Nottingham Christmas Market 2026: Winter Wonderland

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; however, a coat and gloves are included in the ticket price. Enjoy a refreshing drink served in an ice glass as you take in the surroundings.

Food Specialties

• 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

• 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 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.

Sustainability Tips

• 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 as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.