Nottinghamshire is a dynamic destination brimming with a diverse range of sporting experiences. And of course our sporting pedigree speaks for itself! Did you know that we are the home of UK Olympic figure skating legends Torvill & Dean, and even the world's oldest professional football club, Notts County FC?
From spectator sports to participatory events and venues, there's something for everyone in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire when it comes to sport. Keep reading to discover key venues and unmissable events for any sport lover.
Iconic Venues
Along the scenic River Trent, you'll find Trent Bridge, a historic cricketing venue that encapsulates the city's sporting legacy. The lively atmosphere during international cricket matches makes it an exciting spot for sports enthusiasts.
Football is a huge part of Nottingham's sporting legacy. Home to two iconic football clubs, Nottingham Forest and Notts County FC, it's safe to say there's a passionate football culture deeply ingrained in the city's spirit.
For those seeking chilly thrills, the National Ice Centre beckons, where you can witness captivating figure skating and ice hockey performances or take to the rink yourself. In the same venue, the Motorpoint Arena Nottingham is home to The Nottingham Panthers, the only professional ice hockey team in the East Midlands. This epic arena also hosts a range of other sporting events including netball, basketball and boxing.
If you're looking for something fast paced and exciting, head over to Nottingham Rugby Club to catch 'The Archers' in action. This brilliant team compete in Champ Rugby, England's second tier of professional rugby.
Venturing beyond the city, The National Water Sports Centre in Nottinghamshire provides a picturesque setting for water sports. Surrounded by the natural beauty of Holme Pierrepont Country Park, visitors can engage in action-packed activities like rowing, kayaking, and white-water rafting.
A county steeped in sporting traditions, Nottinghamshire offers the perfect blend of adventure and action. Whether you're getting stuck in to a sport or simply cheering from the sidelines, there's something for everyone to enjoy.
Unmissable Events
Both Nottingham and Nottinghamshire host a number of fantastic sporting events, including the Nottingham Open each June. One of the last tournaments before Wimbledon, this event has brought some of the biggest names in tennis to Nottingham, including Andy Murray, Emma Raducanu and Dan Evans.
If you're visiting in summer, we recommend catching a cricket match. Hosting teams since 1838, the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground is one of the finest venues in the world - and the third oldest! Annual events here include The Hundred and the Test Cricket tournaments.
If you love a long distance run, Nottingham's Robin Hood Half Marathon takes place in September every year. The first ever Robin Hood runners took to the streets in 1981, and since then the event has become a firm favourite in the race calendar for thousands across the country. Starting and ending at Victoria Embankment, this picturesque route takes you past Nottingham Castle, and through the grounds of Wollaton Hall & Deer Park.
If US sports are more your bag, the Motorpoint Arena in Nottingham often hosts the EIHL Playoff Finals Weekend in April. This fantastic final four showdown will determine who ends this season as Playoff Champions!