Springing back

As we emerge from under the cosy blanket of winter, we welcome the bursts of blossom and the dancing yellow trumpets of daffodils, bringing fresh colour to our verges and planters. It’s the season to get out and appreciate those green spaces, as longer days and warmer temperatures re-energise us.

Why not start your visit on the north side of the city and make time to meander through the Arboretum. One of Nottingham’s Green Flag parks, it boasts a canopy of around sixty-five species of tree and hosts outdoor events throughout the summer.

Elevate your heart rate, boost your mood, and meet some of the resident wildlife while you tread the crocus-edged paths around Nottingham’s oldest public parklands. Feel the wellbeing benefits of spending time in the woodland – the lungs of the city.

Breathe

As you step down the tree-lined streets, take a little time out to savour the delights of life. Revive those feel-good rituals that slow us right down and encourage us to enjoy being in the moment. Consider carving out a little time for yourself; seek out the opportunity to try something new.

You will find print, plant and leather workshops at indie gift shop Handmade Nottingham, also local maker Hallo Ceramics launches her hands-on ‘Pots and Pints’ sessions at Rough Trade this spring. For something tactile that will guarantee you an injection of colour, pop into The Bead Shop for some creative inspiration.

Spend an hour or two escaping to Waterstones' top-floor coffee shop to pour over your new purchases from their well-stocked shelves. If you enjoy your tea the traditional way, linger a little while longer over Whittards or Bird & Blend’s wide selection of loose-leaf teas. Brew a pot at home and sip it slowly over a conversation with a friend. You might also consider joining their tea club to ensure you keep up your good habits.

Relax

A little light retail therapy can do you the world of good, especially if it’s focused on that all-important self-care. Just inside the Victoria Centre at Rituals, you will find a whole range of pamper products, including their premium collections, hand-embroidered kimonos, and yoga accessories.

The glittering glass shelves at Kiehl's house a new range of multi-taskers, to help you “de-clutter your routine”, which complement their tried and tested range of products designed to help you look and feel your best. Ask them about their skin-care services too. A restyle at the nearby KH Hair or Brik Barbershop is bound to leave you feeling refreshed, and maybe in the mood to browse the boutiques in the area.

And if the spring in your step has got you thinking about purchasing new footwear, then Foot Asylum and schuh are close by, and for sporty types, Up & Running and JD Sports stores are within a few metres of each other. Alternatively, pop into Sweaty Betty for eye-catching exercise gear.

Indulge

If you want to explore the wider city, the Lime e-bike hire scheme is affordable and accessible. The distinctive white and citrus green bikes can be picked up at various locations across the city centre.

And as your afternoon slides into the evening, why not find a table outside to soak up the spring sunshine and enjoy a sundowner?

Make time for what makes you happy.

Download our app to find more amazing places to spring back and indulge in Nottingham

We’ve created the It’s in Nottingham app which is loaded with the latest shops, restaurants, bars, venues and events across the city centre - plus Google maps to help you get around easily.

Whether you're a music fan, a foodie, looking for a great night out or things to do: our app will point you in the right direction and help you enjoy your time in our city.

Download it free today on Apple or Android.