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Lakeside Arts

4.5
·1k reviews·, United Kingdom

A university-run arts centre and museum offering theatre, music, dance, exhibitions, and workshops, set within the scenic Highfields Park.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends, mornings

Less crowded, good for families

CrowdMedium
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Lakeside Arts - Image 1

Lakeside Arts

Best Time

Weekends, mornings

Less crowded, good for families

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A university-run arts centre and museum offering theatre, music, dance, exhibitions, and workshops, set within the scenic Highfields Park.

4.5
(1k reviews)

"Marvellous place with spectacular atmosphere, amazing views, and lots to explore."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Direct Parking Access

Use the underpass route off the hospital roundabout for direct parking. :car:

🎟️ Book Show Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Book in advance for theatre and musical performances. :ticket:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Theatres & Performances

Theatres & Performances

Center for Performing Arts

Catch captivating theatre productions, musicals, and live music events.

TikTok+1
Art Galleries & Exhibitions

Art Galleries & Exhibitions

Various Galleries

Explore diverse art exhibitions, from contemporary displays to interactive installations.

TikTok
Lakeside Cafe & Park

Lakeside Cafe & Park

Adjacent to Highfields Park

Enjoy a coffee with park views or rent a canoe for a serene lake experience.

TikTokReddit
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Planning Your Visit

Navigating to Lakeside Arts

Finding Lakeside Arts can be tricky! Websites often direct you through the university campus. For direct access, use the underpass route off the roundabout at the hospital. Look for signage to the arts centre, not just the university. Reddit

Timing Your Visit for Events

Lakeside Arts hosts a variety of performances and exhibitions. Check their schedule in advance, especially for popular shows like 'Into The Woods' or outdoor cinema events. TikTok+1

Best Times

When
Weekends, mornings
Why
Less crowded, good for families
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday evenings
Why
For theatre and music shows
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Outdoor cinema events
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cut the cameras🫢 Who do you think is REALLY to blame?👀 Find out in ISU's production of Into The Woods opening NEXT WEEK!🌲 Get your tickets here: https://illinoisstatefinearts.evenue.net/events/ARTSSOTD2 Into The Woods opens Friday, October 17th at 7:30pm in the Center for Performing Arts and runs October 17-19th and October 23-26th with a matinee performance on October 19th & 26th at 2:00pm!🐄🫛 Joi...
@illinoisstatesotd
23.8K likes • 83.4K views

🎯 Direct Parking Access

Use the underpass route off the hospital roundabout for direct parking. Reddit :car:

🎟️ Book Show Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Book in advance for theatre and musical performances. TikTok+1 :ticket:

although, i would never turn down an unobstructed view in the orchestra #theater #broadway #fyp
@madelena.price
2K likes • 298.3K views
Drive in on a Saturday the market is open 8-12p YEAR ROUND. There are some really cute shops, a river boat, theater, art galleries and restaurants. I am so grateful to leave somewhere that feels like a vacation. This month is 7yrs since we left the Pasadena area and surprised everyone by moving an hour away to a small town across the bay. Sometimes you have to move where your soul feels at peace. ...
@itsthatrealestatechick
971 likes • 14.1K views

☀️ Outdoor Cinema Comfort

Bring chairs & blankets for outdoor screenings. Dress warmly! TikTok :blanket:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Highfields Park

Combine your visit with a stroll around the beautiful park and lake. Reddit :walking:

Hoy Sabado 30 Agaoto 🎶💃 ¡Prepárate para bailar toda la noche! 🕺🎶 El mundialmente famoso Elvis Crespo llega al Harry Chapin Lakeside Theatre en Eisenhower Park para cantar todos sus éxitos: 🎵 Suavemente 🎵 Tu Sonrisa 🎵 Píntame 📅 Sábado, 30 de agosto 🕖 7:00 PM 📍 Parque Eisenhower – Campo #6 🎟 Entrada GRATIS | Trae manta o silla No te pierdas esta noche llena de ritmo, energía y diversión – ¡perfecta ...
@dreameventoslatinos_jc
665 likes • 40.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Direct Parking Access

Use the underpass route off the hospital roundabout for direct parking. Reddit :car:

🎟️ Book Show Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Book in advance for theatre and musical performances. TikTok+1 :ticket:

☀️ Outdoor Cinema Comfort

Bring chairs & blankets for outdoor screenings. Dress warmly! TikTok :blanket:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Highfields Park

Combine your visit with a stroll around the beautiful park and lake. Reddit :walking:

☕ Cafe Availability

Cafe menu can be limited, especially early. Coffee & cake are usually safe bets. Reddit :coffee:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Lakeside Arts for its beautiful park setting, diverse exhibitions, and engaging performances. The cafe is noted for milk alternatives and pleasant seating, though menu availability can be inconsistent. Parking and navigation can be challenging due to unclear signage directing visitors through the university campus.

