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Christmas in Nottingham: A Festive Guide for Nottingham University Students

Leicester Student Accommodation student moving in to new studio
Article writen by: Abby
13 November 2025

Christmas in Nottingham: The Festive Guide for Nottingham University Students.

Nottingham University Accommodation during Christmas

Christmas at Nottingham university accommodation is an enchanting experience — full of warm lights, cosy evenings, and festive traditions that make student living feel special. At Student Beehive, we know how important it is for the accommodation you live in to feel like home, especially during the winter months. Whether you’re studying at Nottingham Trent University or the University of Nottingham, we’re here to help you appreciate and enjoy every moment of the festive season.

Your Student Accommodation in the Christmas Period

Living in student accommodation during December brings a unique sense of community. Flatmates become close friends, kitchens become lively hubs of activity, and your common areas feel warm and welcoming. Many people staying at Student Beehive share that, Christmas in their accommodation is a true highlight of their university experience. For them it's a time packed full of laughter, movie nights, christmas meals, and decorations everywhere.

Decorating Your Accommodation During the Christmas Holidays

Decorating the accommodation you stay at can really help to bring the festive season to life. You could add fairy lights, mini trees, cosy blankets, and seasonal ornaments to make your bedroom and shared spaces feel cheerful. Student Beehive properties offer plenty of social spaces and a welcoming common room where you could decorate together and enjoy group activities throughout December.

Affordable Decorations for Nottingham Students

Students in Nottingham have lots of budget-friendly decoration options. Shops and markets in the Nottingham city centre, including Poundland, Wilko, craft stalls, and festive markets, offer affordable décor so you can make your space feel festive without spending too much. Many Student Beehive flats also like to share decorations to create a stylish and welcoming look across shared kitchens, lounges and communal spaces.

Safe Decorating inside Your Accommodation

At Student Beehive, safety is paramount. Use battery-powered lights, adhesive hooks, and flame-free decorations to protect your walls and keep the accommodation secure. These simple steps make it super easy to enjoy the festive feel while staying within guidelines and protecting your deposit.

Planning Christmas Presents on a Student Budget

Planning your Christmas gifts doesn’t have to be stressful. Nottingham offers fantastic independent shops, seasonal markets, and gift stalls where students can find unique, thoughtful presents on a budget. Visiting local cafes and artisan markets also provides great inspiration for handmade gift ideas.

The Top Places in Nottingham for Gifts and Christmas Shopping

December transforms Nottingham into a lively Christmas scene. The Festive Markets in Old Market Square, boutique shops around Hockley, and large stores in the Nottingham city centre offer something for everyone. Students can take an evening stroll, pick up gifts, and soak in the lights and atmosphere.

Secret Santa in Student Accommodation

Secret Santa is a much enjoyed tradition at Nottingham student flats, especially at Student Beehive. Whether you're living on Talbot Street or elsewhere in the city, you can find perfect low-cost gifts in Nottingham’s quirky independent stores. Celebrating with flatmates brings everyone together and strengthens the sense of community.

Christmas on Campus

Nottingham Trent University and The Universityof Nottingham campuses look wonderful during December. Sparkling lights, festive events, and decorated buildings create an inspiring place to enjoy your final weeks of term. For those who live near the University Park Campus, the lake and grounds offer peaceful winter walks.

Nottingham Winter Events

Nottingham has plenty of festive events which students love — Winter Wonderland, themed club nights, craft fairs, and outdoor food stalls. Many of these events are just a short walk or tram ride from Student Beehive properties. Making it easy to enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Winter Wonderland in Nottingham

Winter Wonderland transforms Nottingham into a huge joyous playground each year. Whether you prefer ice skating, shopping, food stalls, or simply wandering around enjoying the lights. Winter Wonderland will always be a top activity for those living at Nottingham student accommodation.

Staying at Nottingham University Accommodation Over Christmas Holidays

Lots of students choose to stay behind in Nottingham for the Christmas period, especially international students, postgraduate students, or those studying a single semester. Student Beehive ensures residents feel supported with accessible staff, warm communal areas, and a friendly, inclusive festive atmosphere.

What to Bring Home From Your Accommodation

If you're heading home, pack your essentials: gifts, warm clothes, chargers, toiletries, and any ongoing uni work. It’s also a good idea to tidy your student rooms before leaving, making the return in January calm and stress-free.

