NatWest Hole
NatWest Hole
5
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
134 reviews
Excellent
124
Very good
5
Average
0
Poor
1
Terrible
4
Andrew M
2 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
My name is Andrew Mathew's. I'm 65 years old. I grew up in a wealthy family and moved to Greece at the tender age of 4, as we went to dozens of country's each year its safe to say that I have seen many Fantastic tourist attractions and brilliant sights that not many other poeple will have gotten to see with their eyes before.
7 days ago, I remember lounging in my country Manor (inherited from my great uncle James, he always favoured me) reading my 'Daily mail' newspaper, when my sexy wife of 49 years turned to me with a beautiful grin on her face and she said 'Andrew, we must visit the natwest hole'. Skeptical at first I demanded images. That was the moment that rocked my world, as when I met my sexy wife.
We packed as fast as we could and began driving to the hole. Let me explain how I felt when seeing the hole for the first time. It was like heavenly bliss. More heavenly than galloping through Greece on my £90,000 horse (Hugo Mineheadal the horses name is) across the Swedish mountain ranges 15 years ago. The hole was simply beconing me towards it as if to say 'Andrew, I am life, I am love, I am everything in between' in which I started to repeat. Sharply, the other natwest hole tourist's began to repeat my words at the precise pace as I. It was truly magical. Without a doubt my wife stopped chanting with us and walked closer to the hole and began to kiss it as it deserved, once she had pecked all of the circular exterior of the brick hole, she dived in. Her head was bleeding so I drove towards the closest private hospital (I refuse to deal with that NHS nonsense) which was a terrible mistake as they ordered my wife to stay in the hospital and not leave for 6 hole days. As horrible as my decision was, I had no choice but to return to the Natwest hole without my wounded wife.
When I returned to the attraction my fellow chanters were still chanting. After 15 minutes we went silent, knelt and began to pray, and that's what we have been doing for the past 5 days. It has been such a magical stay I simply had to write this review in hopes of attracting other people towards the beuty of the Natwest hole. The hole. The hole. The hole.
Yours sincerely,
Andrew Mathew's
7 days ago, I remember lounging in my country Manor (inherited from my great uncle James, he always favoured me) reading my 'Daily mail' newspaper, when my sexy wife of 49 years turned to me with a beautiful grin on her face and she said 'Andrew, we must visit the natwest hole'. Skeptical at first I demanded images. That was the moment that rocked my world, as when I met my sexy wife.
We packed as fast as we could and began driving to the hole. Let me explain how I felt when seeing the hole for the first time. It was like heavenly bliss. More heavenly than galloping through Greece on my £90,000 horse (Hugo Mineheadal the horses name is) across the Swedish mountain ranges 15 years ago. The hole was simply beconing me towards it as if to say 'Andrew, I am life, I am love, I am everything in between' in which I started to repeat. Sharply, the other natwest hole tourist's began to repeat my words at the precise pace as I. It was truly magical. Without a doubt my wife stopped chanting with us and walked closer to the hole and began to kiss it as it deserved, once she had pecked all of the circular exterior of the brick hole, she dived in. Her head was bleeding so I drove towards the closest private hospital (I refuse to deal with that NHS nonsense) which was a terrible mistake as they ordered my wife to stay in the hospital and not leave for 6 hole days. As horrible as my decision was, I had no choice but to return to the Natwest hole without my wounded wife.
When I returned to the attraction my fellow chanters were still chanting. After 15 minutes we went silent, knelt and began to pray, and that's what we have been doing for the past 5 days. It has been such a magical stay I simply had to write this review in hopes of attracting other people towards the beuty of the Natwest hole. The hole. The hole. The hole.
Yours sincerely,
Andrew Mathew's
Written August 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
NickUAE1
2 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
When you see the NatWest Hole you realise just how inadequate the English language is. Words really can’t express the feeling of seeing the Hole for the first time. The moment you first walk down the street and suddenly it’s there in front of you, it must be akin to Moses first hearing god speaking to him from a burning bush. I can only image Neil Armstrong felt a small element of this when he first set foot on the moon.
We visited one Saturday morning, it was busy (as you’d expect) so there was some queuing involved. But as the saying goes good things come to those that wait.
I can see why it’s been called by some the Eiffel Tower of the East Midlands, but I think if the French Tourist Authority have anything about them they should be rebranding the Effiel Tower as the NatWest Hole of Paris.
