A SUMMER OF DISCOVERY
Summer is the perfect time to head outdoors, have fun together and reconnect with nature in the heart of the National Forest. At Conkers, families can explore 120 acres of woodland, lakes and trails, where every visit brings a new adventure.
Whether you're wandering beneath the trees, spotting wildlife along the water's edge or following forest trails, there's plenty to discover. Younger visitors can let their imaginations run free in the outdoor play areas, cool off in the splash park or experience the sights, sounds and textures of the popular Barefoot Walk, where mud, pebbles and water encourage children to engage with the natural world.
There's even more to enjoy beyond the woodland. Climb aboard the muchloved Conkerchoo for a gentle ride through the grounds, take your seat in the immersive 4D Cinema, or gather at the Waterside Amphitheatre for daily family entertainment.
This summer, families can enjoy it all with the new Summer Ranger Pass, valid from 20 July to 6 September. Offering unlimited entry throughout the school holidays, it's the perfect way to return again and again, whatever the weather. Included with the pass is a programme of free daily Rangerled activities, designed to inspire curiosity and encourage children to discover more about the natural world. Young explorers can join bug hunts, uncover hidden pond life, learn practical bushcraft skills and take part in themed nature crafts, all led by Conkers' knowledgeable Rangers.
These free activities can be booked on the day at Reception.
The Summer Ranger Pass offers excellent value, with Adult passes priced at £19 and Child passes at £24, which works out at less than £3.50 per week for a full summer of adventure. Families looking for even more adventure can choose from a range of optional outdoor pursuits. Take to the lake on a swan pedalo, challenge yourselves on the treetop ropes adventure, or enjoy a skate at the roller rink. On selected days, visitors can also experience archery and kata-canoeing. These activities are available at an additional cost, subject to availability. Terms and conditions apply.
Whether you're visiting for an afternoon or returning throughout the summer, Conkers offers the space to play, explore and create lasting family memories. With so much to discover across the National Forest, it's a place where children can be inspired by the natural world and every visit offers something new.
This summer, head to the Heights of Abraham! The award-winning attraction is famous for its cable cars, which take visitors on an exciting flight through the scenic Derwent Valley, passing over river, road and rail before reaching the summit of Masson Hill in Matlock Bath.
Once at the summit the 239-year story of the Heights springs to life, through cave tours, exhibitions, viewpoints and more. Visitors can take two different tours through underground illuminated caverns, with professional guides to lead the way. Discover one of the geological wonders of Derbyshire in the Great Masson Cavern,
shown through a brand-new immersive sound and light experience. Step back in time at the Great Rutland Cavern with a Victorian Cavern guide to hear tales of miners past, innovative owners and mischievous spirits.
Above ground, head into the exhibitions to delve deeper into the heritage of the 60-acre estate. One detailing the amazing story of the cable car and how it was built, another telling the history of Matlock Bath. The newest exhibition is one that visitors may not expect – WOMBLE MANIA!
This Wombles focussed walkthrough tells the story of the loveable creatures from their creation in the 1960s to their present day antics. Meet The Wombles characters at the meet and greet area at weekends during the school holidays. This summer the
Punch and Judy show returns with a brandnew show with the classic characters, Mr Punch, his beautiful wife Judy, and of course the crocodile! Shows run from 18th July to 1st September.
Relax in the Vista restaurant and dine 1000ft above sea level, with an outstanding view to accompany your meal. Enjoy a wide selection of beverages from the bar, including the new summer cocktail menu. Head to the Tavern to sample a local ale on the rooftop beer garden, or try a locally baked cake in the Terrace Café. Pizza is on offer from the Snap Tin in the summer holidays too. Adventure playgrounds are on offer to keep the children busy with climbing frames and giant slides. There are heritage gardens, historic buildings, viewing platforms, woodland trails, and willow sculptures too.
Summer Open House
Sunday 30th and Monday 31st August
This August Bank Holiday, step into the enchanting world of Harlaxton Manor! We invite you and your family to explore our magnificent staterooms and stunning gardens during this rare Summer Open House event.
What to Expect
Explore the Manor
Built in 1831, Harlaxton Manor is a one-of-a-kind architectural gem, blending Jacobean, Elizabethan, and Baroque styles into a breathtaking historic house. The staterooms were designed as a grand tour of Europe, featuring intricate details and opulent interiors.
