In the Middle Ages, Nottingham Castle was a major royal fortress and occasional royal residence, standing atop a prominant sanstone cliff. However, it was in decline by the 16th century, and was largely demolished in 1649.

The Duke of Newcastle later built a mansion on the site, which was burnt down by rioters in 1831 and left as a ruin. It was later rebuilt to house an art gallery and museum, which remain in use to this day. Little of the original castle survives, but sufficient portions remain to give an impression of the layout of the site. It is now in the control of Nottingham City Council and open to the public.

The castle is reputedly haunted by past events, particularly the capture of Roger Mortimer referred to below at the Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem pub. Footsteps and a woman's voice pleading for Mortimer have been reported.

It is claimed that the Long Gallery is haunted by a former Countess of Nottingham. If you see her it is said that you will be dead inside of a year. Lights have operated on their own in the Bonnington Room.

Pictured left is the Castle Gatehouse courtesy of Cosmicutencil.