Rufford Abbey's packed festive schedule includes Santa's Grotto and magical Christmas trail

Nottingham is undoubtedly one of the most festive cities in the UK. The Christmas Market alone draws in thousands of visitors every year.

But when the hustle and bustle of the busy city gets too much, sometimes you need to hop in the car and escape. And one of our favourite places for a day out (with or without the kids) is Rufford Abbey Country Park in Ollerton.

Just a 40-minute drive from the city, Rufford Abbey has a packed schedule of fun (and free!) things to do this Christmas.

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Christmas cabins

Those on the hunt for the perfect Christmas gift can wander through the Christmas Cabins in the festive market, brimming with unique gifts, crafts, and delicious treats.

Christmas trail

Those looking to explore the ancient grounds can follow the Christmas trail around the Abbey.

All Christmas activities will be open every weekend until 23rd December with the trail staying open for an extended period of time to accommodate the end of the school holidays.

Event Details:

• Date: 25th November – 23rd December trail open until the New Year
• Time: 10 am – 4 pm

Food and drink

Visitors can also indulge in the festive spirit with delightful food and drinks offerings – the Christmas Cabin within the Christmas Market offers turkey, stuffing, and cranberry subs, loaded potato wedges, marshmallow snowmen, churros with warm chocolate sauce, and festive cupcakes.

Santa's Grotto

Members of the local community can treat themselves to luxury hot chocolates, churros with warm chocolate sauce, and hot drinks from the ice-cream parlour situated in the entrance to Santa’s Grotto.

Those craving an escape from the winter chill can savour the warmth of festive mulled wine and ciders, or choose from a selection of Peroni, mini bottles of wine, and prosecco to add a touch of sparkle to your day.

Mulled wine for the grown-ups

Kirsty Edwards, Contract Manager at Rufford Abbey has said: “We were absolutely thrilled to have kicked off our festive period this weekend with the arrival of Santa. It was a brilliant turnout and people looked to have really enjoyed themselves.

"There truly is something for everyone at our events – mulled wine for the adults and Christmas trails for the little ones form part of this year’s celebration which is going to be our biggest and best yet. We can’t wait for everyone to join us for the rest of the season!”