If you're wondering where to go with the kids this summer - then we got you! There are so many events and activities going on for all ages. Click the links to jump straight to each section or have a scroll through and take in everything Nottingham has to offer!
Don't forget to check out our 'Things to do in Nottingham' section see all the regular days out such as parks, farms, indoor play, museums and galleries!
Here we are listing special events for the summer holidays only.
Jump to:
Days out and Special Events
Nottingham Old Market Square
Nottingham Beach
25th July - 3rd September
Nottingham’s favourite beach is back at Old Market Square 25 July - 3 September. Get your shades on and indulge in tasty food, drinks at the beach bar and great entertainment! The Giant Slip ‘n Slide is a great way to cool off in the heat, this ticketed attraction comprises two giant inflatable waterslides!
-The Arrow is the largest inflatable urban waterslide in the UK. A 55m long, 14m wide, 13m high, two-lane waterslide where you can race against your friends!
-Little John is a 22m long, 18m wide, 7.5m high waterpark with 6 lanes of slides. Splashing in to an 18m x 10m pool that can also be used for general paddling.
️Entry to the Giant Slip ‘n Slide can be booked in advance to avoid disappointment on the day. Tickets for hourly slots are priced at £12.50 per person, and £10.50 for Nottingham city residents (tickets must be booked online to obtain the resident discount).
Newark Market Square
Newark On Sea
4th - 13th August
The giant urban beach is back this summer with a daily programme of beach themed activities to keep everyone entertained. Grab a bucket and spade or lie back in a deck chair to the sound of waves. Bring the family along to enjoy ice creams, dinky donuts and seaside shows by the sand!
Newark Creates - Summer Activities
Newark Beach Activities - Join Newark Creates, the Palace, our Artist In Residence, Chris White, and Puppet Busking on 5, 7, 9, 10 & 13 Aug
Sat 5th Aug 10.30-11.15am Peaceful Possums Yoga at Newark Castle Join us for some calm and quiet time in this family yoga session. Suitable for all the family and levels.
Weds 9th August 11-1pm Design Your Own Shopfront at Inspire Buttermarket This 1st creative workshop in a series for all ages explores Newark’s past to its future. Fun, free family activities!
Newark Festival – Sat 26th August
Hoopla! Festival for 0-4
Free – tickets available to book now
For the second year in a row, City Arts are bringing a mini-festival for 0-4 year olds to four Nottingham areas. Hoopla! is a fun, free, outdoor mini-festival. Join us in Hyson Green, Aspley, Bulwell or St Ann’s for a day of puppetry, acrobatics, play and dance.
9th August Hyson Green
11th August Aspley
16th August Bulwell
18th August St Anns
Riverside Festival
Victoria Embankment
4th - 6th August
Free Entry
Gloworm Festival
11th - 13th August
Thoresby Park
The Gloworm Festival is a brilliant 3 day Festival that has been especially created for grown ups and their little people. This event is aimed at families with Children aged 0-13, with plenty for teenagers and grown ups to enjoy too.
Day Tickets - £49.50 adults, £38.50 Children aged 2-15, under 2s free
Weekend tickets available with or without camping.
Mansfield Summer Festival
Titchfield park, Mansfield Thursday 3 August 2023 11am to 4pm
A full day of free family entertainment with Punch and Judy, theatre shows, food and drink, live music, craft market, sports activities, crafts, freebies and so much more!
The Full Shebang Festival
Mansfield
Saturday 2nd September
Broxtowe Play Days 12-4pm
Free entry, Free activities (not including inflatables and rides), Free parking (except Beeston)
Beeston - Broadgate Park NG9 2EF - Friday 28th July
Stapleford - Hickings Lane Recreation Ground NG9 8PJ - Tuesday 1st August
Eastwood - Coronation Park NG16 3LQ - Thursday 3rd August
Chilwell - Inham Nook Recreation Ground NG9 4GY - Monday 7th August
Notts Children's Centre Services
Let's Get Physical Pop-Up Stay and Play Events
Lots of activities on offer including creative fun, messy play, physical, baby area. Aimed at under 5s but older siblings welcome
Cotgrave Welfare Football Pitches NG12 3PJ 1st August 10.30am -12
Alford Road Playing Field Edwalton NG2 6HP 10th August 1.30 - 3pm
East Leake Play Park LE12 6QD 15th August 10.30am-12
Radcliffe on Trent Rec Ground NG12 2AN 24th August 1.30-3pm
Funtopia
Mansfield The Carrs 23rd July 11:30am-5:30pm
Long Eaton West Park 23rd August 11:30am-5:30pm
Newark Riverside Park 31st August 11:30am-5:30pm
Under 90cm Free of Charge, Over 90cm £10, Adult £2.50
Our fun-filled festival - designed especially for under 10’s, is filled with all the fun and games your family could want to make this exciting day out one to be remembered! Funtopia has high energy inflatables, role play areas, shows and competitions, character meet and greets, giant games, huge water fights, a tasty food court and more! We even have an incredible Under 5's area for our mini guests, filled with Bouncy Castles, Soft Play, Ball Pool, Ride On's and other fun toys and games.
ALL TICKETS ARE SOLD ON THE GATE!
Autism Friendly Session: 10:30am-11:30am
Under 90cm Free of Charge, Children £5, Adults Free of Charge
Ashfield Day
Saturday 5 August from 10.30am - 10pm and will include:
- a packed stage featuring some of the best tribute acts in the country to popular bands and singers including the UK's best Beyonce tribute act, tributes to Taylor Swift, George Ezra, ABBA, Robbie Williams, and Take That
- an animal area with a dog show and more to be revealed soon
- an open-air cinema showing Matilda the Musical and Whitney -Houston: I wanna dance with somebody
- a huge funfair with adult and children's rides and prize stalls
- a bustling market village
- two bars serving alcohol and soft drinks
- a food court with catering options for vegetarians and vegans
- emergency service vehicles
- armed forces area
- free face painting
- Feel Good Families marquee featuring performances from community acts
& so much more
Lark in the Park
Our ever-popular free Lark in the Park is back this summer on Wednesday August 2 featuring over 40 fantastic stalls and attractions at Bridgford Park in West Bridgford from 10am to 4pm. There will be an incredible amount of family fun on offer including inflatables, circus skills, soft play, storytelling, sports sessions and free singing and dancing shows. There will also be food and drink stalls and charity and community stands, packed with useful freebies and information on a range of services and activities offered through local organisations.
Ilkeston Town Events
Bold as Brass -Free Summer brass band concerts in Erewash.
Sunday 23 July: Stanley & Stanley Common Parish Council, Matlock Band, 2pm DE7 6FF
Sunday 30 July: Victoria Park, Ilkeston, Ilkeston Brass Band, 6pm DE7 5HB
Sunday 6 August: Breaston Parish Council, Duffield Close, The Green, Breaston, Matlock Brass Band, 2pm. DE72 3DU
Sunday 13 August: West Park, Long Eaton, Silver Prize Band, 2pm, NG10 3NL
Saturday 19 August: Erewash Museum, Ilkeston, Ilkeston Brass Band, 2pm DE7 5JA
Summer Sounds
Sunday 23 July 2023.
Summer Sounds returns to Victoria Park in Ilkeston on Sunday July 23 between 3pm and 7pm. The performances on the band stand kick off at 3.10pm with a 50s rock n roll performance from Alan Becks, followed by a Marti Pellow tribute at 4.10pm, a Kylie tribute at 5.10pm, and a Take That tribute act at 6pm. Jolly Jingles the clown will be there, along with face painting (£5 per child) and various stalls, including refreshments. Residents can bring along a blanket and picnic.
Ilkeston Heritage & Classic Vehicle Show
Sunday, August 13th 2023, 10am - 4pm. Once a year, in mid-August, Ilkeston town centre plays host to a fantastic array of over 300 classic cars, motorbikes, buses, lorries, military vehicles, steam engines and much more. The show is staged on the historic Market Place and surrounding area evoking the sights and sounds of yesteryear. This friendly free event, organised by voluntary organisation Erewash Partnership Events and enthusiasts, attracts visitors of all ages from across the Midlands.
Ilkeston Week-Long Festival
Monday August 14th - Saturday 19th August The Ilkeston Community Theatre & Festival committee presents a WEEK-LONG FESTIVAL celebrating Ilkeston people, history, music and creativity. Most events are FREE and for all the family.
Wheelgate Park
Special Events
Titan the Robot visit – Tuesday 8th August
Superhero and Princess Weeekend 26-28th August
Twinlakes Park
Special Events
Bluey visit – Weds 2nd Aug
Sonic Visit – 16th August
Parks and National Trust
West Bridgford Park Cinema Day
A free family-fun immersive cinema experience day will take place on Sunday August 6, 2-9pm at Bridgford Park in West Bridgford offering a range of interactive workshops and popular films on the big screen.
Family favourite Disney’s animation Robin Hood and 2022 blockbuster Top Gun: Maverick will be on the big screen and food and drink options will be available all day.