"Really lovely cafe. Do milk alternatives which is a plus. Nice indoor seating and toilets. The only down side is you need to advertise the post code to the car park that doesn’t take you driving through the university campus and having to ask directions because there’s no signage how to get there! As the post code on several websites takes you through the campus off the top of the roundabout at the hospital! You need to go through the underpass and go off the island to get there!"

Clare louise Leivers

"Such a marvellous place! The bus 34 will take you inside the university campus. Me and my family were blessed because we went on a sunny day and the atmosphere was simply spectacular.
Lots of different birds, swans...etc
There is a cafe and I believe there is also a toilet.
There is a massive playground for the little one.
And guess what! You can rent a small canoe 🛶 and and go with your loved one in the lake.
I gave it 5 stars because the view was amazing."

Ciliegina Torta

"We recently visited here to attend Luminarium, Myriad, with our daughter and her friend, who are both under 4. It’s absolutely stunning, the lights and colours are incredible. I particularly love how there are so many places to explore. The structure is quite delicate, so leaning, jumping on it, or running around isn’t allowed."

Simon Bailey

What People Like

Beautiful park and lake
Engaging art exhibitions
Variety of performances

What People Dislike

Confusing parking directions
Limited cafe menu

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Navigating to Lakeside Arts can be a bit confusing. While some websites direct you through the university campus, the best approach is to use the underpass route off the roundabout at the hospital. Look for specific signage for Lakeside Arts rather than just the university. Bus route 34 also goes inside the university campus. TikTokReddit

Yes, there is parking available. However, signage can be poor. For direct access, use the underpass route off the hospital roundabout. Parking is generally free, but can get tight during busy periods. Reddit

Yes, bus route 34 is mentioned as taking you inside the university campus, which is adjacent to Lakeside Arts. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. TikTok

While specific accessibility details aren't detailed in the provided content, the presence of a cafe, toilets, and exhibitions suggests a degree of accessibility. It's recommended to contact Lakeside Arts directly for detailed accessibility information. Reddit

The postcode provided on some websites can lead you through the university campus. For direct parking, aim for the underpass route off the hospital roundabout. It's best to follow signs for Lakeside Arts once you're in the vicinity. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the galleries and park areas is generally free. However, tickets are required for specific theatre productions, musical performances, and special exhibitions like Luminarium. Prices vary per event. TikTok+2

For popular theatre productions, musicals, and outdoor cinema events, booking tickets in advance is highly recommended as they can sell out quickly. Check the Lakeside Arts website for specific show information. TikTok+2

The opening hours can vary depending on the specific exhibition, performance, or event. The cafe also has its own operating hours. It's best to check the official Lakeside Arts website for the most current information. TikTok

While many exhibitions and gallery spaces are free to access, some special events and performances, like the Elvis Crespo concert mentioned, can be free entry. Always check the event listings for details. TikTok

For some events, tickets may be available on the door, but it's not guaranteed, especially for high-demand performances. Booking online in advance is the safest way to secure your spot. TikTok+1

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

Lakeside Arts hosts a wide range of performances including theatre productions (like 'Into The Woods'), musicals ('Xanadu'), live music concerts, and outdoor cinema screenings. TikTok+3

Yes, Lakeside Arts features various art galleries with diverse exhibitions. Visitors have enjoyed interactive installations like Luminarium, known for its incredible lights and colours. TikTok

Facilities include a cafe with indoor seating, toilets, and a large playground for children. You can also rent small canoes to paddle on the lake. Reddit

Absolutely! There's a massive playground, and interactive exhibitions like Luminarium are a hit with kids. The park setting also offers plenty of space to explore. TikTokReddit

Yes, you can rent small canoes to enjoy a paddle on the lake, offering a lovely way to experience the scenic surroundings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There is a cafe on-site that offers coffee, cakes, and rolls. However, the menu selection can be limited, with many items sometimes unavailable, even early in the day. Reddit

Yes, the cafe is noted for offering milk alternatives, which is a plus for those with dietary preferences or restrictions. Reddit

While the cafe has good seating, it can be challenging to find an available seat, especially during busy periods. Reddit

