When an Anglo-Saxon chieftain named Snot settled in the area and built a
wall around the town, he named it Snottingham, meaning homestead for his
people. They utilized the caves and passages under the town as homes and
workplaces, giving us the oldest subterranean industries in existence
and an alternative name Tig guocobauc, meaning the dwelling of caves.
When the Normans arrived they subjugated the people and built a
fortified castle on the hill. Nottingham Castle subsequently became one
of the greatest fortresses of medieval England. Much frequented by early
kings, it features in the tales of Robin Hood, that legendary outlaw
synonymous with Nottingham and the arch enemy of the sheriff. Nottingham
is world renowned for its lace making and Raleigh Bicycle Co., Boots the
Chemist and Player's Cigarettes have their roots in Nottingham. It was
also home of the Rebel Writers Byron, Lawrence and Sillitoe. With its
many and diverse elements, Nottingham is a vibrant new city with a
varied and exciting past.