Graduation celebration ideas and moments with Nottingham Venues

Graduation is one of the most significant milestones of your academic journey, and it’s only fitting to celebrate it in a way that marks this special moment. If you’re graduating from the University of Nottingham, look no further than Nottingham Venues for the perfect location to gather with family and friends, reflect on your achievements, and toast to your future. If you’re searching for graduation celebration ideas, we’re here to help you enjoy a beautiful meal, host a celebratory party, or stay in comfort, whatever you need to make your graduation unforgettable.

Why book your graduation celebration ideas early?

Graduation season is a busy time for everyone, so it’s important to plan ahead. With thousands of students and their families looking to celebrate, booking your graduation meal and venue in advance ensures that you have the best chance to secure your desired date, time, and location. Our popular venues, like Bramleys at The Orchard Hotel, fill up quickly, so booking early guarantees that you and your loved ones can enjoy your exclusive and memorable graduation celebration ideas without stress.

Dining and stay options and packages

Nottingham Venues offers a range of dining and stay options that are designed to make your graduation celebration ideas seamless and special. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a celebratory lunch, dinner, or a full weekend getaway, we have options and bespoke packages to suit every need. 

1. Graduation meal in Nottingham, on-campus dining at Bramley’s 

Located just steps from the graduation ceremony at the David Ross Sports Village, Bramleys at The Orchard Hotel is the perfect spot to gather with loved ones after the ceremony, just walk across from the Sports Village and you’ll find Bramleys. Recently refurbished with sustainability and seasonality in mind, Bramleys offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ideal for graduation celebrations and the perfect graduation meal in Nottingham. 

Our menu features seasonal, locally inspired dishes designed to delight every palate. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, our team ensures that every detail is taken care of so you can focus on enjoying your day. Plus, with our stunning setting, we make sure that your graduation meal is as special as the occasion itself.

Graduation package offer:

• To commemorate the occasion we have crafted a 2 or 3 course meal to be enjoyed at lunch time or later in the evening with a glass of fizz.
• Booking recommendations: Since tables fill up quickly, reservations are essential to ensure a smooth and stress-free celebration. However, we do take walk-ins, contact us to book.

2. Hotels near the University of Nottingham and David Ross Sports Village

Why not extend your day of celebrations into the evening too? Stay at The Orchard Hotel, located just next door to the graduation ceremony at the University Park Campus. Enjoy modern, comfortable rooms with excellent amenities and access to all the University’s facilities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing evening after the celebrations or an extended stay to explore Nottingham, our hotel provides a perfect retreat.

3. Winter and summer graduation options

Nottingham Venues is the ideal location for both Summer graduation (23 July – 1 August 2025) and Winter graduation (8 – 12 December 2025). Celebrate in style no matter the season, with our bespoke packages designed to create a memorable experience for you and your loved ones. 

Graduation parties at Nottingham Venues

Graduation is a momentous occasion that deserves a memorable celebration! At Nottingham Venues, we offer stunning event spaces for every type of graduation celebration idea, from intimate private dinners to lively parties with friends and family or for your classmates. Our team will help you find the perfect setting to mark this special milestone.

Our venues and graduation celebration ideas:

• Orchard Hotel & Restaurant: A modern venue with versatile event spaces, perfect for private gatherings and group celebrations. Host a stylish cocktail reception with a personalised graduation-themed menu at Bramleys Restaurant or set up a themed photo booth to capture unforgettable moments with friends and family.
• Jubilee Hotel & Conferences: Great for larger parties, with diverse event spaces and outdoor settings by the lake. Plan an outdoor celebration with a lakeside BBQ, complete with lawn games and an outdoor portable bar. Inside, transform the space into a vibrant party zone with a DJ, dance floor, and graduation cap-cakes for a sweet touch.
• East Midlands Conference Centre: Ideal for academic group celebrations, offering flexible spaces and a garden area. Perfect for a formal banquet or a lively reception, with a best-dressed contest to add some fun. End the night with a heartfelt slideshow of university memories on a big screen for a sentimental touch.

Why choose an on-campus graduation celebration

The University of Nottingham campus provides the perfect backdrop for your graduation. Whether you’re snapping photos with your family on the steps of the David Ross Sports Village or enjoying a leisurely stroll around the beautiful grounds, it’s an ideal setting to commemorate the end of your University journey. 

• Close to the ceremony: With venues like Bramleys and The Orchard Hotel just steps from the graduation ceremony, you won’t need to worry about travel time
• Stylish and comfortable spaces: Our venues are designed to be elegant yet welcoming, ensuring everyone feels at home
• Tailored celebrations: From personalised menus to bespoke drink packages, we ensure your celebration reflects your style and preferences
• Exceptional catering and accommodation: Our in-house chefs provide bespoke catering, from elegant banquets to casual buffets. Plus, with over 300 stylish and comfortable bedrooms across our venues, your guests can relax and enjoy the celebration worry-free

Graduation is a time to reflect on your achievements, look forward to new adventures, and celebrate with those who have supported you throughout your academic journey. With Nottingham Venues, you can create lasting memories in the perfect setting, ensuring that your graduation day is as extraordinary as your academic achievements. 

Book your celebration today and make your graduation at the University of Nottingham truly unforgettable. Contact us for more information, or book a table at Bramleys, or book a hotel room with us and plan ahead.