 to city centre.
  • Car Rental: Desks from major companies at the airport for vehicle pickup.

Flight Deals

Discover affordable flight options from Dollar Flight Club.

Compare Flights

Find competitive prices on flights worldwide with Skyscanner.

Car Rental

Compare deals from multiple providers at DiscoverCars.com.

Train & Bus Connections

Train Services

  • Nottingham Railway Station a major rail hub. East Midlands Railway (EMR) operates services.
  • Frequent direct trains link Nottingham to London St Pancras (1h 45m - 2h journey).
  • Direct services also to Leicester, Derby, Sheffield, Lincoln, and other regional cities.
  • Book train tickets in advance through National Rail Enquiries or EMR website for cheaper fares.

Long-Distance Bus

  • Nottingham Broadmarsh Bus Station the main hub for national bus services.
  • National Express extensive connections to major UK cities, including London Victoria (3-4h journey).
  • Megabus a budget-friendly alternative for intercity travel.
  • Booking bus tickets in advance for better prices and seat security.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Driving Side & License

Drive on the left side of the road in the UK. A valid UK driving license. If non-UK license not in English, an International Driving Permit (IDP) with home country license.

Motorways & Traffic

The M1 motorway close to Nottingham, a main artery linking the city north to Sheffield/Leeds, and south to London. Traffic heavy on motorways during peak hours and in city centres.

Parking

Parking in Nottingham city centre expensive and limited. A good idea to use Park & Ride options, at various tram stops on the city outskirts, and take the tram into the centre.

Sea & River Travel

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Nottingham's inland location no direct sea or cruise port connections. Cruise ships no typical docking near Nottingham.

Closest Ports

  • Closest major ferry ports for international arrivals Hull (to Rotterdam or Zeebrugge).
  • Harwich (to Hook of Holland).
  • Travelers from these ports need onward land transport to Nottingham.

River Transportation

The River Trent flows through Nottingham, but it not a major commuter route for tourists arriving or departing.

River Trent Use

  • Leisure boat trips or canal boat holidays for recreational purposes.
  • Not for city entry/exit for general travel.
  • These cruises deliver a different perspective of the city from the water.

No Direct Sea Link

Nottingham's inland location means no direct sea or cruise port connections to the city.

River Trent Use

The River Trent flows through Nottingham but not a main transport route for tourists.

Leisure Cruises

Pleasure cruises on the River Trent are seasonally available for leisure, not commuting.

Departure Information

Airport Departure EMA

No separate exit fees or taxes typically charged directly to passengers departing UK airports. These charges generally included in airfare when purchasing your ticket.

Timing & Procedures

  • For European flights, arrive at least 2 hours before scheduled departure.
  • For non-Schengen international flights, arrive 3 hours before.
  • Time for check-in, security screening, and reaching your gate.

Train & Bus Departures

Nottingham Railway Station and Broadmarsh Bus Station offer basic facilities like cafes, shops, and restrooms for departing travelers.

Timing & Facilities

  • Train Station: Arrive 15-20 minutes before train departure. No formal check-in or security.
  • Bus Station: Arrive 15-30 minutes before bus departure for luggage loading and seating.
  • EMA facilities: shops, cafes, restrooms, lounges, Wi-Fi.

Final Travel Checklist

Ticket Confirmation

Double-check your flight, train, or bus schedule the day before departure.

Potential Disruptions

Public transport disruptions or strikes occur, so current information a benefit.

Airport Access

Taxi ranks readily available outside Nottingham Railway Station and at East Midlands Airport.