The October half-term can be difficult to navigate for parents, particularly if the weather isn’t favourable.
It might be only a week, but keeping your children occupied is often a challenge.
Days out during half-term can be expensive, especially if you’re paying an entry fee to get in somewhere.
But here in Nottinghamshire there are so many different places to explore that either charge a small entry fee or don’t charge anything at all.
By thinking outside the box and exploring one of the county’s little-known landmarks, museums or historical sites, you can save yourself a pretty penny.
Sounds good? Well, we’ve got you covered!
Here are 12 quirky Nottinghamshire attractions that you should think about exploring during the October half term 2025:
5. Bennerley Viaduct - Awsworth Rd, Ilkeston DE7 8PX
The Bennerley Viaduct, just outside Ilkeston, is one of those places you simply have to visit while the weather allows. Standing 20 metres high above the valley of the River Erewash, and a quarter of a mile long, the viaduct cuts a dominant figure in the landscape. Walkers and cyclists can use the viaduct to enjoy stunning views of Nottinghamshire, Derbyshire and the surrounding countryside. Photo: Harry Mitchell
6. Train sculpture in Woodthorpe Grange Park
On the face of it, Woodthorpe Grange Park, towards the north of the city, appears much like any of the city’s other green spaces. But in a small corner of the park, tucked under a bridge, is something rather bizarre. Amongst the greenery is a large sculpture depicting a red steam train emerging from a tunnel. The sculpture is a nod to when the Nottingham Suburban Railway ran under the park during the early 1900s. Photo: Clem Rutter
7. Nottingham Castle Cave Tour - Lenton Rd, Nottingham NG1 6EL
The cave tours allow visitors to hear the tales beneath the depths of Nottingham Castle. Visitors will either be taken to Mortimer's Hole or King David's Dungeon. Photo: NW
8. Park Tunnel - 33 Derby Rd, Nottingham NG1 5AW
Built in 1855, the Park Tunnel connects Derby Road to the Park Estate. Despite its prominent city centre location, this hidden gem isn't well-known. Walking through the tunnel on a warm spring day is well worth it. Photo: Chris J Wood