Nottingham May events — 10 things to do this month
Theatre, family days out, festivals, and more...
With two bank holidays and festival season starting, there are plenty of May events around Nottingham this month.
I’ve narrowed down ten of the best ones from across the county, including theatre, live music, sport, and more. These have been picked based on how unique they are, what they offer, and whether they’re good value for money.
If you’re looking for 2025 events and things to do in Nottingham, these are all worth going out to. For more local guides, subscribe to The Notts Edit to receive our articles in your inbox for free.
10 things to do in Nottingham this May
By Eve Smallman
1. Nottingham Classic Car & Motorcycle Show
When: May 4-5
Where: Thoresby Park, Newark
How much: £10.50pp adult, £5.50pp child
The lawns and courtyard of Thoresby Park are beautiful spots for a stroll — and they’re even more lovely when they have classic cars and motorcycles displayed around them. You’ll be able to see cars of all ages, from pre-60s to the noughties. There will also be a range of categories, such as American, sports and convertibles, and custom. You’ll also be able to enjoy live music along with food and drink.
Do if: You or someone you know would relish a day of seeing fine automobiles.
2. War Horse
When: May 7-18
Where: Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham
How much: £23-£65.50pp
This world-renowned theatre production is known for its powerful visuals and compelling drama. It’s based on the Michael Morpurgo novel of the same name, which follows Albert on his quest to find his horse Joey — his childhood companion who was sold to the cavalry. The highlight has to be the puppetry by South Africa’s Handspring Puppet Company, which brings galloping horses to life on stage.
Do if: You’d love to see a dramatic theatre show unlike anything you’ve ever seen before.
3. Binks Yard Film Club
When: May 7-June 18
Where: Binks Yard, Nottingham
How much: £5pp
This restaurant by the station is one of our favourite al fresco locations in Nottingham, thanks to its delicious drinks and chic setting. We also love its huge outdoor screen, which will be showing a range of different films throughout this month and next. Whether you like musicals (Grease on May 7 and La La Land on June 18) or family-friendly watches (Moana on May 28 and The Greatest Showman on June 4), there’s sure to be something to suit.
Do if: You’re looking for fun summer date ideas.
4. Gin and Gaslight
When: May 9
Where: D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, Eastwood
How much: £17.50pp
Enjoy a taste of Victorian decadence during this delightful evening at the birthplace of one of Nottinghamshire’s most iconic literary figures. You’ll find out about D.H. Lawrence and his remarkable legacy, before sampling several gins and learning about their different flavour profiles. Dressing up in Victorian attire is welcome, but you can wear whatever you’re comfortable in.
Do if: You’d love to spend your Friday night taking a trip through time.
5. Nottinghamshire County Show
When: May 10
Where: Newark Showground
How much: £14pp adult, child free (but adult ticket required)
Celebrating farming and rural life, the Nottinghamshire County Show has plenty to entertain the whole family. There will be a host of livestock competitions, so you’ll be able to see the best pigs, goats, sheep, and more from the area. If you don’t have a prized animal, you can enter the make, bake, and grow or floral arts competitions. You’ll also be able to try local food and drink and shop local crafts.
Do if: You’d love to spend a day in a lovely rural setting learning about the countryside.
6. Men’s Test Series
When: May 22-25
Where: Trent Bridge, West Bridgford
How much: £25-£40pp adult, £10pp child
Ben Stokes and co. are returning to Trent Bridge for this one off test match against Zimbabwe — England’s first against them for 25 years. This 4 day test takes place over the May bank holiday weekend. Fast paced cricket but in that gorgeous, traditional aesthetic — what better way to spend a British summer day. Adult tickets are £25pp on the final day, and a little more for the first three.
Do if: You’d like to get into this very British sport — this is the best way to do so.
7. Luminarium
When: May 24-June 1
Where: Lakeside Arts, Beeston
How much: £6.50pp
Nottingham-based artists the Architects of Air are premiering their brand-new design at Lakeside Arts. You’ll be among the first to walk through this brand-new labyrinth of tunnels and domes, which will be filled with colour and light. We went to the last Luminarium at Lakeside Arts and loved how soothing and immersive it was. While you’re there, we recommend visiting Highfields Park, as it’s one of our top beauty spots in Notts.
Do if: You’re looking for a unique day out with the kids (we recommend it for adults as well though — in fact, there is an evening grown-ups-only event on May 29!).
8. Dot to Dot
When: May 25
Where: Various venues around Nottingham
How much: £39.38pp
This music festival is celebrating its 20th edition with a whole host of different artists from near and far. Big acts to look out for this year include The Horrors, Fat Dog, and Nottingham’s very own Girlband!. There will also be lots of acts from our creative scene, from bands such as Catmilk and Ugly Mayfly to spoken word from Nottingham Poetry Festival and Gobs Collective.
Do if: You’d like to support local talent — Nottingham’s musicians are really excellent.
9. Green Hustle
When: May 31
Where: Old Market Square, Nottingham
How much: Free entry
With its community garden showcase, workshops, and talks, Green Hustle is all about encouraging people to get planting and to get involved with their community. As well as this, you’ll be able to watch dancers, walk around the makers' market, and see the latest in Nottingham-led nature research. Plus, Himmah Community Kitchen will be serving up pay-what-you-feel hot meals.
Do if: You’d like to learn more about helping the environment, with actions both big and small.
10. Sausage and Cider Festival
When: May 31
Where: Wollaton Hall, Nottingham
How much: £35pp
The clue is in the name with this festival — expect hot food, cold drinks, and plenty of action. There will be sausage and chilli eating competitions, for those feeling especially brave. Chris Moyles and Kevin & Perry will be on the decks during their sets, while tribute acts for Oasis, Fleetwood Mac, Mumford & Sons and more will play live. Meanwhile, little ones can watch the children's stage and meet their favourite characters.
Do if: You want to celebrate the last bank holiday of the month — and the last for a while — in style.
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