Drury Hill Caves

Nottingham’s City of Caves is a network of sandstone caves beneath the city centre. The caves were carved over centuries for homes, workshops and storage. They were later used as a tannery, public house cellars and air-raid shelters. The attraction sits near the site of the old Drury Hill, a medieval street demolished for the Broadmarsh shopping centre. Hundreds of such caves exist across the city, some dating back over a thousand years. The caves are worth visiting for their long history and varied uses. Archaeologists have recorded over a thousand caves, many rediscovered since 2016. The caves were once home to the only known underground tannery in Britain, with circular pits for barrels. They also served as slum housing before being banned in the 19th century. During the Second World War, parts were turned into air-raid shelters, including one recreated for tours. Visitors walk through caves once used as homes, workshops and shelters. The medieval tannery area shows where skins were processed near the River Leen. The remains of Drury Hill’s slum basements show the harsh living conditions of the 19th century. The air-raid shelter section recreates the wartime experience, including sandbag supplies. The tour highlights how these spaces shaped Nottingham’s past.