A must see.
We visited one Saturday morning, it was busy (as you’d expect) so there was some queuing involved. But as the saying goes good things come to those that wait.
I can see why it’s been called by some the Eiffel Tower of the East Midlands, but I think if the French Tourist Authority have anything about them they should be rebranding the Effiel Tower as the NatWest Hole of Paris.
A must see.
Written July 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
anteallachleicester
Leicester, UK739 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
We have been wanting to see this Derbyshire gem for years. Covid got in the way, but today we got to realise our dream of seeing the pinnacle of England’s tourist attractions. The likes of Buckingham Palace & Stone Henge seem drab and disinteresting compared to this modern Wonder of the World. Couldn’t believe we got to see it without the usual hoards of tourists obscuring it’s gorgeousness - we were truly blessed.
Written July 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nick Southorn
Derby, UK1 contribution
Dec 2021
How could I resist? I have been hearing about this hole for some time and decided to pack the kids into my car and make the pilgrimage.
The kids were buzzing with excitement on the four and a half hour journey, and the hole did not disappoint.
Such a glorious masterpiece of architecture and craftsmanship which inspired an epiphany, an awakening, a touching spiritual moment that will define my life moving forwards.
The kids were buzzing with excitement on the four and a half hour journey, and the hole did not disappoint.
Such a glorious masterpiece of architecture and craftsmanship which inspired an epiphany, an awakening, a touching spiritual moment that will define my life moving forwards.
Written January 3, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Si D
3 contributions
Aug 2022
I've seen some holes in my time but in all honestly this is one of the most outstanding instances. Perfectly formed, with some lovely detail around the circumference.
The poetry of its placement near a metaphorical 'hole' is not lost on the observer and is cleverly realised by the architect. Additionally, the interplay of light on the 80's style brickwork on an early summer morning works well to highlight the holiness.
My only minor gripe is the placement at street level means you could easily walk by, without appreciating the installation. If it could be repositioned, I could be encouraged to rate 5/5.
The poetry of its placement near a metaphorical 'hole' is not lost on the observer and is cleverly realised by the architect. Additionally, the interplay of light on the 80's style brickwork on an early summer morning works well to highlight the holiness.
My only minor gripe is the placement at street level means you could easily walk by, without appreciating the installation. If it could be repositioned, I could be encouraged to rate 5/5.
Written August 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thomas Pie
1 contribution
Feb 2020
Chose this destination as the location for mine and my wife's 65th weding anniversairy and can honestly say it was worth choosing it over out regular trip to the lake district. The sights, the sounds, the hospitality were all suberb would highly recommend a trip for anyone interested. The kids also loved the experience I feel like this was a real learning experience for them and has altogether brought us closer as a family.
On your next trip Ilkeston this is definetely a must see location!
On your next trip Ilkeston this is definetely a must see location!
Written May 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Martin O'Hare
1 contribution
Jan 2022
I was walking by the Natwest hole the other day and something caught my eye. I decided to take a closer look and saw that it was a small, homeless kitten. I scooped her up and took her to the nearest animal shelter.
I asked the shelter worker what the kitten's name was, and she told me that she didn't have one yet. I decided to name her Natwest, after the hole she was found in.
Natwest is now a healthy and happy kitten, and I'm so glad I was able to help her. She's a reminder to me that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life.
I asked the shelter worker what the kitten's name was, and she told me that she didn't have one yet. I decided to name her Natwest, after the hole she was found in.
Natwest is now a healthy and happy kitten, and I'm so glad I was able to help her. She's a reminder to me that even the smallest act of kindness can make a big difference in someone's life.
Written August 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Stephen Marsh
1 contribution
Mar 2022 • Friends
This site is absolutely breathtaking, the architecture is beyond anything I’ve ever witnessed, beyond the likes of Dubai, Manhattan, Singapore. One cannot capture the beauty and the thought put into the design, I will propose here. What a blessing to have seen this in person, It is a truly stunning masterpiece.
Written August 8, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
FlavaDan
Wirksworth, UK56 contributions
Aug 2019 • Solo
The city of Agra has the Taj Mahal, Paris has the Eiffel Tower and Sydney has its Opera House. But they all pale in comparison to the impact on the soul of first laying eyes on Ilkeston’s Hole in the Wall.
