Nottingham October events — 10 things to do this month
Music festivals, pumpkins and apples, nostalgic exhibitions, and more...
The days are darker and the nights are cooler — but there are still plenty of October events around Nottingham worth grabbing your autumnal scarf and heading out for.
I’ve rounded up a real mixture of these from across the county, such as exhibitions, festivals, and tours. I have narrowed these down based on their seasonality, how unique they are, and whether they are good value for money.
No matter what activities in Nottingham you enjoy doing, there is something for everyone down below. For more 2025 events, articles and guides like this, subscribe to The Notts Edit to receive our articles in your inbox for free.
10 things to do in Nottingham this October
By Eve Smallman
1. Oxjam Beeston
When: October 4
Where: Various venues around Beeston
How much: Free before 6pm, £10pp adult and £5pp child after this
The legendary Oxjam Beeston is celebrating its 15th year with 12 hours of live music spread across 20 venues. Over 150 different bands and artists will be performing at the likes of The Star, The Berliner, The White Lion, and the Victory Club. All proceeds raised will be donated to Oxfam GB, as well as local charities Middle Street Resource Centre and Broxtowe Youth Homelessness.
Do if: Spending a Saturday walking around and dancing sounds super to you.
2. Helen Oxenbury: We’re Going on a Bear Hunt and Other Adventures
When: October 4-January 4
Where: The Harley Foundation, Worksop
How much: Free entry
Step into the world of children’s illustrator Helen Oxenbury during this enchanting exhibition filled with over 100 illustrations. You’ll be able to see early pencil sketches, tiny bookmark-sized landscapes, full-page watercolours and rarely seen unpublished pieces — including an early version of Bear Hunt where the familiar family of explorers looked completely different. While you’re at the Welbeck Estate, you could also visit the lovely Welbeck Farm Shop and the award-winning Harley Cafe.
Do if: You love indulging in a touch of nostalgia.
3. nottdance
When: October 8-November 1
Where: Various venues around Nottingham
How much: Free-£10pp, depending on event
After a three-year hiatus, nottdance is back and set to bring the city to life with performances, workshops, talks and interactive events. These will be hosted at locations such as Nottingham Contemporary, Backlit Studios, and St Mary’s Church. Unmissable show include Yinka Esi Graves’ The Disappearing Act (October 9, Lakeside Arts, £10pp) and Hetain Patel’s Mathroo Basha (November 1, Lakeside Arts, £10pp).
Do if: You’ve always liked the idea of getting into dance (whether to watch or perform) — this is a great, accessible way to do so.
4. Robin Hood Beer and Cider Festival
When: October 8-11
Where: Trent Bridge, West Bridgford
How much: From £10pp in advance and on the door
One of the UK’s biggest beer events is returning to Trent Bridge for its fifth instalment there, with hundreds of real ales, perries, and ciders on tap. There will be a real mix of brewers from across the county and the country, as well as live music and street food. This year, beer tokens have been replaced with contactless payment, making it easier to keep sampling the night away.
Do if: You like the idea of trying lots of different drinks from some of Notts’ (and beyond!) best breweries.
5. Halloween at the Farm
When: October 18-31
Where: White Post Farm, Farnsfield
How much: £15.95pp adult, £15.50pp child/concession
There are so many fantastic Halloween events happening around Nottingham (keep an eye out for our full guide next week!), but this one is especially great as it has a bit of everything. Gather the family and go pumpkin picking, get lost in the haunted maze, and join the Witch and Wizards school for potion making. And, for those who fancy some Halloween terror, there will even be creepy crawlies to meet and greet with. Fancy dress is encouraged, so pop your pointiest hat on.
Do if: You and the family would love to spend the whole day immersed in Halloween magic.
6. Hockley Hustle
When: October 19
Where: Various venues around Nottingham
How much: £16.50pp adult, £10.98pp student
One ticket is all you need to see over 400 brilliant acts playing around the city centre. Highlights include poet and hip hop master Jah Digga at Broadway, the 60-piece UFO Orchestra at St Mary’s Church, and Cheap Dirty Horse at the newly-renewed People’s Hall. Meanwhile, families can get involved with Young Hustlers (£12.10pp adult, £4.40pp child), which will have live performances, workshops, food, a parade, and more.
Do if: You’d like to discover some new music, all while supporting brilliant local artists.
7. Chris McCausland: Yonks!
When: October 20
Where: Theatre Royal, Nottingham
How much: £39pp
Chris gained fame during last year’s Strictly Come Dancing (anyone else tear up at You’ll Never Walk Alone?), but his comedy chops are just as good as his dancing feet. You might have also seen him on panel shows such as Would I Lie to You, Have I Got News for You, and Blankety Blank, but on this tour, he’ll be on his own doing stand-up. His last tour sold out and tickets are limited, so be sure to be quick if you’d like to go.
Do if: You’re in need of a good laugh to chase away the cold season blues.
8. Bramley Apple Festival
When: October 25
Where: Southwell Minster
How much: £3pp suggested donation, under 16s free
How do you like them apples? Hopefully a lot, as this festival is full of them. This day is all about celebrating the first ever Bramley apple tree being planted in Southwell in 1809, and will be filled with an abundance of food and drink, including pies, chutneys, chocolates, and pickles. There will also be a demo kitchen with experts showcasing how to create delicious treats.
Do if: You’d like to have a wholesome time stocking up your pantry or even starting on Christmas hampers.
9. Bromley House Tour
When: October 26
Where: Bromley House Library, Nottingham
How much: £10pp adult, £6pp child
Learn about our city’s remarkable hidden gem library during this tour, where you’ll be shown through each room, be taught about members from the past, and be able to see historic features. If you’d like to visit the library for a book event this month, I also recommend going to the book talk and launch of The Undisputed King of Selston by Danny Scott (October 4, from £8pp), which is about the author’s upbringing in the Nottinghamshire mining village.
Do if: Wandering around a gorgeous library is your idea of a cosy, autumnal treat.
10. Murder Mystery Dinner: Murder on the Disorient Express
When: October 31
Where: Cleaver and Wake, Nottingham
How much: £65pp
All aboard! The Disorient Express is coming to Cleaver and Wake, and you’ll certainly have a mystery on your hands. With a murder and a train (well, restaurant) full of suspects, you’ll have to interrogate and deduce, all while dining in style and enjoying a two-course meal. You’ll also get a welcome drink on arrival. The theme is 1920s, so fedoras and flapper dresses are a must.
Do if: You’re looking for a sophisticated yet fun way to spend Halloween with your friends.
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