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The Christmas holidays are just around the corner, and Nottinghamshire County Council has unveiled its ‘top picks’ for festive activities across the county.

There are a variety of family-friendly events taking place throughout the school holiday period to help you plan some festive fun.

The council’s Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) local offer website also has a range of SEND activities available, including arts and crafts, sports, and hobbies. There is also information available about youth groups, days out, and support groups, keeping active as a family, and the Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programme available for children who receive benefits-related free school meals.

Councillor Scott Carlton, Cabinet Member for Communities and Public Health at Nottinghamshire County Council, said:

“This festive season is the perfect time to get together with loved ones and explore some of the fantastic places and events happening in Nottinghamshire. From supporting your child’s holiday reading at your local library, to meeting Santa at Rufford Abbey, or even taking on the high ropes for some Christmas Eve fun at Adventures, there’s plenty to do over the holidays.”

Wrap up warm and enjoy a winter walk at one of Nottinghamshire’s many country park and green spaces. To find a walking and cycling route or local green space visit the county council’s website at www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/walking .

Cllr Carlton added:

“Winter can also be a tough time for many people’s health, both mentally and physically. Something as simple as a walk and fresh air can give you a boost, and events like the Elf Garden Christmas Trail at Rufford Abbey Country Park or learning about myths and legends at Sherwood Forest are a great way to get out and about this winter.

“Nottinghamshire has a wide range of wonderful activities to share with your family over the Christmas holidays and beyond. I hope everyone has a happy and healthy holiday season and has a chance to explore what our county has to offer.”

For more information on events and activities this winter, visit the Nottinghamshire County Council website. Share your wintery ‘top picks’ on social media using the hashtag #ExploreNotts.

Featured events for the Christmas holidays include:

Elf Garden Christmas Trail

Rufford Abbey Country Park

Saturday 7 December until Sunday 5 January

10am to 3pm

£1.50 per trail, includes a prize.

Specially crafted for this magical time of year, the Elf Garden Christmas Trail invites children and families to explore the formal gardens in search of Santa’s playful elves, who are hiding there.

Whether you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity or simply want to immerse yourself in the holiday magic, the trail promises an unforgettable experience for all ages. Don’t miss out on this family-friendly Christmas adventure!

Purchase your trail sheets and collect prizes from the Courtyard Gift Shop.

Visit the Rufford Abbey Country Park website for more information and events.

A Christmas Tour of Sherwood Forest with the Sheriff of Nottingham

Sherwood Forest

Saturday 21 December

11am to 12.30pm

Booking required

Adults: £7.50 (£6 RSPB members) Children: £7.50 (£6 RSPB members)

Notorious for cancelling Christmas, this year the Sheriff is in a much more Festive mood!

Join him as he winds his way through Sherwood’s ancient oaks and recounts the Yuletide traditions of the Medieval era – the Christmasses that Robin Hood himself would have enjoyed… if the Sheriff had allowed it, that is!

Myths and Legends with the Master at Arms

Sherwood Forest

Saturday 28 December

1pm to 2.30pm

Booking required

Adults: £7.50 (£6 RSPB members) Children: £7.50 (£6 RSPB members)

Join William De Tankerville, the Sheriff of Nottingham’s Master at Arms, as he takes you on a tour of the majestic Greenwood, sharing stories of Medieval life and, of course, Robin Hood.

For all events and to book online, visit the Sherwood Forest website.

Celebrate with an Adventurous Twist!

Adventures

Open every weekend in December - and now open Monday 23 and Tuesday 24 December!

Prices vary per activity.

Gather your family, friends, or brave solo explorers and join us at Kings Mill Reservoir for outdoor excitement you won’t forget.

Explore activities on the Adventures website.

Winter Mini Reading Challenge

Inspire Libraries

Sunday 1 December to Thursday 20 February

Free

The Winter Mini Challenge is back! This FREE online challenge invites children, aged 4 to 11 to read three books or more, between 1 December and 20 February, to earn digital rewards.

Visit the Inspire website for more information and to see what’s happening in your local library.