Fuel your creativity this December with our curated list of hot spots, carefully handpicked by the Framework team with creatives in mind.
From intimate dome-dining in the newly established Island Quarter to a crisp winter walk at Welbeck Estate, each experience offers a unique and inspiring experience right on your doorstep.
Dine in a festive dome
Where: Binks Yard
Dates: Throughout December
“It’s not often that you find dome-dining outside of London, but it’s great to see that Binks Yard has introduced it to Nottingham’s newly established Island Quarter for the Christmas season! Designed by local interior architecture and design studio Macaulay Sinclair, these cosy domes have Instagram written all over them and, with table service, your own heating and bluetooth speaker, I know where I’ll be going to escape the cold winter nights this month.”
Isobel, Account Manager
Take a festive walk through art history
Where: Welbeck Estate
Dates: Throughout winter
“There’s nothing like a crisp winter walk at Christmas, but if you’re wanting to incorporate some local history and fascinating art, Welbeck Estate is the perfect base. Starting at the Estate’s new Harley Art Trail, you can venture through the picturesque Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire countryside to the nearby Creswell Crags, home to prehistoric cave art dating back to the Ice Age.
Even better, when you return from your walk, you visit Welbeck’s incredible local farm shop where you can pick up a wide array of festive meats, cheeses and treats to complete your Christmas food shop.”
Paul, Technical Director
Your favourite Christmas songs by candlelight
Where: Nottingham Contemporary
Dates: 20th & 23rd December
“The Candlelight series has graced the Nottingham Contemporary with a variety of themed performances this year from Queen to Taylor Swift, so, of course Christmas, is no exception. What could be more festive than a room laced in burning candles whilst a string quartet angelically plays iconic Christmas songs in a multi-sensory musical experience? We’ll wait.”
Anisha, Account Manager
A Merry Vintage Christmas
Where: The Garage in Chilwell
Dates: Throughout December
“If you’re local to Beeston, Chilwell and Long Eaton, you would have definitely heard about The Garage in Chilwell – the old Barton Transport Limited bus garage come events venue. Every year they host a variety of festive events and this year is not looking to disappoint.
Their Christmas Markets always host a diverse selection of local businesses, from festive decor and gifts to antiques and artisan foods (Sunday 10th & 17th December).
Their Beer & Carols event looks to combine local craft beer and street food with contemporary carols (Sunday 10th December).
The Garage Christmas Party welcomes the local community for a one-off Christmas night out, complete with festive street food, cocktails, games, competitions and a brass band (Saturday 16th December)”
Maija, Account Manager
Don’t Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle
Where: Sneinton Market
Date: Saturday 16th December
“If, like many of us, you’re trying to shop a little more sustainably this year, then this might be the Christmas market for you. Dedicated to local artisans and small businesses who prioritise sustainability and ethical practices, it’s the perfect opportunity to snap up some last minute unique, thoughtful Christmas gifts!”
Missy, Junior Account Executive
Unmissable festive flicks
Where: Broadway Cinema, Hockley
Dates: Throughout December
“During the winter months there’s nothing better than cosying up and sticking on a Christmas film. Nottingham’s favourite indie cinema, Broadway in Hockley, is showing a variety of festive classics throughout the month. From Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” to the beloved Christmas comedy ‘Elf’. They even count Die Hard as a Christmas film!
And, because it’s located in the heart of Hockley, it’s a great excuse to finish the night off with a Christmas cocktail at one of the many independent bars or grab a mulled wine or cider at Nottingham’s Winter Wonderland.”
Stephan, Managing Director
Cosy Christmas cocktails
Where: Pepper Rocks
Dates: Whenever you fancy
“Not exactly a festive venue but if you’re looking for a cosy cocktail bar slap bang in the middle of town then Pepper Rocks is the spot for you. Low key music and an impressive (and affordable) range of cocktails and shots meant that last time we took a little visit, we slumped into the comfy sofas and stayed for not one, but three mid-week margaritas. Ouch!”
Christian, Marketing Director
Capture Christmas in the great outdoors
Where: Charnwood Forest Geopark
Dates: Throughout December
“Just outside of Nottingham, in the neighbouring county of Leicestershire, lies an extensive prehistoric geopark, a fantastic location to get you in the festive mood whilst embracing the outdoors. One of the most popular areas in the region, Bradgate Park, is home to herds of wild deer and ancient woodland. On snowy days it lends itself to some incredible winter photography!”
Luke, Creative Director
Immersive yourself in the 12 Days of Christmas
Where: Belvoir Castle
Dates: Throughout December
“A of Leicestershire, Belvoir Castle offers an immersive festive experience worth leaving the city for. Curated by Charlotte Lloyd Webber, the castle has been transformed into an opulent art installation that transports you into the world of the 12 Days of Christmas. Each room is thoughtfully designed to the very last detail, guaranteed to inspire and get your creative juices flowing!”
Izzie, Content Manager
See Christmas in a different light
Where: Wollaton Hall & Deer Park
Dates: Throughout December
“A firm staple for locals and families every Christmas is the magical Christmas at Wollaton experience at Wollaton Hall. This year introduced new designers who curated a brand new light trail made up of immersive installations and a mesmerising light show. It’s hard to not feel inspired by the Christmas spirit when you’re here!”
Alexa, Account Executive