• The day will be kick-started from 2pm by a series of interactive cinema-themed workshops for all ages including:
-DIY Drive-in – build your own cars from scrap materials and park yourself in the drive-in movie theatre to watch a selection of short films
-Animation Station – help make a short film using just a few props and your smartphone
-Flippin ‘Eck! - Nottingham based artist Hannah Money leads a session making a range of cinema related crafts including flipbooks, zoetropes and thaumatropes
-Colour Me Happy - scribble, colour and draw all day long at the colouring station where you can get creative with a range of materials to create your favourite movie character!
• At 4pm there will be an outdoor cinema showing of Disney’s classic re-telling of Nottingham’s legend, Robin Hood which will celebrate the 50th anniversary. Prior to and during the 4pm screening, families will have the chance to meet and have pictures with the ‘real life’ Robin Hood characters, with special guest appearances from Robin Hood, Maid Marian and the Sherriff of Nottingham.
• From 7pm event goers can enjoy a night of exhilarating action under the stars with a screening of film favourite Top Gun: Maverick.
• A series of short films will also be played throughout the event, including Nottingham Symphony, Colour Box Bingo and Spotlight on Nottingham from emerging film industry talent.
Sherwood Forest
Robin Hood Festival – Across 5 Weekends
Free entry. £10 parking charge
Unless stated below, admission to performances is free. There will be a charge for some activities and for the cinema screenings.
WEEKEND ONE: 27TH-30TH JULY
BIG SCREEN WEEKEND
See Outdoor Cinema Post HERE
WEEKEND TWO: 4TH-6TH AUGUST
THE KNIGHTS RETURN
Live storytelling, theatre, magicians, circus, historical re-enactments, jousting and more!
WEEKEND THREE: 12TH-13TH AUGUST
GETTING WILD
Get hands on with nature in one of the UK’s rarest natural habitats – an ancient oak woodland. Fun, games and craft activities which will reveal the brilliance of nature.
WEEKEND FOUR: 19TH-20TH AUGUST
TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS
Live re-enactments, knight school, music and more
WEEKEND FIVE: 26TH-28TH AUGUST
THE GRAND FINALE – OUTLAW STYLE
The Sherwood Outlaws bring the festival to a close with their all-action arena show as we celebrate the Nottinghamshire Day Festival at Sherwood once again. More re-enactments, theatre, comedy and magic!
Highfields Park
WOODLAND WITCH STORY TRAIL
Wednesday 16 August, 11am-12noon 1.30-2.30pm
£8 family ticket (max. 4 people)
Suitable for Families
Find out the myths and legends of Highfields Park from our woodland witch as she takes you on the weirdest and most wonderful tour of our beloved park. This 1-hour session will be full of magic, stories, and of course, a lot of cackling!
OUTDOOR DETECTIVES Thursday 17 August, 11am-1pm £4 (with one free adult place) Suitable for ages 4-7 Calling all outdoor detectives! Join our Rangers for a fun-filled voyage of discovery through our woodland! Come and find the beasts and bugs that inhabit our woodland - if you look closer, you might just find something amazing. A great introduction to the outdoors, this session will help children build confidence, learn new skills, and socialise with others while learning about the magic of nature.
Elvaston Castle
TEDDY BEARS’ PICNIC
Thursday 27th July 10.30am-3.30pm
If you go down to Elvaston Castle today you’re sure of a big surprise! Bring your favourite bear and a packed lunch to kick off the summer holidays by joining us for a picnic on the lawn. Meet: East Avenue (lawn in front of castle steps).
Cost: FREE to attend picnic, small charge for some activities.
Shipley Country Park
SUMMER FUN! Self Led Trails
Sunday 23rd July – Sunday 3rd Sep 10.30am-3.30pm.
During the school summer holidays there will be a different self-led activity each week, so make time for fun with the family in the fresh air. Track down the clue cards to complete your activity sheet and learn about some weird and wonderful nature from around the Earth and receive a certificate! Length: 1-2 miles.
Cost: £1.50 per child per trail
Rufford Abbey
Superhero Trail
22nd July-3rd September £2.50
Superheroes vs Princesses Meet and Greet and Show
Every Thursday in August 11.30am, 1pm, 2.45pm
Meet Mirabel
29th July – Breakfast 9am | Brunch 11:30am
We are thrilled to be bringing the magic of the fairy tales to our breakfast and brunch events this summer.
Enjoy a delicious, freshly cooked breakfast in Lord Savile’s Kitchen and be joined by a real Princess who will lead a sing-a-long and teach you how to be a Princess!
Cost: £12.95 per person | Under 1s FREE*
PAUL TEMPLES, PUNCH AND JUDY SHOW - FREE
Tuesday 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th August, 12:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Professor Paul Temple will once again be entertaining us with the traditional, but with a modern twist, Punch and Judy Show.
White Post Wednesday
Wednesday 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd, 30th August, 10:30 am - 3:30 am
£2.50 per person (pay on the day in the Admin Office)
Come and meet some of the animals from White Post Farm!
The team will be bringing a selection of their fluffy friends for you to meet. They will be bringing along fluffy bunnies, squeaky mice and for those brave ones snakes, insects and lizards.
Rushcliffe Country Park
August Activities
1st – Pond dip and bug hunt 10.30-12
4th – Den Building – 10.30-12
8th – Pond dip and bug hunt -10.30-12
11th - Den Building – 10.30-12
15th - Den Building – 10.30-12
18th – Self led scavenger hunt – from 10am no booking required
21st - Den Building – 10.30-12
25th – Self led scavenger hunt – from 10am no booking required
Activities are £6pp, to book call 01159215865
Gedling Country Park
Gedling ‘Love Parks’ Day
Aug 2, 2023, 11:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Come and celebrate Love Parks week at Gedling Country Park. Gedling Borough Council are hosting a day of free environmental and creative activities for families and the whole community. There’ll be opportunities to take part in willow weaving and craft activities, music, stories and pop up theatre and a whole host of environmental and community stalls.
Thoresby Park
Afternoon Picnic with Birds of Prey
Sunday 30th July 12-4pm Tickets from £5.50
Teversal Visitors Centre
Dragonfly Crafts
Fri 28th July Super Hero Crafts 10-12 £2.50
Sat 29th July Summer planting 10-11 and 11.30-12.30 £1.50
Fri 4th August 10-12pm Paint Party £2.50
Fri 18th Aug Messy Mayhem 10-12 £2.50
Fri 25th Aug Nature craft-dress for mess 10-12 £2.50
Mining fun day 19th August 10-4 Free entry
The Mobile Mini Zoo 8th and 22nd August 9.30-11am and 12-1.30pm £3
Ready Steady Trains 11th and 23rd August £2 per child
Pleasley Pit Country Park
Dragonfly Crafts
Recycled Sun Catcher and Wind Chimes - Sat 5th August 10-11 and 11.30-12.30 £1.50
Pom Pom Rainbow – 26th Aug 10-11 and 11.30-12.30 £1.50
Bugs, Mini Beasts and Nature Crafts Sat 2nd Sep 10-11 and 11.30-12.30 £1.50
Tin Hat Centre Selston
Dragonfly Crafts
Pom Pom Rainbow Craft 10th August 1-2pm
Bugs, Mini Beasts and Nature Crafts Thurs 17th August 1-2 £3
Superhero Crafts Thu 24th Aug 1-2 £3
Sutton Lawn/Ashfield Play Forum
Here are the list of dates we will be doing our Environmental play and play days for the next few weeks;
Wednesday 26th July Sutton lawn, environmental play 10.30-12.30
Monday 31st July and Wednesday 2nd August ; No activities
Monday 7th August Play day Kingsway park Kirkby 11am-2pm
Wednesday 9th August Sutton lawn, Environmental play 10.30-12.30
Monday 14th August Play day Sutton lawn 11am-2pm
Wednesday 16th August Environmental play Sutton lawn 10.30-12.30
No activities then until Monday 4th September when we will be back on Sutton lawn for our Environmental play every Monday and Wednesday 😀
Summerwood Community Garden (Clifton)
Summer Holiday fun at the community gardens! We've got lots of things planned over the summer holidays. Please book on the sessions by sending us a message as places are limited.
Saturday29 July - 11am - 1pm, Family Activity Day including Seed Papermaking with Curious Clare
Tuesday 1st and 8th August - "Picnic and Play",11am - 1pm, bring a picnic we'll provide snacks and refreshments. Activities include pond dipping with Dr Linda, face painting with Miles of Smiles - face painting by Sylwia Bolger, water play, cake decorating and more. Please book for these sessions (send us a message). SORRY, BOTH TUESDAY SESSION NOW FULLY BOOKED!
Tuesday 15th, 22nd and 29th. Grow, Cook and Play is back! 11am - 2pm. Bring your picnic lunch and we'll provide campfire snacks and outdoor fun including an Orchard Bioblitz with Dr Linda on 22nd August and drumming with BeatFeet Ltd on the 29th August. Message us to book on these sessions please.
Thursdays 8th, 17th, 24th and 31st between 11am and 1pm- Muddy Boots sessions for Under 5s, including the wonderful Rainbow Stripes on the 17th August. We've got a limited number of places for older siblings and older children with childminders so please message if you want to book one of these places.
