Latest Events in Retford(August Updated)

Angela Anwyl, Author will be hosting an event at Retford Library in Retford on June 11, 2025. The event will provide attendees with the opportunity to engage with the acclaimed author and gain insights into her literary works. The address for the venue is 17 Churchgate, Retford, DN22 6PE. Tickets for the event are priced at £8.83. Don't miss this exclusive chance to meet Angela Anwyl and delve into the world of her captivating storytelling.

Idle Valley Nature Reserve is the home of Nottinghamshire's only beavers! Beavers are slowly being reintroduced to the UK in a number of different locations. They're known as keystone species and ecosystem engineers, famous for their ability to transform landscapes, boost biodiversity, alleviate flooding, and capture carbon. At around 60 hectares, our beaver enclosure is the largest in the UK with space for not just a couple of beavers but up to 18 - that's 3 families of 6 in three separate territories! Join us for an exclusive 2 hour guided tour inside the enclosure. Venturing through the beaver’s tangled wetland world, you’ll see clear signs of their activity such as tree felling, damming, lodge building, debarking and digging. You’ll also spot some of the other wildlife benefiting from their efforts. Your guide will share with you a brief history of beavers in the UK and their fascinating biology and behaviour as well as how and why they were reintroduced to Idle Valley NR. Beavers are rarely active during the daytime so the aim of this event will not be to see the beavers themselves but to discover the signs they leave behind and why they're here at Idle Valley NR. Our beaver enclosure is approximately 3 miles from the visitor centre at Idle Valley Nature Reserve so the group will not be meeting there. Instead, please meet us in the car park on Chainbridge Lane just before the start of the tour. Google Maps coordinates: 53°21'51.7"N 0°56'33.0"W What3Words address: ///months.postings.mingles Written directions: From Mattersey Rd, head East on Daneshill Rd through Lound. At the crossroads, continue straight onto Chainbridge Lane. Continue straight as the road surface changes to loose stone for 200-300m. Just past a red gate on your left you’ll see the car park on your right. Please note that the beaver enclosure is a wild space. The tour follows a route that may be uneven, muddy and tough to navigate in parts. Sturdy walking boots are strongly recommended. Information Source: Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust | eventbrite

Disability Gymnastics is an inclusive session designed for children with disabilities. Hosted by Retford Gymnastics Club in Retford, this one-hour session allows children to engage in gymnastics activities under the supervision of our experienced coaches. Parents or caregivers are encouraged to attend and actively participate in the session alongside their child. Please note that due to the safety of our members who have nut allergies, we have implemented a strict no-nut policy on the premises. Therefore, we kindly request that you refrain from bringing any food items containing nuts to the session. We understand the importance of providing a safe and inclusive environment for children with disabilities to explore their abilities and develop their skills. To attend this open disability gymnastics session, all you need to do is join us at Retford Gymnastics Club and pay the affordable ticket price of £5 per session. Join us at Disability Gymnastics and witness the joy and progress of these exceptional children as they engage in this enriching physical activity. Book your spot for the session on December 2, 2023, and be part of this empowering experience.

Little Gymstars is an exciting event designed for children aged from walking to 4 years old, where they can actively participate alongside their parent or carer. This engaging and interactive session, held at the renowned Retford Gymnastics Club in Retford, offers 45 minutes of non-stop fun for both children and adults. In this dedicated gymnastics facility, you and your little one will enjoy a range of activities, including songs and actions that are sure to captivate and entertain. To ensure a smooth experience, it is essential to book your spot in advance for this highly sought-after event. The cost of admission is £5.00, and payment is required at the time of booking. Please note that, due to the safety and well-being of all attendees, we kindly request that no food items containing nuts are brought onto the premises. This policy is in place to protect our members who have nut allergies. Join us at Little Gymstars - a wonderful opportunity for your child to explore their physical abilities and have a blast in a safe and secure environment. Mark your calendars for January 9, 2024, and reserve your tickets today. Let your little one shine like a true gymnastics star at this unforgettable event.

Disability Gymnastics is a specialized session available for children with disabilities. Led by parents or caregivers, the session is supervised by our Coaches at Retford Gymnastics Club in Retford. This one-hour session is designed to provide a safe and inclusive environment for children to explore the world of gymnastics. Participation in the Disability Gymnastics session is priced at £5 per session. We kindly request that attendees refrain from bringing any food items containing nuts as we have members with nut allergies. To ensure the safety and well-being of all participants, we have implemented this policy at our facility located at Old Timber Shed Baulk Lane, Retford, DN22 8JZ. We understand the importance of catering to the unique needs of children with disabilities, and our knowledgeable coaches are dedicated to creating a positive and enriching experience for every child. Our aim is to provide a supportive environment that encourages physical activity, development, and enjoyment. Join us at the next Disability Gymnastics session on January 13, 2024, and give your child the opportunity to engage in an activity that promotes strength, flexibility, and coordination. We look forward to welcoming you and your child to this inclusive gymnastics session.