Stroll Through the Gardens
Our formal gardens and parkland are some of Harlaxton’s most treasured features. Highlights include:
• F rench terraces & manicured lawns
• Italian garden & stunning floral displays
• D utch canal & observatory
• A 19th-century conservatory featuring exotic plants, including donations from the Royal
• Botanical Gardens at Kew Relax & Enjoy Family Fun
• Traditional garden games for all ages
• L ive pianist and singer providing beautiful background music
• Selection of refreshments available, including ice cream
Throughout the year, Harlaxton Manor serves as a home to international students from the University of Evansville, making public visits a rare treat. You’ll
have the opportunity to meet students and staff who love sharing stories about the manor’s rich history.
Useful Information
• L imited accessibility due to the building’s historic nature
• Complimentary onsite parking, with disabled parking available
• O nly support & guide dogs are permitted
Ticket Information
• Family tickets available for up to 2 adults & 3 children
• Children under 2 enter for free
Ticket Prices
• Adult: £16
• Child (2–16 years): £8.50
• Concession (65+): £13
• Family Ticket (2 adults & up to 3 children): £45
Howto Book
• T ickets can be purchased in advance via the link below (recommended).
• A l imited number of tickets will be available on the day (subject to availability).
• Upon booking, you will receive an email confirmation (please check your junk folder). If
• you do not receive it, email events@harlaxton.co.uk.
• O n arrival, state your name at the Events Desk to confirm your booking
A SUMMER OF FUN...
Make the most of the school holidays with family-friendly days out and fascinating stories from the past at National Trust places across Nottinghamshire.
Summer of Play returns to Clumber Park near Worksop from 18 July to 6 September, with six interactive zones designed to spark imagination and encourage adventure across the 3,800-acre estate.
Families can burn off energy in the Active Zone with football, cricket, pickleball, and hockey, while younger visitors can enjoy dedicated spaces including the Toddler Zone and Nature Zone. Budding performers can take to the stage in the Imagination Zone, and den builders and creators will love the Loose Parts Zone. New for 2026 is a Pokémonthemed area with a straw bale arena at the heart of the Front Field.
Alongside the play zones, there will be storytelling sessions, ukulele workshops and bookable activities including yoga, crafts, nature dyeing, The Big Tree Climb and outdoor pantomimes from Talegate Theatre Productions.
Getting to Clumber Park will be easier than ever this summer thanks to a new daily bus service running from 25 July to 6 September. The route connects Worksop Train Station, Worksop Bus Station, Manton and Clumber Park, with return tickets costing just £3, including park admission. National Trust
members and visitors arriving by train travel free.
At The Workhouse & Infirmary in Southwell, Summer of Play takes on a Victorian twist from 25 July to 6 September. Families can enjoy traditional games inspired by life in the workhouse, while Tales from The Workhouse sessions on Mondays and Saturdays bring history to life through storytelling, slate writing, and handson activities. Visitors can also meet costumed gardeners during Pauper Picking sessions and discover what was once grown in the kitchen garden.
Running throughout the summer Shedding Light on Personal Narratives explores how sunlight moves through the property, uncovering the stories of residents through secret sundials, candlelit corners, and the architecture that framed their days.
For something altogether different, step into the remarkable time capsule of Mr Straw’s House in Worksop. Preserved much as it was in the 1920s, the modest home offers a fascinating glimpse into everyday family life, with thousands of personal possessions still arranged exactly as their owners left them.
For the full details and opening times, see the property websites. Images by: James Beck.
Discover Historic Leicester
From Roman Britain to the remarkable story of England's last Plantagenet king, Leicester is a city where history comes vividly to life. Whether you're planning a weekend break or looking for memorable days out, two awardwinning attractions offer an unforgettable journey through nearly 2,000 years of history.
Begin at the newly reimagined Jewry Wall Museum, where the story of Roman Leicester unfolds beside one of the largest surviving pieces of Roman masonry in Britain. Through immersive galleries, interactive displays and fascinating archaeological discoveries, visitors can explore the ancient city of Ratae Corieltauvorum and discover how it grew into a thriving Roman settlement.
Explore the remains of the Roman
bathhouse, uncover beautifully preserved artefacts and gain a fascinating insight into everyday life in Roman Britain. Combining innovative exhibition design with hands-on experiences, the museum offers an engaging visit for all ages. Just a short walk away, continue your journey through time at the King Richard III Visitor Centre. Built on the very site where Richard III's remains were discovered beneath a Leicester car park in 2012, the award-winning attraction tells one of Britain's most extraordinary archaeological stories.
