A captivating exploration of Nottingham’s subterranean history unfolds at the University of Nottingham Museum, where the public can now witness the treasures unearthed from the city’s intricate network of man-made caves. The exhibition, тιтled “Fascinating Finds from Nottingham’s Caves,” offers a glimpse into the diverse range of objects spanning various historical periods.

Credit: Philippa Warr, via Flickr

Dating back to the medieval era, Nottingham’s caves, numbering over 800, served multifarious purposes, evolving from storage areas and workshops to exclusive leisure spots for the city’s elite. These underground spaces were integral to daily life, providing storage for goods, serving as workshops for crafts such as leather tanning and grain malting, and even doubling as clandestine drinking dens.

Among the remarkable artifacts showcased in the exhibition are remnants of leather tanning, bone craftsmanship, and evidence of beer brewing, including a rare medieval ceramic ‘alembic’ used for distillation. Notable highlights include a collection of exquisite 17th-century Venetian drinking glᴀsses, discovered in a rock-cut well near the former site of the Castle Inn, now Shire Hall.

Dr. Chris King, ᴀssociate Professor in Archaeology at the University of Nottingham’s Department of Classics and Archaeology, expresses enthusiasm for the diverse array of artifacts on display: “There is a long history of people excavating inside Nottingham’s caves, including both professional archaeologists and voluntary community groups – so it is wonderful to see this variety of fascinating objects brought together for the first time.”

These artifacts serve as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of its past inhabitants. Dr. King emphasizes the significance of these artifacts in connecting present-day observers with the diverse array of people who once inhabited and utilized the city’s underground spaces.

Dr. Clare Pickersgill, Keeper of the University of Nottingham Museum, says: “It has been a wonderful opportunity to bring these fascinating collections together and work with colleagues across the city to develop this exhibition.”

In addition to the exhibition, visitors can engage in a variety of activities, including gallery tours, talks, and family events. A free family drop-in event, “Crafts from the Caves,” scheduled for Saturday, February 17th, invites participants to partake in painting activities inspired by the decorative pottery found within the caves, suitable for ages 7 and above.

The exhibition will run until Sunday, July 7th, with opening times on Thursdays and Sundays from 12 to 4 pm. Admission to the exhibition is free, welcoming visitors to delve into the history that lies beneath Nottingham’s streets.