Goose Fair soon returns for its whopping 735th year in Nottingham, bringing the sights, smells, and sounds of one of the biggest and oldest funfairs in Europe to the Forest Recreation Ground. Opening on Wednesday 2nd October, the fair runs until Sunday 6th, so why not make a weekend of it? We've rounded up some of the best places to eat, drink, play and stay during your visit.

To find all the details about the fair, please click here. If you fancy reading more about the history of this legendary Nottingham tradition, check out our blog The Fantastic History of Goose Fair. 

If that doesn’t whet your appetite and get you eager to come and enjoy the fun of the fair, we’re not sure what will, so don’t forget to stick it in your diaries. What’s more, this year What’s On Nottingham are offering all visitors a £25 money off voucher for selected rides for just £1! Terms and conditions apply – click here for details.
 

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EAT

There’s lots of yummy food to try at Goose Fair, but as your mum would say – you can’t just have sweets for dinner! Homemade Pavilion is located right on the Forest Recreation Ground and will be opening late to serve up their hearty and healthy hot dishes, along with great coffee and hot chocolate. If you want to enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and totally delicious pizza, check out indie pizza bar Oscar & Rosie’s in Hockley. Or, if you fancy carrying on the fun and games, Penny Lane boasts an arcade style bar and restaurant inspired by nostalgic seaside holidays and unforgettable family day trips. Children under the age of 18 are welcome when accompanied by parents right up until 8pm Sunday to Thursday and before 6pm on Fridays & Saturdays.
 

PLAY
 

If the fun of the fair has got you craving more adrenalin-filled frolics there's plenty more you can get up to in the city. Be transported into another world at Zero Latency, where you can battle zombies and aliens in a world-class virtual reality experience. Descend into Nottingham’s curious cave network then fathom your way out by solving puzzles and mysteries at Cave Escape. Or if it’s your mind you prefer to exercise, grab some friends and cosy up with coffee, cakes and competitive games at Ludorati Café which offers a fantastic selection of board games, light meals and local beers.
 

DRINK

We don’t know about you but after an evening in the chilly autumn air, there’s nothing better than finding a proper good pub to warm up in. A little further up Mansfield Road from the fair you can find Doctor’s Orders, a pleasingly handsome micro-pub with a friendly atmosphere and a great selection of local beers. If you like your salt-of-the-earth local boozers, the Lincolnshire Poacher is a favourite and has a huge selection of belly-warming whiskeys. Finally, if you’re heading back into Nottingham you can often find a roaring fire and fur throws in the snug of The Lace Market’s Cock & Hoop to get you toasty again.
 

STAY
 

If you’re visiting the city just for the weekend and need somewhere to rest your head, there are plenty of hotels to consider, such as the Nottingham Sherwood Hotel which is handily just minutes from Goose Fair. For something a little more unique, check out the fabulously creative rooms of Mama’s Inn Guest Boutique, situated a ten minute walk from the Forest Recreation Ground. Or for a budget option that doesn’t skimp on quality or style, book in at Igloo Hybrid Ho[s]tel in the city centre.

To find all the details about the fair, please click here. If you fancy reading more about the history of this legendary Nottingham tradition, check out our blog The Fantastic History of Goose Fair. 

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This blog was written by Sophie Gargett - Marketing Assistant at Visit Nottinghamshire.