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Nottinghamshire has plenty to keep you busy this weekend. Take your pick of unique events and activities including the highly anticipated return of Nottingham Beach, the madness of the world of Alice in Wonderland, a life drawing session, a weekend packed with history and an intriguing tropical treasure trail! Here are our top picks for this weekend.
While you’re out and about, don’t forget - if you are out having a great time in Nottingham or Nottinghamshire, you can use #LoveNotts to share the love, or tag us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. We’re also on TikTok!
There are many more things to do and explore on our full What’s On Calendar such as interesting exhibitions, tours, and fun outdoor activities. Browse today and find the perfect activity to enjoy this weekend.
1. Nottingham Beach – City by the Sea
Wednesday 15 July – Monday 31 August 2026 | Old Market Square | Free entry
Sun, sand and the feeling of the seaside returns to Old Market Square. Nottingham Beach brings six weeks of summer fun, entertainment and seaside vibes right into the heart of Nottingham City Centre. Old Market Square will once again be transformed with real sand, rides, games, beach bars, food, drinks and FREE entertainment all summer long, including: Salsa Nights, Beach Volleybal, Movie Nights and live music and entertainment throughout the week. Whether you’re spending the day with the family, meeting friends for cocktails in the sunshine or relaxing and watching the entertainment, Nottingham Beach is designed to be a fun and affordable day out for everyone.
2. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland
Friday 17 July 2026 | 6.30pm – 8.45pm | Sherwood Forest | Tickets: £14 - £21
It’s time for some wonder in the wildwood as This Is My Theatre returns to Sherwood Forest with their adaptation of Lewis Carol's much-loved classic, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland. Step through the looking glass and into a world where nothing is quite as it seems. Join Alice as she tumbles down the rabbit hole and encounters a whirlwind of curious characters—the grinning Cheshire Cat, the frantic White Rabbit, the eccentric Mad Hatter, and the fearsome Queen of Hearts. This timeless tale of imagination, riddles, and wonder comes to life on stage in a dazzling production full of humour, music, and a touch of madness.
3. Life Drawing Session: Talking Heads with The Square Gallery
Saturday 18 July 2026 | 12pm - 1pm | Nottingham Contemporary | Free event, booking required
Get artsy with Talking Heads’ live drawing sessions and interact with Augustas Serapinas’ exhibition ‘Physical Culture’. Guided by The Square Gallery, you will be invited to make drawings inside of the sculptural installation, focusing on the cast heads featured in the display as well as a live fitness group occupying and activating the gym installation. This fantastic workshop aims to encourage reflection around the Western art history canon, examining where our focus has been held, and what structures continue to dominate in Western cultures. Whether you’re a season pro or a complete newby, everyone is welcome to join.
4. Clipstone at War 2026
Saturday 18 – Sunday 19 July 2026 | 10am – 5pm | Clipstone Headstocks Museum | Tickets: Adults £5, Children over 10 £3, Under 10’s go free
Step back in time at the Clipstone Headstocks Museum in Mansfield for a weekend packed with history, entertainment, and family fun. This unmissable event features an impressive display of military vehicles and equipment, brought to life by hundreds of re-enactors in full period regalia. With live music playing throughout both days, alongside a lively mix of food stalls, a bar, vintage traders, and even a fair, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you're a history enthusiast or simply looking for a great day out, this lively event promises a memorable experience for all ages.
5. Tropical Treasures Trail
Saturday 18 July – Monday 31 August 2026 | 10am – 5pm | Tropical Butterfly House | Standard entry fees apply
Follow the flutter, swing and squawk along the Tropical Treasures trail! Get ready for a summer of wild discovery as the 'Tropical Treasures' trail swings into play at the Tropical Butterfly House. It's time to uncover all the hidden wonders of the rainforest and learn how to become a true champion for endangered species! Grab your 'Tropical Treasures' trail stamp book and follow the flutter, swing and squawk clues around the park to find all the rainforest friends. Help save nature's treasures before they are lost forever by learning all about endangered species and their habitats on your way to becoming a conservation champion!
Wherever your weekend takes you, don't forget to head out and make the most of everything our region has to offer!
Related
Get ready for a summer of sun, sand, and non-stop entertainment as Nottingham Beach officially returns!
This Is My Theatre return to Sherwood Forest with their adaptation of Lewis Carol's much-loved classic, Alice's Adventures in Wonderland.
Talking Heads is a series of live drawing sessions which invite audiences to interact with our current exhibition Physical Culture by Augustas Serapinas.
Step back in time at the Clipstone Headstocks Museum in Mansfield for a weekend packed with history, entertainment, and family fun.
Follow the flutter, swing and squawk along the Tropical Treasures trail!
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