There is no Muddy Boots at the Summerwood Community Garden on the 10th August as we'll be taking Muddy Boots to the Jungle Book performance that is taking place in the Flower Park.
Thursday 31st August 13.30-15.30. Clay Creations with Curious Clare for children aged 5 and over. Limited places so please let us know if you want to join in
And our usual Family Activity Day on the last Saturday of August between 11am and 1pm. No need to book for this one just turn up!
Skate Nottingham
‘Summer Skate Sundays’ - free skateboard coaching sessions & creative workshops, taking place at a series of different skateparks around Gedling in August & September!
Sessions will be 13:00 - 17:00 each week, and include free skate coaching for all abilities & ages (7+), with our talented & qualified coaches, plus a creative workshop with guest artists.
Sun 6th Aug - Arnold Bowls
Sun 13th Aug - Standhill skatepark
Sun 20th Aug - Jubilee Park skatepark
Sun 3rd Sept - Standhill skatepark
Full details & link to book free tickets (if you need to borrow a skateboard & helmet) can be found on the website: https://www.skatenottingham.co.uk/
Bull Farm Park
Join in the FREE sports activities at Bull Farm Park during the summer break!
With a selection of games, football nets, activities and more to choose from, there is something for all ages. No need to book; just turn up on the day.
Friday 11 August 1pm - 2.30pm
Friday 25 August 1pm - 2.30pm
Ashfield Play Days
7th August 11-2pm Kingsway Park - Kirkby-in-Ashfield FREE
14th August 11-2pm The Lawn Sutton in Ashfield FREE
Woodthorpe Park
Free adventure trail 10-4pm
Cotgrave Community Garden
4th of August - The fairies and elves are joining us for a picnic! Dressing up is very much encouraged and we'll have a special treat for little fairies and elves showing off their costumes. There will be chance to make your own natural fairy wings or elven crown and to bring to life a little garden- guardian of your own to take home.
Booking is essential - £3 per child or £5 per family suggested cash donation
Farm Special Events
Stonebridge City Farm
Open every day of the holidays 10am – 4.15pm
Wed 2nd August – Pirate Day
Tue 8th August - Rainbow Stripes 11-12pm
Wed 9th August - Superhero Day
Tue 15th August Rainbow Stripes 11-12pm
Sat 19th August Global Roots Festival
Tue 22nd August Rainbow Stripes 11-12pm
Wed 23rd Aug Robin Hood Day
Tues 29th Aug - Rainbow Stripes 11-12pm
Floralands Farm Park
£5 entry pp
Summer Timetable 22nd July – 3rd September
11am – Small Animal Cuddles
11.45am – Meet the Tortoises
2pm – Animal of the day
2.30pm - Small Animal Cuddles
3.15pm – Snack Time! Meet and Feed Large Animals
Animal handling £1 per ticket
White Post Farm
See Chase and Marshall on Saturday 29th July
Junior Ranger Academy: 21st until 25th August
For young people from 10 - 13 years old, Junior Ranger Academy is 5 days of animal interaction, hands-on tasks and lots of fun too! A great chance to meet like-minded friends and learn a range of new skills and techniques.
Museums and Galleries
Lakeside Arts
Djanogly Gallery - FREE
Tuesday 08 August - Sunday 03 September
Experience a fantastical woodland unlike one you've ever encountered
Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-4pm, Sunday 12noon-4pm, Closed Mondays. Admission free, Suitable for all
Wallner Gallery - FREE Saturday 27 May - Saturday 09 September An exhibition featuring some of Little Angel’s best-loved puppets.
FESTIVAL OF ARCHAEOLOGY 2023 Saturday 29 July, 12noon-3.30pm University of Nottingham Museum Admission Free Suitable for ages 7+ Step into the creative world of Roman crafts. Join us to make some shiny embellished fridge magnets based on a Roman-British dragon design brooch in our collection; have a go at making your own Roman bulla amulet necklace to wear home and make your own mini ‘Face-pot’ out of clay.
National Justice Museum
JUNIOR DETECTIVES
Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 August
Journey back to Victorian Nottingham and solve the case of the escaped prisoner in this interactive children's adventure! Suitable for all ages but specifically aimed at children 5 to 10 years old, this family-friendly activity takes place in the Victorian streets of our Narrow Marsh museum experience.
Adult: £9.95, Child: £10.95
(All children must be accompanied by a paying adult)
*Ticket price does not include Museum admission
Erewash Museum
Open Weds - Sat 11-4pm
Summer Week 26th - 29th July
Punch and Judy Show 27th July, donuts, crafts and trails.
Circus Week 2nd - 5th August
Crafts, trails, face painting, circus skills and aerial arts
Really Wild Week 9th-12th August
10th - animal holding, 14th - Jungle Book Theatre Performance
Games Week 16th -19th August
17th Shadeglass Games and Derby Computer Museum visit
Community Week 23rd - 26th August
Emergency Services Week 28th August - 1st September
Mansfield Museum
ELMER AND FRIENDS
15th July - 20th August
Step into David McKee’s colourful world in this first ever major retrospective of his striking illustrations and celebrate over 30 years of Elmer the Patchwork Elephant.
WED, 26 JUL 10-12 Art Beat! Elmer ears
THURS, 27 JUL 10-12 The Big Draw - Elmer and Friends
TUES, 1 AUG 10-12 Art Beat! Elmer and Friends garland
WED, 2 AUG 10-12 Relaxed Elmer storytelling sessions
FRI, 4 AUG 10-12 Lego Day at Mansfield Museum
TUES, 8 AUG 10-12 Art Beat! Elmer Jungle
WED, 9 AUG 10-12 Art Beat! Elmer masks
TUES, 15 AUG 10-12 Art Beat! Milk bottle Elmer
WED, 16 AUG 10-12 Art Beat! Too Can Toucan handprints
THURS, 17 AUG 10-12 Relaxed Elmer storytelling sessions
FRI, 18 AUG 10-12 Lego Day at Mansfield Museum
TUES, 22 AUG 10-12 Art Beat! Paper plate clown
FRI, 1 SEP 10-12 Lego Day at Mansfield Museum
Framework Knitters Museum/Parkers Yard
Drop in craft session with our two volunteers who are retired educators. Materials are included! We just ask for a small donation so we can replace our materials.
Please do not leave your child unattended.
10th Aug – Sealife workshop 12-3pm
11th Aug – Mermaids Workshop 12-3pm
16th Aug - Pop up Chicken Workshop 12-3pm
23rd Aug - Fancy Chicken Workshop 12-3pm
National Civil War Museum Newark
Playhem!
Wednesday 26th July to Saturday 2nd September
After last year's cardboard box fun at the first Playhem, we've upped our messy game to fantastic blue building blocks! Visitors of all ages can get creative, building your own brilliant Castles and structures to play in and have fun making a marvellous mess! Plus, check out family-friendly labels for our fascinating objects throughout the museum and enjoy fun things to do in all our galleries!
Open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am to 4pm with FREE entry for Newark and Sherwood residents!
Family Saturday: Totally Teetotal Treats
Saturday 5th August, 10am to 4pm
Meet Lady Ossington, whose portrait hangs in our Newark Gallery, and find out about the 19th-century coffee house she built here in Newark. Watch coffee bean roasting demonstrations and mix your own tea blends in our courtyard garden.
And remember, there's now FREE entry to the museum, including Family Saturdays, for Newark and Sherwood residents!
Creswell Crags
July Trail
Follow the trail to learn about the life of Cressy, the Peacock butterfly.
A number of painted boards are hidden around the site, each with a picture and a short piece of information. All of the boards are located in pushchair and wheelchair friendly places. Head back to reception once you've finished to collect your prize.
SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: STONE AGE SAFARI
MONDAY 24TH JULY TO SUNDAY 30TH JULY 10.30AM, 11.30AM, 1.30PM AND 2.30PM
Become a palaeontologist and learn all about Ice Age animals!
£10 per family (up to 5 people in each family). Ages 5+
STONE AGE STORY TIME
SAT, 29 JULY 2023 12-1pm & 2-3pm
Stone Age Story Time returns for more fantastical adventures through fiction in one of our caves! (Ages 5 – 11)
FREE event for local children (living in S80 4** postcode areas), and £3 per child living outside this area.
SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: POND DIPPING
MONDAY 31ST JULY TO SUNDAY 6TH AUGUST 11AM AND 1PM
Have you ever wondered what's lurking beneath the surface of our pond?
£4 per child (all children must be accompanied by an adult)
Maximum of 8 child places available ages 5+
YOUNG PERSON'S FLINTKNAPPING WITH DR JAMES DILLEY
WED, 02 AUGUST - 10AM, 12:00PM AND 2.00PM
The aim of the workshop will be for attendees to have fun, go home with a stone tool they have made, learn new flintknapping skills and have a new, hands-on appreciation for prehistoric technology and life in the Stone Age. (ages 8-14)
SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: SURVIVAL SKILLS - SHELTER BUILDING
MONDAY 7TH AUGUST TO SUNDAY 13TH AUGUST 10:20AM, 11:00AM, 11:40AM, 1.00PM, 1.40PM & 2.20PM
What kind of a home did they build in the Ice Age? In this fun hands-on session, you can have a go at Stone Age survival skills and see if you can build a suitable shelter that you could call home.
