As 2024 gets underway, those with wanderlust are beginning to plan their trips for the upcoming year. With many well-known cities and destinations offering similar cookie cutter experiences, finding the path less trodden is becoming increasingly tricky.
For those looking for something a little different, a trip to Nottinghamshire in the heart of England is the perfect antidote for those after an inspired destination this year. With a bumper line up of top events in 2024, the region marks itself out as a must visit for travellers.
With diverse experiences, blending history, culture, and vibrant celebrations in 2024, the Notts as a dynamic tapestry of events, offering a rich mosaic of culture, sports, and festivities.
In February, Nottingham City Centre transforms into an illuminated canvas during Light Night celebrations. More than a festival of lights, it’s a celebration of creativity and artistic expression, drawing visitors into the vibrant soul of the city.
As summer paints the region in its warm hues, the strains of music beckon festival lovers to Nottingham’s iconic Wollaton Hall (host to Wayne Manor in the Dark Knight Rises) for Splendour Festival in July. This annual festival has become a cornerstone of Nottingham’s musical identity and has become one of the biggest in the East Midlands.
Those in search of sun and sand need not be disappointed either, with Nottingham Beach in Old Market Square appearing from July through until late August. This urban oasis offers a taste of the seaside within the city, where sun-soaked sands and carnival vibes creating a unique summer experience.
In a nod to a century’s old tradition, Autumn ushers in the time-honoured revelry of Goose Fair, one of the oldest fairs in Europe dating back to at least 1284. Amidst the whirl of more than 250 rides and iconic fairground delicacies found nowhere else such as cock on a stick (google with caution), Goose Fair captivates visitors with nostalgic charm.
Nottinghamshire is a treasure trove for sport lovers, the iconic Trent Bridge Cricket Ground plays host to England vs. West Indies from 18th to 22nd July 2024. The National Water Sports Centre will glisten under the summer sun, the venue transforms into a stage for the British Rowing Club Championships over the same weekend with over 3,000 athletes competing. And with Nottingham Forest continuing to compete in the Premier League, there’s no shortage of great sport on offer in 2024.
The region has also undergone a foodie renaissance over the last few years, with classics like the historic Bramley Apple Festival taking place alongside new contemporary events such as the Sausage and Cider Festival over the summer and autumn seasons. Combine this with Michelin starred restaurants, hidden bars and great street food means the region stands out as a hub of epicurean excellence.
Nottingham and Nottinghamshire marks itself out as an outstanding choice for those seeking authentic and exciting experiences not found anywhere else. Those wanting originality in their destination choices should head to Robin Hood Country in 2024.
For more inspiration, head to the Visit Nottinghamshire website.
Posted on 11 January 2024
