It’s pretty obvious why many of us choose to stay indoors during the winter months.
The cold weather, short days and general feeling of misery all contribute to an urge to hibernate until the first signs of spring.
But let’s be fair: winter can also be the best time of year to spend time outside.
On those rare occasions when the frost is thick and the sun is bright, we can be treated to some truly breathtaking winter scenery.
In a rural county like Nottinghamshire, those picturesque winter scenes are even more special.
Step into one of the county’s magical villages on one of these crisp December days and you’ll be treated to views comparable to the Swiss Alps or Canadian Rockies.
Throw in a hot chocolate and a mince pie and you’ll be living the ultimate winter life.
We’ve picked out 8 chocolate-box Nottinghamshire villages that you definitely need to explore this winter.
Discover them below:
1. Bleasby
Just a short walk from the River Trent, Bleasby is a typical English village. Home to just 840 people, the centre point of the village is the Waggon and Horses pub. The pub has been serving locals since 1832, with its low ceilings perfectly capturing that rustic charm - perfect for warming up on a cold December day! | Robert Graham Photo: Robert Graham
2. Barnby-in-the-Willows
Barnby-in-the-Willows is a quaint village within the Newark and Sherwood district. Places to visit include the parish church, which dates back to the 13th century, while the River Witham runs to the south of the village, forming the border with Lincolnshire. | Richard Croft Photo: Richard Croft
3. 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. | Roger Geach Photo: Roger Geach
4. Fiskerton
Nestled on the banks of the River Trent, Fiskerton is a village ideal for a daytrip this December. The Bromley at Fiskerton pub, which overlooks the fire, boasts a roaring fire where visitors can shelter from the elements. | Trevor Littlewood Photo: Trevor Littlewood