The provided information doesn't explicitly state whether outside food is permitted in general areas. For outdoor cinema events, bringing your own blankets and chairs is encouraged, implying some flexibility. TikTok

Lakeside Arts is located within the Highfields Park area, which is part of the University of Nottingham campus. There are likely dining options within the university or in the surrounding city of Nottingham. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The scenic Highfields Park, with its lake, swans, and greenery, offers beautiful photo opportunities. The art exhibitions, especially interactive ones like Luminarium, also provide unique visual content. Reddit

Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during live performances in theatres to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check specific venue rules. TikTok

While general photography for personal use is usually allowed, flash photography might be restricted in certain exhibitions to protect the artwork. It's best to look for signage or ask gallery staff. TikTok

A camera with good low-light performance is beneficial for indoor exhibitions. For interactive art, a camera that can capture vibrant colours and dynamic scenes would be ideal. TikTok

There is no information available regarding drone usage. However, drone photography is often restricted in public parks and near university campuses due to safety and privacy concerns. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Young Children

Lakeside Arts is a great family-friendly destination. The expansive playground in Highfields Park is a major draw for younger visitors, offering plenty of space to play and burn energy. Reddit Interactive art installations, like Luminarium, are also highly engaging for children, with their captivating lights and colours. TikTokReddit Consider visiting during the day to make the most of the park's facilities and the playground. The cafe offers a convenient spot for a break, though menu variety can be limited. Reddit

🎭 Theatre & Music Enthusiasts

For those who love the performing arts, Lakeside Arts is a must-visit. The venue regularly hosts a variety of theatre productions, musicals, and live music concerts. TikTok+2 It's advisable to check the schedule in advance and book tickets early, especially for popular shows, as they can sell out. TikTok+1 Consider the seating arrangements for the best viewing experience, with mezzanine seats often recommended for unobstructed views. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Day-Trippers & Explorers

If you're looking for a diverse day out, Lakeside Arts and its surroundings offer a great mix. Start with an art exhibition, catch a matinee performance, and then enjoy a leisurely stroll around Highfields Park, perhaps even renting a canoe. TikTokReddit The cafe provides a convenient spot for refreshments. Reddit Be mindful of parking and access directions to make the most of your visit without getting lost on campus. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Lakeside Arts: Parking & Access

Finding your way to Lakeside Arts can be a common point of confusion for visitors. Many online resources and GPS systems may direct you through the main University of Nottingham campus, leading to a roundabout journey. To ensure a smoother arrival, travelers recommend using the underpass route that branches off from the roundabout near the hospital. Look specifically for signage directing you to 'Lakeside Arts' rather than just the broader university. This direct route bypasses campus traffic and gets you closer to the intended parking areas. Reddit

Once you've navigated to the correct vicinity, parking is available and generally free. However, be aware that parking spaces can become limited, especially during popular events or on weekends. Arriving earlier in the day or on a weekday can increase your chances of securing a convenient spot. The cafe's proximity to the parking makes it an easy first stop or a place to relax after exploring. Reddit

Experiencing Performances at Lakeside Arts

Lakeside Arts is a vibrant hub for performing arts, offering a diverse program that caters to various tastes. From theatrical productions like 'Into The Woods' and musicals such as 'Xanadu,' to live music concerts and even outdoor cinema screenings, there's always something happening. TikTok+3 The venue is known for hosting both established artists and emerging talent, making it a dynamic place to catch a show. TikTok

For popular shows, booking tickets in advance is crucial, as they tend to sell out quickly. TikTok+1 The seating arrangements in theatres can vary, and some visitors prefer specific sections for unobstructed views, such as the first few rows of the mezzanine. TikTok For outdoor cinema events, remember to bring your own chairs or blankets and dress warmly, as evenings can get chilly. TikTok Checking the Lakeside Arts schedule online is the best way to stay updated on upcoming performances and secure your tickets.

Art, Exhibitions, and Family Fun

Beyond the stage, Lakeside Arts boasts engaging art galleries that host a rotating schedule of exhibitions. Visitors have praised interactive installations, such as Luminarium, for its stunning use of lights and colours, creating a truly immersive experience. TikTok These exhibitions often provide a unique visual feast and opportunities for creative exploration. TikTok

Lakeside Arts is also a fantastic destination for families. The adjacent Highfields Park offers a large playground, ample green space for running around, and the opportunity to rent canoes for a peaceful paddle on the lake. Reddit The combination of artistic displays and outdoor recreational activities makes it a well-rounded outing for visitors of all ages, offering a blend of culture and nature. TikTokReddit

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