November may officially be the final month of autumn, but there’s no denying that things are starting to feel very wintry.
Whether it be a thick layer of frost first thing in the morning or darkness descending by 4pm, the initial hallmarks of winter are often present by mid-November.
If you’re someone who tends to hibernate during the winter months, attempting to brave the cold and dark days by leaving the house can be something of a challenge.
But winter is actually the perfect time to dust off your walking boots and experience the very best of Nottinghamshire.
Our county’s many villages come into their own in the lead up to Christmas, with cute light displays, cosy pubs and frost-covered countryside.
We’ve hand-picked 15 chocolate-box Nottinghamshire villages that are well worth a daytrip this November.
Discover them in the gallery below:
9. Laxton
Laxton, not far from Newark, has a population of only 450 but boasts plenty of reasons to visit. It has UK farming's last remaining working open-field system, which dates back to medieval times, and it is home to the national Beth Shalom Holocaust Centre, which has an exhibition area, theatre and memorial gardens. The village also features the remains of a Norman castle. Photo: Submitted
10. Colston Bassett
Colston Bassett, which sits close to the border with Leicestershire, has just been named one of the 54 most posh villages in the country by the 'Daily Telegraph'. Thanks to its desirable location and excellent amenities, its average house price is a massive £786,955. Those amenities include a school, the popular Martin's Arms pub and a spa. Photo: Submitted
11. Owthorpe
Owthorpe, part of the parish of Cotgrave, is a peaceful and sleepy village with fewer than 120 residents. It has a rich heritage, having appeared in the 1086 Domesday Book, and boasts an unusual grade I listed church, next to where the manor house, Owthorpe Hall, seat of the famous Hutchinson family, once stood. Photo: Submitted
12. Kelham
Kelham, about three miles north-west of Newark, might be a tiny village of about 250 people. But it is also home of the grand Kelham Hall (pictured), which is considered a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture. Indeed its design inspired the facade of St Pancras railway station in London. Set in 42 acres of stunning gardens, it is now a wedding and events venue. Photo: David Hallam-Jones