The most aesthetic places to take photos in Notts

Your instagram can thank us later x


I know I’m biased but UoN campus has definitely got to be one of the top ten most attractive campuses in the UK. However, at first glance, the city of Nottingham does not come across as the most aesthetically pleasing city, especially in comparison to the picturesque scenes of Durham or Edinburgh found on your old classmates’ feeds.

But believe it or not, Nottingham actually has a wide range of Insta perfect and unique settings that are ten times better than the typical picture of the Downs just before sunset. This guide includes some fun ideas of places you can take that perfect photo, because how else will anyone know you leave the house unless you post about it?

Hockley Arts Club

Hockley Arts Club is a not so hidden, hidden gem tucked away in Hockley. Though you may leave with a much lighter wallet, the beautiful backdrop makes up for it. There are three floors to choose from, but a particularly scenic one is the ‘electric garden’ on the top floor. Their cocktails are also extremely aesthetically pleasing, some of them even set on fire which makes for a fab video on your IG story.

If Hockley is a bit too expensive for your taste then Bunk has a range of locations, and neon signs, to choose from.

Nottingham Contemporary

Nottingham Contemporary isn’t your traditional art gallery. It offers a range of exhibits that will make your feed look super artsy and worldly. Its exhibitions are constantly changing, so it’s unlikely there’ll be anyone on Insta with a similar post to yours. You might even learn something whilst you’re there. Plus, there’s a café, and who doesn’t love a museum café?

Nottingham Castle

If you’re a History student, pose in front of this and you’re guaranteed a first, that’s what the legend says at least.

Following its £30 million redevelopment, the castle boasts huge grounds, cobblestones everywhere and is particularly gorgeous at sunset. Nottingham Castle is also linked to the caves if you want an even edgier look. Plus, students get a 20% discount on tickets.

Green’s Windmill

Nottingham has a windmill?! Built in the early 1800s and located in Green’s Mill Park just outside the city centre, Green’s Windmill and science centre, is the opposite of the traditional Old Market Square photos you’ve taken in the past.

This is an amazing option if you have nothing to do on a windy day because if there is anything windmills love, it’s wind. If you come on a windy day you will definitely be able to see the mill in action.

Pitcher and Piano

Though it is a chain, Pitcher and Piano Nottingham is unmatched in comparison to its other locations.

Definitely an upgrade from the traditional Slug and Lettuce backdrop, its huge ceilings and stained glass windows really give you that extra edge, and definitely makes it seem like you’ve got money to spare. This is probably one of the only places where it’s okay to pose like an influencer in a church.

I would advise going when they’re doing two for one cocktails, though.

Pitcher and piano christmas

Pitcher and Piano at Christmas

Wollaton Hall

We’ve all been told about a thousand times that Wollaton Hall was the set of Wayne Manor in that Batman movie, so if its backdrop is good enough for Tom Hardy and Christian Bale, it’s certainly good enough for us.

If you’ve had the strength to trek up that muddy path, you’ll know it really is worth it once you arrive at the manor even if you can’t go inside that day. The walk back will give you enough time to pick out the perfect filter on your photo, too.

If you’re lucky, you can even grab a photo of the deer that roam around, just to prove that Nottingham is way better than any other student city.

Hugh Stewart

Even though the picturesque, ivy clad exterior of Hugh Stewart is what you picture when you think of the hall, no students actually live in this well known building – sorry to break the bad news. The block which students can live in is not quite as aesthetically pleasing, but your followers don’t need to know that.

Accompanied by a lovely garden, it’s the perfect spot for a summer picnic and a few snaps.

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