Disability Gymnastics is pleased to offer an open session specially designed for children with disabilities. Led by parents or caregivers, this one-hour session provides a supportive and inclusive environment for children to explore the world of gymnastics. Our experienced coaches will be there to supervise the sessions, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all participants. Admission to each session is £5, and we kindly ask that you refrain from bringing any food items containing nuts, as we have members with nut allergies. We prioritize the well-being and health of all our members, and appreciate your understanding in this matter. Join us at the Retford Gymnastics Club, located at the Old Timber Shed on Baulk Lane, Retford, DN22 8JZ. We look forward to welcoming your child to our Disability Gymnastics session, where they can learn and grow in a supportive and inclusive environment.

Magical Missions! at Retford Library is an exciting event in association with Nottingham Playhouse. Led by the theatre making team from Nottingham Playhouse, children and adults can embark on a magical mission that takes them on an adventure far beyond Sherwood Forest. Guided by the Magical Major Oak, participants will have the unique opportunity to physically explore stories, characters, and landscapes. This interactive workshop session will stimulate the senses and unleash the imagination of children aged 2 to 4 and their grown-ups. Through music, movement, puppetry, crafting, and sensory play, the workshop aims to create a playful and engaging experience. This event is part of our under 5s program, funded by the National Portfolio Organisation Arts Council. Tickets are available for £2 per person, and booking is advised. Join us at Retford Library, located at Churchgate, Retford, DN22 6PE, on February 29, 2024 for this 45-minute magical experience. For full listings of our events, please visit inspireculture.org.uk/MagicalMissions.

Join the Disability Gymnastics session at Retford Gymnastics Club, located at the old timber shed on Baulk Lane, Retford, DN22 8JZ. This one-hour session is specifically designed for children with disabilities and is parent/carer led under the supervision of our Coaches. A nominal fee of £5 is required for each attended session. Please be advised that due to several members having nut allergies, we strictly prohibit any food items containing nuts on the premises. Mark your calendars for the upcoming session on the 2nd of March 2024.

Join in the excitement and witness your little artist's self-assurance flourish! A team of skilled artists has skillfully crafted a series of "Little Creatives" workshops in libraries to engage and inspire young children. These workshops are designed to captivate and invigorate the imaginations of children aged 2-5 years. The sessions, lasting 45 minutes, encourage the exploration of intriguing materials and the participation in stimulating creative activities. This opportunity to unleash their creativity and cultivate new skills promises an active, playful, and delightfully messy experience. While the workshops are free, it is advisable to book in advance as spaces are limited. Accompanying adults do not require a ticket. For more details about the artists and additional information, please visit www.inspireculture.org.uk/littlecreatives. This event has been made possible through public funding provided by Arts Council England.

Welcome to the 'Little Creatives' workshops at Retford Library on 9th March. This series of workshops has been thoughtfully designed to provide a fun and engaging experience for children aged 2-5 years. Our team of dedicated professional artists have curated a range of specially designed sessions to help your little ones explore fascinating materials and participate in stimulating creative activities. During these 45-minute workshops, your child will have the opportunity to unleash their creative imagination and develop new skills in a supportive environment. The workshops are designed to be active, playful, and messy, allowing your child to fully immerse themselves in the fun. Attendance is free, but spaces are limited, so we recommend booking in advance to secure your child's spot. While all children must be accompanied, adults do not require a ticket to attend. To find out more about the 'Little Creatives' workshops and meet our team of artists, please visit our website at www.inspireculture.org.uk/littlecreatives. These workshops have been made possible with the support of Arts Council England, ensuring that children have access to high-quality creative experiences. Join in the fun and watch your little artist's confidence grow at the 'Little Creatives' workshops at Retford Library on 9th March.