Interactive exhibitions reveal the life and death of the last Plantagenet king, the Battle of Bosworth, and the groundbreaking scientific investigation that confirmed his identity more than 500 years after his death. Visitors can also spend a moment in the peaceful memorial building overlooking the original burial site before exploring nearby Leicester Cathedral, where Richard III was reinterred.
Located in Leicester's historic
Old Town, both attractions are within easy walking distance of independent cafés, shops and other cultural landmarks, making them perfect to enjoy as part of a day exploring the city.
Whether you're discovering Leicester for the first time or returning to uncover more of its rich heritage, the Jewry Wall Museum and King Richard III Visitor Centre offer a unique opportunity to experience where the footsteps of Romans meet the story of a king.
LOOKING FOR A FAMILY DAY OUT THAT HAS SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE?
Belvoir Castle is the ultimate one-stop destination, combining history, adventure, great food and unforgettable experiences in one spectacular setting.
This summer, families can embark on the exciting Belvoir Summer Safari, an interactive trail that takes young explorers on an adventure through the award-winning Adventure Playground and across the estate. Following clues and discovering the colourful animal characters along the way, children will eventually arrive at the Animal Park to meet the real-life residents they've been searching for. Best of all, every child who completes the trail is rewarded with a free ice cream – the perfect way to celebrate a day of adventure.
The fun doesn't stop there. Belvoir's Adventure Playground is one of the largest and most imaginative in the region, offering hours of climbing, sliding, balancing and exploring for children of all ages. Whether they're scaling towers, navigating rope bridges or racing down slides, it's a place where imaginations can run wild while parents relax and soak up the stunning surroundings.
Animal lovers will adore the Belvoir Animal Park, where friendly farm animals provide plenty of opportunities to meet, learn and create lasting memories. From curious goats and playful pigs to fluffy sheep and chickens, it's a wonderful hands-on experience that's always a
favourite with younger visitors. For those looking to slow the pace, step inside the magnificent Belvoir Castle and join one of the fascinating castle tours. Wander through magnificent State Rooms, admire centuries of history and hear the captivating stories that have shaped this iconic estate for generations. It's an experience that delights both adults and older children alike.
After all that exploring, refuel at the Belvoir Bistro, where freshly made, stonebaked pizzas are the perfect familyfriendly lunch. With plenty of indoor and outdoor seating, it's an ideal place to relax before heading back out for more adventures.
Whether you're climbing through the playground, discovering the Summer Safari, meeting adorable animals, enjoying a slice of pizza or stepping back in time inside one of England's finest stately homes, Belvoir Castle makes it easy to spend an entire day together without ever running out of things to do.
One destination, countless adventures and memories the whole family will treasure - Belvoir Castle truly has everything you need for the perfect family day out.
SUMMER IS IN FULL SWING
The National Tramway Museum has welcomed the start of summer in spectacular style, with over a thousand visitors enjoying its recent Past Times – Homefront event in glorious sunshine as the season's second heatwave arrived.
Families stepped back into the 1940s with live music, historical displays, wartime activities and the unmistakable sight and sound of a Dakota flyover, creating a memorable day out and setting the tone for a busy summer ahead.
Set high above the beautiful Derwent Valley in Crich, the National Tramway Museum continues to offer one of the East Midlands' most unique family attractions. Visitors can enjoy unlimited rides aboard beautifully restored vintage trams, travel through a recreated period street and explore woodland walks, sculpture trails, exhibitions and play areas—all included within admission. There's plenty to enjoy between rides too, from the Tram Stop Café and retro sweet shop to the Red Lion Pub and vintage Matlock Meadows ice cream van. Four-legged family members are welcome too, making it an ideal day out for everyone.
With the school holidays just around the corner, the museum is preparing for another exciting programme of family events. One of the most popular dates in the calendar, Dinosaur Day, returns on 25th July, bringing giant prehistoric creatures to life across the museum site. Families can follow a dinosaur trail through the woodland walk, collect stickers
and encounter favourites including a Stegosaurus, Parasaurolophus, T-Rex and Dilophosaurus.
The fun continues with Discovery Time from 27th–31st July, offering hands-on activities, crafts and fascinating science and history experiences, before Pirate Day on 2nd August brings sea shanties, treasure hunts and swashbuckling adventures for the whole family.
