Hockley Hustle
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Hockley Hustle is Nottingham's vibrant one-day music and arts festival, returning to the city's creative Hockley quarter on Sunday 25 October 2026. From morning to night, dozens of cozy bars, clubs, galleries and outdoor spaces come alive with hundreds of local musicians, poets, DJs and artists. With a single festival wristband, you can wander freely from stage to stage, catching everything from indie bands and spoken word to electronic DJs and surprise performances along the way. The mood is electric and friendly. It is a joyful celebration of Nottingham's homegrown talent and community spirit.
No two festival days are ever the same. Each venue and stage has its own vibe, curated by local promoters and artists, so the lineup is always full of surprises. You might stumble across a quiet acoustic set in a tucked-away cafe, a raucous rock band in a bustling pub, and a thumping electronic DJ in an art gallery all in one afternoon. One of the best parts of Hustle is simply losing yourself in the festival route: turn a corner in Hockley and you might find a hidden gem you didn't even know was there.
It is not just music: the Hustle is a full arts and culture takeover. While you are jumping between gigs, keep an eye out for street art displays, impromptu dance performances or pop-up galleries showcasing Nottingham's creativity. Food trucks and cozy cafes along the way keep you fueled with local flavors, from craft coffees to festival treats. The scene in Hockley buzzes with activity, and exploring it all is part of the fun. Whether you are sipping a local microbrew between sets or admiring a mural in a courtyard, the festival offers countless memorable moments.
Above all, Hockley Hustle has heart. Since its launch in 2006 the festival has used music and fun to support the community, raising thousands of pounds for Nottingham charities each year. When you pick up a wristband, you are not only getting a ticket to an amazing day out, but you are also supporting a great cause. There is a warm, communal spirit to the Hustle: locals, artists and visitors all come together in support of the city that gave them these stages, making the whole experience feel extra meaningful.
Hustle welcomes everyone, from eager music fans to curious first-timers. Plan your day if there are must-see acts you want to catch, but also allow plenty of time for spontaneous discoveries and leisurely wandering. With its jam-packed lineup and upbeat, inclusive vibe, Hockley Hustle will leave you buzzing long after the last song. It is a highlight of Nottingham's cultural calendar, a celebration of creativity and community rolled into one unforgettable day. Don't miss it!
Nottingham is very easy to reach by public transport. The city's main railway station is in the city centre, with frequent trains to major cities across the UK. Direct services connect to London (via the East Midlands rail network) and to Birmingham, Sheffield, Manchester and Leeds. Major coach services like National Express and Megabus also serve Nottingham, with stops near the city centre. This makes traveling to the festival straightforward whether you come from nearby or farther away.
If you are flying in, the nearest airport is East Midlands Airport, about 15 miles away. There is a regular Skylink bus between the airport and Nottingham, and easy train connections via East Midlands Parkway station. Birmingham Airport (about 70-80 miles away) is another option, with direct train or coach services to the city. By road, Nottingham lies along the M1 motorway (take Junction 24 or 25) and is well signposted. Parking in the city centre exists but fills up quickly on busy days, so consider using a Park and Ride site on the outskirts (for example at Holme Pierrepont or the Racecourse) and taking a bus or tram into town.
Getting around Nottingham itself is convenient. The city has a modern tram system (the Nottingham Express Transit) connecting the railway station with Old Market Square and other neighborhoods, plus an extensive local bus network covering nearly all areas. You can buy a day pass (often called the 'Robin Hood' card) to ride buses and trams for a flat price. Many of the festival venues in Hockley are within walking distance of each other, but taxis and ride-sharing services (like local cabs or Uber) are also readily available. In short, you can easily explore the city's compact centre without a car.
Nottingham offers accommodation for every budget. Hotels and guesthouses are plentiful around the city centre, particularly near the train station and lively Old Market Square or Lace Market areas (so you can enjoy nearby restaurants and nightlife). Budget travelers will find plenty of cozy B&Bs and hostels scattered across the city. Wherever you stay, it is wise to book early; rooms can fill up quickly on busy weekends. Even if you choose a quieter area outside the centre, good bus and tram services mean you'll still be able to reach all the festival venues easily.
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Festivals Near Nottingham
