Notts Going On: Under pressure and summer fun in Market Square
The county's top curry house, a luxe home in Ruddington, Nottingham Beach, and more...
Good morning and welcome to Notts Going On. From news to events, this is your guide for everything you need to know in the area for the week ahead.
It might not have come home yesterday, but there is still plenty to celebrate. Nottinghamshire’s own James Graham (of Dear England and Sherwood fame) wrote the opening montage of the BBC’s coverage of the Euros (see it on his X page). I also spotted Art of Football’s Pressure is for Tyres shirt on the channel before the game and bagged myself one while writing this.
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Notts Going On
By Eve Smallman
News 🗞️
🏨 Extra charge: Plans have been put forward to put a 'tourist tax' on hotel rates in the city. The City Council have backed plans for a £2 a night levy on short-term accommodation, similar to ones seen in countries like Spain and Italy, as well as UK cities like Manchester and Liverpool. The money from the tax will go towards events, the environment, extra tourism measures, and transport. Accommodation providers will vote for or against the plans in a ballot set to go out in September. bbc.com
🍛 Currying favour: The Asian Catering Federation's Top 100 Asian Restaurants in the country have been revealed, and Maid Marian Way’s Calcutta Club has made it onto the list. Out of all the places on the Masala Mile, Calcutta Club is my absolute favourite, so I'm pleased to see it getting the recognition it deserves. The interior is gorgeous, the staff are lovely, and the food is just on another level. Is there anywhere else that should have been on the list? The Federation’s Asian Curry Awards are now open, so you can have your say. asiancurryawards.com
🌈 Fresh coat: Not quite Mario Kart, but did you know that we have our own Rainbow Roads in Hockley? After five years, they're currently looking a little less than their best, but I'm happy to report that the crossings will be repainted in time for Pride (more on that in our July events guide). They're also one of our top selfie spots in Notts in our things to do guide, so make sure to get a snap of them looking fresh and fab. nottstv.com
⚽ Moving up: Nottingham Forest's women's side will become a full-time professional outfit from the 2025-26 season onwards. The club is set to give 18 full-time professional contracts to first-team women's players, with “a small number” of part-time players on the books next season. From here, The Reds said they would “transition to a fully professional squad” by 2025. It's wonderful to see an amazing asset to our city's sports scene being given the backing it deserves. bbc.co.uk
Hot Property 🏡
I love older properties, but new ones can have major va-va-voom. In fact, I’d even say this one looks like a footballer’s home. This Ruddington property has lots of pizazz, with luxurious facilities including an outdoor pool, a gym, and an outdoor football pitch. Inside, you can find four bedrooms including a master with a walk-in wardrobe, as well as a games room and a private bar. It’s listed by FHP Living and priced at £2.595M. rightmove.co.uk
Things to Do 🏹
What’s On 🗓️
Nottingham Beach 🎡
When: From Wednesday July 17
Where: Old Market Square
How much: Free to enter
The famous beach in Market Square is returning this Wednesday. The theme this year is apparently Santorini, with a themed bar, along with live DJs, volleyball tournaments, and movie nights. Rides and attractions will include a giant slide, bungee jumping, and the starflyer. After all that excitement, you can cool down with an ice-cold slushie or tuck into sizzling Greek gyros.
Do if: You want an excuse to come into the city when the sun starts to shine again.
Sarah Millican: Late Bloomer 🤣
When: Thursday July 18-Sunday July 21
Where: Royal Concert Hall
How much: £35pp
Comedian Sarah Millican is known for her distinctive voice and witty humour — but back in the day, she wouldn't say boo to a goose. In this brand-new comedy show, she explores how she came out of her shell. There is limited availability on all the shows except for Friday, so if you're thinking about booking, you might want to be speedy.
Do if: You're looking for a reason to laugh at the end of the week.
Run 5.30 🏃
When: Friday July 19
Where: Starts at Collin Street
How much: £20pp
Whether you're one of the many people who run (like me — I'm running the Robin Hood Half Marathon!) or not, this looks like an invigorating event. The Italian 5K starts at 5.30 am, and is all about showing that it's easy to fit in exercise if you wake up early. The route starts from Collin Street and will finish at the Canal Tow Path, where you'll be rewarded with a t-shirt, medal, and breakfast. It's also raising awareness and funds for Maggies Centre in Nottingham.
Do if: You're looking for motivation to get a run in this week.
Romeo and Juliet 🎭
When: Saturday July 20
Where: Nottingham Castle
How much: £20pp, £12pp child
For one night only, you can pretend that Nottingham is fair Verona. Illyria Theatre Company are performing the iconic tragedy in the open air, just like Shakespeare’s plays were originally performed. If his works aren’t up your street, the castle is also hosting theatre shows Robin Hood (July 27), The Comedy of Errors (August 11), and Little Women (August 16).
Do if: You’re looking for a dreamy summer date idea.
Belters Choir 🎶
When: Saturday July 20
Where: The Park Tunnel off Derby Road
How much: £8pp
The all-women choir is set to showcase its soaring vocals in the characterful caves in The Park Tunnel. Expect soulful sounds, the polyphonic harmonies of Eastern European and British folk music, as well as traditional and modern gospel sounds of the USA. All proceeds will go to Emmanuel House, which is a brilliant homelessness charity in Nottingham.
Do if: You love the idea of enjoying a concert in a completely unique setting.
Counter Culture 🖼️
When: Until Sunday July 21
Where: Lakeside Arts, Beeston
How much: Free
It is amazing how much shopping has changed over the past 100 years, with products and customer wants and needs shifting dramatically. This exhibition goes into all that from a Boots lens, with archival materials and thought-provoking prompts. I interviewed the Counter Culture curators, saw it for myself, and can confirm that it's a fascinating walk-around. This has been on for a few months, but it ends this weekend.
Do if: You want to learn more about Notts’ heritage (whether you're one of the many locals who works for Boots or not).
More events:
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