Explore Nottingham This Summer with Free Bus Travel for Under 18s
Today
If you're looking for ways to keep the kids entertained this summer, Nottingham is packed with family-friendly events, attractions and activities throughout August, and getting there couldn't be easier.
If you're aged 18 or under, you can travel FREE on all Nottingham City Transport buses throughout August, making it even easier to enjoy everything the city has to offer.
Children aged 5–15 travel free thanks to the UK Government's Great British Summer Savings scheme, while 16-18 year olds travel free thanks to funding from the Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward.
Find out more about free travel:
Here are some of our favourite family-friendly ideas for the summer holidays...
Kids Go Free at the National Justice Museum & City of Caves 🏰
This summer, one child under 15 goes FREE with every paying adult at two of Nottingham's most popular attractions.
Step inside the National Justice Museum for interactive courtroom trials, Victorian prison stories and hands-on family activities before heading underground to explore the fascinating City of Caves beneath Nottingham's streets.
How to get there: Any NCT bus to the City Centre.
Free Swimming for Under 16s 🏊
If you're a Nottingham resident aged under 16, you can enjoy free swimming sessions at Active Nottingham leisure centres throughout the holidays.
Spaces must be booked in advance and are available at several leisure centres across the city.
How to get there:
- Victoria Leisure Centre: Blue 39
- Djanogly Community Leisure Centre: Yellow 68 - 72
- Clifton Leisure Centre: Green 9, Navy 48, Grey 53-55
- Harvey Hadden Sports Village: Pink 28, Orange 35
- Southglade Leisure Centre: Brown 15, 16
Nottingham Beach 🏖️
Old Market Square
No summer in Nottingham is complete without a visit to the city's beach.
Expect real sand, deckchairs, family rides, games, food stalls and plenty of entertainment right in the heart of the city.
How to get there: Any NCT bus to the City Centre.
Robin Hood Adventure Trail 🏹
Become a detective and help Robin Hood recover his missing treasure on this FREE family trail around Nottingham city centre.
Collect a free trail map, visit iconic locations across the city, solve clues and claim your reward at Nottingham Castle.
It's a brilliant way to explore the city while discovering attractions including Nottingham Contemporary, Theatre Royal, National Justice Museum and more.
How to get there: Any NCT bus to the City Centre.
Stonebridge City Farm 🐄
Meet friendly farm animals, enjoy the gardens and let the children explore one of Nottingham's most loved free attractions.
Don't miss Pokémon Day on Monday 17 August, featuring games, crafts, prizes and family fun. Entry is free, with some optional paid activities.
How to get there: Lilac 25-27, Blue 39
Nottingham Carnival 🌺
Sunday 16 August, Victoria Embankment
One of Nottingham's biggest annual celebrations returns with colourful costumes, live music, Caribbean food, dance performances, fairground rides and entertainment throughout the day.
How to get there: South Notts 1, Green 5-12
Adventure Cinema at Wollaton Hall 🎬
Enjoy outdoor cinema in the beautiful surroundings of Wollaton Hall & Deer Park.
Family favourites include:
- Sing
- Bing and Friends at the Cinema
- Jurassic Park
- Dirty Dancing
- Queen Outdoor Cinema Celebration
- Andrea Bocelli 30: The Celebration
Pack a picnic, bring a blanket and enjoy a magical movie night under the stars.
How to get there: Pink 30 or Orange 35/36.
More Summer Ideas 🌳
If you’re looking for suggestions on local attractions and things to do, check out our local guide of places easily accessible on the NCT bus network.