Located just a few miles north of Nottingham city centre, Mapperley is a charming, diverse, and increasingly popular suburb that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its mix of tranquil residential streets, scenic green spaces, and strong local community, Mapperley provides the perfect balance of suburban living with easy access to the city. It’s a sought-after spot for those looking for a more relaxed lifestyle without straying too far from urban amenities.
A Brief History of Mapperley
Mapperley’s history is rooted in its rural beginnings before the growth of Nottingham’s industrial era. Once considered farmland, Mapperley began to transform into a residential area during the 19th century as the city expanded. The name “Mapperley” is thought to come from the Old English words for ‘maple tree’ and ‘clearing,’ reflecting the natural landscape of the area before development took over. Today, the area is known for its leafy streets and large Victorian homes, which still serve as a testament to the suburb’s heritage.
Eating and Drinking in Mapperley
Mapperley offers a range of food and drink options, from casual dining spots to vibrant bar-restaurants, catering to all tastes and occasions. Whether you’re craving a hearty breakfast, a delicious dinner, or just a coffee with friends, Mapperley has you covered.
Deli-icious
A charming spot for breakfast, brunch, or a light lunch, Deli-icious offers a variety of freshly made sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Their deli-style counter is perfect for grabbing a quick bite, and they also serve artisan coffee for a relaxed café experience.
Nissi’s American Diner
Nissi’s is the place to go if you’re in the mood for classic American diner food. Serving up everything from juicy burgers to loaded fries and milkshakes, it’s perfect for a casual, hearty meal. Their friendly service and retro diner vibe make it a fun spot for all ages.
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La Zenia Restaurant
Lazenia is a Mediterranean-inspired tapas restaurant offering a wide variety of small plates to share. From sizzling prawns to grilled meats, their delicious menu showcases bold flavours and high-quality ingredients. It’s the perfect spot for a casual evening with friends or a special celebration.
The Old Flower Shop
The Old Flower Shop offers a contemporary bar-restaurant experience, blending delicious food with a great selection of drinks. Known for its stylish setting, it provides a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, making it a great spot for a night out or a casual meal. The menu features a variety of dishes, from hearty mains to light bites, perfect for pairing with their excellent drink selection.
Bread and Bitter
A lovely local pub from Castle Rock Brewery, Bread and Bitter is a popular spot for craft beer lovers. With an ever-changing selection of ales, ciders, and hearty pub meals, it’s a perfect place to unwind with friends or enjoy a casual evening out.
Source: Visit Nottinghamshire
SNAP Breakfast & Lunch
SNAP serves up a variety of breakfast and lunch options in a cozy café setting. Known for their delicious range of sandwiches, fresh salads, and great coffee, it’s a perfect spot to relax and catch up with friends or grab a quick, tasty bite.
The Cake Solution
The Cake Solution is a local bakery in Nottingham that creates custom cakes and desserts for all kinds of special occasions. They offer a range of delicious options including eggless tortes, eggless cheesecakes, baked cheesecakes, mudcakes, celebration cakes, and a variety of desserts. For those with dietary preferences, they also offer vegan and gluten-free options. With a focus on fresh ingredients and unique designs, The Cake Solution is all about making your celebrations sweeter and more memorable.
Coosh Micro Bakery
A quaint and well-regarded bakery known for its high-quality, homemade baked goods. What sets Coosh apart is its focus on crafting small-batch, artisanal bread, pastries, and cakes using locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients. It’s a delightful destination for those who appreciate the finer details of handmade bread, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and freshness.
The bakery’s ethos revolves around creating delicious, wholesome products while maintaining strong ties with the local community. Whether you’re stopping by for a loaf of freshly baked sourdough or a selection of sweet treats, Coosh offers a delightful experience for any food lover.
Chung’s of Mapperley
For lovers of authentic Chinese cuisine, Chung’s of Mapperley offers a wide selection of traditional dishes, including a variety of noodles, stir-fries, and delicious dim sum. The warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for a family meal or gathering with friends.
Leisure and Activities in Mapperley
Mapperley is not just about dining; it also offers plenty of outdoor spaces and local shops to explore. Whether you’re looking for a place to unwind or a spot to do some shopping, this suburb has it all.
