Historic Nottinghamshire hotel and spa Ye Olde Bell near Retford has unveiled its Summer 2026 events programme, with a packed calendar of live music, family events, themed dining experiences and outdoor entertainment
Welcoming visitors from across Nottinghamshire, South Yorkshire and Lincolnshire, the programme has been designed for families, couples, groups of friends, food lovers and music fans, with events running throughout August and September.
One of the highlights of the programme is the popular Family Fun Day on 23rd August. Perfect for families looking for things to do with the kids during the school holidays, this free event welcoming families to enjoy the hotel's beautiful grounds. Running from 12pm, the day will feature a delicious BBQ, face painting, a bouncy castle, the Little Marshmallow pop-up shop, a live DJ, drinks from the garden bar and plenty more activities for all ages.
Commenting on the summer programme, Kate Firth, Managing Director at Ye Olde Bell said:
"We've created a programme that brings together everything our guests enjoy most—from free family events and outdoor live music to fine dining experiences and overnight packages. Whether you're joining us for a relaxed evening in the gardens or celebrating a special occasion, we look forward to welcoming both new and returning guests throughout the summer."
Highlights from the Summer 2026 programme include:
Sax on the Garden – 7th & 28th August, 4th & 25th September
Guests can enjoy an evening of al fresco dining with rotating themed menus while resident saxophonist Adrian provides the soundtrack. With drinks and cocktail pitchers available from the terrace bar, it's the perfect way to spend a summer evening. The garden bar opens from 5pm, with live saxophone performances from 6pm until 9pm.
Summer Wedding Showcase – 14th August
Perfect for newly engaged couples or those searching for their dream wedding venue, the Summer Wedding Showcase offers visitors the opportunity to explore the hotel, meet the experienced events team and gather inspiration for their special day.
Family Fun Day – 23rd August
A free family event packed with entertainment, including a BBQ, face painting, bouncy castle, live DJ, garden bar, the Little Marshmallow pop-up shop and much more, making it an ideal day out during the summer holidays.
Mamma Mia Evening – 5th September
Guests are invited to enjoy a night of sunshine, singing and sensational entertainment as the music of ABBA comes to the gardens at Ye Olde Bell. From Dancing Queen to Waterloo, visitors can dance the night away while enjoying delicious food, drinks and a fantastic outdoor atmosphere.
Package options include:
Silver Package – Two-course meal and live entertainment – £42 per person
Gold Package – Two-course meal, live entertainment, bed and breakfast – from £110 per personPlatinum Package – Two-course meal, live entertainment, bed and breakfast plus an additional night's stay with breakfast – £160 per person
Champagne Dinner – 18th September
Wine and food lovers can indulge in an exclusive Champagne Dinner hosted and proudly sponsored by The House of Telmont. Guests will enjoy a carefully curated four-course dinner, with every course expertly paired with a premium Champagne. Throughout the evening, diners will discover the heritage, craftsmanship and flavour profiles behind each pairing, making for an unforgettable fine dining experience.
The event begins at 7pm and is priced at £90 per person.
Motown Tribute Night – 19th September
Celebrate the iconic sounds of Motown with an evening of live entertainment from the talented Ritchie Penrose. Known for his soulful vocals and energetic performances, Ritchie will perform timeless classics while guests enjoy a delicious two-course dinner.
Package options include:
Silver Package – Two-course dinner and two hours of live entertainment – £42 per person
Gold Package – Two-course dinner, live entertainment, bed and breakfast – from £110 per person
Platinum Package – Two-course dinner, live entertainment, bed and breakfast plus an additional night's stay with breakfast – £160 per person
Arrival is from 7pm, with dinner served at 7.30pm.
From family-friendly days out and live music to luxury dining experiences and tribute nights, Ye Olde Bell's Summer 2026 events programme offers visitors one of Nottinghamshire's most varied seasonal calendars. Advance booking is recommended for ticketed events.
https://yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk/events