£4 per family (up to 5 people in each family) Ages 4+
SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: STONE AGE JEWELLERY MAKING
MONDAY 14TH AUGUST TO SUNDAY 20TH AUGUST 10.30AM, 11.30AM, 1.30PM AND 2.30PM
During the activity session you will be welcomed by one of our Learning Team in Stone Age dress, and they will take you through the types of clothes that people wore and teach you how to make your very own piece of Stone Age jewellery to take home.
£5 per child (all children must be accompanied by an adult). Age 5+
SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: MINIBEAST SAFARI
MONDAY 21ST AUGUST TO SUNDAY 27TH AUGUST 11AM, 1PM AND 2.30PM
Explore the different ecosystems at Creswell Crags and hunt for Minibeasts as you go!
£4 per child (all children must be accompanied by an adult) 5+
SUMMER HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES: CAN YOU DIG IT? BECOME AN ARCHAEOLOGIST!
MONDAY 28TH AUGUST TO SUNDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER 10.30AM, 11.30AM, 1.30PM AND 2.30PM
What do archaeologists look for when they start digging? Have a go at your own mini excavation and discover what bones, rocks and objects might have been found at the end of the Ice Age.
£5 per child (all children must be accompanied by an adult) (ages 5+)
Nottingham Contemporary
Summer Family Activities: Dress Rehearsals
Tue 1 Aug – Thu 24 Aug, each Tue, Wed & Thu 10am - 12 noon and 1 – 3pm
Join in to write a script, make the props, rehearse, and then we’ll all put on a show! Explore writing tales, performing puppetry, and green screen action to work together to create the space to bring your stories to life. The workshops are drop-in; however, we invite you to book a space for your session as spaces are limited.
Green's Windmill
To book workshops please call 0115 915 6878
Games Days - Fri 4 Aug 11th Aug, 18th Aug, 25th Aug 10-4 FREE and Drop in
Children’s Bread Baking £4 per child. For ages 3+
Sat 29th July, Thurs 31st Aug, Sat 2nd Sep - 6 timed sessions each day
Biscuit Baking - £5 per child. For ages 3+
Thurs 3rd Aug and Sat 5th Aug – 6 timed sessions each day
Oaty Bakes - £5 per child. For ages 3+
Thurs 10th Aug, Sat 12th Aug - 6 timed sessions each day
Scone Baking - £5 per child. For ages 3+
Thurs 17th Aug, Sat 19th Aug - 6 timed sessions each day
Fruity Cupcake Baking - £4 per child. For ages 3+
Thurs 24th, Sat 26th Aug - 6 timed sessions each day
Canalside Heritage Centre
Summer Holiday Activities
Free trail in the garden all through the summer holidays
Free children’s crafts on Thursday 3rd, Tuesday 8th, Thursday 17th and Tuesday 22nd August 10.30 – 3pm
Wollaton Hall
The Tyrannosaur’s Feathers
Tyrannosaurus rex may be the king of the dinosaurs, but that doesn’t stop know-it-all Velociraptor from telling him he looks old-fashioned and needs a makeover.
Join authors Dr Adam Smith and Jonathan Emmett for an amusing and informative look at how new discoveries have transformed our understanding of T. rex’s appearance since this giant prehistoric predator was first unearthed over a century ago.
Dates: Sunday 6th August ’23
Times: 11.30 am and 2 pm
Ages: 6 – 11
Prices: FREE
BOOKING RECOMMENDED
Bassetlaw Museum
24th-28th July – Festival of Archaeology
Mon – colouring and games
Tue – Iron Age shield making and crafts
Weds – Anglo Saxon Day – Anglo Saxon brooch making and crafts
Thurs – Stone Age Day – Stone Age crafts
Fri – Lego and Stone Age Playmobil Day
31st July – 4th August – Butterflies, Bugs and Owls
Mon - Butterfly crafts and activities
Tue – coffee filter butterfly craft
Wed – colouring and games
Thurs – Conservation fun day, owl pellet dissection, owl crafts and building a bug hotel
Fri – Lego Day
Monday 7th – Thursday 10th August Rocks and Fossils
Mon – Colouring and games
Tue – Plaster of Paris fossils
Weds – Make your own geode
Thurs – Cinderella craft activities 10 – 1.30pm to link with Panto in the Park at 2pm
Monday 14th – Friday 18th STEAM crafts
Mon – Use science to paint a picture
Tue – Mini bows and arrows activity 10am-1.30pm to link with Robin Hood Panto in the Park at 2pm
Weds – Rockets
Thurs – Super Science with UKAEA
Fri – Lego Day
Monday 21st – Friday 25th August Knights Castles and Dragons
Mon – Cardboard Castles
Tue – Shields and Hobby Horses
Weds – Rapunzel Towers activity 10am-1.30pm to link with Panto in the Park at 2pm
Thurs – Mini Dragon Terrariums
Fri – Lego Day
Mon 28th – Fri 1st September – Under the Sea
Mon – MUSEUM CLOSED
Tue Shark Art
Weds – Wellbeing Wednesday – Socktopus stress toy
Thurs – Treasure maps
Fri – Lego Day
Libraries
Summer Reading Challenge
Ongoing at all local libraries. Read 6 books over the holidays to collect your certificate!
Nottingham City Library Activities (FREE unless otherwise specified)
Aspley library
2nd August Geoffrey Jumper 2-3pm £2
8th August Things that go Crafts 10.30-11.30am
11th August Chess Play 11-1pm
16th August Dinosaur Crafts 10.30-11.30am
23rd August Animal Crafts 10.30-11.30am
Basford Library
3rd August Animal Crafts 2-3pm
10th August Geoffrey Jumper 2-3pm £2
17th August Fun with Lego 2-3pm
24th August Dinosaur Crafts 2-3pm
Bilborough Library
1st August Animal Crafts 1.30-3pm
11th August Geoffrey Jumper 11am-12pm £2
15th August Things that go Crafts 10.30-11.30am
24th August Dinosaur Crafts with Lego 2-3.30pm
Bulwell Riverside Library
1st August Fun with Lego 1.30-2.30pm
9th August Geoffrey Jumper 11am-12pm £2
10th August Chess Play 1-3pm
15th August Things that go Crafts 1.30-2.30pm
18th August Twine Coding 1pm-3pm (age 11-16) free
22nd August Dinosaur Crafts 1.30 – 2.30pm
Clifton Library
31st July Dinosaur Crafts 2-3pm
11th August Geoffrey Jumper 2-3pm £2
14th August Animal crafts 2-3pm
21st August Kev Sutherland’s Comic Masterclass 10-12.30pm £5
The Dales Library
4th August Geoffrey Jumper 11-12pm £2
11th August Dinosaur Crafts 11-1pm
16th August Chess Play 1-3pm
18th August Fun with Lego 11-1pm
21st August Kev Sutherland’s Comic Masterclass 2-4.30pm £5
Hyson Green Library
2nd August Geoffrey Jumper £2
9th August Get Moving Poetry with Kev Payne 11-12pm £2
16th August Fun with Lego 10-12.30pm
23rd August Dinosaur Crafts 10-12.30pm
The Meadows Library
4th August Geoffrey Jumper 2-3pm £2
11th August Dinosaur Crafts 11-12pm
18th August Things that go Crafts 11-12pm
25th August Animal Crafts 11-12pm
Radford-Lenton Library
2nd August Animal crafts 10.30-11.30am
9th August Geoffrey Jumper 2-3pm £2
16th August Dinosaur Crafts10.30-11.30am
23rd August Fun with Lego 10.30-11.30am
Southglade Library
31st July Dinosaur Crafts 2-3pm
7th August Geoffrey Jumper 11-12pm £2
14th August Animal Crafts 2-3pm
24th August Fun with Lego 2-3pm
St Ann’s Valley Library
31st July Geoffrey Jumper 11-12pm £2
8th August Things that go crafts 2-4pm
16th August Animals Crafts 11-1pm
24th August Fun with Lego 2-4pm
Strelley Road Library
31st July Geoffrey Jumper £2
9th August Get Moving Poetry with Kev Payne £2
14th August Things that go crafts 2-4pm
21st August Fun with Lego 2-4pm
23rd August Chess Play 1-3pm
Wollaton Library
1st August Dinosaur Crafts 10.30 – 12pm
7th August Geoffrey Jumper 2-3pm £2
15th August Fun with Lego 10.30-12pm
22nd August Kev Sutherland’s Comic Masterclass 10-12.30 and 2-4.30pm £5
Inspire Notts Libraries
East Lab Dance Company presents: Frocks, Socks and the Orange Fox (Ages 2-6)
FREE Booking Recommended
East Lab Dance Company are inviting families to rhyme, move and learn, in this interactive dance adventure. Children will join with fox and mole on an immersive journey, and take part in an exciting stay and play workshop after the show.
11th August 11am and 2pm – Mansfield Central Library
Little Seed Music presents: JACK! (age 5+) £4
JACK! features traditional stories, original songs and storytelling. With lots of opportunities to join in, plus brilliant live music, families will be singing along before you can say Fee Fie Fo Fum!
