Why go now?
To discover, play and make video games at the National Video Game Arcade, which opened on Saturday. Plus there’s a new National Civil War Centre opening in nearby Newark on 3 May – with more than 1,000 historical re-enactors! The Malt Cross, a Victorian music hall in central Nottingham, recently reopened, with arts, music and a bar.

Any must-see attractions?
Plenty: the castle and its caves; the historic Lace Market area; the Galleries of Justice; and Nottingham Contemporary, whose spring show features Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock and Jasper Johns.

Where’s good for dinner?
The Hand and Heart pub is launching a monthly tasting menu on 6 April at £35 for six courses, one glass of champagne and two of wine. Two-Michelin-starred Sat Bains is the destination dining spot (£165pp for a 10-course tasting menu with wine). The Calcutta Club is the latest opening in the curry quarter: a great example of the trend for Raj nostalgia.

How about a drink?
Find the Architectural Ale Trail , for 12 great real-ale pubs, such as the Trip to Jerusalem, which claims to be England’s oldest inn (founded 1189). Newcomers Ned Ludd and Crafty Crow specialise in craft ale – the latter’s “afternoon beer” comprises cobs (soft rolls), pork pie and scotch egg with three third-pints. The more edgy Boilermaker bar serves quality cocktails.

Anywhere to stay for under £100?
St James Hotel has been refurbished in the style of a Venetian palazzo – without the price tag (doubles from £54). The Grade II-listed Lace Market hotel is being refurbished and is due to reopen this spring. Or make like Robin Hood and stay in a Forest Holidays treehouse in Sherwood Forest (from £32pp a night).

Do I need a car?
Nope. Get there with East Midlands, Northern Rail or Cross Country Trains; there’s a tram service in the city centre.