The Best Summer Activities for Nottingham Students

About the author: My name is George Okonkwo, and I am a Broadcast Journalist student at Nottingham Trent University. I have a passion for journalistic and literary writing and research. I also love reading, binge watching TV shows, singing with my terrible voice, and going for walks alone or with friends.

Nottingham in the summer hits different. Suddenly, the hoodies disappear, everyone’s pretending they’re outdoorsy, and even your most reclusive housemate is suggesting a “little walk”.

Whether you’re staying in Notts for the summer break or just making the most of the final term sunshine, there’s no shortage of fun things to do that don’t involve sweating through a club. Here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of summer as a student in Notts – shades on, vibes up.

1. Picnic (or nap) in the Arboretum 🌳

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: the Arboretum is a student staple. It’s central, scenic, and it’s got enough shady spots to lie down and pretend you’re being productive. Grab a Tesco meal deal, bring a speaker (but not too loud, you're not a DJ), and enjoy a chilled afternoon with friends…and pigeons.

2. Go boating at Highfield’s Park 🚣

Next to the University of Nottingham's main campus, Highfields Park is not only gorgeous in summer but is also home to the lake where you can literally rent a rowing boat or paddle boat. It’s giving major Notebook energy (minus the emotional trauma). Perfect for a date, a group day out, or just vibing on the water.

3. Wander through Wollaton Park 🌸

Home to deer, beautiful gardens, and Batman’s house (Wollaton Hall, for the trivia nerds), Wollaton Park is ideal for a summer stroll. You can explore the grounds for free, or pop inside the Natural History Museum if it rains – because this is still Britain, after all. Pack snacks, a frisbee, and you’re set for the day.

4. Go gig hopping 🎶

Notts is buzzing with live music in summer. Venues like Rock City, Metronome, and Bodega often host gigs, acoustic sets, or small music festivals. Whether you’re into indie bands, local DJs, or acoustic coffee shop vibes, there’s something going on. Keep an eye on flyers, uni pages, and event apps like DICE.

5. Browse Sneinton Market 🛍️

Sneinton Market Avenues comes alive in the summer with pop-ups, craft stalls, food trucks, and vintage markets. Whether you’re hunting for handmade jewellery, grabbing a vegan donut, or just there for the dog-spotting, it’s a wholesome weekend plan that won’t drain your bank account (unless you’re really into artisan soap).

6. Ice cream at Kaspa’s 🍦

Hot day = ice cream. Kaspa’s Desserts on Maid Marian Way does the good stuff – unique flavours, big scoops, and zero judgment if you go back for seconds. Walk up there on a sunny afternoon and thank us later.

More of a cake person than an ice cream person? Read our guide to the best doughnuts in the country to find Nottingham's best sweet treat providers.

7. Catch outdoor theatre or cinema 🎭

Summer in Nottingham means open-air shows. Nottingham Castle, Wollaton Hall, and even parks like Newstead Abbey often host outdoor cinema nights or Shakespeare performances. Bring a blanket, a picnic, and sit under the stars watching Romeo and Juliet or Mamma Mia! – your choice.

8. Join a wellness event 🧘

From outdoor yoga in the Arboretum to pop-up fitness bootcamps and mindfulness sessions on campus, Nottingham has loads of ways to boost your summer serotonin levels. It’s a great chance to move your body, try something new, and escape library mode. Plus, most student wellness events are either free or cheap.

9. Go exploring with friends 🧩

Honestly, summer in Notts is what you make it. Hop on a bus to Sherwood Forest, hike through Colwick Park, or go full tourist and take a Robin-Hood-themed city tour. Grab your mates, pack some snacks, and just start walking – you’ll find something weird and wonderful before long.

Nottingham in summer is full of surprises. Whether you’re a city explorer, a sun enjoyer, or a secret nature-lover, there’s plenty to do without breaking the bank. So slap on some SPF, grab your mates, and make the most of the sunshine before the deadlines (or winter) return.

Our UniHomes Content Ambassadors are current students across the UK who share tips about student life in their city to help you make the most of your time at uni. If you're interested in writing for our programme, click here for more details.

The views and opinions expressed in these blogs are those of the UniHomes Content Ambassadors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of UniHomes. UniHomes accepts no liability for the content of these Student Blogs.