The days are cooler and the nights are darker – but there are still so many reasons to head out into Nottingham and explore November events.
We’ve curated a range of these, such as winter trails, historical exhibitions, and design markets. These have been chosen based on their uniqueness, seasonality, and value for money.
These are the top picks for the month and the rest of autumn – but rest assured, there will also be a Christmas events guide coming out this month. For more guides like this, subscribe to The Notts Edit to receive our articles in your inbox for free.
10 of the best events around Nottingham this November
By Eve Smallman
1. Nottingham Comedy Festival
When: Until November 8
Where: Various venues around Nottingham
How much: From £5pp, some pay what you want
Bringing together a wide range of comedians from around the country, from brand new acts to top established names, this is the best time for a laugh in the city. It also prides itself on supporting all acts, including underrepresented voices. Highlights this month include Seann Walsh (November 5, Nottingham Arts Theatre, £18pp) and Hitched and Ditched (November 7, Canalhouse, £5pp), but check out the full line-up to pick whatever tickles your fancy.
Do if: You thoroughly enjoy watching comedy and stand-up (perhaps on SNL UK – Paddy Young is performing November 5-6, but has a waiting list as of time of writing!).
nottinghamcomedyfestival.co.uk
2. Agatha Christie: A World of Mystery
When: Until December 18 Mansfield, until December 31 Nottingham
Where: Nottingham Central Library and Mansfield Central Library
How much: Free entry
Fans of mystery, detective fiction, and whodunits are invited to uncover the extraordinary life and legacy of the world’s bestselling novelist, Agatha Christie. From her best-loved characters including Hercule Poirot and Miss Marple, to her impact on crime writers today, here you can unravel the secrets behind the Queen of Crime’s enduring appeal. There will also be a range of crime-themed events and activities inspired by Agatha’s work, such as the Crime Fiction Panel (November 19, Beeston Library, £5pp).
Do if: You love this iconic author or simply just learning – this is a taster of the exhibition that has just opened at the British Library, made accessible here in Notts.
3. Lustre
When: November 6-8
Where: Lakeside Arts, Beeston
How much: Free entry
Over 50 of the UK’s finest makers are heading to Lakeside Arts for this beautifully curated market. This will be a range of collectable, covetable craft from fine jewellery, leather goods, bespoke tableware and glass to original artwork, prints, and textiles. It has a real emphasis on artisan talent from across the country, with a mix of returning favourites from previous years, as well as fresh new voices.
Do if: You like making an early start on present shopping – this is an excellent place to find design-led ones for your loved ones… or yourself.
4. Fences
When: November 10-14
Where: Nottingham Playhouse
How much: From £14.50pp
Troy is a former baseball player who could’ve gone pro. He spends his days collecting garbage and his evenings spinning stories. He’s also a man with flaws, shaped by a lifetime battling a world that denies his dreams. Meanwhile his wife, Rose, sees America changing, dreaming that their son will have freedom. But as she works to break the cycles holding her family back, will Troy’s bitterness tear them apart? Find out by seeing this timeless show that was one of the defining plays of the 20th century.
Do if: You enjoy watching impactful theatre – this is returning to the UK for the first time in over a decade in a new production, and is a Pulitzer prize-winner.
5. An Evening of Style
When: November 11
Where: No. 4, West Bridgford
How much: £45pp
Hosted by No. 4 Hair Salon and stylist Bee Newham (who writes our seasonal fashion guides), during this evening Bee will be sharing her expert styling tips, while the No.4 team will be showcasing some of the season’s most coveted hair looks. You’ll also have the opportunity to discover and shop collections from By Sara Christie and Pine and Treasure, with jewellery, accessories and gifting inspiration. Plus, enjoy Crémant and canapés served by Melo Melo while you browse, mingle, and soak up the atmosphere.
Do if: You need some styling inspiration ahead of party season – this combines luxury fashion, beautiful hair, and festive ideas all in one event.
6. Christmas at the Movies
When: November 14
Where: Southwell Minster
How much: From £27.80pp
London Concertante’s Christmas at the Movies is set to be performed at the stunning Southwell Minster. This festive celebration boasts a programme of music spanning the golden age of Hollywood to modern cinematic classics, such as John Williams’ score for Home Alone, the orchestral warmth of Alan Silvestri’s The Polar Express, John Debney’s playful score for Elf, and Craig Armstrong’s heartfelt music for Love Actually. Expect all the nostalgia and cinematic magic.
Do if: Listening to festive songs in one of the county’s most beautiful settings sounds wonderful to you.
7. Watson Fothergill in the Park Estate
When: November 17
Where: Starts at the Vat and Fiddle, Nottingham
How much: £11.55pp
Join Lucy Brouwer for a look at Fothergill’s houses in Nottingham’s Park Estate. Nottingham’s Park Estate was home to some of Nottingham’s most illustrious Victorians, and the properties created by the architect Watson Fothergill represent some of the most outstanding houses in the area. During this talk, you’ll learn about the original owners and some of the residents of these, from suffragists and timber merchants to members of parliament and scientists. Be sure to arrive for 7pm prompt in the Goldings Room.
Do if: You love looking at the city’s architecture – Watson Fothergill’s buildings are certainly among the most beautiful.
8. Christmas Wreath Making
When: November 21
Where: Sherwood Forest, Edwinstowe
How much: £56pp
Led by the team at Craft and Bloom, this workshop at our county’s famous forest allow you to craft your own rustic wreath from foliage gathered in Sherwood and Budby. This is a hands-on, guided session suitable for all skill levels, including beginners. Materials and festive refreshments are all included with your ticket. It’s worth noting that the workshops are suitable for adults only and that there are 10 spaces as of time of writing – so you might want to be quick in booking.
Do if: You need a new wreath for the front door – this is a lovely way to bring a unique piece of the forest home for Christmas.
9. Jools Holland
When: November 25
Where: Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham
How much: £60.50pp
Musical maestro Jools Holland and his world-renowned Rhythm and Blues Orchestra are returning to the Royal Concert Hall. Fans will be pleased to hear that the shows will once again feature Ruby Turner, the Boogie Woogie Queen, as well as the vocals of Louise Marshall, and Sumudu Jayatilaka. He’ll also be joined by special guest soul artist Roachford and pianist and improviser Joe Webb. Limited seats remain in the stalls and tier one, but tier two still has plenty as of publishing.
Do if: Watching Jools Holland is a must-do for you on New Year’s Eve – why not watch him earlier, live on stage?
10. Wollaton Winter Light Trail
When: November 25-January 3
Where: Wollaton Park
How much: From £17pp adult, £12.50pp child, £50pp family ticket
Back again for a second year, this sparkling light trail is filled with enchanting surprises. Think plenty of photo opportunities with immersive features, never-before-seen installations plus mesmerising soundscape, and pit-stops with fires and marshmallows. This year also includes a kids disco and kids’ funfair. Want to end the evening in style? Cosy up in mini chalets for hire for 8-10 of your favourite people in the food village too.
Do if: You’re looking for the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit – we did this last year (@thenottsedit) and really loved it (keep an eye out for our full review!).
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