Get Active in Nottingham

It’s easier to be healthy and active when you find the right places and pursuits. So we’re helping you get started with a quick guide to the best food, sports and facilities local to you. 

Interested in taking up a new hobby and trying your hand at badminton, golf, or boules? Keen to watch live football or have a kick about yourself? Looking for somewhere to enjoy a relaxing swim, casual stroll, or gentle cycle? Whether you live in Nottingham or are just visiting, we’ve found some great activities to help you lead an active lifestyle, whatever your fitness level. 

Outdoor activities

Nottinghamshire is home to wide open spaces, rivers, and famous woodlands, so you won’t be short of outdoor activities to keep you moving. Learn to row on the rowing river at Colwick Country Park, play a round on one of the many golf courses, explore the forest by bike or on foot, or take a stroll around the Attenborough Nature Reserve.

Sports facilities

Whether you are recovering from treatment or just trying to be more active, you’ll find sports facilities to suit you. From aqua fitness and swimming for recovery at the Harvey Hadden Sports Village to playing a match on the 3G pitch at The Forest Sports Zone, the local area has sports facilities to keep you active or to simply watch and enjoy.

Healthy eats

If you’ve just finished a training session or are heading out for brunch with friends, you’ll have lots of healthy food options to choose from in the city. Grab a fresh juice or smoothie bowl from 91 Juice Bar on Mansfield Road, or enjoy a more upmarket vegan experience at the award-winning No. Twelve located on Wheeler Gate.

Gyms

With many gyms in the town centre and the surrounding areas, reaching your fitness or recovery goals is well within reach. Take your pick from a well-equipped mainstream fitness centre The Gym Group, or boutique studios such as Trib3 or CrossFit with prices to suit all budgets. 

Where to watch sport

Taking a rest from playing? Watch live sports to keep an eye on the action. Catch a Nottingham Forest football game at The City Ground, cheer on the semi-pro basketball team The Nottingham Hoods, or head to a park and watch some local grassroots football.

Equipment hire

If you’re just visiting, or are keen to try cycling without investing too much, you can hire mountain bikes and electric bikes in the city and forests. Cycling is a great recovery workout, particularly when you have battery assistance as it can take some of the load and help you go further. 

Festivals

Nottingham hosts some of the best festivals on the calendar for food and sports. Every September the city welcomes the Festival of Food and Drink where you can expect famous chefs, street food, live music, and cookery classes. September also sees the Robin Hood Festival of Running: a fun run, half and full marathon where 10,000 runners take on the challenge—join in, or just cheer on your neighbours!