WANT to see how Robin Hood really lived; "Feel the Fear" in the Galleries of Justice; walk through 13th Century caves under a modern shopping centre? Then a weekend in Nottingham could be just what you're aiming for. It really is a city with a wealth of interesting sites to visit.

Underneath the bustling Broadmarsh shopping centre, with its plethora of the usual shops, lurks a dark and hidden part of Nottingham's past which was almost lost forever when the centre was constructed. The sandstone has been carved over the years into a labyrinth of caves with a multitude of uses.

During the Second World War, part of the network was used as air raid shelters. Earlier in Nottingham's history, caves were used as pub cellars and, in the 15th Century, the Pillar Cave was home to Britain's only medieval underground tannery.

Venture above ground once more into the Tales of Robin Hood exhibition. Here, visitors ride through Sherwood Forest seeing, hearing and smelling what life must have been like at the time when Nottingham's most famous son was stealing from the rich and giving to the poor.

This attraction is very child friendly, with hands-on activities available plus the opportunity to buy the obligatory bow and arrow.

Nottingham Castle is reached via Castle Gate, passing the Lace Centre and museum of Costumes and Textiles. The castle itself is set within attractive Victorian-inspired grounds and has commanding views over the city. Once a medieval castle built by William the Conqueror, Nottingham Castle is now a 17th Century mansion which is home to a museum, art gallery and caf, all of which are well worth a visit.

A useful base for a visit to the city centre is the Travel Inn Express, situated on the campus of Nottingham Trent University. The inexpensive accommodation is within easy walking distance of the city centre, with plenty of good eating and drinking places nearby.

TRAVELFACTS

Nigel, Alison and Jennifer stayed at the Travel Inn Metro in Nottingham, where a family room (up to two adults and two children) costs £49.95 per night.

A family ticket for Tales of Robin Hood costs £19.95, and a family ticket to the Nottingham caves is £10.