I didn’t know a great deal about Nottingham, as it seems to be one of those cities that is a little bit under the radar. Robin Hood, Russell Crowe who played the legendary figure in a 2010 movie and Brian Clough the legendary boss at Nottingham Forrest were the only associations made before we set off on our travels.
We were staying at the lovely four-star Lace Market Hotel, a gem of a Georgian townhouse in the heart of the quarter-mile historic quarter for which it is named.
The Lace Market used to be at the centre of the world’s lace industry during the 18th and 19th centuries and is filled full of heritage buildings and winding streets. Warehouses and lace showrooms have now been replaced by bars, restaurants and shops but it retains a lot of charm and there’s a really good vibe in the area.
I was given one of the best welcomes ever when I arrived at the hotel, the staff couldn’t wait to pick me up and I got loads of cuddles before we made our way to a lovely suite with big Georgian windows overlooking the elegant buildings on the charmingly named High Pavement. It was a gorgeous room with a huge comfortable bed, living space and state-of-the-art bathroom. It felt like home with added luxury which is exactly what pooches want from a hotel.
This area of the city is the perfect place to relax and wander and there was no shortage of attention for me. In fact, I was mobbed every time I went out. I definitely felt the love. Here, you’ll find Nottingham Contemporary, a brilliant modern art gallery which has some excellent exhibitions. When we visited, there was a brilliant show from a black artist, Donald Rodney. Well, I say we, but I wasn’t allowed into the gallery bit. However, the downstairs café welcomes dogs with open arms, so the humans were able to take turns to visit the exhibition.
Nottingham is a bit of a culinary hot spot with the Michelin-starred Sat Bains leading the charge into high-end cuisine, however, there are plenty of cheaper places to bring your pet such as Bill’s and Bistrot Pierre.
The humans decided on the uber-stylish Coco Tang restaurant and coffee bar, where I was once again mobbed by the locals. Mostly young women cooing over my fluffy presence.
How could I not love such a friendly, lively city where I was made to feel like a princess? I adored every minute and can’t wait for the humans to take me back!
Peppa was the guest of Lace Market Hotel: 29-31 High Pavement, The Lace Market, Nottingham NG1 1HN
0115 948 4414 / More information can be found at lacemarkethotel.co.uk
By Janet Reeder | Images Paul Morgans
