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Out of time: anti-vaxxers in Victorian Notts

When we think of the anti-vaccination movement, we tend to think of COVID and anti-lockdown protests. However, the anti-vax movement is surprisingly far older than typically expected – and one that the East Midlands played a significant part in. In the Victorian era, thousands demonstrated against the new compulsory smallpox vaccinations, leading to fines and arrests… 

What is Trentbelly? Inside the first river-focused episode of local podcast NottsPod

After one of his pupils caught a case of ‘Trentbelly’, the local nomenclature for illness caught from a polluted River Trent, secondary school teacher Tom Suchoruczka became curious about how the river got to the state it is now. This led Tom to team up with Notts historian and YouTuber Michael Krawec, and together they went down a research wormhole which culminated in Trentbelly – the first series of new podcast NottsPod. Here, by way of laying the groundwork for that, Michael talks us through the winding history of Nottingham’s modern day water system.

Pick six: Notts folk artist Daudi Matsiko

For this month's Pick Six we feature Notts folk artist Daudi Matsiko who plays at Sneinton Market's By Our Hands We Make Our Way in 19 September.

Mansfield Town Film Festival 2026: in conversation with director Jay Martin

Coming up later this month, Mansfield Town Film Festival provides a packed three day schedule of working-class voices, locally made films, live screenings, masterclasses, and Q&As. We spoke to festival director Jay Martin about representation, community and why Mansfield is putting the East Midlands firmly on the cinema map… 

Overheard in Notts: August 2026

Karma and iPad watches feature in this month's Overheard in Notts...

From the Kitchen: With Bryan Henesey, owner at Breadmill Bakery

Bryan Henesey owns Sneinton Market Avenues' award winning Breadmill Bakery. For this month's instalment of From The Kitchen we chat to him...

From farm to fork: the evolution of Spring Lane Farm

Established in 1939, Spring Lane Farm has been run by four generations of the Spencer family, growing from humble origins into a successful family-run enterprise. We sat down with Jessica Spencer and her grandfather Cyril to discuss the farm’s journey and learn more about its onsite cafe-restaurant, The Old Parlour.

The Route to Cappyness: Notts filmmaker Sharon Walia on her brand new documentary

Nottingham filmmaker Sharon Walia’s work has covered a variety of topics – from guinea pigs to refugees. With her newest documentary, The Route to Cappyness, she looks at how the world’s largest rodent could be the key to positivity across the globe, from Brazil and Japan to the USA and Wheelgate Park. We spoke to Sharon about why the capybara is important, how she made the film, and her travels across the UK, USA, Brazil, and Japan. 

LeftLion's Latest Listens #50: Notts music we're currently spinning

We have reached the 50th edition of LeftLion's Latest Listens! Thanks to all our writers who have contributed since our first edition in 2024, and a very big thank you to all the Notts artists who have made our lives better with their music. In this edition, our music team reviews new releases from Di$mal, Wayne Banks, Rainbow Frog Biscuits, Laura Williams and ronnietoldus...

From Pinot to Americano: ØKENDE’s new city centre location

West Bridgford born coffee shop and bakery ØKENDE is known for its cool, minimalist design and elegant pastries. Last month, this popular independent opened a second store on Broad Street, introducing a new day-to-night spot in Hockley.

How Kino Koło Notts Is Bringing the Stories of Eastern Europe to Nottingham

From the Baltics to the Balkans, Eastern Europe is a region rich with diverse cultures, histories and creative voices. Kino Koło Notts is helping Nottingham audiences discover the stories behind the stereotypes, bringing together film screenings, workshops, food and conversations that celebrate the people and traditions of the region. We spoke with the team about community cinema, challenging perceptions and their vision for a more connected cultural landscape in Nottingham.

Left Magpie: The 2026 Season Preview

Nottsword #198 August Answers

Did you guess this month's answers?

Art, gigs, Bowie, European parties, and family festivals Here's what's on this week in Nottingham Monday 3 - Sunday 9 August

There's lots happening this week to kick off August's event schedule, from European parties to family festivals and events - here's our top picks...

LeftLion's Latest Listens #49: Notts music we're currently spinning

In this 49th edition of LeftLion's Latest Listens, our music team reviews new releases from Richard Snow, Emily Ashberry, Pillow Fort and CATHEDRA...

Jazz and archeological finds: Here's what's on in Nottingham this week: 27 July - 2 August

This week in Notts is, like usual, another great one. If you fancy a mix of live music (either jazz or emo, up to you) Peggy's Skylight and Rescue Rooms both have gigs waiting in the wings. But if you've got young ones to entertain then Lakeside Arts has you covered. Here's what's happening... 

From The Kitchen: with Kushi-ya Head Chef & Owner Simon Carlin

Simon Carlin, Head Chef & Owner at Japanese small plate restaurant Kushi-ya, talks fried mochi skewers and favourite restaurants...

Overheard in Notts: July 2026

This month you've been talking about bacon vodka, chakras and thrash metal...

Notts Pride, immersive theatre shows and great sporting events: here's what's on in Nottingham this week: events 20 July - 26 July

This week in Notts is just as vibrant as the last. If you're still not ready to say goodbye to the summer festivals, Boho Festival might be your solution. Or maybe you're looking for a change of pace? Whether it's an immersive theatre show at People's Hall, sporting events to get your adrenaline pumping, live music and more, here's what Nottingham has to offer this week...

Undercover Artist: Pink Menace on Pride, collaborative art and grassroots queer groups in Notts…

We spoke to this month’s cover artists Raffa and Benji, a.k.a. Pink Menace about Pride, collaborative art and grassroots queer groups in Notts…

What's happening at Gloworm Festival 2026?

It's less than a month now until Thoresby Park is transformed into the ultimate children's wonderland for Nottinghamshire annual family festival: Gloworm. As ever, it's going to be an exciting one, with 20+ meet and greets, a packed main stage program, and more than 100 live shows, performances, workshops, and hands on experiences to discover and enjoy around the festival site. 

If you're considering taking your little one(s) along, and making some great summer memories, here's everything you can expect...

Write Queer: a monthly writing group for LGBTQ+ people in Notts

Open to the LGBTQ+ community and allies, Write Queer is a monthly collective who share and progress their writing, while connecting with other writers in a supportive environment – online, or at Nottingham Central Library. We speak to organiser Richard Gidlow about the sessions, zines, Notts Pride, and the unspoken heroes of pigeons.

Splendour Festival's last hurrah, musicals, ballet and immersive art experiences: here's what's on in Notts this week: events 13 July - 19 July

This week is one for the books, including Splendour Festival celebrating their final weekend, Beyond Monet & Beyond Van Gogh, a convention for hit sci-fi sitcom Red Dwarf, and events for theatre, music and ballet fans alike.

LeftLion's Latest Listens #48: Notts music we're currently spinning

This week, our music team reviews new releases from Ben McElroy, KID SPIRIT and E.R. Thorpe...