Nottingham Christmas Market 2024: Winter Wonderland

If you want to experience on of the best Christmas markets in the UK, you’ll want to visit Nottingham Christmas Market, the official Winter Wonderland.

In this guide, you’ll find all the details for planning your visit, including dates, opening times and how to book tickets for the attractions.

Nottingham Christmas Market 2024

Dates – Unconfirmed

Nottingham Christmas Market dates: 12th November to 31st December 2024 (unconfirmed).

Expected Update: Last year’s dates were announced in late September. Want to know when dates are confirmed? Sign up for our newsletter to get notified as soon as they become available.

Source: Dates are obtained directly from the event organiser’s website, available here.

Plan Your Visit

Location and Times

Location: Old Market Square.
Christmas Day: Closed.

Market Stall opening times:
November:
Sunday to Thursday: 10am to 6:30pm.
Friday and Saturday: 10am to 8pm.
December:
Sunday to Thursday: 10am to 8:30pm.
Friday and Saturday: 10am to 9pm.
Tip: Some food stalls will re-open after Christmas for the New Year celebrations.

Observation Wheel opening times:
Monday to Friday: 11am to 11pm.
Saturday: 10am to 11pm.
Sunday: 10am to 10pm.
19th to 24th December:
Monday to Saturday: 10am to 11pm.
Sunday: 10am to 10pm.
Christmas Eve: 10am to 8pm.
Boxing Day: 10am to 8pm.
New Year’s Eve: 10am to 8pm.

Ice Bar opening times:
Monday to Friday: 12pm to 10pm.
Saturday: 10am to 10pm.
Sunday: 10am to 9pm.
19th to 24th December:
Monday to Saturday: 10am to 10pm.
Sunday: 10am to 9pm.
Christmas Eve: 10am to 8pm.
Boxing Day: 10am to 8pm.
New Year’s Eve: 10am to 8pm.

Travel and Accommodation

Public Transport: Old Market Square tram stop.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion. The closest parking is at Upper Parliament Street and Lace Market Council Car Park.
Where to stay: The Lace Market Hotel in central Nottingham.

Tickets and Attractions

Admission: Free.
Tickets: Certain attractions and the Ice Bar require tickets and it’s advisable to book in advance. Click here to find attractions and book. You can also book on the day at the event.
Payment: This is a mostly cashless event.

Christmas lights: Yes, switch on date: 6th November (unconfirmed).
Santa: Yes.
Ice skating: Yes. Skates are included in the ticket price or you can bring your own.

Attractions:
Market Stalls – The main attraction, open and free for all visitors. No tickets are required.
Sky Skate Ice Path – Glide through the Christmas markets and enjoy ice skating from an elevated perspective.
Ice Rink – The centrepiece of the square that is open for all ages.
Observation Wheel – Relax and take in panoramic views of the city from above on this 32-meter-high Ferris wheel.
Toboggan Slide – Suitable for all ages, tickets can be purchased on-site without needing advance booking.
Altitude – A rooftop bar where you can order food and drinks using your phone. It’s advisable to make reservations ahead of time.
Sur la Piste – This ski chalet-inspired bar offers extensive food options. Be sure to reserve a table in advance.
Ice Bar – Cool down in this unique bar adorned with ice-crafted furniture.
Helter Skelter Bar – Unwind and grab a drink while your children have fun on the slide. No tickets are required.

Dietary Options

Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten free: Yes, but limited.
Food specialities: Artisan cheese, chutneys and locally made stews.

Accessibility

Accessible: Most of the venue is accessibe. There is lift access to the first floor.
Pet-friendly: It’s encouraged to leave dogs at home due to the crowds. However, they are welcome in any outside area.

Convenient Hotels

I suggest staying in the Lace Market district or near Old Market Square. The Lace Market Hotel is highly rated and less than 10 minutes from Winter Wonderland.

The Lace Market is one of the trendiest areas of Nottingham. Many excellent restaurants, bars and shops are nearby, or you can eat at the hotel’s award-winning pub. It’s a really nice area to stay in.

There are few excellent, value-for-money places to stay in Nottingham. I’ve written a guide to help you find convenient hotels in Nottingham.

If you’re looking to visit other cities this winter, read our UK Christmas Markets List.

Winter Wonderland Location

From twinkling lights to festive foods, we love seeing your holiday adventures. Use #UltimateChristmasMarkets to share your moments with us!

What to Expect

About the Market

Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland is a traditional German-style market with all the interesting food, mulled wine, handmade gifts and decorations you would expect to find in Germany.

The traditional market stalls combine well with the less traditional events and activities the city puts on.

You can choose from family-friendly rides and attractions or meet friends for a drink at one of the winter bars.

Ice Bar Nottingham

At Ice Bar Nottingham, you can expect a unique experience. Upon entering, you’ll be greeted by intricate ice sculptures and a distinct alpine atmosphere.

