Explore Nottingham and discover Christmas

Nottingham’s Christmas countdown has officially begun. The lights have been switched on and the Victoria Centre Ice Rink on Old Market Square is in full swing. It’s time to start shopping.

If you’ve not thought about Christmas yet (or tried not to), let alone what to buy the person who has everything, the annual Frankfurt German Christmas Market beside the outdoor ice rink is a good place to start for great gift ideas that don’t cost the earth.

It boasts a range of goodies to suit all pockets with traditional food and crafts and runs right up until 21 December. Treat yourself to a glass of Glühwein and a snack from one of the stalls on Long Row, Smithy Row or in front of the Council House.

Pop into the Nottingham tourism centre (Ntc) where local food products, from honey and pickles, to coffee and chocolate, make ideal gifts for friends and family at home or away. You can buy individual items or choose your own bespoke hampers. There’s also a Christmas Craft and Gift Market just outside the Ntc from 19-23 December for last minute gift buying inspiration.

In Waterstone’s Nottingham, View from the Top Christmas Gift Markets on 5-7, 12-14 and 19-21 December bring together artists and designer-makers of unique gifts. Then there’s the regional Fine Foods market from 19-20 December on Old Market Square, with up to 40 stalls offering seasonal delights for a festive feast with a local flavour.

Add to this craft fairs and farmers’ markets across Nottinghamshire taking place throughout the festive season. Visit Worksop, Retford and Newark town centres and attractions like Clumber Park and the Harley Gallery. Enjoy Victorian themed nights in Nottingham, 10 December and Mansfield, 16 December.

They're all listed on christmasinnotts.com to guide shoppers and provide inspiration with details of all the season’s highlights. Alternatively, you can pick up a leaflet from the Nottingham tourism centre or various shops, hotels and restaurants, as well as tourism centres across the county, to find out what’s going on.

Helen Leach, Communications Leader at Experience Nottinghamshire, the tourist board that’s backing this countywide Christmas campaign, said:

“Shopping locally this Christmas is a great way to explore the county, find the perfect gift and take part in the many festive happenings all at the same time. There’s so much going on that we can all enjoy, whether we live in the city and travel to one of Nottinghamshire’s historic market towns or vice versa, it’s about rediscovering the magic of Christmas and finding it all on your doorstep. Plus, you don’t have to spend a fortune to have fun and do your shopping at the same time.

“In the next few weeks there’s so much going on, from First Wednesday and 1 Big Night Out to Victorian themed nights in Nottingham and Mansfield, plus the chance to meet Santa wherever you are in the county. So, don’t miss out and pick up a Christmas leaflet or visit the website today.”

The website also provides information about family entertainment this Christmas, including places to see Santa, pantomimes and shows. There are late night shopping times, places to eat and drink, car parking and transport tips. Plus, each week there are chances to win great prizes, from tickets to pantos and shows, to a luxury shopping break in Nottingham.

So don’t miss out - Explore Nottinghamshire Discover Christmas.