9 Free Days Out and Things to Do With Kids in Nottinghamshire (Updated 2025)
Ahoy there money-savvy adventurers.
If you're looking for a fun and free day out then check out these things to do with the kids in Nottinghamshire. Whether it's enjoying some hands on learning at Greens Windmill and Science Centre, or letting off steam at Sherwood Forest, there's options here to suit all ages, whatever the weather.
I've tried to make sure that all the details on here are up to date, but please do double check on the websites I've linked to before you travel in case anything has changed. Especially important: double check parking costs to avoid any nasty surprises on a day out that was supposed to be cheap, and obviously, be careful if you're visiting places with kids, especially where the terrain is dangerous (ruins, cliffs, beaches, slippy paths etc).
Happy adventuring!
Lucy
A large contemporary art gallery, check out their holiday activities, if you're visiting at other times ask for a Family Explorer bag at reception, it's filled with activities to do in the galleries.
An award winning creative space with a changing programme of events including activities for families, check what's on.
Playing in the woods doesn't get much more iconic than this. Visit the Major Oak, legend says that Robin Hood sought shelter under it. And who are we to argue with legend? There are 4 trails to choose from, and a programme of events through the year to get involved with.
A spectacular Elizabethan mansion, the hall and formal gardens are free to enter. There's a natural history museum, 500 acres of parkland including a deer park, lake, botannical garden, 2 playgrounds, and indoor and outdoor family trails available from the shops. Check out what's on.
580 acres of open space, trails and wildlife. There's a mining themed playground, a visitor centre, picnic areas and viewing platforms. There are trails to follow including a nature trail, you can buy a leaflet and crayon at the cafe for 20p.
Beautiful parkland with woodland walks, an adventure play area, a boating lake, interactive walks. The Abbey ruins are currently closed due to weather damage.
Thoresby Park
Newark
With a parkland of over 1,000 acres, there's a lot to do at Thoresby Park including a playground, several signposted walks and cycle routes, and paid for attractions.
A restored 19th century mill, you can climb the windmill, see how grain gets turned into flour, and learn through play in the science centre with heaps of hands on activities.
An urban farm in the middle of Nottingham with a range of animals for you to meet including cows, sheep, ponies, goats, pigs and meerkats. There are also gardens to see, and a large playground.
Feeling a Little Frazzled?
Here's a few things I've made that'll hopefully make your life a little bit easier, a little bit more fulfilled, or simply a little bit more fun. Check out these bits along with loads of other parenting aids on the link below.
Make your little mermaid's party perfect with these personalised printables including invites, signs, bunting, crafts and games.
You know what the kids need? An epic activity pack! And it should be filled with easy activity ideas, and stickers, and personalised!
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