Get ready for the ultimate fitness experience at RT Fit - a day full of high-energy workouts, challenges, and fun activities to help you rea RT Fit Ultimate Experience Get ready to sweat, smile, and push your limits at the RT Fit Ultimate Experience on 31st August from 12pm - 3pm! Join us at RT Fit | Retford Gym for an incredible day packed with competitions, eating challenges, prizes, and a strong sense of community spirit! Don't miss out on this opportunity to join us down at RT Fit for an afternoon to remember! We are excited to be joined by the following; The Blood ClinicMeatCastles- The Mr 'O' Burger Challenge!The Heavenly Coffee CompanyCookie SmithAestetica@RT - Taster demonstrationsRNR BodyTherapy - Taster demonstrationsWe will also have giveaways AND prizes from: My ProteinReignPrimalFathersonsIf that doesn't sound tempting enough.. we have OVER £4,000 worth of giveaways and prizes This is your chance to connect with fellow members and day passes, take on fun challenges, be part of the RT Fit community and walk away with some fantastic rewards! Amazing raffle prizes to also be won! Parking Parking may be limited on the day due to food vans out the front of RT Fit. However, we will be having designated parking on the day. Please look out for a member of staff on arrival in the car park. They will be able to advise and direct you to the most suitable and safe designated parking areas. Non Members The event for non members will be a reduced day pass of £10. You will need to purchase your ticket via Eventbrite then show this at reception on arrival and make payment. Information Source: RT Fit | eventbrite

Each year a large number of portraits are entered into the Archibald Prize, however only a limited selection are chosen for the official exhibition. The Salon des Refusés showcases the alternative entries not selected for the official exhibition in an equally outstanding display. Initiated by the S.H. Ervin Gallery in 1992, this ‘alternative’ selection has become a much-anticipated annual exhibition, rivalling the selections in the ‘official’ exhibition. This summer in Retford Park's White Cottage Gallery, the Salon des Refusés will proudly showcase 35 equally brilliant portraits selected for their quality, diversity, humour and experimentation, and different approaches to portraiture. Many of the Salon des Refusés works will be available for purchase. ART PASS For the very first time, visitors have a unique opportunity to see two nationally acclaimed exhibitions conveniently located within walking distance of each other. Coinciding with the Salon des Refusés, the Archibald Prize 2024, an Art Gallery of New South Wales touring exhibition, will be on display at Ngununggula, located in the grounds of Retford Park. Eagerly anticipated by artists and audiences alike, the Archibald Prize 2024 is Australia’s most celebrated and democratic – sometimes controversial – art award. Ngununggula and Retford Park have teamed up to offer visitors the chance to see both exhibitions with an ‘’Art Pass”. Purchase your Art Pass tickets here. Both exhibitions are expected to attract large crowds. Prebooking is strongly recommended. To purchase tickets for the Archibald Prize 2024 only, please visit the Ngununggula website via this link. Important Information for Visitors By purchasing a ticket, you agree to our Terms & Conditions of Entry. Get involved with the National Trust (NSW) Become a member and enjoy many benefits including access to Australia’s heritage places and in over 60 countries. Subscribe to our eNews for the latest heritage news, special offers and events. Information Source: National Trust of Australia (NSW) | eventbrite

Get your dessert spoons ready for a tale of perseverance, princes, palace balls, glass slippers and, um, ice cream? Over the last four decades, Cinderella’s has become the kingdom’s most beloved ice cream company, with a parlour on every street corner. But how did this young girl from humble beginnings with not a penny to her name end up as a multimillionaire business woman with her own ice cream empire? In this new musical, join Talvi and Caldwell,loyal employees of Cinderella’s, as they share her rags to riches tale, and confront their own desires, hopes, and the magic that lies within each scoop of Cinderella’s legendary ice cream. Perfect for ice cream fans aged 5+ and their families, this exciting musical retelling of a fairytale classic promises a delightful blend of storytelling, music, and theatrical magic that will capture your heart and tickle your taste buds. For children ages 5+ and their families Booking advised Running time: 1 hour Tickets Library members: £4 Non-library members: £7 There is no charge for accompanying children aged under 18 months and they do not need a ticket. Supported using public funding by Arts Council England This production will tour 7 Inspire libraries see inspireculture.org.uk/CinderellaIceCreamSeller for details Programmed in association with The Spark Arts for Children Information Source: Inspire Culture | Learning | Libraries | eventbrite

Step into the legendary world of the Magical Major Oak as spring arrives in the forest and join Marion in a playful practical workshop. Children will love this unique chance to physically explore stories, characters and landscapes led by the theatre making team from Nottingham Playhouse. These workshop sessions will unleash your child’s imagination and stimulate the senses by using music, movement, puppetry,crafting, and sensory play. Magical Missions visits 12 Inspire libraries. For full listings visit: inspireculture.org.uk/MagicalMissions Tickets: £2 per person Booking advised Age: Suitable for children aged 2-4 and their grown-ups Running Time: 45 minutes Supported using public funding by Arts Council England Information Source: Inspire Culture | Learning | Libraries | eventbrite