Performance Dates
Kirkby-in-Ashfield Library: Tuesday 15 August - 10.30am
Hucknall Library: Tuesday 15 August - 3.30pm
Worksop Library: Wednesday 16 August - 10.30am
Retford Library: Wednesday 16 August - 3.30pm
Newark Library: Thursday 17 August - 10.30am
Southwell Library: Thursday 17 August - 3.30pm
Cotgrave Library: Tuesday 29 August - 10.30am
West Bridgford Library: Tuesday 29 August - 3.30pm
Bingham Library: Wednesday 30 August - 10.30am
Arnold Library: Wednesday 30 August- 3.30pm
Sutton-in-Ashfield Library: Thursday 31 August - 10.30am
Mansfield Central Library: Thursday 31 August - 3.30pm
On Your Marks Collaborative Exhibition – Free
Beeston Library 8th July – 3rd August
West Bridgford Library 15th August – 7th September
On Your Marks Workshops
Meet Inspire’s 2023 artist and author in residence Amy Lee Young and international selling children’s author Donna David. Create a bright paper mobile adorned with poetry.
West Bridgford 31st July 10am
Beeston 31st July 2pm
Kirkby-in-Ashfield 3rd August 10am
Hucknall 3rd August 2pm
Arnold 4th August 10am
Bingham 4th August 2pm
Sutton-in-Ashfield 19th August 10am
Mansfield Central 19th August 2pm
Newark 22nd August 10am
Southwell 22nd August 2pm
Worksop 23rd August 10am
Retford 23rd August 2pm
Imagination Gaming
Drop in gaming sessions (ages 5-11)
Newark 2nd August 9.30-12pm
Bingham 2nd August 2-4pm
Sutton-in-Ashfield 4th August 9.30-12pm
Hucknall 4th August 2-4pm
SUMMER CRAFTS AT NOTTINGHAMSHIRE LIBRARIES
Free and Drop in unless otherwise stated
Beeston Library
Monday 17 July to Saturday 5 August
Take part in our character hunt! Find the images hidden in the library and be in with a chance of winning a prize.
Wednesday 2 August, 2pm - 4pm Funky Kerplunky! Make your own Kerplunk! game at this fun session
Wednesday 9 August, 10:30am - 1pm Build a board game!
Saturday 26 August, 10:30am - 12:30pm Final lap - sporty flags. Pop in to create your own finishing flag
Kimberley Library
Friday 1 September, 11am - 3pm Join us for an exciting library sports day! Finish your Summer Reading Challenge, pick up your medal and certificate, and try out our fun games!
Friday 28 July, 10am - 11am Garden pen pots
Friday 4 August, 10am - 11am Finger skateboards
Friday 11 August, 10am - 11am Animal bookmarks
Friday 18 August, 10am - 11am Snakes and Ladders
Friday 25 August, 10am - 11am Activity spinner
Friday 1 September, 10am - 11am Weather mobile
Bingham Library
Saturday 29 July to Friday 4 August, 9:30am until closing Skateboarding Week: Design a Skateboard Craft Activity; Balance Challenges; Colouring and activity sheets; Best Joke Competition; Character Hunt; Guess How Many Objects in the Jar
Saturday 5 August to Friday 11 August, 9:30am until closing Board Games Week: Family Bingo (5/8 @ 2pm); Monday to Friday, Games Café 10am to 12 noon; giant games, Make a Dice Craft Activity, Colouring and Activity sheets; Character Hunt; Guess How Many Objects in the Jar
Saturday 12 August to Friday 18 August, 9:30am until closing Basketball Week: Mini Basketball Challenge; Basketball; Boccia; Colouring and Activity sheets; Make a Cone and Ball Game Craft Activity; Character Hunt; Guess How Many Objects Are in the Jar
Saturday 19 August to Friday 25 August, 9:30am until closing Football Week: Lego Challenge: make a football-themed creation out of Lego; Blow Football: take part in our Championship; Word Searches; Design a Football; Make a Football Joke Fortune Teller; Character Hunt;
Saturday 26 August to Friday 2 September, 9:30am until closing Playground Games Week: Make a Spinner Craft Activity; Playground Games including Hopscotch; Noughts and Crosses; I Spy Puzzle Challenge; Character Hunt; Guess How Many Objects Are in the Jar
Hucknall Library
Tuesday 8 August, 2:30pm - 4pm Sporty badges: design a badge themed around your favourite sport or hobby!
Tuesday 15 August, 2:30pm - 4pm Make your own sports shirt: Design your own shirt with card and crafts supplied
Tuesday 29 August, 2:30pm - 4pm Giant games and trophies: Join in with our assortment of giant games and make a trophy to take away.
Huthwaite Library
Friday 28 July, 3pm - 4pm Biscuit decorating: get creative with icing and sprinkles at this fan favourite activity!
Friday 4 August, 3pm - 4pm Pirate crafts ahoy! Join us for crafts and a visit from our pal Pirate Mouse
Friday 11 August, 3pm - 4pm Roarsome dinosaur stick puppets
Friday 18 August, 3pm - 4pm Mega mazes: can your pompom manoeuvre its way to the finish line?
Friday 8 September, 3pm - 4pm Join us for some giant board games!
Kirkby in Ashfield Library
Tuesday 1 August, 10am - 11am Join us to make your own gymnastic dancing ribbons
Tuesday 8 August, 10am - 11am Create your own ssssswirly sssssnake!
Tuesday 15 August, 10am - 11am Put together your own cup and ball game to take away!
Tuesday 22 August, 10am - 11am Come along and build a special basketball
Tuesday 29 August, 10am - 11am Have fun making your own paper kite
Skegby and Stanton Hill Library
Friday 28 July, 2pm - 3pm Cupcake case butterflies: Come and make some beautiful butterflies, and decorate your own cakes to take home too!
Friday 4 August, 2pm - 3pm Give us an S... give us a R, give us a C... it's the Summer Reading Challenge! Make your own pompoms and cheer to go with them at your local library.
Friday 11 August, 2pm - 3pm It's games day! We're so excited to welcome some giant games to our library. Pop in and challenge a loved one to giant connect 4, snakes and ladders and more!
Friday 18 August, 2pm - 3pm Mascot making: Make your own mascot, just like our Ready, Set, Read characters!
Friday 25 August, 2pm - 3pm It's a crafty catch-up! Missed out on any of our events this summer? Pop down and have a go at any of the sessions you've missed. A great way to end the holidays!
Sutton in Ashfield Library
Wednesday 26 July, 11am - 12pm Let's 'kick off' the Summer Reading Challenge with a visit from Mansfield Town FC! Join in with sports activities, reading, and a chance to win a signed football
Wednesday 2 August, 11am - 12pm Make your own cup and ball game. How many times can you catch the ball in the cup? Let's find out!
Wednesday 9 August, 11am - 12pm We're going crazy for our cat craft! Make your own handprint pal
Wednesday 16 August, 11am - 12pm Test your tennis skills! Create your own tennis racket, then challenge your friends to a balloon battle.
Wednesday 23 August, 11am - 12pm Super skateboards: design your own skateboard and impress your friends with your super cool finger-boarding tricks
Wednesday 30 August, 11am - 12pm Create your own maze to take on your travels! Can you manoeuvre your pompom towards the finish line?
Misterton Library
Wednesday 26 July, 2:30pm - 4:30pm Come along and play a variety of outdoor games
Saturday 12 August, 10am - 12pm Play some outdoor games!
Wednesday 23 August, 2:30pm - 4:30pm Join us for our teddy bear's picnic (other cuddly toys also welcome!).
Worksop Library
Wednesday 26 July, 11am - 12pm Join us for children's crafts! Suitable for children 3+ with an adult.
Monday 31 July, 10am - 10:30am Free pre-school activity. Bring your little ones along to listen to fun stories and take part in action games and rhymes.
Wednesday 9 August, 11am - 12pm Join us for children's crafts! Suitable for children 3+ with an adult.
Monday 14 August, 10am - 10:30am Free pre-school activity. Bring your little ones along to listen to fun stories and take part in action games and rhymes.
Tuesday 22 August, 11am - 12pm Children aged 7-11 are invited to attend our free workshop, leg by Dogs Trust! Come along to learn how to be safe around dogs, and keep our four-pawed friends happy. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Book your place by emailing alison.jacques@dogstrust.org (no real dogs will attend this event)
Saturday 2 September, 10:30am - 12:30pm Join us for free crafts and fun to round up your Summer Reading Challenge adventure.
Arnold Library
Saturday 8 July, 10am - 2pm We're kicking off the Summer Reading Challenge with a bang! Join Arnold library for a day of games, crafts, gifts, a raffle, stalls (charge applies) and Challenge fun!
Tuesday 8 August, 2pm - 2:45pm Dance dice: Join us and get your body moving! Can't decide what dance to do? Let the dice decide!
Tuesday 15 August, 2:30pm - 3:15pm Craft activity: make a dangling footballer
Friday 21 August, 2:30pm - 3:15pm Come along and make your own gymnastic twirling ribbons
Wednesday 28 August, 2:30pm - 3:15pm Come along for this free drop-in event and make your own basketball game
Burton Joyce Library
Friday 18 August, 10:30am - 12:30pm Drop in to make a simple kite! Suitable for ages 3+ and their adults.
