‘It’s like nothing I’ve seen’: Festive garden centre near Nottinghamshire has ‘jaw-dropping’ Christmas display

We can now officially say that Christmas Day is next month, which in itself is something of a milestone.

How early you start celebrating Christmas ultimately hinges on personal preferences, with some deciding that November 1 is the correct time to start decorating the tree.

If you’re someone who loves Christmas and the build-up to the big day, the start of November can be seen as open season.

From Christmas markets to light switch-ons, over the next few weeks we’ll start seeing an uptick in festive events.

It may come as a surprise, but those in search of festive vibes should view garden centres as a means of getting an early Christmas fix.

At this time of year, garden centres up and down the country are transformed into a winter wonderland, selling all kinds of festive homeware.

The vast majority of garden centres will have Christmas displays of some description, but it’s fair to say that some are better than others.

One garden centre in particular, just a short drive from Nottinghamshire, has earned a reputation for producing one of the best Christmas displays in the Midlands.

The ‘incredible’ Christmas display at Gates Garden Centre

When it comes to searching for Christmassy vibes in the lead up to the big day, you’ll do well to find many better places than Gates Garden Centre in Oakham.

The garden centre’s huge festive display has been an annual fixture since 1948, with thousands of visitors each year.

Such is the popularity of the centre’s Christmas department, early October opening dates are commonplace.

Stocking everything from trees and tinsel to lights and card and crackers, the department is brimming with festive goodies.

Perhaps the most eye-catching part of the centre’s festive display is its collection of cute Lemax model figurines, which only adds to the seasonal vibe.

From miniature train stations and cottages to Santa’s workshop and fairground rides, the sight of these Christmassy models is worth the visit alone!

A visitor impressed with last year’s Christmas display told Google Reviews: “Christmas time is the best time to visit Gates.

“Their collection of Christmas ornaments and decorations is second to none.

“It really is a grand day out visiting here. I highly recommend coming here.”

Gates Garden Centre Oakham is open between 8am and 5.30pm Monday to Saturday and 9am and 5pm on Sundays.