County gears up for Nottinghamshire Day celebrations

Nottinghamshire Day commemorates the raising of King Charles I’s standard at Nottingham Castle in 1642, an event that signalled the start of the English Civil War. Now in its sixth year, the day is an opportunity to celebrate the county’s unique identity, rich heritage and proud traditions, while showcasing the people, places and attractions that make Nottinghamshire such a special place to live, work and visit.

To mark the occasion, Sherwood Forest will host a fun-filled weekend of activities on Saturday 22 and Sunday 23 August, offering visitors the chance to come together and celebrate the very best of Nottinghamshire.  The event, which is themed 'Rebels, Regents and Rulers' is free to enter, with car parking charges £7 per vehicle, per day.  

Alongside an interactive trail through the forest, and specific paid-for activities like archery and axe throwing, visitors can enjoy a range of live historical re-enactments, combat displays and storytelling experiences featuring characters including King Edward I and the Sheriff of Nottingham. The highlight of the weekend will be a tournament-style combat show from 3.30pm each day, that will bring history to life with Robin Hood and historical characters in an action-packed show to suit all ages.

Rob Brackley, from the Sherwood Outlaws, aka Robin Hood said:

“Nottinghamshire Day celebrations will be held across a whole weekend this year as we don’t want anyone to miss out! 

"We have a host of activities and performances across both days. Meet historical characters in the amphitheatre and discover how they shaped our great county and played their role in England’s history.  And fear not, Robin Hood will be there to keep the Sheriff in line! ” 

Councillor Jody Stoll, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health said that Sherwood Forest was the ideal location to host the events. He commented: 

“Nottinghamshire Day highlights everything we’re proud of as a county, from our communities and legendary heritage to our popular visitor attractions, including Sherwood Forest of course, plus our sports teams and incredible venues that put our county well and truly on the map.

“It has become a key date in the calendar, and I am delighted that it will give everyone a chance to celebrate everything that makes Nottinghamshire such a fantastic place to call home.”

Hollie Drake, RSBP Sherwood Forest’s Senior Site Manager, added

“Sherwood Forest provides the perfect backdrop for celebrating Nottinghamshire’s rich heritage and culture as Nottinghamshire Day approaches. 

“The event offers thousands of local visitors and beyond the opportunity to immerse themselves in the county’s most famous legends, including the enduring tale of Robin Hood and his Merry Men. 

"Through a programme of storytelling, play and discovery, the activities will showcase the unique history, traditions and characters that make Nottinghamshire such a special place to visit and explore”

Residents are also being encouraged to play their part in helping make #NottsDay trend again on social media ahead of Tuesday 25 August and on the day itself.

They can share photos of their favourite places in Nottinghamshire, whether it a much-loved walking route, a historic landmark or favourite family day out, simply use #NottsDay and #WeLoveNotts when posting on social media to show your pride in the county.

More information, assets, images about Nottinghamshire Day, and the celebration weekend event are available on the dedicated webpage. https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/council-and-democracy/get-involved/nottinghamshire-day/nottinghamshire-day-events