Mince pies have been filling the supermarket shelves since September and the moment the clock struck twelve on October 31st the pumpkins turned into glittering displays in store fronts across the land. After months of anticipation the big event is now just one week away, but if you're still looking for that perfect present, never fear! From high street favourites to designer boutiques and a plethora of cool and quirky independent retailers, Nottingham has everything to make your last-minute Christmas shopping merry and bright.
 

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The Lace Market, Hockley, & Snieton Market
 

These historic districts are the oldest parts of the city, each with a distinct character. The former industrial hub’s grand red brick warehouses and factories are now home to creative businesses, upmarket bars and a great selection of restaurants on the cinematic streets of the Lace Market. Here you'll find hidden gems like the charming Debbie Bryan Shop and Tea Room, which prides itself on seeking out unique British craftwork, including Nottingham lace, alongside creative workshops. The shop at Nottingham Contemporary art gallery is also a wonderful place to pick up unusal and quirky gifts, perfect for art lovers. 

Hockley exudes bohemian charm and buzzes day and night with an eclectic mix of quirky businesses. Vintage clothing emporiums nestle amongst second-hand bookshops and boutiques, stylish hair salons, tattoo studios and Rough Trade records. Seek out the quirky Cobden Chambers tucked away from the bustle of Pelham Street in a peaceful courtyard where creative independent businesses abound. Just on the outskirts of the district you'll find Delilah Fine Foods - a haven for foodies stocked to the rafters with incredible produce and the perfect place to seek out an incredible, edible gift. 

Sneinton Market is a treasure trove of creative businesses, artists, designers and artisan food producers. Wander along the avenues to find everything from stylish bespoke clothing, discerning dog accessories, unusual plants and handmade trinkets to DJ equipment and studio gear. Pick up amazing local produce directly where it’s created, from the award-winning Luisa's Vegan Chocolates which are handcrafted from bean to bar, to the award-winning Redsmith Gin produced on a one-of-kind hand-made copper still.

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Flying Horse Walk 
 

This hidden gem, tucked away between St Peter’s Gate and South Parade is steeped in history, taking its name from the 17th century Flying Horse Inn. The stylish walkway is now home to a variety of small boutique stores selling jewellery, unusual craft beers, and an amazing array of cheeses to upmarket designers such as Vivienne Westwood. Be sure to stop by Inspired Art Gallery who specialise in unique gifts by talented artists and designers, including framed prints, cards, jewellery, textiles and ceramics - and don't forget an all-important coffee pit stop at the award-winning 200 Degrees artisan coffee shop to keep up your energy levels. A bag of their seasonal blend The Roast of Christmas Present would make a great gift too. 

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The Exchange
 

Situated inside the city's historic Council House, the Exchange has been at the centre of Nottingham retailing for over 85 years and is the city’s oldest and most elegant shopping arcade. The centre now houses an unrivalled mix of 17 exclusive stores offering designer labels in fashion, gifts, art and home shops. With its mellow York Stone walls and magnificent 200ft high dome it’s a must-see destination, especially at Christmas, when the centre is justifiably renowned for its beautiful decorations which look truly splendid in the arcade's rich Edwardian setting. Here you'll find a range of luxury brands like Karen Millen and Dr Martens alongside one of the longest running independent companies in the city, Gauntleys Fine Wine, Whisky and Cigar Merchants, a family emporium ran by true experts and enthusiasts since 1880. 

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Derby Road
 

Venture a little off the beaten track and be rewarded with a range of quirky and charming independent shops ran with knowledge, passion and dedication. Wander up from Nottingham Cathedral and Nottingham Playhouse and find yourself on a sophisticated street that has maintained a culture of local business for decades, where the shops are high quality and often family-run businesses.

Get inspired with ideas to transform gardens and patios into magical spaces at The Worm That Turned, purveyors of both beautiful and useful items for your garden and home along with a plethora of gardening gifts.  

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Victoria Centre

At the Victoria Centre in the heart of the city you’ll find all your high street favourites under one roof, and as they're open until 8pm Monday to Saturday during the run up to Christmas (14th - 23rd of December), there’s plenty of time to shop until you drop. From department stores like John Lewis and House of Fraser to the biggest Boots store in the city where the international brand was created in over 150 years ago, there's no shortage of great options. Fashion fans will find favourites like Next, Levis, Office and Urban Outfitters, alongside smaller boutiques selling lingerie and jewellery. If you’re shopping for children there are a variety of toy shops and those aimed at a younger market, including Flying Tiger, Smiggle and The Entertainer.

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Winter Wonderland

No trip to Nottingham at Christmas would be complete without a visit to Winter Wonderland in the Old Market Square. With dozens of stalls to peruse, there's plenty of opportunities to pick up a prezzie or two, but there's so much more to enjoy. Start off with a glide around the outdoor ice rink (at ground level or above the crowd!) or enjoy the festive scene of the skaters from the safety of the sidelines with something delicious and warming in hand. Cosy up in the ski style chalet Sur La Piste bar or chill out in the incredible ice bar. Take a spin on the ferris wheel, or to tuck into great food from Melt & Grill, the in-house kitchen, while enjoying the live entertainment programme. To be sure of a seat for you and your pals you can book tables online in advance.

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This blog was written by Claire Jones, and updated by Jack Woolley, PR and Communications Specialist at Visit Nottinghamshire. A version of this feature was first published in December 2018.