Carlton Library
Wednesday 2 August, 10am - 11am Pop in and make your own sun visor
Thursday 3 August, 11am - 12pm Make your own mini basketball game and have fun seeing how you score!
Ravenshead Library
Thursday 10 August, 10:30am - 11:30am Paper Plate Sports Balls - join us for this free craft event. Ages 4-11 welcome, parent/carer supervision required.
Edwinstowe Library
Tuesday 1 August, 10:30am - 12pm Our first activity for this year's Summer Reading Challenge! Make a foam frisbee to take home, how far will yours fly? Suitable for 5-11 year olds, free, no booking required.
Tuesday 8 August, 10:30am - 12pm Come and make your own version of the popular board game. Snakes and Ladders! Challenge your friends and see who can become the next champion. Suitable for 5-11 year olds, free, no booking required
Tuesday 15 August, 10:30am - 12pm See how many points you can reach in our mini sports day - will you reach bronze, silver or gold? Will you be selected to enter our special prize draw, and maybe will a small prize? Join us to find out! Suitable for 5-11 year olds, free, no booking required.
Forest Town Library
Thursday 3 August, 10:30am - 11:30am Sports challenge spinners: Who can do the most star jumps in a minute? Are you the best at keepy-uppies? Take home your challenge spinner and try for a new personal best!
Thursday 10 August, 10:30am - 11:30am Floating ball game: compete with your friends to see how long you can keep the ball in the air
Thursday 17 August, 10:30am - 11:30am Roller ball - hit the jackpot! Make your own roller ball game, take turns with your friend and keep score as you go.
Thursday 24 August, 10:30am - 11:30am Keep the boredom at bay! Collect your free activity sheets and pencil. Don't forget to finish your challenge and collect your rewards while you visit!
Ladybrook Library
Thursday 3 August, 10:30am - 12pm Picture pairs game: design your own cards to play with your friends
Tuesday 8 August, 10:30am - 12pm Pop down to play a selection of board games and let your imagination run wild with our giant lego bricks!
Thursday 10 August, 10:30am - 12pm Pop in to make your own dream-catcher to take home and hang in your room
Thursday 17 August, 10:30am - 12pm Design a cup to play your own cup and ball game! Why not challenge your friends to a competition?
Thursday 24 August, 10:30am - 12pm Catch up crafts: pop in and have a go at any of our sessions you missed!
Mansfield Central Library
Monday 31 July, 11am - 1pm Make a paper version of the fan-favourite, foam finger!
Monday 7 August, 11am - 1pm Create sporty pencil toppers so you can write in style
Monday 14 August, 11am - 1pm Make a fun surfer scene
Monday 21 August, 11am - 1pm Make a medal to congratulate yourself (or a friend)!
Mansfield Woodhouse Library
Tuesday 1 August, 10am - 5pm Come and join us as we provide you with all the materials to make your own sporty bookmark. You can then look at our amazing book selection, choose one to take home and put your bookmark into action.
Tuesday 8 August, 10am - 5pm Up, up, and away! Come and make your own hot air balloon then let's see how high you can make it fly.
Tuesday 15 August, 10am - 5pm Swish, swish, swish! It's time to weave your own racket. Choose from so many colours - you could even make a Spiderman or rainbow themed racket!
Tuesday 22 August, 10am - 5pm Come and design your own football pitch and players, then challenge your friends and family to a game! Which team will win?
Tuesday 29 August, 10am - 5pm Celebrate the end of this year's Summer Reading Challenge by making your own rosette, then take a look at our range of board games and have some fun! (Rosettes while stocks last).
Warsop Library
Tuesday 1 August and Friday 4 August, 10am - 4:30pm Back by popular demand. The painter’s wheel is making a return and we are asking you to make your very own flag. *Please note this is a painting activity so we advise that clothes worn are old or that you wouldn’t mind getting messy*
Tuesday 8 August and Friday 11 August, 10am - 4:30am With a flick of your finger let’s see how many Try’s you can score when you create your own NFL game.
Tuesday 15 August and Friday 18 August, 10am - 4:30pm Make your own basketball game and challenge your friends and family. Can you score the most points?
Tuesday 29 August and Friday 1 September Last year the badge maker was a HUGE hit so it's making a comeback! Badges are awesome additions to backpacks and clothing so come along and give it a go.
Newark Library
Monday 24 July, 10am - 12pm Lego Club: Drop in and have fun building!
Thursday 27 July, 2pm - 3pm Family crafts: Make your own game
Monday 31 July, 2:30pm - 3:30pm Decorate your own suncatcher
Thursday 3 August, 10am - 12pm Lego Club: Drop in and have fun building!
Tuesday 8 August, 2pm - 3pm Make a mask
Wednesday 9 August, 10am - 12pm Lego Club: Drop in and have fun building!
Friday 11 August, 10am - 11am Design your own sports t-shirt door hanger
Saturday 12 August, 10am - 12pm Drip in and make a glider
Monday 14 August, 10am - 3pm Come and play our giant games, including beanbag targets!
Wednesday 16 August, 10am - 12pm Lego Club: Drop in and have fun building!
Friday 18 August, 10am - 11am Drop in and make your own pompom shooter
Thursday 24 & Friday 25 August, 3pm - 4pm Design your own badge!
Tuesday 29 August, 10am - 12pm Lego Club: Drop in and have fun building!
Ollerton Library
Monday 24 July to Tuesday 1 August Drop in sessions with big games! Come and try a new game each day in the library
Southwell Library
Wednesday 2 August, 10:30am - 11:30am Sporty crafts!
Wednesday 16 August, 10:30am - 11:30am What a racket! Come along and take part in our family session.
Theatre
Lakeside Arts
Splash Test Dummies - SOLD OUT
Friday 21 July, 6pm
Suitable for ages 7+
Apollo Legacy: How engineers landed people on the moon
Sunday 23 July £3 (free concessions and under 16s)
Suitable for ages 7-11
This lively, family event will explore the story of the lunar landing with plenty of fun, interactive demonstrations
The Snail and the Whale - SOLD OUT
Saturday 05 August - Sunday 06 August £11.50-£13
55 minutes (no interval)
Suitable for ages 4+
Join an adventurous young girl and her seafaring father as they reimagine the story of a tiny snail’s incredible trip around the world, inspired by the much-loved picture book. A heart-warming adventure for everyone aged four and up, from the company that brought you The Gruffalo live on stage.
Bonington Theatre
The Tales of Peter Rabbit & Benjamin Bunny
Friday 1 September 2.30pm
Join Peter and his naughty cousin Benjamin on their hair-raising adventures in Mr Mcgregor's garden in a delightful new adaptation of the much-loved tales...
Buy 4 tickets for the price of 3 with our special family offer!
Price: £12.50/ £10 child and concessions
Nottingham Playhouse
The Tortoise and the Hare – A Suitcase Story
Sun 6 Aug
£12.00
Age 6 and under
Milkshake! Live
Thu 3 Aug 1pm & 4pm
£17.50
Theatre Royal
Dragons & Mythical Beasts
Tuesday 8 August – Thursday 10 August 2023
£17.50 Age 3+
Mansfield Palace Theatre
Sarah and Duck’s Big Top Birthday
25th and 26th July
Adult £16.50, Children £11.50
Cinema
Arc Cinema Hucknall
Barbie Fan Event Friday 21st July
We've teamed up with Gü and are giving everyone a FREE recently-launched Gü Mixology dessert, which comes in three flavours; Passion Fruit Martini, Espresso Martini and Strawberry Daiquiri.
We'll also have our very own Barbie here on our 'Barbie Box' red carpet VIP area so you can pose for all the hilarious photos you like. Unlike fan events in the past, there'll be no extra charge for the Gü desserts or photos. Book now for the 17:30, 18:05, 19:05 or 20:10 screening and all of the above is included.
In Store and Shopping Centre Activities
Brookfields Garden Centre
Pop up Beach FREE
Character Parties - Pre Booking Required
Barbie – 17th August
Spiderman - 24th August
Little Mermaid – 31st August
£14 per child
Ikea
Summer Workshops – Mondays, Weds and Fridays of school holidays. Different theme each week
Make a Hot Air Balloon 24th July – 28th July age 4+
Fabulous Frames 31st July – 4th August
Wonderful Wall Hangings 7th August – 11th August
Flag Making 14th-18th August
Summery storage 21st – 25th August
Summer Biscuit Decorating 28th August – 1st September
Smaland Summer Crafting
Every Tuesday and Thursday. No booking required (ongoing in the creche area)
Hobbycraft
Kids' Woven Pen Pot £8
Mondays – 24th , 31st July. 7th 14th, 21st, 28th August
Kids' Bead Rainbow Making £5
27th July, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th 31st August
Kids' Personalised Keyring £5
25th July, 1st, 8th, 15th 22nd, 29th August
Kids' Personalised Canvas Painting £8
26th July, 2nd, 9th 16th, 23rd, 30th August
Kids' Summer Clay Creatures £5
24th and 31st July, 7th 14th, 21st, 28th August
Kids' Windchime Making £5
27th July, 3rd, 10th, 17th, 24th 31st August
Pets at Home
FREE My Pet Pals Summer Workshops
Our much loved My Pet Pals workshops will be running every day in a Pets at Home store near you from 22nd July until 3rd September.
