Coates Road Auditorium

The Coates Road Auditorium sits on the edge of Nottingham, a proper local venue that punches above its weight for live entertainment. It's the kind of place where you might catch anything from comedy nights to tribute bands, theatre productions to dance performances - the sort of programming that keeps a community engaged without the flash and expense of the big city theatres. The building itself is functional rather than flashy, which is entirely the point.

If you're camped at one of the nearby sites - Holme Pierrepont or the Bell Tent Village are within easy reach - this is worth checking the schedule for. It's particularly good for families wanting a night out that won't bankrupt you, and it avoids the hassle of fighting through Nottingham's busier entertainment districts. The acoustics are decent enough, sight lines are reasonable from most seats, and there's genuine local character to an evening here.

You'll need to check their current programme online before visiting, as what's on changes regularly and admission fees vary by event. Most shows run two to three hours, so factor in parking time and a post-show drink somewhere nearby if you fancy it. The location is straightforward to reach from any of the caravan parks within a five-mile radius, making it a sensible addition to a Nottinghamshire break if the timing works out. Don't expect West End production values, but do expect honest entertainment at prices that won't sting.