Information Source: RGC | eventbrite

Nottinghamshire crime novelist Stephen Booth is the author of 18 novels in the best-selling Cooper and Fry series, set in the Peak District. His books have won awards on both sides of the Atlantic and are translated into 16 languages, including Russian and Japanese. Stephen will talk about his life as a crime writer and what draws many thousands of readers into his fictional world - particularly the popularity of his two Derbyshire police detectives, Ben Cooper and Diane Fry, and the Peak District locations which inspire his books. Stephen's books will be available to purchase at this event. Information Source: Retford Book Festival | eventbrite

Angela's research into music making in Retford has covered the Victorian and Edwardian periods and beyond. She will talk about three very significant musicians in this period, Hamilton White, John Rowland and Millicent Ward. Between them they give a considerable insight into a wide range of music making, but they are the tip of a considerable iceberg. Angela will also be talking about concerts, church music, the beginnings of the operatic group and the North Nottinghamshire Musical Competitions, choirs, a music shop, teaching music and a local band. Angela's books will be available to purchase at this event. Cost: £7.50 plus £1.33 booking fee. Information Source: Retford Book Festival | eventbrite

HEROIC OR TRAGIC? Adrian Gray tells the story of two Retford people who left the town ‘to do great things’ and died as a result – one in an ancient castle dungeon, the other on a disease and cannibal-infested island. Two ordinary people with extraordinary lives, but were they heroic or tragic? You can decide, but they deserve greater recognition in the town where they lived. Adrian's books will be available for purchase at this event. Cost: £7.50 plus £1.33 booking fee. Information Source: Retford Book Festival | eventbrite

Lucie Lovatt, a talented playwright, will be showcasing her latest work at Retford Little Theatre in Retford on June 13, 2025. The event promises an evening filled with captivating storytelling and thought-provoking themes. Don't miss the opportunity to witness this up-and-coming playwright's work come to life on stage. Tickets for this exclusive event are priced at £11.55. Make sure to secure your seat for an unforgettable theatrical experience.

Lucie Lovatt reignited her writing ambitions at forty. KILL THY NEIGHBOUR, her first full-length play, premiered at Theatr Clwyd and Torch Theatre in 2024. Lucie has worked in West End theatre for many years as a creative producer, previously for Sonia Friedman Productions and now for Second Half Productions. Lucie is an alumna of the Royal Court Theatre’s Young Writers’ Programme and completed an MA in Dramatic Writing at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School. Lucie grew up in Retford and attended King Edward IV school and during that time was a keen member of Retford’s Little Theatre. Cost: £10 plus £1.55 booking fee. Information Source: Retford Book Festival | eventbrite

Annie Charme will be discussing her work and writing life. Annie describes her books as real, raw, racy romance. She loves representing plus size women and spreading body positivity with her curvy heroines and protective inked heroes who love every inch of them. Annie is an avid reader of romance novels and felt that curvy full-figured women were not featured enough in this genre. This inspired her to write her books which have been successful on both sides of the Atlantic. The event will include the opportunity to buy Annie's books. The ticket price includes a cocktail or mocktail and nibbles. Cost: £25 plus £2.80 booking fee. Information Source: Retford Book Festival | eventbrite

Attend the upcoming event featuring Annie Charme, a renowned Romance Author, taking place on June 13, 2025, at The Sherwood by kook in Retford. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of romance as Annie Charme shares her insights and experiences. The event will be held at 18 Churchgate, Retford, DN22 6PQ. Tickets are priced at £27.80. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with one of the most esteemed authors in the genre.

