Man with Dog

The Man with Dog statue stands in Nottingham as one of those quietly compelling public artworks that stops you mid-stride. It's a bronze figure - a chap and his companion - that's been part of the city's landscape long enough to feel like it belongs there, worn smooth in places by years of weather and the occasional affectionate hand.

What makes this worth a detour isn't necessarily the sculpture itself, though it's well-executed enough. It's more the story behind it and what it says about Nottingham's character. The piece captures something real about the bond between person and animal, rendered in a way that feels honest rather than saccharine. You'll find locals pass it without a second glance, which is the highest compliment any public art can receive.

It's free to view, naturally, and takes about five minutes unless you're the type to stand and contemplate. History enthusiasts will appreciate the context - how and why it came to be installed tells you something about post-war Nottingham and its priorities.

If you're staying at Fairview Farm Log Cabins just outside the city, it's an easy addition to a morning wandering Nottingham's centre. Pair it with the Castle and Market Square to make a proper half-day outing. Kids won't linger long, but it's the sort of spot that lodges in memory - the kind of thing you'll mention when recounting your trip. Not essential, but genuinely worth knowing about.