The Arboretum, Nottingham

The Nottingham Arboretum is the city’s oldest public park and a treasured green space just a short stroll from the city center. Officially opened on 11 May 1852 by the Mayor, W. Felkin, and Sheriff Ball before a crowd of 30,000, the park was designed by noted botanist and horticultural publisher Samuel Curtis-also known for his work on London’s Victoria Park.

Conceived as a tranquil botanical haven, the Arboretum was laid out in the “natural order,” featuring curated plantings to educate and delight. Today, it remains home to over 800 trees representing 65 different species, with some dating back to the original 19th-century planting. It holds Grade II* listed status and has earned a Green Flag award for its quality and care.

The park is more than just a historic garden-it plays a key role in the community, hosting numerous events and offering visitors the chance to explore its Tree Trail and Heritage Trail. Easily reached via Nottingham’s tram network, it continues to serve as one of the city’s "green lungs."

Adding to its charm is the persistent local lore that the Arboretum inspired J.M. Barrie’s magical world of Neverland-Barrie lived in Nottingham before writing Peter Pan, so perhaps the park’s leafy paths and whimsical charm did sow the seeds of flight and fairy dust.