Nottingham Bucket List — 40 things to do in the area
Explore our county by ticking off these must-try activities...
Whether you’re new to the area or just want to explore more of it, ticking activities off our Nottingham bucket list is a great way to delve into the very best of the city and county.
I’ve got you covered with a range of activities that I’ve done, loved, and highly recommend. Whether you want to soak in our culture, discover more about its history, taste amazing food, or simply take a selfie for the memories, there’s something for everyone on this list.
While there are many events and things to do in Notts, these ones are absolute must-dos that really show it at its finest. But, if you think something major is missing, please email editor@thenottsedit.com with your thoughts.
40 things to do in Nottingham
By Eve Smallman
Activities 🎈
See the glorious Major Oak tree in Sherwood Forest
It’s over 1,000 years old and weighs an estimated 23 tonnes.
Watch a show at Theatre Royal and Royal Concert Hall
From concerts to musicals, it attracts some of the biggest shows in the country.
Do a craft workshop at Debbie Bryan
Learn to sew, make jewellery, and design cards.
See an exhibition at Nottingham Contemporary
It’s free to enter and often has multiple exhibitions on.
Take a boat out on the lake at Highfields Park
You can also play mini golf and go around Lakeside Arts while you’re there.
Pick up a vintage garm at Hopkinson
There are plenty of vintage jackets, dresses, and more to peruse at this eclectic store.
Pet the adorable animals at Stonebridge City Farm
It’s free to visit and has animals such as cows, ponies, and bunnies.
Go to a gig at Rock City
The famous venue has hosted legends such as Nirvana, Bowie, and Oasis, to name just a few.
Watch a film at Broadway Cinema
Bonus points if you get to sit in the Paul Smith seats.
Have a picnic at the Arboretum
Rumour is that this Nottingham picnic spot inspired J.M. Barrie’s Neverland.
Listen to a jazz show at Peggy’s Skylight
It’s a perfect Nottingham date idea.
History 📜
See deer and the Natural History Museum at Wollaton Hall
You might also know it as ‘Wayne Manor’ from The Dark Knight film franchise.
Roam around Nottingham Castle
Inside there’s a fascinating museum and gallery, while outside there are beautiful grounds.
Spot a peacock at Newstead Abbey
The home of Lord Byron has plenty of beauty to see.
Learn about D.H. Lawrence at his Birthplace Museum
The Lady Chatterley’s Lover author was born in Eastwood.
Look up and see Watson Fothergill architecture
Queen’s Chambers on King Street and Upper Parliament Street are just a couple of examples.
Walk around the National Justice Museum
You can enjoy exhibitions, as well as see performances and the City of Caves tour.
Go up Green’s Windmill
It still makes flour that you can buy at the gift shop, where you’ll also find the Science Centre.
Food and drink 🍽️
Have…
Beer at the Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem
This is one of the oldest pubs in England and has wonderful caves and artefacts inside.
Croissants at Tough Mary's
They’re freshly baked and worth waking up early for.
Sunday roasts at the Malt Cross
Dive into a huge spread, all while sitting in the former Victorian Music Hall.
Cocktails at 31K
It’s one of our top cocktail spots in Nottingham and serves a curated range of drinks.
Coffee at 200 Degrees
The beans are roasted right here in Nottingham, and there are three locations in the city centre.
Tapas outside at Bar Iberico
It’s wonderful inside, too, but the al fresco dining vibes are immaculate here.
Burgers at BOHNS
They’re substantial, delicious, and the best in the country.
Fairs and festivals 🎡
Discover your new favourite read at Newark Book Festival
The summer festival hosts authors from across the globe.
Sing along at Splendour
It’s attracted huge headliners in the past, including Dizzee Rascal, Madness, the Pet Shop Boys, and Kate Nash.
See knights joust at the Robin Hood Festival
The festival is held throughout August at Sherwood Forest.
Have an ice cream at Nottingham Beach
When you can’t get to Skegness, Nottingham comes pretty close during the summer holidays.
Go on a ride at the Goose Fair
It has over 250 rides and is one of the largest travelling funfairs in Europe.
Sport ⚽
Sing Mull of Kintyre at the City Ground
This pre-match song transforms the atmosphere at The Reds’ stadium.
Have a pot of mushy peas at Meadow Lane
The snack is a Nottingham staple, as is the oldest football league club.
See a wicket get taken at Trent Bridge
Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club has been home to famous cricketers like Stuart Broad.
Watch Panthers vs. Steelers at the National Ice Centre
The ice hockey teams are fierce rivals.
Go paddle boarding at Holme Pierrepont Country Park
It’s the home of the National Water Sports Centre.
Selfie spots 📸
The Robin Hood statue
It’s right next to the castle and is a must-visit.
The Brian Clough statue
The legendary Nottingham Forest manager sits tall over Speakers’ Corner.
The Market Square lions
They’re named Agamemnon and Menelaus, but are colloquially known as Leo and Oscar.
Hockley’s rainbow walks
Show your Pride on these colourful walkways that run across Carlton Street and Broad Street.
Any Kid30 mural
They’re characterised by their cartoon style, and you can see these around the station, Hockley, and Sneinton.
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