A tale of two cities at Ilkeston
Ilkeston's postcode may be Derbyshire but it's actually closer to Nottingham. No matter, the two cities are so close that here you're perfectly positioned to explore both. Check out Nearby Erewash Museum to find out about the area's social history before heading to Straws Bridge or Victoria Park for a peaceful walk. Under 20 minutes away you'll find Wollaton Hall, a stunning Elizabethan mansion with extensive grounds, eating spots and a children's playground - interestingly it was used as Batman's home in 2011's The Dark Knight Rises.
See the sites in Nottingham
Reach Nottingham in a mere 15-minutes and once there you can use the excellent tram system to get around - just buy an all-day ticket from any of the clearly marked stops. Visit Nottingham Castle for a spine-tingling tour of the city's fascinating caves, or head to the National Ice Centre for an afternoon's skating. Want to splash some cash? Bridlesmith Gate has great shops or have a nosey round trendy Hockley for some fabulously chic charity stores - while you're there have a play at the National Videogame Arcade.
Feel the need for speed at Donington
Donington Park is under half an hour away and has a full racing calendar for cars and bikes or try a track day to test your own vehicle. Looking for a cheap hotel Near Ilkeston? Travelodge Nottingham Trowell M1 Hotel is very Near and great for transport links or Travelodge Derby Chaddesden Hotel is also a good bet.