Nottingham September events — 10 things to do this month
Free family fun, farmers markets, fabulous theatre, and more...
Summer coming to an end doesn’t mean you have to wind down having fun — in fact, there are plenty of September events around Nottingham.
I have curated a wide variety of events, such as family-friendly art fun, exciting theatre, sunset spa days, and of course, the iconic Goose Fair. These have been narrowed down based on how unique they are, how important they are to the area, and if they’re good value for money.
If you’re looking for 2025 events that are perfect for welcoming autumn, these are all brilliant things to do in Nottingham. For more guides and features, subscribe to The Notts Edit to receive our articles in your inbox for free.
10 things to do in Nottingham this September
By Eve Smallman
1. Robin Hood International Improv Festival
When: September 3-7
Where: Squire Performing Arts Centre, Nottingham
How much: Individual shows £8-£18pp, day pass £15-£30pp, £105pp festival pass
The UK’s biggest improv festival is back, with performers local and international set to bring laughter to the city. This year’s festival features headline acts such as Harry Potter parody Spontaneous Potter (September 6, £18pp) and ‘The Arabian Nights’ and ‘The Shahnama’ myths-filled show The Bazaar (September 6, £12pp). Every show is completely unscripted, with performers creating characters, scenes, and full-length productions based on audience suggestions.
Do if: You love the idea of seeing something you’ll only get to experience once.
2. The Last Stand of Mrs. Mary Whitehouse
When: September 5-27
Where: Nottingham Playhouse
How much: From £14.50pp
This wickedly funny new play will explore the enigma of Mary Whitehouse, who took on the BBC and the media in a culture war that divided the nation. Playwright Caroline Bird delves into Whitehouse’s most explosive battle — her infamous blasphemy trial. The titular role will be played by Maxine Peake, who has appeared in a variety of shows such as Dinnerladies, Black Mirror, and Shameless.
Do if: You enjoy seeing unique theatre shows.
3. Cheese and Wine Evening
When: September 11
Where: Sherwood Forest, Edwinstowe
How much: £36pp
Watch the sun set over the beautiful Sherwood Forest, all while sampling handpicked cheeses and wines. Ben from the Lincoln Wine School will divulge secrets from some of the UK’s finest wines and cheeses, as well as sharing how these producers are creating sustainable vineyards and dairies without sacrificing the quality of the product. No children or dogs are allowed, so you’ll have to pay the cheese tax at home
Do if: You’re looking for a romantic autumnal date idea.
4. Live Sundown Sessions
When: September 11-13
Where: Eden Hall Day Spa, Elston
How much: From £80pp
Unwind under the stars during this dreamy evening at one of the best spas in the area. There will be a mix of relaxed live music across the three days, as well as a Mediterranean grill served in The Vinery for a light meal. You’ll also get full spa access, which you can enjoy while swanning around in your complimentary robe and towel (although you’ll need to bring your own flip-flops).
Do if: You know you’re going to need a little TLC this month.
5. Heritage Open Days
When: September 12-21
Where: Various venues around Nottinghamshire
How much: Free entry
England’s largest festival of history and culture is coming to the county, with numerous venues around the county offering talks, exclusive access, tours, and more. These include an escape puzzle at Nottingham Archives on September 13, Echoes of the Erewash Canal on September 13 at Langley Mill and September 21 at Mills Dockyard and Sandiacre Lock Cottages, and tours of Trent Bridge from September 15-16. It’s well worth booking these in advance, as slots can be limited and fill up quickly.
Do if: You’d love to delve into Nottingham’s history in ways you normally can’t.
6. Your Local Farmers and Produce Market
When: September 14
Where: Rufford Abbey Country Park, Ollerton
How much: Free entry, parking charges apply
This brand-new farmers market is starting this month — and with autumn being the time of harvest, there’s no better time to go. Expect fresh, seasonal produce direct from local farms, alongside artisanal cheeses, breads, meats, and sweet treats. As well as this, you can also pick up handcrafted gifts and rural-inspired crafts lovingly made by independent makers.
Do if: You’re ready to enter your cosy autumn cooking era — this will give you all the inspiration for soups and bakes.
7. Art Fest
When: September 20
Where: Across Nottingham city centre (Victoria Centre-Sneinton Market)
How much: Free entry
The city centre will be splashed with bright coloured artworks from over 50 artists from the county and the world during this colourful day out. Along with watching live art being created and murals being painted, you can see exhibitions, take part in guided art tours, and shop the Midlands-based art market at Sneinton Market. Local artists to watch out for include Anna Wheelhouse, Boaster, Dilk, Elroy, and Emily Catherine.
Do if: You and/or someone you know are super creative, and you want to channel your inner artist.
8. Festival of Food and Drink
When: September 20-21
Where: Thoresby Park, Newark
How much: From £12pp, £8pp child, £25pp VIP
Over 150 traders will be heading to Thoresby Park for a weekend filled with street eats and cuisine from around the world. There will also be demonstrations, with this year’s cookery theatre guests including Simon Rimmer, Rosemary Shrager, and Paul A Young. You can also upgrade to VIP if you go on Sunday (Saturday is sold out), which will allow you access to a special area, meet and greets, a goody bag, and priority parking.
Do if: You’d like to spend the whole day (or weekend!) sampling food that you might not have otherwise.
9. Robin Hood Half Marathon
When: September 28
Where: Starts at The Embankment, Nottingham
How much: £43pp
This city-wide half-marathon goes around some of Nottingham’s most famous locations, such as Nottingham Castle, The Park, and Wollaton Hall. I’ve put together a guide on running around Nottingham in case you need to do some training. I’m also running it again this year and raising money for Emmanuel House (here is my JustGiving page!). It’s worth noting that it’s nearly sold out, so you might want to be quick if you think you’re up for it.
Do if: You fancy going on a long run and exploring Nottingham in an exciting way.
10. Goose Fair
When: September 28-October 5
Where: Forest Recreation Ground, Nottingham
How much: Free entry
Bright lights, great heights, and moreish bites — Goose Fair is one of the city’s most iconic events for good reason. The enormous funfair is one of Europe’s largest, with rides for children and adults and games to spend your change at. I recommend not forgetting to have a pot of mushy peas with mint sauce — it’s an absolute must. And, if you’re brave, taking a trip on the Ferris wheel at night is magical.
Do if: You need to tick going off your Nottingham bucket list — or simply want to experience the magic of the fair.
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