Nuffield Health, Nottingham
For those interested in fitness and wellness, Nuffield Health Nottingham is a top choice nearby. Offering a state-of-the-art gym, swimming pool, and a wide range of fitness classes, it’s perfect for those looking to stay active. Whether you’re into strength training, cardio, or relaxation with yoga and swimming, Nuffield Health provides comprehensive facilities to suit all fitness levels. In addition to gym services, they also offer wellness and medical services, ensuring a holistic approach to health.
Razzle Dazzle Pots
One notable leisure option in Mapperley is Razzle Dazzle Pots, a fun and creative activity venue for all ages. It offers pottery painting, allowing visitors to decorate their own pottery pieces, from mugs to figurines. It’s a relaxing and artistic way to spend an afternoon, whether you’re a family looking for a creative outing or a group of friends wanting to try something different. Razzle Dazzle Pots provides a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for all skill levels. You can even take your finished creations home after they’ve been glazed and fired, making for a memorable keepsake.
Source: https://razzledazzlepots.co.uk/
Mapperley Golf Club
Another great spot in Mapperley for outdoor enthusiasts is Mapperley Golf Club. This well-established golf course offers a scenic and challenging 18-hole layout, perfect for golfers of all skill levels. The club provides a friendly atmosphere and excellent facilities, including a clubhouse with a bar and dining area, making it a great place to relax after a round. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting out, Mapperley Golf Club offers a welcoming environment for all
4. Charity Shops
Nottinghamshire Hospice Shop
A charity shop supporting Nottinghamshire Hospice, selling a range of second-hand items like clothing and homeware. Proceeds go towards funding hospice care services.
My Sight Nottinghamshire Mapperley Charity Shop
This shop raises funds for My Sight Nottinghamshire, supporting individuals with sight loss. It offers a variety of pre-loved items including clothes, books, and accessories.
Oxfam
A popular charity shop offering second-hand clothing, books, and home items. The proceeds help support Oxfam’s global initiatives to fight poverty and injustice.
Headway Charity Shop
This shop supports Headway, a charity for individuals affected by brain injuries. It sells donated goods such as clothing, books, and household items to fund the charity’s work.
The Children’s Society
A charity shop that offers second-hand items, including clothing, toys, and books, with all proceeds helping The Children’s Society support vulnerable children across the UK.
Schools and Education in Mapperley
Mapperley offers a range of educational options for families with children, from primary schools to secondary institutions. The area’s proximity to Nottingham city centre means that parents also have access to a wider range of educational opportunities.
Mapperley Plains Primary School
Ofsted Rating: Good
The Ofsted report for Mapperley Primary and Nursery School highlights that the school provides a supportive and nurturing environment where pupils feel safe and valued. It notes that leaders and staff are committed to improving the quality of education, with a focus on developing pupils’ personal and academic skills. However, the report also mentions that while teaching is strong in many areas, there is room for further improvement in some subjects to ensure consistency across the curriculum.
Housing in Mapperley
Mapperley is home to a variety of housing options, including spacious Victorian terraces, modern apartments, and larger family homes. The area is ideal for those looking for a quieter, more suburban lifestyle while still being close to the city.
Property prices in Mapperley are more affordable than nearby, more exclusive areas like The Park and West Bridgford. A typical mid-terrace house in Mapperley will set you back around £200,000 to £250,000, while larger family homes can range from £300,000 to £500,000, depending on size and location.
Transport Links
Mapperley benefits from excellent transport links to Nottingham city centre and beyond. Regular bus services run through the area, providing easy access to the city’s main attractions and business districts. For those who prefer to drive, the A60 and A614 provide quick routes to the M1 motorway, making it easy to reach surrounding towns and cities.
Conclusion
Mapperley is an increasingly desirable suburb, offering a great balance of quiet suburban living with excellent access to Nottingham city centre. With its rich history, variety of local dining and shopping options, and abundant green spaces, it’s easy to see why Mapperley has become a popular choice for homebuyers and renters alike. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful family home or a vibrant community, Mapperley provides fantastic value for money.
If you’re considering a move to Mapperley, feel free to reach out to our team for expert advice on finding the perfect property. We’re happy to help you discover your ideal home in this charming and thriving part of Nottingham.
