
1. Derby

2. Lincoln

3. Leicester

4. Birmingham

5. Sheffield

6. Melton Mowbray
This is another fun and interesting city that could make a great option for day trips from Nottingham. It’s especially one to check out if you’re a foodie. Melton Mowbray is famous for its Melton Pork Pies, as well as its food markets every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday. It’s quite easy to reach from Nottingham, as it’s about 50 minutes on the train (changing at Leicester) or 35 minutes by car from the city centre. There are also specific food festivals, including the UK Piefest at the end of July, the East Midlands food festival at the beginning of October and ChocFest in mid-November.How to get to Melton Mowbray
To reach Melton Mowbray, start on the A60 south from Nottingham, then switch to the A606 west. You’ll pass through some beautiful countryside on this short trip. The journey is approximately 20 miles and should take you about 40 minutes without traffic.7. Grantham
The shortest of the trips, Grantham is a small market town 30 minutes by train and 45 minutes by car away from Nottingham’s city centre. Grantham is known for a number of different things, including being the birthplace of Maggie Thatcher, the site of Isaac Newton’s discovery of gravity and gingerbread biscuits. No matter what you’re interested in, Grantham will provide a fun and unique day trip from Nottingham.How to get to Grantham
Head east out of Nottingham on the A52. This route will take you directly to Grantham, passing through the charming town of Bingham along the way. The journey is about 25 miles and should take you around 45 minutes without traffic.8. Sherwood Forest

How to get to Sherwood Forest
To experience the legendary Sherwood Forest, drive north from Nottingham on the A60. After about 20 miles, you’ll see signs for Sherwood Forest. The journey should take you around 40 minutes without traffic. Nottingham is blessed by being easily connected to many different cities, making day trips that much more doable. Plus, if you don’t have a car you can still venture around by using public transport. Alternatively, why not take advantage of Nottingham’s abundant things to do with our guide to living in the city as a student.9. Peak District

How to get to the Peak District
Start your journey on the A52 west from Nottingham. Continue on this road until you reach Derby, then switch to the A6 north. This scenic drive will take you straight into the heart of the Peak District, with its breathtaking landscapes and charming villages. The journey is approximately 60 miles and will take you about 1.5 hours without traffic.But what if you want to go further?
Although cities I’ve mentioned are great day trips, I also found that going even further is always a great adventure. By taking advantage of student railcards and coachcards, you are able to travel to Manchester and London. Both of these great places to visit for the day if you plan right! My advice on these long-haul trips is to make sure you’re prepared. My extreme day trip to London for the day by coach started with a 7am coach ride and ended with an arrival time of 10pm! First year me doesn’t regret going despite the very long day and I recommend it to those who really want the adventure.Last Updated on June 12, 2025
Published on March 16, 2025
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Connor is a seasoned content expert at Unifresher, specialising in publishing engaging and insightful student-focused content. With over four years of experience in data analysis and content strategy, Connor has a proven track record of supporting publishing teams with high-quality resources. A graduate of the University of Sussex with a BSc in Accounting and Finance, he combines his academic background with his passion for creating content that resonates with students across the UK. Outside of work, Connor enjoys staying active at his local gym and walking his miniature dachshunds.
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