Mill Waters Festival heads to Sutton Lawn
A festival celebrating the history of Ashfield is heading to Sutton Lawn.
The Mill Waters Festival, organised by Ashfield District Council in partnership with Nottinghamshire County Council, will be held at the award-winning park from 11am to 3pm on Saturday 12 September 2026.
Held as part of the Open Heritage Days, the festival will be divided into 4 themes – wellbeing, nature, heritage and entertainment. Admission to the event is free.
Activities will include:
- Traditional crafts
- Vintage cars
- Outdoor theatre and drama workshops
- Wellbeing and heritage walks
- Live music
- Sports activities and tennis sessions
- Nature‑based activities
- Superhero appearances
- Picnic areas
- Food and drink stalls
- Information and advice from local wellbeing teams
The Mill Waters Festival is part of the Open Heritage Days. This takes place every September and sees thousands of volunteers across the country organise events celebrating history and culture.
Cllr Chris Huskinson, Ashfield District Council’s Executive Lead Member for Leisure, Health and Wellbeing, said:
“This a great way to celebrate Ashfield’s rich history and find out more about what the district has to offer.
“There’s so much going on and I know that Sutton Lawn will be a hive of activity. Making the most of nature and getting involved in crafts is great for mental health, and supporting the health and wellbeing of our residents is a top priority for the council.
“I would like to invite everyone to come down and join us for what promises to be a fun filled day – you can even meet a superhero.”
Cllr Rory Green, Nottinghamshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children and Families, said:
“This is a such a great date in the calendar and it brings together organisations, local businesses, and local volunteer groups to celebrate the area’s heritage and wonderful outdoors.
“You can try your hand at a variety of crafts or see how you fare at tennis or bowls, and don’t forget there’s live music as well.
“Thank you to everyone behind the scenes who has been involved in the organising, it’s appreciated by all the residents.”
Getting there by car:
Top Entrance (Lawn Avenue, NG17 5FU):
- Use the one‑way system from the A38 onto Station Road and then Lawn Avenue. Exit via Albion Road. Extra parking will be available here on the day.
Bottom Car Park (Lucknow Drive, NG17 4LS):
- Disabled parking spaces will be available on a first come, first served basis.
Posted on 07 September 2026
