Days out with the kids around Nottingham — 5 of the best places to go
Nature play, adventure parks, crafts, and more...
Whether it’s the summer holidays or you’re looking for a special activity, there are plenty of places around Nottingham for days out with the kids.
We have rounded up a range of different places, from glorious sunshine spots to parks perfect for burning off energy. Milly is the mum of a young daughter, so these are all places she has tried and tested herself.
If you’re looking for things to do in Nottingham, these are all lovely family-friendly options. For more guides and features, subscribe to The Notts Edit to receive our articles in your inbox for free.
5 of the best days out with the kids around Nottingham
Words and photos by Milly Greaves
1. Wheelgate Park
Where: Mansfield Road, Farnsfield, Newark NG22 8HX
How much: £10.88-£24.55pp (under 95cm free)
Wheelgate is a family favourite in our household. Packed with attractions for all ages, there is something that everyone can enjoy. It has a few parks, a miniature village, animal encounters, and splash park, as well as plenty of rides and attractions. Many of the rides are suitable for younger children, making it an excellent place to spend the whole day with the family. Even if the weather takes a turn, don’t worry, as they have multiple indoor soft play areas and cafes to enjoy still.
It’s easy to get immersed in everything they have to offer, in particular the number of attractions or animals. Particularly for summer, the water park provides the perfect place to cool down, with slides, splash zones and water activities all included with your ticket.
Visit if: You’re looking for a place that will entertain rain or shine.
2. White Post Farm
Where: Mansfield Road, Farnsfield, Newark, NG22 8HL
How much: £16.95pp (under 2s free)
On the outskirts of Farnsfield, this farm offers a fun mixture of play and exploration. With lots of animals and encounters to visit, you can expect to see a range of different wildlife, from armadillos to honeybees. It even has West African dwarf crocodiles! One of my favourite experiences here is the opportunity to walk the alpacas – something the grown-ups will love just as much as the kids.
Once you have finished exploring, it’s time to have lots of fun in the indoor and outdoor play zones. I highly recommend the outdoor beach, situated at Merv’s lookout, for some sensory play in the sunshine. If you have older children, the lookout is great for more adventure-based play. The Sky Jumpers are always popular too, with separate areas for different ages, so everyone can enjoy.
Visit if: Your kids love farmyard animals – this is a lovely place to meet and greet with them, as well as playing throughout the seasons.
3. Sundown Adventureland
Where: Treswell Road, Retford, DN22 0HX
How much: £20.75-£25.95pp (under 90cm free)
A magical day of family fun truly awaits you here. With over 30 rides and attractions throughout, and different themes to keep all children entertained, including Fairytale Villages, Pirate Adventure, and Shotgun City, each area offers something different to interact with and enjoy.
While many of the classic rides have been entertaining families for years, the park continues to add, giving visitors something fresh to discover. The Angry Birds Park is an excellent example of that, providing the space to climb, crawl or slide. There are numerous cafes and pop-ups for food, snacks and ice cream, but they also have many benches situated around the whole park to enjoy a sunny picnic.
Visit if: You’re looking for a memorable day out where every turn brings a new adventure.
4. Little Nature Tots
Where: Newthorpe, Nottingham NG16 3QZ
How much: Various prices depending on activity and dates
An outdoor, nature-themed play for your little ones (from six months to five years), this offers child-led play and adventure using resources and the natural space around them. Based in the woods, children are encouraged to explore natural toys and resources to support their early development and learn about the world around them – including a mud kitchen, role play, sensory and water play.
This is a small business, so pre-booking is essential. It runs stays and play themed sessions all year round, but throughout summer you can expect to take part in crafts, a beach party or even a fire pit special, where mini explorers can enjoy a toasted crumpet or sweet treat.
It is a welcoming and supportive space that encourages the family to get messy, have fun and explore the wonders of the world around them. Each session ends with a sing-along, and my daughter always leaves with a huge smile.
Visit if: You are looking for somewhere to truly allow your child to enjoy the outdoor space around them.
5. Funtimez at Bizzy Beans
Where: John Davies Workshops, Unit 7 off Main Street, Huthwaite, Sutton-in-Ashfield, NG17 2LQ
How much: Under £10pp
A soft play centre is always a brilliant, budget-friendly zone giving your little ones plenty of space to climb, play and burn off energy while making new friends. When paired with a café, it is also a nice space for parents too, offering the perfect place to sit back, relax, and enjoy a well-earned coffee.
There are many soft play centres around Nottingham, but Bizzy Beans, based in a small village in Huthwaite, is a regular visit for our family. Not only does it have different zones for all ages, but you can also book out a private sensory room that gives you private space to enjoy with your younger toddlers. Alongside soft play, it regularly hosts arts and crafts sessions, giving families another reason to visit.
Visit if: You are looking for an activity for a rainy day.
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