Attractions Nearby Nottingham, Day Trips and Excursions

(Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, England, UK)

Surrounded by lively market towns and charming villages, the city of Nottingham is close to many appealing attractions, most of which are best reached by either car or bus. Steeped in years of history, the main market towns in the county of Nottinghamshire include Eastwood, Hucknall, Mansfield, Newark, Retford, Southwell and Worksop.

Other attractions close to Nottingham include the remains of the world-famous Sherwood Forest, which features a country park and visitors centre. Those staying in Nottingham all looking for the thrills and attractions of a theme park should seek out the American Adventure, which is full of roller coasters and fast rides, all set around a large lake in nearby Ilkestone, Derbyshire, just 16 km / 10 miles from the city.

Newark

Standing next to both the River Devon and River Trent, Newark is often referred to as 'Newark-on-Trent', due to its setting. There are a number of notable attractions in this bustling market town, including the 13th-century ruins of Newark Castle and the spacious, cobbled marketplace, which is surrounded by many significant and historical buildings. Newark also hosts one of the country's leading antiques fairs and features a monthly farmers market, which always attracts large crowds.

Eastwood

Known for being the actual birthplace of famous English writer DH Lawrence, and also its historic coal mining industry, the town of Eastwood lies around 10 km / 6 miles to the west of the city, in the borough of Broxtowe. The town is home to a museum about DH Lawrence, where his life and works are celebrated.

Hucknall

Situated in the Ashfield district and around 11 km / 7 miles to the north-west of Nottingham city, Hucknall contains the final resting place of Lord Byron. A leading British poet with a particularly notorious past, Byron once lived in this area, at the nearby 12th-century Newstead Abbey estate. Close to Hucknall are the mining towns of both Kirkby-in-Ashfield and Sutton, both of which are surrounded by large expanses of rolling English countryside.

Mansfield

The biggest and most notable town in the whole of Nottinghamshire, Mansfield is a traditional market town and stands alongside the meandering River Maun, 32 km / 20 miles north-east of Nottingham. Attractions in Mansfield include its regular 700-year-old market, a number of attractive churches and an interesting museum. Mansfield's boasts a number of entertainment options, with its four nightclubs and Palace Theatre on Leeming Street being especially popular.

Retford

With a magnificent open-air market and a market charter dating back to the mid-13th century, Retford stands around 48 km / 30 miles north of Nottingham, on the eastern side of neighbouring Worksop. Retford has strong connections with the Pilgrim Fathers and is extremely close to a number of charming villages, such as Babworth and Scrooby.

Southwell

Southwell is a small town, approximately 31 km / 19 miles north-east of Nottingham and home of the Bramley apple, which originated here many years ago. Around the town you will discover many elegant town houses, with regency architecture and grand facades. The Southwell Minster is without doubt the top attraction, featuring a magnificent structure with spectacular stone carvings, dating back to the 12th century and dominating the town.

Worksop

Located in Nottinghamshire's Bassetlaw area, the town of Worksop is centered around the River Ryton and the area is home to numerous top tourist attractions. These include Clumber Park, a grand estate owned and managed by the National Trust, and the Harley Gallery. Amongst the year's many seasonal events, the annual snowdrop display at the Hodsock priory is one not to miss. Worksop is sited 56 km / 35 miles north of Nottingham and is close to the city of Sheffield.