Your tree is up, the high streets are full of crazed shoppers, and you can’t move for cinnamon spiced drinks and snacks – Christmas is well and truly in the air, but what if you’re not feeling quite in the spirit of it all yet? Well, fear not, because we have rounded up the very best sights, sounds and seasonal treats that are sure to have you singing Mariah in your Christmas Jumper in no time.
So get cosy, get your calendar out and start planning – here’s our guide to getting festive in Nottingham!
See & Do
For a truly magical Christmas in Nottingham, pay a visit to the Nottingham Christmas Market. Traditional chalet style market stalls are trading along Long Row and Smithy Row, offering a chance for some alternative Christmas shopping with a choice of gifts, crafts, and speciality food. The 60ft Christmas tree in the Old Market Square is a focal point for the city’s celebrations, along with a giant observation wheel to whisk visitors 33m up into the air, with stunning views over the city’s rooftops.
For those who prefer to stay closer to ground level, there is a new Après Ski themed pop-up bar and a traditional carousel lighting up the square. Don’t forget to also visit Trinity Square where you’ll find a charming Christmas Village with a number of igloo-style glass domes.
Christmas at Wollaton Hall is giving all the festive feels this year, as the gardens are transformed into a magical wonderland through a discovery trail with light, sound and fire – as twilight descends, Wollaton Hall turns into an enchanting world of awe inspiring illuminations. This unique socially distanced outdoor light installation is an enchanting winter paradise with four magical lands, including a fairy-lit wintry woodland, a festive forest, a stunning light tunnel and ethereal sculptures. Alongside the dazzling light display, visitors can enjoy festive food and drink and shop for that perfect present at the seasonal market.
Eat & Drink
Of course the Christmas Markets in Nottingham are full of deliciously warming Christmassy treats for you to enjoy. From Dutch pancakes to hog roasts and warm crepes, there’s a range of festive fare available. Having trouble choosing between the raclette stall or the Yorkshire pudding wraps? Best visit more than once! All of this is best washed down with a tipple from the pop-up bars. We love a warming mulled wine whilst taking in the twinkling lights.
If you’re after something special, add a little ooh la la to your Christmas party at French restaurant, Le Mistral. Their Christmas menu features mini camemberts and smoked salmon roulade to start, followed by mains ranging from traditional turkey dinner to dishes with a French or European twist – Ribeye Steak & Bleu d’Auvergne, anyone?
And finally, to feel well and truly in the winter spirit we recommend a trip out to Tom Brown’s Brasserie in Gunthorpe for a drink in their outdoor – heated – Alpine Lodge. Why not join us this Christmas for a Festive Drink in our Heated Alpine Lodge. It’s the perfect place to meet a few friends or family for a Winter Warmer or one of their fantastic Christmas Cocktails, surrounded by cosy soft furnishings, rugs and faux fur blankets. Don’t miss their new cocktail trees if you want to get the party started!
