Things to do in Nottingham over the Christmas Break
Whether you’re spending Christmas here in Nottingham or have travelled home a bit further away, you can find lots to get involved in this Christmas break, either online or here in the city.
From fulfilling your Christmas spirit in Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland to exploring the renowned attractions of the city as they are immersed in festive cheer, there’s no end of things for you to do.
Take a look below to find out what’s on offer.
Visit the renowned Winter Wonderland
Christmas in Nottingham isn’t the same without a visit to the Christmas Market. Found amongst the characteristic buildings of old market square, there stands a 60ft Christmas tree, rows of food huts, and an array of independent shops selling their handmade goods. You can also take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel to witness a festive sea of lights below you and look across the city landscape.
The market is open until Friday 31st December (opening times vary), so make sure you go on down to see everything on offer before it closes. It’s also the perfect place to find some last-minute gifts that are a little more special than a pair of socks. Though let’s be honest, we all love a pair of fun Christmas socks.
For more information, visit this link.
Venture through a Wollaton Hall Christmas
If you want to experience nature without travelling too far outside the city or you’re looking for a unique and wholesome festive experience, then head to Wollaton Hall this Christmas break. The hall grounds are lit up with an array of captivating light illuminations for you to journey through. You can even grab a mulled wine or hot chocolate to enjoy on your way around.
Get your tickets here or click to find out more.
Skate at the National Ice Centre
Whether you’re a skating pro, or sometimes need the help of a penguin (if you know, you know), skating at Christmas time is a staple part of the festive experience. Nottingham’s National Ice Centre is home to a huge rink, so there’s plenty of room for pirouettes or stumbles. Either way, you’ll no doubt have a fun time full of laughter.
Book your tickets here (opening times vary so be sure to check the website beforehand).
Follow the rabbit into Wonderland
A new immersive Alice in Wonderland theatre experience has opened for a limited time in Nottingham’s Victoria Centre. It includes dance, puppetry, music, and comedy, all presented as part of a modern adaptation of the beloved classic. If you’re looking for something unique and entertaining to do over the Christmas break, grab your ticket fast before they sell out.
The show will be in place until Thursday 30th of December. You can book your time slots online.
Tick off some of Nottingham’s top attractions
Nottingham is full of attractions that are well worth a visit, from taking a walk in Robin Hood’s footsteps, enjoying a beer at England’s oldest inn, adventuring under the city through hidden caves, and so much more. The Christmas break is a great time to go exploring and tick these off your bucket list.
Explore one of the many Galleries and Museums Nottingham has to offer
If it gets too chilly outside, there are many great museums and galleries in Nottingham you can explore whilst staying warm. Travel back in time to the courts of the past in the National Justice Museum, feel like royalty in the Nottingham Castle Museum, or explore an array of fascinating art exhibitions in Nottingham’s Contemporary Art Gallery.
What’s on campus?
Here’s what’s on offer from NTU over the Christmas break:
- NTU Sport will be running various virtual fitness classes over the winter break that you can join for free through Microsoft Teams. This is a great way to try something new and get your fitness fix until in-person classes resume.
The Global Lounge team will be running a series of in-person and virtual events throughout December, such as a movie night, winter warmers and more. The Lounge will also be open with reduced hours. You can find out more on how to get involved here.
- Your students support services are still here for you over the Christmas break.
If you find that your mental wellbeing is suffering, you can contact them in person or email them at student.support@ntu.ac.uk. You can find out more about opening times and how to get in contact here.
They will also be offering additional support between Christmas Eve and Tuesday 4th January. If you need help of any kind, you can contact the NTU Being on Campus helpline +44 (0)1158486060 (and select option 1) or email ntu.beingoncampus@ntu.ac.uk. The helpline voicemail and inbox will be checked regularly and are open to calls between 10 am and 2 pm every weekday except bank holidays.
For emergency support, any time of day, please call NTU security on 0115 941 8418.
Other on-campus facilities will be open with reduced hours, such as all libraries, faith facilities, gyms, and several catering facilities (City Boots Library Café, Clifton Barista, and Bracks Lyth Refectory).
Wherever you will be, we would like to wish you a Merry Christmas from us all at NTSU. We can’t wait to welcome you back on campus in the new year.
