XMAS SPECIAL: Bradgate Deer Park & Nottingham Christmas Market
About this Event
On this truly special trip, we’ll combine a scenic winter hike among wild deer, a famous Christmas market and a festive drink in England’s oldest inn – all in one relaxed day, something that just isn’t possible by train.
We’ll walk a popular route, featured in Britain’s Favourite 100 Walks, chosen by a panel of experienced authors and guides and presented by Julia Bradbury on ITV. The trail takes us through the wild and rugged Bradgate Park, with its dramatic rocky outcrops and gnarled old oak trees, many of them over 500 years old. Today, the medieval park is home to a herd of around 550 red and fallow deer, which roam freely. It’s an excellent opportunity to get up close to them and take some amazing photos! 📸
Along the way, we’ll visit two fantastic viewpoints with spectacular panoramic views. First, we’ll climb to the iconic 18th-century folly of Old John Tower (212 metres), the highest point of Bradgate Park. Then we’ll head to the summit of Beacon Hill (248 metres), the second highest point in Leicestershire.
After some great hiking, we’ll head to Nottingham’s Christmas Market to soak up the wonderful festive atmosphere! Warm up with a glass of mulled wine, sample delicious local food, browse the stalls for unique gift ideas or take a ride on the 32-metre Observation Wheel for breathtaking views over Nottingham. There’s something for everyone! You’ll also have time to walk to the famous Robin Hood Statue and Nottingham Castle where, as legend has it, the outlaw was held before he escaped to his hiding place in Sherwood Forest.
To round off the day, we’ll finish at , England's oldest surviving inn, tucked beneath the castle walls. 🍺 It claims to date back to 1189 and is said to have been a stopping point for crusader knights, including King Richard the Lionheart, on their way to the Holy Land. Its atmospheric rooms are carved straight into the sandstone caves, and it’s certainly one of the most unusual pubs you’ll have visited! It’s the perfect cosy spot for a festive drink before heading home!
DISTANCE & DIFFICULTY
- Distance: 7 miles (11km).
- Ascent: 350m.
- Difficulty: Easy.
ITINERARY
07:45 Meet outside Hotel Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, W6 8DR (a five-minute walk from Hammersmith Station)
08:00 Sharp departure
10:30-14:00 Bradgate Medieval Deer Park & Swithland Wood Walk
14:45-17:30 Nottingham’s Christmas Market: free time for lunch, the Robin Hood Statue and Nottingham Castle, plus festive drinks at Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem (England’s oldest pub!)
17:30 Departure
20:30 London, Hammersmith
TRANSPORT
As on most of our trips, we'll travel in a comfortable 16-seater minibus.
SAFETY
This hike is led by an experienced, Outdoor First Aid qualified hike leader.
THE PRICE INCLUDES
- Transport throughout the trip
- Experienced, professional PSV minibus driver
- Guiding on all hiking routes by an experienced and qualified Mountain Leader
- Professional event organisation
- Group first aid kit with qualified first aiders
- Admin fee
- 20% VAT
THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Personal insurance (for cancellation, accident, health, emergency evacuation and loss, theft of or damage to baggage and personal effects, and personal trekking insurance)
HOW TO CONTACT US
For all enquiries, please email us at [email protected] We'll usually get back to you within 4 hours.
WHAT TO BRING
- Suitable hiking shoes with ankle support
- Waterproof and windproof jacket and trousers or a poncho (if there is a chance of rain)
- Gloves/hat/cap
- Water (min 1L)
- Packed lunch (optional)
REVIEWS ⭐
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REFUND POLICY
Tickets purchased via Eventbrite are strictly non-refundable and non-transferable.
Agenda
🕑: 07:45 AM
Meet outside Hotel Novotel London West, 1 Shortlands, W6 8DR
🕑: 08:00 AM
Sharp departure
🕑: 10:30 AM - 02:00 PM
Bradgate Medieval Deer Park & Swithland Wood Walk
🕑: 02:45 PM - 05:30 PM
Nottingham's Christmas Market and free time for lunch
🕑: 05:30 PM
Departure
🕑: 08:30 PM
London, Hammersmith
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 85.21
