There are many intriguing cities around the UK. From London to Birmingham and Manchester there is plenty to choose from when it comes to a city break. But there is one place that is mostly known for its connection to Robin Hood and yet it has more hidden secrets.

Nottingham is home to the UK’s largest network of caves, with over 800 of them carved into the sandstone underneath the city centre, according to the National Justice Museum. The huge underground maze includes everything from medieval tanneries and Victorian slums to World War 2 air raid shelters and pub cellars, and today it has become a growing hotspot for dark tourism.

At the City of Caves, visitors can explore part of this network on a guided tour through the passageways and chambers that lie beneath Nottingham’s Lace Market. 

According to the site, the caves once housed some of the city’s poorest residents until 1845, when a law was passed to stop people from living in such overcrowded and unhygienic conditions.

In medieval times, the caves were used to tan animal hides, making Nottingham the only place in Britain with an underground tannery. 

Later, during WW2, around 10% of the cave network was repurposed as bomb shelters. 

Some were pre-existing caves, while others were hastily dug out to provide protection during the air raids that killed or injured over 500 people in Nottingham.

The caves have also played a role in royal history. According to European Heritage Days, in 1330, a group loyal to King Edward III used a passage now known as Mortimer’s Hole, located beneath Nottingham Castle, to capture his mother Isabella of France and her lover Roger Mortimer.

The labyrinth of tunnels has also been linked to Nottingham’s lace trade and European import routes. 

Venetian glass found beneath pubs and historic homes offers clues to a thriving trade with countries like Italy, France and Germany. 

Some caves were even expanded to entertain wealthy merchants who stored foreign wines and goods underground.

Today, only a portion of the network is open to the public, with many deeper sections remaining inaccessible due to safety concerns. 

However, community groups and local archaeologists are working to preserve the caves and raise awareness of their importance.

The City of Caves offers tickets from £8.75 for adults and £7.65 for children or seniors, with access through the Garner’s Hill steps near Nottingham Contemporary. 

Visitors are advised to book in advance and wear comfortable shoes. 

Tours can be booked here.