News UK journalist, Jess Wilson will be joining us to discuss the power of words to change the world and successful press campaigns that have resulted in change. Jess is Associate Editor of Fabulous Magazine and works across newspaper, magazine and digital formats. She has worked on a number of campaigns for The Sun that have changed our perceptions and responses and helped to create a new and improved status quo. Cost: £10 plus £1.55 booking fee. Information Source: Retford Book Festival | eventbrite

Our Ice Cream Sundae sessions give you the chance to create the Ice Cream of your dreams, with the best Ice cream around! You choose from our selection of flavours of Cow shack Ice cream, then choose your 'extras' such as brownie pieces, cinder toffee, Meringue, Strawberry, Cherry, chocolate curls, caramel curls, fudge pieces and many more, finally choose a suace - chocolate, caramel, pistachio, coffee and lots of fruity flavours. We will bring it all to you with a Sundae glass and you can layer up your ice cream and flavours to create the ultimate dessert... and then eat it of course! Information Source: The Chocolate Kitchen | eventbrite

Join children's writer Bethany Walker for a fun morning of silly stories and awesome activities, inspired by two of her books: Do Lions Hate Haircuts? and Olly Brown, God of Hamsters. Come along and style a lion's hair, or make a spaceship for a hamster, or both! Bethany Walker is the author of four funny children's books. Before becoming a children’s writer, Bethany was a teacher and then a museum educator, working in some very weird and wonderful places. She lives in Lincolnshire with her husband, children and a rapidly increasing number of stick insects! Suitable for children aged 6+. All children must be accompanied by an adult. Beth's books will be available to purchase at this event. Cost: £5 plus £1.13 booking fee. Information Source: Retford Book Festival | eventbrite

Paul Thompson, singer and co-author of Jake Thackray’s acclaimed biography, shares his passion for the comic genius of the late, great singer-songwriter from Yorkshire. Jake was a true original who became famous in the late sixties through his countless TV and radio appearances, singing his hilarious, satirical, irreverent, poetical and poignant songs. Paul performs them lovingly on Nadine, a guitar once owned and named by Jake, and also gives fascinating, colourful insights into the Yorkshireman’s extraordinary life. Cost: £12.50 plus £1.75 booking fee. Information Source: Retford Book Festival | eventbrite

Mac-Fest at Gamston Wood Farm Welcome to Mac-Fest ! Join us at Gamston Wood Farm for an evening full of music and laughter. There will be 2 local bands performing; Propeller and KEGS. A licensed bar and pop-up food vans will be on site to ensure everyone is hydrated and fed! A charity auction and further activities will follow General Admission is £20 per ticket (plus booking fee) General Admitssion Aged 3 to 18 is £5 per ticket (plus booking fee) Aged 3 or below is Free On-site camping is available at a separate cost - £5 per unit/plot (plus booking fee) The proceeds of the event are to raise vital funds for MacMillan Cancer Support Gates open from 4pm with the first band starting at 6pm All ages welcome! Information Source: Ben Silcock, Emily-Jane Silcock & Tim Silcock | eventbrite

A 45 minute fun filled session for you and your child, with access to our dedicated gymnastics facility with songs and actions to conclude the session. Booking is essential. The cost is £5.00 and payable on booking. PLEASE NOTE DUE TO A NUMBER OF OUR MEMBERS HAVING NUT ALLERGIES WE DO NOT ALLOW ANY ITEMS OF FOOD CONATINING NUTS ON THE PREMISES Information Source: eventbrite

Welcome to 3Cs. This event is open to any business owner, business development manager or business representative based in or around Retford who wants to develop good contacts and share connections and skills. You DO NOT have to be a member to attend. 3Cs is a not-for-profit organisation. We are a welcoming, energetic, proactive group that loves supporting and promoting your business. Please be prepared to tell us a little about your business and how we can help you. Cost: The ticket costs £10. If you need to cancel, please request a refund through Eventbrite. Parking: There is free parking in The Well car park; please park neatly and note the one-way system of entry and exit What 3 Words: Shakes.Piano.Stops Refreshments: Tea and coffee will be available throughout the meeting. Breakfast sandwiches will be served at around 10.25 am. Our policy is to look for every opportunity to reduce our impact on the natural world and become more 'green'. Please help by not printing your ticket. This group is single sector. Please email if you are in any doubt as to whether you may attend. Contact : info@3csnetworking.co.uk Zoe 07854 907285 Information Source: 3Cs Networking Group | eventbrite

Our skilled Connect & Create artists will guide you to experiment with various artistic styles and techniques, as you work alongside others to make your mark and express yourself. These hands-on workshops are particularly suitable for older people and their supporters who would enjoy engaging with a variety of materials, and would benefit from experiencing creativity through all of their senses, in a relaxed group for all abilities. Booking advised £3.00 per person For the full listing and further information visit: inspireculture.org.uk/ConnectAndCreate This series of events is linked to our Healthier Happier Connected Creative programme supported using public funding by the National Lottery through Arts Council England. Find out more about the project and the other events in the series by clicking the link: Healthier Happier Connected Creative Information Source: Inspire Culture | Learning | Libraries | eventbrite