Local Attractions & Activities
These are just a sample of the many attractions and activities within the surrounding area.
Newstead Abbey
Within walking distance is Newstead Abbey, best known as the former home of the poet Lord Byron, was originally an Augustinian priory founded by Henry II in about 1170. A small religious community existed here until Henry VIII dissolved the monastery in 1539. In the following year, Henry granted Newstead to the poet's ancestor, Sir John Byron, who converted the priory into a country mansion for his family. Home of Lord Byron until 1818, many of his possessions and manuscripts can be seen on display here. The beautiful gardens, parkland and lakes cover more than 300 acres.
http://www.newsteadabbey.org.uk
Hardwick Hall
Hardwick Hall is one of Britain’s greatest and most complete Elizabethan houses. Built for ‘Bess of Hardwick’, one of Elizabethan England’s most wealthy women, the house contains outstanding 16th and 17th century embroideries. Set in historic parklands grazed by rare breed cattle and sheep, there are tranquil walled courtyards, orchards and herb gardens to explore.
http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-hardwickhall
Chatsworth House
Chatsworth is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Devonshire, one of Britain's best loved historic estates and the heart beat of the Peak District National Park. With famous works of art, a working farmyard, spectacular fountains and the finest shopping and eating, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
http://www.chatsworth.org
Sherwood Forest
Once a royal hunting forest, this is the legendary home of the outlaw Robin Hood, today part of a National Nature Reserve because of its national ecological importance. Within the 450 acre site there are 900 veteran oak trees, including the famous Major Oak. This ancient oak, one of Britain's most famous trees, is located just a ten minute walk from the Visitor Centre.
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Clumber Park
Landscaped parkland, with double avenue of limes, lake, chapel. One of the Dukeries' estates, though the house no longer remains.
Southwell Minster
Said by many to be the best kept secret among the forty two English cathedrals it is a gem. The Cathedral and Parish Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary is popularly known, as it has been for centuries, as ‘Southwell Minster’. Although Christian worship has taken place on this site for over 1000 years, the present Romanesque building celebrated the 900th anniversary of its commencement in 2008.
http://www.southwellminster.co.uk
Activities
Golf
There are 3 excellent 18-hole golf courses nearby:
Coxmoor - http://www.coxmoorgolfclub.co.uk/
Hollinwell - http://www.nottsgolfclub.co.uk/
Sherwood - http://www.sherwoodforestgolfclub.co.uk/
Horse Riding
Ride in historic Sherwood Forest and explore the network of bridleways in the Forestry Commission woodland around Blidworth.
http://www.localriding.com/nottingham.html
Cycling
Sherwood Pines Forest Park has cycling facilities for family cyclists to experienced off-roaders.
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Holly Lodge is located on National Cycle Route 6 from Worksop to Hucknall.
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For more information on what to see and do in Nottinghamshire, please click on this link.