At East Midlands Airport, we’re busy creating a vibrant social hub designed to meet every traveller’s needs, with spaces to relax, work or socialise. As with all our Escape Lounges, the new East Midlands lounge will tell its own unique story, reflecting the character of the region throughout. When the lounge reopens in April, you’ll be able to step into a thoughtfully designed space where local history and nature intertwine to bring you an escape to remember.

Four zones to create a space for every traveller

The newly renovated Escape Lounge at East Midlands Airport is split into four zones – The Arcade, The Fair, The Arboretum and The Cavern – each representing a unique element of the local area. Combined, the zones form an engaging experience that will connect you with the local heritage and culture of the East Midlands region. The new lounge has something for every traveller, whether you want relaxation and contemplation before your flight, or communal areas for socialising and networking.

The Arcade - a calm and ambient space filled with light

The Arcade is inspired by Nottingham’s Lace Market and Leicester’s many textile firms. A mural stretches across one end of the lounge, showcasing elements from local culture, architecture and the history of the East Midlands, and local artwork adorns the walls.

The warm colour palette creates a welcoming area with a range of seating options, giving you a peaceful place to sit and work or connect with fellow travellers while you wait for your flight.

The Fair – a vibrant, engaging space for groups and families

The Fair is inspired by Leicester’s Diwali festival – the largest outside of India – as well as Nottinghamshire’s Goose Fair. It captures the bustling, playful atmosphere of the traditional fair, complete with community spirit, and acts as a vibrant social hub that can be used by families and groups.

The Fair’s muted tones are complemented by wall art representing the vibrancy of Diwali and Goose Fair, as well as the folklore of Robin Hood, to create an active and engaging space. Goose Fair is also represented in the branded cushions and typographic branding on the wall.

The Arboretum – a tranquil, earthy zone for dining

The Arboretum dining area forms the central zone of the lounge, and is inspired by Sherwood Forest and its historical icon, the largest oak tree in Britain. It has an earthy, neutral colour scheme with lots of plants to give it a natural feel. It’s a tranquil space where you can sit back and imagine you’re in nature.

Pocket chairs sit alongside a banquette with feature lighting. A central walkway splits the banquettes, with a reeded glass partition to create a focal point for the dining area. The Arboretum is finished with artwork by a local print artist.

The Cavern – a quiet bar area inspired by local caves

The final zone, the Cavern, contains the bar. It has a cooler, darker feel, with earthy tones to evoke the unique caves of the East Midlands, from the prehistoric Creswell Crags to Robin Hood’s Cave. Ambient lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere where you can enjoy your favourite drink before your flight.

We’re delighted that our newly refurbished bar will serve drinks from two new local partners: Dam Raider Gin, from Lincolnshire Coastal Distillery, and Lord Marples Classic Bitter, from Thornbridge Brewery.

Our Escape Lounge at East Midlands Airport reopens in April, but you can pre-book your visit now. We can’t wait to welcome you back soon!