The rides not to miss at this year's Goose Fair
Getty ImagesThousands of people will soon descend on Nottingham's famous Goose Fair hoping to enjoy an exhilarating ride, dose up on sweet treats or win a cuddly crocodile.
The fair, which dates back more than 700 years, returned to the Forest Recreation Ground in Nottingham on Friday and will run until 4 October.
A bumper event will bring more than 400 attractions to the fairground in 2026 across 10 days, including the tallest ride ever to attend Goose Fair.
The 80m (262ft) Skyfall, the world's tallest portable drop tower, will also be making a return after its popular debut in 2025.
To officially open the event, the traditional bell-ringing ceremony took place on Friday, with the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Cheryl Barnard, ringing the silver Goose Fair bells.
The ceremony also included a performance from the Djanogly City Academy choir, plus a reading from poet, researcher and seventh-generation showman, Sheldon Chadwick.
Along with rides for thrill-seekers, Goose Fair also features the Cake Walk – the only ride still operating that featured when the fair was held in Nottingham's Old Market Square in 1927.
Two sessions on both Sundays of the fair, from 12:00 to 13:00 BST, will allow children and people with special educational needs and disabilities to enjoy the fair without the loud noises and bright lights.
Here are some of the attractions at this year's event.
David Mellen, executive member for leisure, culture and tourism at Nottingham City Council, said this year's fair will bring a "fantastic mix of traditional favourites alongside exciting new rides and attractions."
"Goose Fair is not only a much-loved tradition, it also delivers significant benefits for Nottingham, attracting visitors from across the region, supporting local businesses and showcasing the city as a vibrant destination for events," he said.
The fair is facing some difficulty this year after the city's tram operator Nottingham Express Transit (NET) announced industrial action will take place over eight days from Saturday.
It will also coincide with the Robin Hood Half Marathon on Sunday.
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