Now Summer is here it’s important to keep your pets cool and safe from the sun. In these workshops we will be looking at ways to travel with your pets as well as protecting them in the warm weather.
Kids will receive activity sheets and a certificate as well as meeting our amazing animals...all for FREE!
Craftworkshop Ruddington
23rd July Wall hangings
29th July Gardening Aprons
30th July Friendship bracelets
August
2nd - Clay Keyrings,
3rd - Paper Flowers,
4th -Bird House,
5th - Mosaic Necklace,
6th Summer Notebook,
9th - Snap Bracelet,
10th - Clay crafting
11th -Stained glass kite
12th - paint a money box
13th - macramé bag chain
16th - clay trinket dish
17th -paint an animal planter
18th - summer string art
19th - jewellery making afternoon
20th -iris folding decoration
23rd - paint a ceramic magnet
24th - paint a garden gnome
25th - summer wreath
26th - felt bookmark
27th - tie dye afternoon
30th - design a pencil case
31st - design an outdoor game
Long Eaton Art Room
Summer Holiday Crafts
Weds 10-12 £10 per session includes all materials and guidance. Children must be accompanied by an adult
26th July Pom Poms: Aliens, Monsters and Cupcakes
2nd August Paint a pot
9th August Moving Paper Caterpillars
16th August Pebble Painting
23rd August Paper Windmills and Plane Launchers
Four Seasons Shopping Centre - Mansfield
We have some amazing activities lined up every Wednesday this Summer in Four Seasons - brought to you in partnership with First Art!
As well as our regular B-Club events, First Art will be providing additional activities for kids (of all ages) to enjoy!
Wednesdays in August 11am - 3pm
The Book Case Lowdham
Join in with the Big Butterfly Count on Friday 28th July! Details to follow…
Our baby group will be running 28th July, 11th August, 18th August (time TBC) 1st September!
James Brown Illustrates will be joining us for a fun butterfly themed drawing and nature activity session! More information to follow…
Join in with our Tiger Who Came Tea day on 23rd August! More information to follow…
Sports and Leisure
National Ice Centre
Hits of the Summer Party Friday 28 July 2023 7pm - 9pm
Summer Family Fun Day 5th August
Parent and tot themed skates:
Friday 4 August - Teddy Bear's Picnic
Friday 11 August - Under The Sea
Friday 18 August - Space Adventure
Friday 25 August – Dinosaurs
Gedling Leisure
Redhill Leisure Centre
Badminton (half price)
26 July - 18 August, 3-4pm (full price after 4pm) Monday to Friday only. Gedling Leisure card cost £5.25 adults, £3.45 juniors. General £6.05.
Roller disco
Friday 28 July and 4, 11 and 18 August, 5-6.30pm (for ages 5 to 16. An adult must stay in the sports hall for under 8s). £3.70 with a Gedling Leisure card (free for Xtreme DNA members). Includes skate hire if needed.
Carlton Forum Leisure Centre
Swimming lesson 5 day crash courses
Monday 7 August - Friday 11 August - Stages 1-4
Monday 14 August - Friday 18 August - Stages 1 and 2
£32.50 for the 5 days (25 minute lessons).
Float Fun swimming sessions (Main pool and small pool)
Monday 31 July - 1 September, 1.30-2.30pm (Monday to Friday)
£5.90 general. Gedling Leisure card cost £5.10, £3.50 concessions, £3.30 juniors.
Calverton Leisure Centre
Bouncy Castle Fun (ages 0-13. All children to be supervised by an adult)
Wednesday 26 - Friday 28 July, 10-11.30am
Monday - Friday throughout August, 10-11.30am. £4.60 with a Gedling Leisure card.
Arnold Leisure Centre
Family Swim sessions (Main pool and small pool)
Weekly sessions between 31 July – 30 August
Mondays, 1.15 pm – 2.15 pm, Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 2.15 pm – 3.15 pm
£5.90 General. With a Gedling Leisure card - £5.10, £3.50 concessions, £3.30 juniors. Free for DNA and DNA Xtreme members.
Under 5s play and baby class specials
Robyn’s World
Summer Sessions
New outdoor area with sand, water and vehicles as well as indoor role play.
Tues and Thurs 11.30 session – ‘drive in movie’ experience with lunch, crafts as well as standard role play activities.
Tiny Town Adventures
Special Events
31st July School’s Out Party (age 7 and under) £11.95
Tiny Town Summer Fair 9th and 18th Aug
Paw Patrol (Marshall) 13th Aug
My Playful World
Special Events
27th July Train Track Play Day £7
4th August Duplo Play Day £7
18th and 24th August Summer Parties £12
My Little World
Each week will have a different theme.
Sessions extended to 2 hours Role Play, Themed Role Play room to suit the themes, Themed activities, Mascot visits and Dancing during each session. All for normal session prices!
Alf&Co
Summer Timetable
Sessions Bookable online (Imagine Avenue and Baby Sparks book direct)
Monday
7th and 14th August 10.15-11.45am Imagine Avenue Role Play
Tuesday
10-11.30am Stay and Play (Newborn-Preschool) £7.25
12.30-2 Crafternoon Club (ages 3-8 years) £5.50
Wednesday
10-11.30am and 12.30-2pm – Toddler Soft Play (ages 6m – 3yrs) £6
Thursday
Baby Sparks sessions bookable direct with Baby Sparks
Friday
10-11.30am – Stay and Play (Newborn-Preschool) £7.25
12.30-2pm – Summer Disco (ages 18m-6years) £4.50
Attenborough Church Pre School NG9 6AB
Summer Fun Days
27th July and 22nd August 10am-11.30am
£3.50 per family. Activities aimed at children aged 0-5 (older siblings up to 8 welcome)
Beanblock Café
Pay for Play in July and Play for Free in August Special offer
Family Yoga and Petting Zoo experience Friday 4th August 10-12
Artventurers Mansfield
Summer Sessions 8th and 9th August
Artventurers Nottingham
Julia Donaldson Sessions
Snail and Whale: 28th July at Ruddington
Snail and Whale: 31st July at Orston
Monkey Puzzle: 4th August at Ruddington
Monkey Puzzle: 7th August at Orston
Scarecrows Wedding: 11th August at Ruddington
Scarecrows Wedding: 14th August at Orston
Baby Sparks
Beeston 11 and 25th August
Stapleford 9th and 23rd August
Sherwood 31st July and 14th August
Mapperley 3rd, 10th, 17th and 24th August
West Bridgford 2nd, 9th, 16th, 23rd August
Bambinos Playgroup Long Eaton
Gruffalo's Picnic
17th August 11 -1pm £12
Bibs and Brunch
Weds Beeston, Fridays Sherwood
Boots and Brambles
Teddy Bears Picnic 31st July 10-12
Pirate Summer Session 1st and 8th Aug
Family Bushcraft 7th August
Holiday Club (6+) 9th August
Breathe and Bloom Yoga
4 week block booking
Tues - Yoga Flow
Weds - Mum and Baby Yoga
Thurs - Pregnancy Yoga
Cookstars North Notts
Summer Holiday Cooking Workshops (age 2-12)
27th July, 3rd, 10, 17th, 24th, 31st August
Cookstars Southwell
Summer Holiday Cooking Workshops (age 2-12)
28th July, 4th, 11th August
Drama Tots West Bridgford PAYG
12th , 16th , 25th August, 1st September
Jiggy Wrigglers
28th July, 11th, 18th 21st, 25th August
Little Glow Rushcliffe – PAYG
4th, 18th and 26th August West Bridgford
7th and 14th August Wilford
Little Legs with Lauren
Massage and Movement
Hucknall John Godber - 26th July
Ilkeston The Luna Shala -20th July, 10th August
Zumbini
Hucknall John Godber Centre 19th July, 3rd, 9th, 19th August
Awsworth Village Hall 27th July, 17th August
Messy play
Hucknall St John’s Community Church Hall - 14th August
Awsworth Village Hall - 4th and 6th August
Pregnancy Yoga
Ilkeston, The Luna Shala - Weekly Mon 7pm
Hucknall John Godber Centre - Weekly Tues 7pm
Little Legs with Imogen
August Timetable
Mondays
Cocoon Studio, Long Eaton
10am ~ Zumbini
11.15am ~ Baby & Postnatal Yoga
12.30 ~ Baby Massage
Wednesdays
Cocoon Studio, Long Eaton
10am ~ Little Dreamers Sensory
11am ~ Little Dreamers Sensory
1230pm ~ Luxury Baby Massage
Fridays (every other week)
West Park, Long Eaton
10am ~ Alfresco Zumbini
11.15am ~ Alfresco Baby & Postnatal Yoga
Little Nature Tots
Babes – Mondays and Tuesdays
Tots Summer Stay and Play – Mon, Thurs and Fri
Summer Beach Party Sat 5th August £12
Lullababy Summer Specials (age 2-13months)
Beeston Monday and Thursday
Mini Me Clay Club
Summer Clubs – 2nd , 16th , 23rd , 30th August– Toton Tesco Community Room
Moo Music
Keyworth Summer Special 14th August
Peaceful Possums Yoga
Yoga and Animal Petting at Beanblock Café 4th August £15
Family Fun day and Yoga 10th August £11pp
Magical Me workshops – 21st August (age 5-12)
Sing and Sign Nottingham west
Summer specials
Long Eaton 18th July and 15th August
Kimberley 20th July and 17th August
Mapperley 11th August and 18th August
Tiny Talk Baby and Toddler Signing Notts West
Summer Specials - PAYG
9th, 16th, 23rd August - Wollaton
10th, 17th, 24th August - Toton
Tiny Talk Baby and Toddler Signing North Notts
Summer Specials
20th and 29th July, 8th, 17th August
Nottingham Playhouse
FREE Rainbow Stripes Summer Sessions
Fri 11 – Fri 18 Aug
Sessions for ages 0-4
Fri 11 Aug – 10am – 10.45am
Fri 18 Aug – 10am – 10.45am
Sessions for ages 4-7
Fri 11 Aug 11.15am – 12pm
Fri 18 Aug 11.15am – 12pm
Mill Waters
Wild Families! Camping Crafts
Tuesday 15th August 2023
10.30am to 12pm or 2pm to 3.30pm
Den building with tents and tarps, knot tying, rope games and tent tales in The Meadow Yurt and Little Woodland, at The Mill Adventure Base, Kings Mill Reservoir NG17 4PA.
