Open Doors’ Artist in Residence Leanne Moden will be running free creative activities for children and families during the summer holidays, including zine making, paper crafts, and funky postcards!

You’ll find Leanne in the artist’s studio on the top floor of the National Civil War Centre—there’s no need to book, just drop by and join the fun.

Get hands-on with creativity this summer and build something amazing together

• Dive into Playhem with giant blue building blocks – perfect for creating castles, towers and more
• A fun, hands-on experience where visitors of all ages can build, explore and make a marvellous mess
• Discover family-friendly labels and activities across the museum galleries
• Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10am-4pm throughout the summer holidays

With plenty to explore and FREE entry for Newark and Sherwood residents, it’s the perfect day out for families looking for fun, learning and creativity all in one place.

Discover Newark’s rich past with an immersive walking tour that brings history to life right where it happened ⚔️

• Join the Civil War Deep Dive Walking Tour and explore key locations from Newark’s role in the English Civil War
• Guided by expert historians sharing fascinating stories, facts and hidden details
• Uncover how the town was shaped by conflict, resilience and community
• A perfect mix of fresh air, local heritage and engaging storytelling

Whether you're a history enthusiast or just curious about Newark’s past, this is a unique way to see the town from a whole new perspective. Comfortable shoes recommended 👟

Take a trip through time with these free creative writing workshops, led by performance poet Leanne Moden.

Running throughout August, participants will explore the hidden histories of the National Civil War Centre through exclusive tours, using the museum’s collections as inspiration for poems and stories.

These workshops are suitable for adults (18+) of all abilities, and no experience is necessary - just an interest in writing.

Booking is required.

Come along to a FREE weekend of adventure, creativity, and fun at the Woodland Festival 2026, returning to Thoresby Park on 25th and 26th July. With free entry, this is the perfect family-friendly festival to reconnect with nature, try new skills, and enjoy time outdoors.

The Woodland Festival brings together local makers, woodland crafts, family activities, nature talks and much more. Activities include:

• Eco-themed performances
• Foraging walks and treasure hunts
• Crafting workshops
• Archery with the Sherwood Outlaws!

The festival will be a celebration of traditional woodland heritage crafts, helping keep these valuable skills alive for future generations, with plenty to see and do for all ages.

Celebrate the 10th birthday of Newark Book Festival with 4 days of literature, creativity, and fun for all ages. There will be a rich and diverse collection of events for everyone who loves a good story.

Expect old favourites like Writing Workshops, Literature Village, and the much-loved Children's Zone, as well as even more of your favourite authors, storytellers, and some exciting new events to the mix!

📅 9 - 12 July
📍 Palace Theatre and National Civil War Centre, Newark

Two unforgettable nights of iconic music are coming to the Palace Theatre, get ready for powerhouse vocals and timeless classics ✨

• Tina’s Ultimate Rock Show delivers the fierce energy, and unforgettable hits of the 60's, 70's and 80’s on Friday 17 July
• Special guest Chris Miggells joins the line-up for even more live music magic
• The Drifters bring smooth harmonies and classic tracks like Saturday Night at the Movies on Friday 24 July
• Expect feel-good vibes, singalong moments and top-tier live entertainment

Whether you love rock anthems or soulful classics, these shows promise something for everyone. Perfect for a night out with friends, family, or a well-deserved treat 🎟️

Grab your bike and get ready for the final Extreme Wheels at Farnsfield Skatepark on Thursday 9 July from 6–8pm.

Whether you're into BMX, scootering or skateboarding, come and join the fun!

⚠️ Important Information

• Bring your own BMX, scooter, skateboard and helmet.
• No e-bikes or e-scooters permitted.
• Open to ages 9+.
• Riders must be competent in skatepark riding and understand skatepark etiquette.
• Helmets are mandatory for all wheeled activities.
• Wear appropriate footwear — no crocs, sandals or open‑toe shoes.

No need to book, just turn up!

Grab your bike and get ready, Extreme Wheels is coming to Southwell Skatepark on Thursday nights this summer!

📅 Thursdays, 6–8pm

Dates: 16 July, 23 July, 30 July, 6 August, 13 August, 20 August, 27 August

Whether you're into BMX, scootering or skateboarding, come and join the fun!

⚠️ Important Information

• Bring your own BMX, scooter, skateboard and helmet.
• No e-bikes or e-scooters permitted.
• Open to ages 9+.
• Riders must be competent in skatepark riding and understand skatepark etiquette.
• Helmets are mandatory for all wheeled activities.
• Wear appropriate footwear - no crocs, sandals or open‑toe shoes.

No need to book, just turn up!

Sing along at the Heron Café!

These free, uplifting music mornings at the Lifespring Centre, New Ollerton, are filled with familiar tunes and friendly faces.

Listen to performances from professional musicians, have a little dance, or just relax with fellow music lovers in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Each session is disability and dementia friendly and there is no need to book, just stop by and join in!

Next sessions: Friday 10 and Friday 24 July, 10:30am—12:00pm

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For more events happening across the district this summer, make sure you visit out official What’s On website: www.whatsonnewarkandsherwood.co.uk