Christmas

With its festive markets, boutiques and independent shops and sparkling events spending Christmas in Nottinghamshire is a truly magical experience. From ice-skating to family pantomimes and theatrical extravaganzas, not to mention the chance to meet Santa Claus in his Grotto, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the run-up to Christmas 2017.

One of the highlights of the festive programme is the Winter Wonderland in Nottingham's Old Market Square. Browse the traditional market stalls, treat yourself to a warming mulled wine or skate on the ice rink in the centre of the square. Just a short walk away, at Intu Broadmarsh, you can also visit Santa at his festive Grotto.

Head to Nottingham Castle and pick up a vintage gift in the museum shop or a traditional decoration in the gatehouse’s Christmas shop. Enjoy a mince pie, mulled wine and the festive fayre in the Castle Café or treat yourself to a deliciously festive afternoon tea. As night falls on 3 and 10 December, collect your lantern at the gate and hear the Castle’s intriguing history as you wander the grounds and descend into the caves by candlelight, warming up with some festive refreshments afterwards.

There's also plenty to see and do at Wollaton Hall this festive season with storytelling: either a ghost tale in the depths of the Hall on 2 December or a night of Dickens by the fireside on 22 December, both with festive refreshments.

See Sherwood Forest’s ancient oak trees in a whole new light as you take a walk through the illuminated forest during Sparkling Sherwood. Other firm favourites of the season are the Holme Pierrepont Hall Christmas Fairand Winterfest: Christmas Arts & Crafts which takes place at the beautiful Thoresby Estate. Or step back in time and enjoy a traditional Victorian Christmas at Newstead Abbey - Lord Byron's ancestral home - with activities throughout November and December.

Many of our attractions will also be open between Christmas and New Year if you want to work off some of those treats during the holiday.

Find out what else is happening by clicking on our dedicated Christmas What's On listings and New Year's Eve pages. Don't forget to share your Notts Christmas experiences with us via our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages using the hashtag #LoveNotts.

Ho-ho-ho-pe you have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year in Nottinghamshire!