Summer Fun in Nottingham: Keeping the Kids Entertained

The school holidays are finally here in Nottinghamshire, and any parent knows the struggle of keeping the little ones entertained during that long six-week stretch. Don't worry, we've got you covered with a selection of activities perfect for all ages and budgets, from free fun to thrilling adventures.

Monster Mania at Lakeside Arts

Prepare to be amazed by a whimsical world of giant inflatable monsters! From August 1st to September 8th, Lakeside Arts' Djanogly Gallery will be hosting a free exhibition featuring the colourful creations of Nottingham artist Bruce Asbestos. Meet the towering Mega Bunny, the vibrant Octopus, and the adorable Egg Cat, plus the playful Hooboos, all ready for a monster-filled adventure. At the hands-on monster lab, kids can unleash their inner artists and sculpt their own unique creatures.

Seaside Games in the City

Who needs a trip to the coast when you can enjoy seaside arcade games right here in Nottingham? This summer, Penny Lane in Fletcher Gate and The Beeston Social on Station Road are running a special promotion until August 30th. For just £4.95, kids can enjoy a tasty meal, a refreshing drink, and three tokens to play classic retro games, just like the ones you'd find at the seaside or fair.

Trampoline Adventures at RedKangaroo

Get ready for some serious bouncing at RedKangaroo in Bulwell! The trampoline park is hosting a jam-packed programme of special activities throughout the summer holidays, right up until September 1st. Jump, flip, and soar through interconnected trampolines, dodgeball courts, Wipeout challenges, reaction walls, and bouncing basketball courts.

Every day, RedKangaroo offers two special activities, with the chance for kids to win prizes and a place on the podium based on various sports, like athletics, gymnastics, and track and field. It's not just for kids, though – adults are welcome to join in the fun, making it the perfect family day out.

To make the most of the summer fun, RedKangaroo has introduced a new summer pass, priced at £60 per person, allowing one hour of active play every weekday for the entire six weeks of the holidays. Alternatively, a one-week summer pass, priced at £28, offers an hour-long session for five weekdays.

IKEA: A Family-Friendly Sporting Playground

Get ready for some sporty fun at IKEA Giltbrook! The retail giant is hosting free sporting events for families between now and August 11th, perfect for combining a shopping trip with some active entertainment.

Kids can put their flatpack assembly skills to the test in a thrilling flatpack race, where they compete against the clock to build iconic IKEA products, from chairs to crates. Other activities include penalty shootouts, relay races, basketball, and an IKEA twist on a classic game of hopscotch.

To get involved, kids need to fill out a challenge card by participating in various sports-based activities throughout the store. Each completed activity reveals a letter on the card, ultimately forming a secret word. Once the word is unveiled, kids can enter a prize draw for the chance to win a fantastic prize.

In addition to the sporting fun, there are craft activities like medal making and flag designing, plus an Olympic selfie station for capturing those memorable moments. IKEA Family members can enjoy a 50% discount on selected dishes in the restaurant on Swe-Dish Fridays, and little ones can enjoy a meal for under 50p.

From monstrous adventures to seaside games and trampoline thrills, there's something for everyone in Nottingham this summer. So, get ready for a holiday season filled with laughter, excitement, and unforgettable experiences.