Nottingham April events — 10 things to do this month
Spring blooms, dazzling shows, artistic exhibitions, and more...
With the sun shining and the flowers blooming, there’s no better time to step out into the county and discover all the different April events happening in Nottingham.
I’ve rounded up a mixture of events from across the area, spanning food and drink, theatre, exhibitions, the outdoors, and more. I have narrowed these down based on their seasonal relevance, how unique they are, and whether they’re good value for money or not.
These 2025 events are my top 10 picks for the month, but for more things to do in Nottingham, be sure to subscribe to The Notts Edit. We send out our weekly guide Notts Going On every Monday and will be sending out an Easter events guide this month, too.
10 things to do in Nottingham this April
By Eve Smallman
1. Nottingham Subcultural Fashion in the 1980s
When: Until May 10
Where: Bonington Gallery, Nottingham
How much: Free entry
This exhibition has brought together archive material, information and clothing from the Nottingham independent fashion scene in the 1980s. After Sir Paul Smith’s rise to fame, many local fashion brands popped up, including Vaughan & Franks, Olto (now known as One-BC), and G Force. I spoke with G Force founder Robin Kerr about the exhibition and he shared some really fascinating stories from that time.
Do if: You love exploring different parts of Nottingham’s wonderful history.
2. Nottingham Independents’ Castle Beer Festival
When: April 4-5
Where: Nottingham Castle
How much: £10pp
We have such a brilliant brewery scene in Nottingham, which will be showcased during this new festival. Breweries in attendance will include Blue Monkey Brewery, Black Iris, and Liquid Light — and many of these will be brewing special beers for the occasion and even launching ones. Plus, there will be street food to pair your beverages with and live music to enjoy.
Do if: You’d like to discover new brews that you can bring into the warmer months with you.
3. Food & Home Fair at Contemporary
When: April 4-6
Where: Nottingham Contemporary
How much: Free entry
Over 35 different stalls will be selling beautiful artisan food and drink and homeware creations at this fair. Whether you like tea or beer, soaps and candles, or just are up for discovering something new, there’s sure to be something to catch your eye. The event will kick off on Friday evening (5-8pm) with music, a food pop-up from the Little Brickhouse and free drinks for the first 100 guests.
Do if: You need to do some gift shopping for upcoming spring and summer soirees.
4. Easter EGGstravaganza
When: April 5-21
Where: White Post Farm, Farnsfield
How much: £15.95pp adult, £15.50pp child
White Post Farm is set to transform into an Easter wonderland this month, with its top yard turning into Bunnyville and its events barn hosting craft activities. It’s also the season of spring chicks, so you’ll be able to meet and greet them while you’re there (so cute!). And, if fluffy feathered friends weren’t enough, you can also say hello to the Easter Bunny during select times of the day.
Do if: You’re looking for an Easter day out you can easily fit into your schedule.
5. Chicago
When: April 7-12
Where: Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham
How much: £22.50-£55pp
Set amidst the razzle-dazzle decadence of the 1920s, Chicago follows Roxie Hart — a housewife and nightclub dancer who murders her on-the-side lover after he threatens to walk out on her. Desperate to avoid conviction, she transforms her malicious crime into a barrage of sensational headlines. The musical holds six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, and a Grammy, so you should be in for a treat.
Do if: You like the song All That Jazz — it’s from this show!
6. Spring Bird Walk
When: April 12
Where: Sherwood Forest, Edwinstowe
How much: £11pp
April is full of bird song and activity, as birds start to call, migrate and nest during this special month. You can see them do just that at Sherwood Forest, where you’ll learn how to birdwatch and find out more about the birds that call the iconic place their home. The walk will last approximately 90 minutes, and once you’re done you can explore the scenic village of Edwinstowe, which is filled with nods to Robin Hood.
Do if: You’d like to go out on a special spring walk.
7. Basketry: Rescuing, Reviving, Retaining
When: April 12-June 28
Where: Harley Foundation, Worksop
How much: Free entry
Britain has an extraordinary history of basket weaving, with plenty of beautiful designs and materials used over the years. Works from over 60 basket makers will be on display during this exhibition, who are all part of the new generation keeping this craft alive — which is especially important as many British basketry skills are now considered critically endangered. While you’re at The Welbeck Estate, you could also visit the Welbeck Farm Shop, the Harley Cafe, and DropWorks Distillery.
Do if: You enjoy learning about different crafts and about our country’s heritage.
8. Garden Talk: Spring Bulbs
When: April 13
Where: Norwood Park, Southwell
How much: £12pp
Norwood Park is currently filled with beautiful flowers, with tulips, bluebells, and daffodils all blooming this time of year. You’ll be able to stroll through the pretty gardens and learn about them from the park’s own head gardener, who will guide you through the landscape and share fascinating insights about the site’s history. As well as this, you can ask for advice and tips.
Do if: You’d like to get some inspiration for your own seasonal gardening.
9. Beeston Film Festival
When: April 24-27
Where: The Arc Cinema, Beeston
How much: £5pp per film
Opening for its 11th year, this renowned festival celebrates international films right in the heart of Beeston. These will all be judged by the film jury, which is made up of well-established film directors, writers, actors and professionals from the film industry. Along with the film screenings, there will be the gala opening night on April 24 (free entry) and a film brunch on April 26 (The White Lion, £15pp).
Do if: You’d like to expand your film watching beyond the streaming services.
10. Murder Mystery Night
When: April 25
Where: Rufford Mill, Ollerton
How much: £49.95pp
Step into a world of intrigue and suspense during this murder mystery night at the atmospheric Rufford Mill. You will have to solve the coffin on the catwalk case, which follows a group of models who have to deal with shocking consequences after a tragic fashion show accident. The ticket price also includes a three-course meal, so you’ll be plenty fuelled up for the evening ahead.
Do if: You’re a fan of crime books or true crime and would like to try your hand at solving a case yourself.
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