Keeping Your Accommodation Safe Throughout the Holidays

Before travelling, ensure your accommodation is secure — switch off plugs, take out rubbish, lock windows, and store valuables safely. Student Beehive sends reminders to ensure all residents feel confident and secure before heading home.

Christmas Food Ideas to make at your Student Accommodation

Festive cooking in your kitchens is great fun. Easy winter recipes include pasta bakes, roast trays, mulled juice, cookies, and festive snacks. Local supermarkets near popular residential areas like Lenton, Beeston, and the city centre make it easy to pick up affordable ingredients.

Flat Christmas Dinners

One of the best Christmas traditions is the flat dinner. At Student Beehive, students often host group meals where everyone brings a dish, creating a cosy and memorable evening. These dinners often take place in spacious kitchens or shared social spaces.

Cosy Nights In

Winter evenings in Nottingham are ideal for cosy evenings in your accommodation. Movies, hot drinks, seasonal treats, or crafting sessions help you bond with other students and relax after a busy day.

Travelling Home for Christmas

Thanks to Nottingham’s excellent transport links, travelling home is easy, whether you're heading to nearby areas like Mansfield or making a longer journey to London. Booking early helps save money on rent, travel, and holiday expenses.

Festive Lights in Nottingham

The seasonal lights across Nottingham create a beautiful twinkling backdrop. Students often enjoy walking to Nottingham city centre to appreciate the atmosphere, take photos, and grab hot drinks with friends.


Christmas in Nottingham City Centre

The centre is Nottingham’s Christmas hub during December, filled with Winter Wonderland, beautiful lights, and seasonal food stalls. It’s also a good time for students to explore nearby locations, browse listings, or even start to search for accommodation for the following year. With lots of great residences within the area, the city centre blends holiday atmosphere with lively student life.


Support for International Students During the Holidays

International students who stay based in Nottingham over the break will find Student Beehive a warm and supportive place to spend the holidays. With welcoming communal spaces, helpful staff, and plenty of chances to meet other students, the environment feels friendly and inclusive. It’s also a practical time to look over accommodation options or keep track of your university offer if you’re planning ahead.


Choosing Your Nottingham Student Accommodation for the New Year

If you’re preparing for next year, exploring Nottingham student accommodation options early can make the process smoother. Student Beehive provides modern accommodation options in convenient locations, with flexible tenancy lengths and quality facilities. You can visit our website to compare available rooms, view beds, and browse updated listings, supported further by our helpful accommodation guarantee.


Why Students Love Private Accommodation in Nottingham

Many students choose private accommodation because it offers independence, community, and modern spaces compared to traditional halls of residence. Student Beehive properties, including those near Bromley Place, provide excellent access to transport, shopping, and university buildings. With supportive staff and quality shared areas, private accommodation becomes a reliable and comfortable option for many.


Rooms Designed for Comfort and Community

Student Beehive rooms are designed for comfort and productivity, offering modern setups with comfortable beds for everyday student living. Each property includes study rooms, clean kitchens, and sociable communal spaces that support both work and relaxation. Whether you’re comparing room type options or using search accommodation options, you’ll find choices suited to a wide range of student lifestyles.


Final Thoughts

The festive holidays in Nottingham are packed with fun, comfort, and unforgettable moments. Whether you're exploring the markets, enjoying cosy nights in, or celebrating with flatmates. Student Beehive is here to make your Christmas truly special — supporting you with welcoming spaces, modern facilities, and a community you can rely on.

Nottingham Christmas Housing & Uni FAQ

Can my boyfriend live in my uni accommodation?

Most Nottingham university accommodation allows short stays but not permanent cohabiting. Student Beehive also follows this policy to protect resident comfort and safety.

Is Nottingham Uni accommodation first come first served?

Yes — many providers, including university-managed halls, operate on a first-come-first-served basis.

How much are accommodations at the University of Nottingham?

Prices vary, but students generally pay between £130 and £230 per week depending on facilities and room type.

Where do Nottingham Uni students live?

Students live across Nottingham, including Lenton, Beeston, Dunkirk, Radford, and the Nottingham city centre, with many choosing private student accommodation such as Student Beehive.