The Dark Knight is heading back to his spiritual home as a Bat-Signal appears across Gotham village
If you thought Gotham was just a fictional city full of villains, corruption and the occasional billionaire vigilante, think again.
The Bat-Signal has been lighting up landmarks across Gotham village in Nottinghamshire, leaving locals scratching their heads and Batman fans losing it online. The glowing symbol has appeared on everything from St Lawrence Church to The Sun Inn, the village hall and even the village sign.
Thankfully, there’s a less sinister explanation than a Joker invasion.
It turns out die-cast model legends CORGI are behind the stunt as they prepare to celebrate both their 70th anniversary and World Batman Day on 19 September.
And they’re not doing things by halves.
A full-size replica of the iconic 1966 Batmobile will roll into Gotham, accompanied by Batman himself for photo opportunities. In what might be the easiest freebie Nottinghamshire has ever offered, the first 100 people who turn up dressed as Batman will also receive a free CORGI Batmobile model.
Wait… Gotham is a real place?
Yep. Gotham is an actual Nottinghamshire village, pronounced “Goat-em” by locals, and it’s long been linked to the Caped Crusader’s world.
In fact, Batman’s connection to Nottinghamshire runs deeper than you might think. Gotham village is widely believed to be one of the inspirations behind the name of Batman’s fictional Gotham City. The village became famous centuries ago thanks to tales of the “Wise Men of Gotham”, who supposedly pretended to be foolish in order to avoid attracting unwanted attention from King John. Those stories made Gotham a well-known name long before Batman existed. The name later became a nickname for New York City and was eventually adopted by Batman creators for the Dark Knight’s home. Add in the fact that nearby Wollaton Hall starred as Wayne Manor in The Dark Knight Rises, and Nottinghamshire might be about as close to Batman country as Britain gets.
A birthday party fit for a superhero
For CORGI, the event is a celebration of two icons.
The company first launched in 1956 and became famous for its miniature vehicles, earning the nickname “the ones with the windows” thanks to its innovative designs. Its Batmobile model remains one of the most recognisable toys the brand has ever produced and a favourite among collectors.
Guy Stainthorpe, CORGI Brand MD, said bringing the Batmobile to Gotham felt like the perfect way to celebrate the company’s 70th birthday.
He added that the aim was to create something special for fans, families and the local community, with the Bat-Signal, Batmobile and Batman himself all making an appearance.
How to see Batman in Nottinghamshire
The event takes place in Gotham village, Nottinghamshire, on Saturday 19 September 2026 between 10am and 1pm.
So if you’ve ever wanted to see Batman standing outside a Nottinghamshire pub, this might be your only chance.