Pilgrims flocks from afar, Kodak disposable cameras gripped in their sweaty excited palms, to witness one of Britain’s true wonders.
It is said that people often faint upon first sight of this magnificent structure, unable to deal with the unrivalled attack on the senses that the Hole in the Wall delivers.
In the neighbouring towns of Heanor and Eastwood, you can regularly hear the cries of delight as people experience the hole for the first time.
Smiling children can frolic and play, climbing in and out of the glorious brickwork, an experience which undoubtedly makes everyone feel one step closer to God.
Pilgrims flocks from afar, Kodak disposable cameras gripped in their sweaty excited palms, to witness one of Britain’s true wonders.
It is said that people often faint upon first sight of this magnificent structure, unable to deal with the unrivalled attack on the senses that the Hole in the Wall delivers.
In the neighbouring towns of Heanor and Eastwood, you can regularly hear the cries of delight as people experience the hole for the first time.
Smiling children can frolic and play, climbing in and out of the glorious brickwork, an experience which undoubtedly makes everyone feel one step closer to God.
Written February 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Derrick T
Watford, UK159 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
Went with my 6 kids, the dog, and my ferret. Kids loved the hole, they all scampered around it joyfully whooping and laughing. It was magical. The dog seemed to like it too, it's so good to find a dog friendly hole, most holes don't welcome him. But it was my ferret that loved it the most. He had his mini motor bike with him and did 'The circle of death' round and round the hole for a good 5 minutes. A croud soon formed and he got a rapturous round of applause when he finished. Good old Nat West I say !
Written March 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
glitch2385
Liverpool, UK49 contributions
Is there a correct direction in which to traverse the hole? And is this well sign posted at the event I would hate to be heading through and come face to face with another visitor and be unable to back out causing a jam. Even worse a potential physical collision.
Andrew G
London, UK36 contributions
The correct direction to go traverse the hole is head first going towards the ATM, however you do need to be quite long. The optimal body length is 6ft or greater. Unfortunately this is not well sign posted. I have complained the council and no reply yet. The most optimum time of day to avoid collision is between 11pm-7am. Regrettably coach loads of Chinese tourists have got wind of the attraction and it’s more popular than Bicester village. Although with coronavirus, you should be able to traverse the hole with ease. Enjoy!
Hallworth01
11 contributions
What type and make are the bricks? And does anyone have their technical specifications? How big is the hole? What is the holes aspect, when the sun rises where's the best place to view etc?
Jezza57
4 contributions
What is the optimal visiting time ?
Hazi-Hammenuhoth
Preston, UK44 contributions
Midnight is the best time, particularly if the moon is in front of the clouds. If you put your ear to the hole, you can hear the tide coming in.
Hazi-Hammenuhoth
Preston, UK44 contributions
Is there a changing area, or do we need to bring a tent if we wish to wear several outfits when visiting? Also, what are the acoustics like, if we wish to provide bagpipes and harps? (Asking for a friend)
Stuart F
Alsager, UK32 contributions
There are ample doorways in the vicinity
topbanana123
Ringwood, UK31 contributions
What is the approximate diameter of the hole?
Hazi-Hammenuhoth
Preston, UK44 contributions
It was much smaller than I imagined, but not as dark as the one in Calcutta.
I’m planning to travel here next month, is March a busy period for the Hole?
Muhunthan
6 contributions
Generall the beginning of March is ok but as you get to the end of the month be prepared for a queue of 2 hour +. Probably not worth wating more than 2 hours (in my opinion) but anything less and you should do it.
Andrew
3 contributions
I’m thinking if visiting the hole but want to make the most of my visit - are there any hotels nearby?
alexandrams132
Isle of Wight, UK32 contributions
Bring a tent for optimum experience
NatWest Hole (Ilkeston) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about NatWest Hole
- Hotels near NatWest Hole:
- (0.19 mi) Adrianne Bed & Breakfast
- (0.20 mi) The Durham Ox
- (3.30 mi) Hayeswood Lodge Luxury Accommodation
- (3.97 mi) The Morley Hayes Hotel
- (2.50 mi) The Hogs Head Hotel
- Restaurants near NatWest Hole:
- (0.02 mi) Greggs
- (0.02 mi) Greggs
- (0.04 mi) Can't Resist Cakes
- (0.10 mi) U Choose Smoothie Bar
- (0.04 mi) Costa Coffee