Christmas

Home to festive markets, independent boutiques, cosy pubs, and sparkling events, spending Christmas in Nottinghamshire is a truly magical experience. From ice-skating to family pantomimes and theatrical extravaganzas, there is something for everyone to enjoy in the run-up to Christmas 2018.

One of the highlights of the festive programme is the Winter Wonderland in Nottingham's Old Market Square, which features the biggest Christmas market in the East Midlands. Wander through the traditional market stalls, treat yourself to a warming mulled wine or skate on the ice rink in the centre of the square. We once again welcome the French ski lodge-style Sur la Piste bar, where you can warm up with Bailey's hot chocolate and enjoy live entertainment whilst soaking in the festive atmosphere in the square. Those with an adventurous spirit willl love Bar Altitude, the all-glass chalet perched on high, serving up cocktails and panoramic views of the Christmas crowds below. There will also be a variety of children's rides, including a brand-new 30m toboggan slide. 

Christmas is a magical time at Newstead Abbey, experience the enchantment of a Storybook Christmas as fairy tales come to life in the lavishly decorated rooms of Lord Byron’s ancestral home. Explore the beautiful gardens on the Christmas trail, peruse the great gifts and gorgeous decorations in the gift shop or treat yourself to a traditional Christmas afternoon tea in the Victorian Kitchen. You might even meet Snow White, Prince Charming or Father Christmas himself!

Wollaton Hall will be decked out to the nines this Christmas, with festive family tours of the grand house and the charming Stories with Santa events running every weekend throughout December. Join them in the courtyard for a very special weekend on the 15 – 16 December, where the mulled wine will be flowing and the sounds of carols, a traditional bass band and Christmas readings will fill the air. Don’t forget to bring your four-legged friends to meet Santa Paws in the special Doggy Grotto.

Christmas Shopping

Hunting for those special gifts has never been such a delight. Along with a plethora of fantastic high street shops and independent boutiques, there are numerous festive markets taking place across Nottinghamshire - perfect for those who like to buy local and find unique presents.

The Welbeck Winter Weekend celebrates all things handmade with over 75 stalls in the art marquee, along with the chance to browse artist's studios, check out the latest exhibition at The Harley Gallery, indulge in delicious treats from the Welbeck Farm Shop. Taking place between 23 - 25 November, parking and entry is free! Winterfest returns to the beautiful Victorian riding hall at Thoresby Park on 24 -25 November with craft and food stalls, carol singing, crafty workshops from studio artists, and the chance to see the big man himself!

Theatre & Entertainment

Christmas wouldn’t be Christmas without a pantomime, and Nottingham is lucky to have a variety to choose from. Never-Never Land comes to the beautiful Theatre Royal, as they present Peter Pan featuring Joe Pasquale as Smee and none other than Only Fools & Horses Boycie as Captain Hook. A Nottingham legend comes to Nottingham Playhouse this year with Robin Hood & The Babes In The Wood giving you your festive fix of slapstick comedy, boos and hisses and all round silliness. Over at Motorpoint Arena, hit West End and Broadway musical Elf: A Christmas Spectacular brings its special brand of festive cheer on 28th - Sunday 30th December, featuring pop legend David Essex and singer Martine McCutcheon.

Christmas Parties

‘Tis the season to get jolly, and that means Christmas parties! Keep it classy at Hart’s Restaurant & Hotel on Wednesday 12 December with a divine 3 course dinner and entertainment from resident crooner Campbell Bass. Dine and dance the night away in the secluded splendour of a 16th century Tudor house at Holme Pierrepont Hall’s Winter Wonderland Christmas Party on Friday 7 December. Enjoy an ecclectic evening of entertainment over a sumptuous 3 course dinner at Tom Brown's Brasserie' Winter Ball Electric Cabaret on Saturday 24 December. Finally, Southbank City brings the party on Christmas Eve with their All Day Sing-a-long, featuring live music, DJs, and, of course, some charming Christmas jumpers.
 

With lots more events happening, see a full list of Christmas events 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!