While Nottingham isn't short of a place to go for a pint or two on New Year's Eve, there are plenty of options if you prefer a quieter night. It can be difficult to decide what to do if you don't drink or want to avoid the bar scene on one of the busiest nights of the year.
We've made a list of some of our favourite things to do that don't involve going to the pub and can create a fun experience outside of your usual trip to the local.
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Here are some of our favourites to get you started
1 - Race against time
Castle Gate
Escape rooms might look a bit scary but they can be a lot of fun. There are so many on the market now that you don't need to choose a horror-themed one. Escapologic has several options including some Nottingham-themed rooms such as Robin of Lockskey which is a Robin Hood-inspired puzzle.
The rooms work on time slots so there are still a few available for New Year's Eve throughout the day. Each room can take two to five people with prices starting at £19 for a group. You'll have to work together to beat the clock but what better way to celebrate the start of the new year than with a sense of achievement?
2 - Bowl a perfect strike
Clifton Boulevard
If you are looking for something a little more wholesome for New Year then why not try bowling? Tenpin offers the chance to enjoy two games of bowling and a meal from £10. The centre not only offers bowling but it has karaoke rooms, a bar, laser tag and an escape room to choose from.
You will need to book in advance but there are slots available throughout the day. The centre also stays open until 2 am so prepare for more than one game.
3- Climb a huge obstacle
King Edward Street
If your new year's resolution is to get fit, what better time to start than now? Depot indoor rock climbing is one for those who aren't afraid of heights as it can get quite high but there is a wonderful sense of achievement when you reach the top.
There are classes available but it's easy to get started as a beginner. The centre has all of the equipment and advice you could possibly need on how to get started. It won't be a late one as Depot closes at 6pm but perfect if you are looking for something physical to do or have little ones bouncing off the walls at home.
4 - Get a hole in one
George Street
So this is one for the adults as Gloryholes on George Street is definitely not child-friendly. It's an adult-themed golf course right in the city centre and we'll let you use your imagination as to what that entails....
While there is a bar on-site, there are plenty of non-alcoholic options available along with pizza from the Ugly Bread Company. If you are looking for something a bit more family-friendly then The Lost City at Cornerhouse has more suitable options.
5 - Catch a movie
Various locations
Nottingham isn't short on places to catch a great movie whether you prefer the latest release, classic films or indie masterpieces. Showcase cinema is offering late-night options including showings at 9 pm or 10 pm where you can snuggle up in those adjustable leather armchairs. Broadway has earlier screenings including their amazing £4 sale where you can see some of the best films of the year for the price of a pint.
Cineworld also has late-night screenings of some of the biggest films including Avatar while Savoy in Lenton has afternoon options.
6 - Solve a puzzle
Mansfield Road
The Dice Cup is a truly enjoyable place to spend an evening with enough board games to suit everyone from cooperative experiences to traditional card games. Not only that but the cafe is vegan too so there are a few treats on offer if you need to refuel mid-game.
If you find yourself getting truly into it then it's worth checking out the listings for meet-ups, special game nights and specific groups for things like Pokemon or Warhammer.
7 - Create your own pizza
Lace Market
Pizza Punks is one of Nottingham's newest restaurants right in the city centre. While it's tempting to order the same old, same old toppings, Pizza Punks offer you the chance to get truly creative.
They offer a customise option where you can select your own base, toppings and sauce to go truly unique with what you order. There is no limit to what you throw on there but be advised, you still need to be able to pick it up! There are lots of toppings to choose from including plenty of vegan items like jackfruit.
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