With sub-zero temperatures, ensure you dress warmly, but a coat and gloves are provided in the ticket price. Enjoy a refreshing drink served in an ice glass as you take in the surroundings.

Food Specialties

You can expect various traditional German market foods at the market stalls alongside international street foods. Some of the typical offerings include:

• Bratwurst: German sausages that are often served with mustard or sauerkraut in a bun.
• Roasted Chestnuts: A classic winter treat, perfect for snacking while browsing the market stalls.
• Meat Roast: Tender, slow-roasted pork served in a soft bun with apple sauce or stuffing.
• Mulled Wine: A warm, spiced red wine synonymous with the season.
• Spiced Hot Chocolate: Rich hot chocolate infused with festive spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. In Nottingham, you can also order hot chocolate with a shot of your favourite liqueur.
• Crepes: Thin, French-style pancakes with sweet or savoury fillings such as Nutella, banana, ham, and cheese.
• Poffertjes: Small, Dutch pancakes typically served with a dusting of powdered sugar and a pat of butter. These are always amazing!
• Raclette: Melted Swiss cheese scraped onto potatoes, served with pickles and charcuterie.
• Gingerbread: Festive, spiced cookies in various shapes, often decorated with icing.

Gifts and Souvenirs

• Lace Products: Nottingham has a long history of lace production, dating back to the 18th century. You might encounter beautiful lace items such as clothing, tablecloths, and accessories that reflect the city’s heritage.
• Local Ales and Beers: Nottinghamshire is home to several breweries, so you may find locally crafted ales and beers, perfect for enjoying yourself or gifting to friends and family.
• Traditional Sweets: The region has a history of producing delicious confections like Nottingham Rock and Blueberry Bonbons.
• Handmade Pottery: Local artists and artisans may offer unique, handmade pottery that showcases the skills and creativity of Nottingham’s thriving arts community.
• Wooden Toys: Find traditional, high-quality wooden toys.
• Ornaments: Choose from a vast selection of festive ornaments and decorations to adorn your tree or home.
• Local Artwork: Support local artists by purchasing unique paintings, prints, or illustrations.
• Festive Clothing: Shop for seasonal clothing items like Christmas jumpers, hats, scarves, and accessories like gloves and socks.
• Gourmet Food: Sample and purchase local and international gourmet products, such as cheeses, cured meats, preserves, chocolates, and specialty drinks.
• Personalised Gifts: Choose from customisable items, like engraved ornaments, embroidered textiles, or bespoke jewellery.
• Eco-friendly Gifts: Browse a selection of environmentally friendly products, including reusable bags, beeswax wraps, and natural skincare items.
• Books and Stationery: Explore a variety of books, notebooks, calendars, and writing instruments, perfect for the bookworms and stationery enthusiasts in your life.

Things to Do in Winter

Alongside the markets, outdoor ice skating and the ice bar are some of the most popular winter experiences for everyone.

But of course, there are many other things to do in Nottingham. Here are some highlights to explore:

• Nottingham Castle: Discover the rich history of the newly renovated castle and learn about the legendary tales of Robin Hood.
• Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem: On those cold or rainy days, seek refuge in the oldest inn in England, located in Brewhouse Yard.
• The Lace Market: As one of the city’s oldest areas, the Lace Market serves as Nottingham’s Creative Quarter and hipster district. Explore a variety of restaurants, bars, and boutique shops, and be sure to visit Sneinton Market for some delicious street food.
• City of Caves: Find out about Nottingham’s subterranean history by exploring the network of caves beneath the city streets.
• Newstead Abbey: Just a short drive from the city centre, you can visit the ancestral home of the famous poet Lord Byron. Wander the grounds and marvel at the historic architecture.
• Wollaton Hall: Take a leisurely stroll through the stunning parkland surrounding Wollaton Hall, an impressive Elizabethan mansion. Keep an eye out for the resident deer as you explore the grounds.

Travel Information

For the latest information on winter events, Visit Nottinghamshire is a great resource.

Sustainability

By implementing the following sustainable practices, you can minimise your footprint and contribute positively to local communities:

• Shop Ethically: Purchase only what you genuinely need, and opt for eco-friendly or locally-made products whenever possible.
• Use Sustainable Transportation: Walk, cycle, or use public transport to explore the city and reduce carbon emissions.
• Stay in Green Hotels: Choose hotels that prioritise sustainability and are powered by renewable energy sources.
• Reduce Plastic Usage: Avoid single-use plastics and purchasing items made or packaged with plastic materials.
• Eat Local and Organic: Seek out restaurants and food vendors that offer locally sourced, organic ingredients to support regional farmers.
• Limit Meat and Dairy Consumption: Order plant-based meals when possible to decrease your environmental impact.
• Support Local Arts and Events: Attend performances, exhibitions, and other events that showcase the talents of local artists and performers.

If you have any questions or comments about visiting, please leave a comment below.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.