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

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Less crowded, good for families

Lakeside Arts
Best Time
Less crowded, good for families

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A university-run arts centre and museum offering theatre, music, dance, exhibitions, and workshops, set within the scenic Highfields Park.
"Marvellous place with spectacular atmosphere, amazing views, and lots to explore."

🎯 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:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Theatres & Performances
Center for Performing Arts
Catch captivating theatre productions, musicals, and live music events.

Art Galleries & Exhibitions
Various Galleries
Explore diverse art exhibitions, from contemporary displays to interactive installations.

Lakeside Cafe & Park
Adjacent to Highfields Park
Enjoy a coffee with park views or rent a canoe for a serene lake experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating to Lakeside Arts
Timing Your Visit for Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 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:
☀️ Outdoor Cinema Comfort
Bring chairs & blankets for outdoor screenings. Dress warmly! :blanket:
🚶♀️ Explore Highfields Park
Combine your visit with a stroll around the beautiful park and lake. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 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:
☀️ Outdoor Cinema Comfort
Bring chairs & blankets for outdoor screenings. Dress warmly! :blanket:
🚶♀️ Explore Highfields Park
Combine your visit with a stroll around the beautiful park and lake. :walking:
☕ Cafe Availability
Cafe menu can be limited, especially early. Coffee & cake are usually safe bets. :coffee:
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 ✨ 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.
Yes, Lakeside Arts features various art galleries with diverse exhibitions. Visitors have enjoyed interactive installations like Luminarium, known for its incredible lights and colours.
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.
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.
Yes, you can rent small canoes to enjoy a paddle on the lake, offering a lovely way to experience the scenic surroundings.
🍽️ 🍽️ 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.
Yes, the cafe is noted for offering milk alternatives, which is a plus for those with dietary preferences or restrictions.
While the cafe has good seating, it can be challenging to find an available seat, especially during busy periods.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Generally, photography and videography are not permitted during live performances in theatres to avoid disturbing the audience and performers. Check specific venue rules.
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.
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.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
🎭 Theatre & Music Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Day-Trippers & Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Lakeside Arts: Parking & Access
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.
Experiencing Performances at Lakeside Arts
For popular shows, booking tickets in advance is crucial, as they tend to sell out quickly. 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. For outdoor cinema events, remember to bring your own chairs or blankets and dress warmly, as evenings can get chilly. 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
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. 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.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit