Does a walking time establish a step-free route?

No. Walking estimates and map pins are navigation aids, not an audit of kerbs, gradients, surfaces or accessible entrances. Confirm the approach and any essential facilities before travelling.

Can I assume a hotel has a suitable accessible room?

No. Ask the property directly about the room, bathroom, entrance and any equipment you need before paying. A hotel’s location or map walking time does not establish room accessibility.

When is the market open?

12 November–31 December 2026. For shopping after Christmas Eve, check the stall opening times with the organiser before setting off. Market stalls in November: Sunday–Thursday 10am–6pm, Friday–Saturday 10am–8pm. December until 24th: Sunday–Thursday 10am–8.30pm, Friday–Saturday 10am–9pm. Attractions/bars have separate schedules; Christmas Day closed.

Plan with confidence

Nottingham market accessibility

Choose a comfortable route and give yourself time to enjoy the stalls.

Most routes use decking or flat surfaces. Wheelchairs can use the rink and Sky Skate with assistance. A lift serves the upper bars; the accessible toilet is downstairs in Sur La Piste. The Ice Bar has a small-stone floor and is a poor choice for wheelchair access. The wheel requires a transfer and a step into the gondola.

Official access information / organiser enquiries

Use the Nottingham map to find the arrival points, named toilet locations and Changing Places stops together. Check the street-level approach before setting off.

Open the Nottingham access map

Step-free routes and surfaces

Nottingham station; approximately 12 minutes on foot. Old Market Square tram stop is beside the event.

Plan the whole journey from your station exit or parking bay to the market entrance. Choose a route you can comfortably manage in both directions, including after dark, and allow time for crossings and crowds. If you use a wheelchair or mobility scooter, ask about temporary ramps, gradients and turning space at the part of the market you want to visit.

Blue Badge parking

Compare Lace Market, Trinity Square, Broad Marsh and Victoria Centre with a tram or park-and-ride journey. Ask the council about current Blue Badge bays and the step-free route from your chosen car park.

Check the specific bay or car park’s restrictions, permitted hours and route to the entrance. For a multi-storey, check lift availability before committing to the journey. Allow a little flexibility if a bay is occupied when you arrive.

Council parking and Blue Badge information

Accessible toilets

The accessible toilet is downstairs in Sur La Piste. Ask staff about the route and access arrangements on arrival.

If you need particular equipment or transfer space, ask about those details before travelling. Check any key arrangement and the closing time, especially for a late visit. Changing Places facilities have different equipment from a standard accessible toilet, so name the facility you need when making an enquiry.

Quieter times and sensory needs

Try an earlier trading period if you prefer time to get your bearings. For a dedicated quieter session, ask the organiser before booking.

Pick a meeting point away from the busiest food queues and leave room for a break. A shorter first visit can help you decide which parts you would like to return to. If noise, lighting or waiting in line affects your visit, tell the team when arranging a session.

Assistance, companions and attractions

Call 0115 697 6061 to discuss assistance, the lift and attraction access.

Ask about the specific ride, rink or activity you want, including any transfer and powered-wheelchair requirements. Arrange companion tickets before paying for the rest of the group, and check the assistance-dog arrangements for an indoor attraction separately from the outdoor market.