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Christmas would not be complete without a visit from Santa Claus - and we've heard a rumour that the man in red will be calling in at some of Nottinghamshire's best-loved attractions.
At this magical time of year youngsters will be able to see Santa in his grotto and tell him what they would like for Christmas. And, as an extra special treat, they may even receive a small present to take home with them.
So, take a look at some of the places you can see Santa in Nottinghamshire this year.
Children will have the chance to meet Santa or his friends at the Nottingham Castle this festive season. Children can step into a winter wonderland and find Santa's Grotto to meet the big man himself. With the Christmas Community event, a Festive Afternoon Tea, and a chance for children to meet Santa, there’s something for everyone.
Make magical memories this Christmas and have breakfast with Santa at Holiday Inn Nottingham on 12 December. Start the day with a delicious festive breakfast, before enjoying festive entertainment and a very special visit from Santa himself with all the family.
Who would have thought Santa's Winter Hideaway would be hidden in the caves of Creswell Crags! On Saturdays from 28 November to 19 December, venture through the gorge with Santa's helpers, be engorged by their festive tales and stories of the Ice Age and create your own festive souvenir in Santa’s Workshop. Will you find his Ice Age hideaway and meet the man himself? A magical gift might just be waiting for you! Hiding away in the cold wintery caves, you might also come across the Abominable Snowman on 29 November and 13 December. Don't worry he might be a little mysterious but he is very friendly - he may even surprise you with a magical gift!
Santa is making his highly anticipated return to Rufford Abbey Country Park this festive season, bringing magic and joy to children and families alike. On weekends from 28 November to 20 December, Monday 21, Tuesday 22 and Wednesday 23 December, their enchanting Santa's Grotto promises to be a highlight, creating lasting memories. Step into a world of holiday wonder, where children can meet Santa and receive a special gift to take home and cherish.
Step into the magic of christmas at Rufford Mill and tuck into a festive feast to remember. With this Christmas brunch on Saturday 5 & Sunday 13 December and a very special visit from either Cindy Lou and the mischievous Grouch, or the enchanting Ice Queen and Ice Princess, who will be putting on an enchanting show, you’re set for a day full of festive cheer.
It might not be Santa or his trusty elves, but you can head to Thoresby Park this December and tuck into a delicious breakfast with some of you favourite characters. Have Breakfast with Disney princesses, Elsa, Anna, Belle & Cinderella on Saturday 12 December, join Buzz, Woody, Bo Peep and Jessie for a Toy Story themed breakfast on Sunday 13 December or have a duck-tastic Breakfast with Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy and Santa's Elf on Sunday 20 December or Monday 21 December.
Father Christmas is waiting for you at Manor Farm Park's Christmas Woodland Wonderland from 29 November to 24 December. Packed full of festive suprises, there's no doubt it will be a fantastic family day out. From meeting Santa, feeding his reindeer and decoraring gingerbread with Mrs. Clause to ice skating, riding the carousel and Christmas pantomime, there's endless amounts of fun to be had!
At The Renaissance at Kelham Hall the festivities know no bounds and as the Hall gets transformed for Christmas, Santa’s Grotto appears. On Sunday 29 November the little ones can meet Santa, share their Christmas wish and take home a special early Christmas gift. Children will also have the chance to get up close with Santa’s reindeer and meet princesses Anna and Belle for a royal festive moment.
Join Santa on his Steam Train and go on an adventure through the Nottinghamshire countryside. On various dates between 5 & 22 December the train journey will be full of festive entertainment from Santa, Mother Christmas and their cheerful elves. Every child will receive a special plush steam engine gift from Santa, along with a Christmas activity book, juice and a festive baked treat, while adults can enjoy a traditional mince pie and get into the festive spirit while taking in the stunning views.
Experience the magic of an Indoor Christmas Market in Clipstone's iconic powerhouse on 5 December, nestled beneath the world’s tallest headstocks. Enjoy good food, festive drinks, and live music as you browse a wonderful selection of unusual gifts perfect for the season. With a chance to say hello to Santa and a maybe even a small treasure to receive, this could be a magical day.
Ruddington comes alive on 5 December with the Christmas Craft Fayre at the Framework Knitters Museum. Children can meet Santa in his cosy Victorian grotto, while parents explore a festive craft market in the Chapel Gallery, showcasing handmade seasonal gifts. The Parker’s Yard café remains open, serving hot drinks, seasonal treats, and hearty meals throughout the day.
Click here for more Christmas events in and around Nottinghamshire!
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