£8.50 per child, sibling discount available. Best for families with children aged 1-8.
Wild Families! Kingfishers
Tuesday 22nd August 2023
10.30am to 12pm or 2pm to 3.30pm
Meet our little mascot the Mill Waters Kingfisher! Fun facts, play and kingfisher crafts in The Meadow Yurt and Little Woodland, at The Mill Adventure Base, Kings Mill Reservoir NG17 4PA
£8.50 per child, sibling discount available. Best for families with children aged 1-8.
Wild Bears Outdoor Playgroup
Parent and Baby Group – 31st July, 7th, 14th, 21st August
Summer Stay and Play 31st July, 1st, 3rd, 7th, 8th, 10th, 14th, 17th, 21st, 22nd, 24th August
Outdoor Cooking (age 5-11) 1st, 8th and 22nd August
Summer Holiday Club (age 5-11) 2nd and 16th August 10-3pm
Little Princess Palace
Summer Drop ins Every Friday 9.30-11am
Meet a different princess every week with music, dancing and games. £5.50 per child
28th July Mirabel
4th August Moana
Mascot Mondays – Every other Monday 12-1pm
For under 5s. £6.50 per child
Singalongs, Musical Instruments, Soft Play, Story Time
Monday 7th August Minnie Mouse
Monday 21st August Mickey Mouse
Holiday Clubs
Lakeside Arts
SCIENCE AND CREATIVITY SUMMER SCHOOL
Monday 14 August - Friday 18 August
£130 Suitable for ages 10-15
Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to come up with the next big problem-solving idea!
MAKE A PLAY IN A WEEK
Tuesday 08 August - Friday 11 August
£130 for the week Suitable for ages 11-14
Use puppetry, music and song to create the most hilarious (and dramatic) play in a week!
Nottingham Playhouse
Family Play in a Day – Oliver Twist -Fri 11 Aug £25 per person
Play in a Day – Peter Pan (age 6 – 8) - Mon 14 Aug £25
FREE Creative Tech Workshop with Graham Elstone (ages 7 -16)
Session for ages 7-11 - Thu 10 Aug – 10am – 1pm
Session for ages 11-16 - Thu 10 Aug – 2pm-5pm
FREE Drama Drama Drama (age 7-16)
Family session for ages 7+
Fri 11 Aug – 10am – 11.15am
Fri 18 Aug – 10am – 11.15am
Fri 25 Aug – 10am – 11.15am
Family session for ages 11+
Fri 11 Aug – 11.45am – 1pm
Fri 18 Aug – 11.45am – 1pm
Fri 25 Aug – 11.45am – 1pm
FREE My Place in the City (age 7 – 11)
Art Workshop with Ruth Lewis Jones - Mon 14 – Tue 15 Aug
FREE Musical Theatre Dance Workshop with Tom Hopcroft (age 7-16)
Takes place at Nottingham Theatre Royal & Concert Hall
Ages 7-11 - Fri 18 Aug – 1.30pm – 2.30pm
Ages 11-16 - Fri 18 Aug – 3pm-4pm
FREE Musical Theatre Singing Workshop with Tom Hopcroft (age 7-16)
Takes place at Nottingham Theatre Royal & Concert Hall
Session for ages 7-11 - Fri 18 Aug – 10am – 11am
Session for ages 11-16 - Fri 18 Aug – 11.30am – 12.30pm
FREE Theatre Games (ages 7 – 11) - Mon 21 Aug
FREE Monsters and Dragons: Drama and Movement Workshop with Zoe Ambrose (age 5-7) Mon 21 Aug
FREE Rachel Scanlan Art Day (ages 7 - 11 ) Tue 22 and Thu 24 Aug
FREE Myths and Legends: Drama and Movement Workshops with Zoe Ambrose (ages 8-13) Wed 23 Aug
FREE Tom Hopcroft Pantomime Day (ages 7-16)
Sessions for 7-11 years
Fri 25 August 10am-11am
Fri 25 August 1.30pm-2.30pm
Sessions for 11-16 years
Fri 25 August 11.30am-12.30pm
Fri 25 August 3pm-4pm
Artventurers Mansfield
Holiday Club Fri 11th August age 5-10 £17
Boots and Brambles
Holiday Club (6+) 9th August
Five Star Sports Coaching
Summer Camp 7-8th August - Nottingham Wildcats Arena
Little Star Players
Holiday Club (age 5-10) 21st August
The Outdoors Project
Holiday Clubs running all through the summer Year 1 +
Erewash Valley Gymnastics Club
SUMMER WORKSHOPS
Summer Display and Rhythmic Workshops.
£15 per session for children aged 5 and upwards. All sessions run from 12:30pm to 15:30pm.
Monday 7th August at Long Eaton, Monday 21st August at Long Eaton
Summer fun gyms
£30 per session for children aged 5 and upwards. All sessions run from 9:30am to 15:30pm.
8th August at Long Eaton, 9th August at Ilkeston, 11th August at Long Eaton
2 August at Long Eaton,23rd August at Ilkeston, 25th August at Long Eaton
Look Inside Sensory
Holiday Activities Club
Monday 31st July - Thursday 3rd Aug
Monday 7th Aug - Thursday 10th Aug
Monday 14th Aug - Thursday 17th Aug
Sessions will run from 10am - 2pm for children and young people ages 5 - 18 years old.
There are *limited free funded places for Nottinghamshire children and young people who are entitled to free school meals and for SEND children and young people*
The Get Crafty Club with Manor Arts (Beeston)
Summer dance, drama and craft (age 4+)
3rd, 8th, 10th, 17th August 10-2pm £26 per day
Two day dance, drama and craft summer club (age 4+)
Monday 14th and Tuesday 15th August 10-2pm £48
Tots Summer dance, craft and picture hunt (age 2-6) - adult must stay
Friday 11th August 9.30-11.45am £12
Nonsuch Studios
Play In A Week Summer (ages 6-11)
Monday, July 31 - Friday, August 4, 2023
£95 for the week
Base 51
Holiday Arts Club (ages 11-17 only)
Mon-Fri 31st July - 31st August 1pm-5pm
Sessions now FREE - booking essential
Newark Dance Academy Summer School
8th -10th August 9-3 at Beanblock Café
Ages 4-11 £30 per day or £80 all three days
Notts Maze
Forestry School – For 5 -10 years olds
Activities will include: Dream catcher workshop, Leaf rubbing, Bug hotels, Potato peeler whittling, Shelter building, Nature trails
Price will be £18 per child. Book 3 sessions for £45 per child
August Sessions 10am-1pm
Tuesday 1st, Monday 7th, Tuesday 15th, Monday 21st, Tuesday 22nd
Bushcraft Sessions – Ages 8+
Activities will include: Fire lighting, Survival games, How to build a campfire, Whittling, Shelter building, Nature trails, Tree identification
Price will be £18 per child. Book 3 sessions for £45 per child
August Sessions 10am-1pm
Thursday 3rd, Thursday 10th, Friday 18th, Wednesday 23rd
Urban Bushcraft
Holiday Club at Bulwell Forest Garden
Summer Survival Camp £25
3rd August – Robin Hoods Hideout
10th August – Minecraft Special
Summer school at Wollaton Park!
(Age 7-12 year olds)
Through our Learning & Education team, we are running a 3 day Summer school at Wollaton Park. inspired by the miniature artwork of artist Wiilard Wigans, our summer school explores how small things can have a big impact!
Dates: Tuesday 1st August ’23 – Thursday 3rd August ’23 Time: 10-3pm
Prices: £30 per day or £80 for all three.
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