While the temperatures may be dropping and it's tempting to want to hibernate through the colder months, a crisp walk through a winter wonderland can be the perfect way to enjoy the festive season.
Whether it's a romantic stroll on Christmas Eve followed by a glass of mulled wine, a family outing on Christmas Day to walk off the turkey and chocolate or a fresh way to start the new year, here are some of our top picks for walks in Nottinghamshire.
Get wrapped up and enjoy and don't forget to vote your favourite in the poll at the end.
Wollaton Park, NG8 2AE
A firm favourite among people in the city and wider region, at Wollaton Park you will find a wealth of natural beauty perfect for a cosy winter walk.
The famous hill leading down from the Grade 1 listed Wollaton Hall is the go-to spot when snow hits Nottingham with hundreds gathering for a sledge ride.
But on quieter days, Wollaton Park has a number of beautiful walks to take in the historic grounds, spot the native deer and then you can head over to one of the two cafes to warm up.
To get extra festive, the Christmas Lantern Adventure Tour is taking place on weekend days throughout December for £6 per person (booking required) and there is also the Christmas Outdoor Trail happening daily in the formal gardens for £2 per person.
Times: Park grounds open Monday to Friday from 8am and at weekends and bank holidays from 9am. Closing times vary on time of year.
Access: Ample parking available for £3 to £5. The NCT 30 bus service runs to the main entrance from the city centre.
Highfields Park, NG7 2RD
Visitors to Highfields can explore 21 hectares of land filled with trees, exotic plants and water features.
While it's a popular summer spot thanks to the boating lake, winter offers a different view of the grounds, located at the University of Nottingham campus.
Walk around the lake and enjoy the views towards the Trent Building, with plenty of Instagrammable moments along the way.
All available just a short tram ride from the city centre.
Times: The park is open daily.
Access: Parking is limited in the area. There are two free car parks near the Lakeside Arts Centre and there is pay and display within the University campus. Nearest car parks are near the south entrance to the campus.
Clumber Park, S80 3AZ
With over 3,800 acres to explore the National Trust site is full of wintry opportunities. Whether you fancy a leisurely stroll or are looking to get active before the new year Clumber Park provides the perfect backdrop.
The Discovery Centre and Ranger teams regularly run specialist workshops and walks for nature lovers.
The much-loved parkrun will be going ahead on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve between 9am and 10am (booking essential).
Times: Daily 10am-4pm (closed Christmas Day), ticket prices from £2
Access: Parking available throughout park. The Sherwood Arrow service by Stagecoach runs from Worksop and Nottingham. Alight at Piper Lodge on the B6034.
Sherwood Forest, NG21 9RN and Sherwood Pines, NG21 9JL
Two equally beautiful Nottinghamshire forests located a little further out of the city, but ideal for getting into the festive spirit.
Delve into the historic Sherwood Forest with the Winter Solstice walk to the Major Oak on December 21 and 22 or take part in a New Year's Eve guided walk to uncover the legend of Robin Hood alongside the Sheriff of Nottingham.
If you're looking to pick out the perfect Christmas tree look no further than Sherwood Pines (available until December 15) where you can also take in the evergreen forest along its many trails.
Times: Sherwood Forest visitor centre open 10am to 4.30pm (Nov to Feb) and 5pm (Mar to Oct).
Sherwood Pines is open daily 8am to 6pm in Winter and until 10pm in Summer.
Access: Parking For Sherwood Forest £4 to £6, free to RSPB members. The Sherwood Arrow bus service runs hourly from Victoria bus station in Nottingham.
Parking for Sherwood Pines between £2 and £6. The Stagecoach 14 and 15 buses run regularly from Mansfield bus staion.
Attenborough Nature Reserve, NG9 6DY
The award-winning visitor and education facility managed by the Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust is a haven for birds and other species.
There are miles of nature trails for people to enjoy all year round but especially in winter it becomes the perfect frosty scene.
Work off the mince pies and pigs in blankets or indulge in more treats at the cafe.
Times: The nature reserve is open from 7am until dusk, daily.
The visitor centre is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. Weekends, 9am to 6pm. No entry fee.
Access: Car park available for a £3 donation.
The Trent Barton Indigo bus service runs regularly from Nottingham city centre to the reserve.
Newstead Abbey, NG15 8NA
A beautiful historic house set in a glorious landscape of gardens and parkland Newstead Abbey was founded as a monastic house in the late 12th century.
It was also home to the poet Lord Byron between 1808 to 1814.
The gardens and parkland cover more than 300 acres with paths that meander past lakes, ponds and waterfalls.
The formal gardens are the perfect place to relax and offer something in all seasons.
On Thursdays through December, there will be Christmas Candlelit Tours from 7.30pm which includes mulled wine and mince pies at £20 per person.
Times: Gardens open daily from 9am to 5pm, closed Christmas Day.
Access: Parking is available in the grounds for £6 and includes entry into the park, formal gardens, café and shop.
Trentbarton ‘Pronto’ service runs regularly from the Victoria Bus Station to Mansfield via Newstead Abbey. Note: if arriving by bus, there is a 1 mile walk down the drive of the estate (approx. 20 minutes).
While you're here, it would be great to find out what your favourite park or open space is.
Choose from the list below - if it's not listed, add it in the comments!