For those looking for a nostalgic trip down memory lane, Sounds of the 1950s & 60s on 8th and 9th August promises a weekend of live music, vintage fashion and classic dance crazes. Visitors can enjoy performances from popular singers and bands, soak up the atmosphere of two unforgettable decades and, of course, ride heritage trams throughout the day— making it the perfect summer outing for music lovers and nostalgia enthusiasts alike. Whether visitors are discovering the museum for the first time or returning to experience something new, there's never been a better time to visit. Combining living history, stunning scenery and a packed programme of family activities, the National Tramway Museum offers an unforgettable summer day out in the heart of Derbyshire.
DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF STEAM & DIESEL
Whether you’re revisiting the golden age of rail or experiencing the sights and sounds of heritage locomotives for the first time, Peak Rail offers a memorable journey through the heart of the beautiful Derwent Valley.
OUR HERITAGE RAILWAY
Step aboard a lovingly preserved section of the former Midland Railway line, once connecting Manchester Central and London St Pancras. Closed in 1968, this historic route now operates a 4-mile stretch between Rowsley South Station and Matlock Platform 2—a charming ride the whole family will enjoy.
LUXURY DINING ON THE RAILS
Experience elegant dining in motion on board The Palatine, featuring:
CLASSIC
AFTERNOON TEAS
Delicious Sunday Lunches
Special dining events
throughout the year
Please check our calendar for operating dates and booking availability.
SPECIAL EVENTS ALL YEAR ROUND
From family fun days out to railway enthusiast weekends, our packed events calendar has something for everyone. Keep an eye on our upcoming events—you won’t want to miss them!
TAKE THE CONTROLS: DRIVER EXPERIENCE COURSES
Live out a dream with our popular Steam or Diesel Driver Experience Courses.
Perfect as a gift or a oncein-a-lifetime adventure, you’ll take the controls under expert guidance and feel the power of heritage rail first-hand.
Join us for an unforgettable day out—whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, you’ll always receive a warm Derbyshire welcome from the Peak Rail team.
The Discos for Grown ups 70s 80s 90s DISCO PARTY is coming to the amazing Binks
Yard Nottingham Friday 21st August for an incredible boogie night to remember!
It's going to be a fabulous summer evening dancing under the stars to the best ever 70s 80s 90s dance floor classics!
Nottingham...this is a disco party you cannot miss!
Re-live the dazzling era of 70s disco, 80s pop and 90s dance anthems in this highenergy journey through three decades of dance floor classics with Discos for Grown ups and our live singer Disco Diva Maria.
The show also features legendary Discos for Grown
ups DJs playing the BEST ever 70s 80 90s dance floor classics...
Dance and sing along to iconic hits from Donna Summer, Earth Wind & Fire, The Bee Gees, Erasure, Madonna, Human League, Queen, Wham, ABBA, Black Box, Robin S, Faithless, Whitney, and many more…
PLUS - group dance lesson with our very own Disco Dancing Derek. Learn a simple dance then perform it together during the show...it's disco line dancing!
GIANT SUN EXHIBITION COMES TO SOUTHWELL MINSTER THIS SUMMER
Southwell Minster, the cathedral church of Nottinghamshire, is delighted to be hosting Luke Jerram’s highly-acclaimed art installation Helios this summer.
The incredible installation of Helios, also known as The Sun, measures seven metres in diameter and features detailed NASA imagery of the Sun’s surface. The artwork provides the opportunity to see our home planet’s star on this scale, floating in three-dimensions, like never before.
On display 29 July – 15 August, the artwork is a fusion of solar imagery, sunlight and a specially created surround sound composition by Duncan Speakman and Sarah Anderson.
Tickets cost just £5/£3, and under 5s go free.
Last entry, 30 minutes before the end of each day. Dogs on leads welcome.
Helios, in ancient Greek mythology, is the god who personifies the Sun. He drove a four-horse chariot across the sky each day, giving the earth its hours and seasons.
Glenn Formoy, Head of Marketing & Events at Southwell Minster, said: after the success of Luke Jerram’s previous works we’ve hosted here in the Minster, we’re delighted to be able to bring in Helios to light up the cathedral. The Moon in 2024, and Gaia (the Earth) in 2022
both saw around 11,000 visitors so we’re expecting this to be equally as popular – how often do you get to safely look at the sun and see the finer details without expensive safety equipment? So this really is a fantastic and rare opportunity to see the sun like never before!
On the opening day, Wednesday 29 July, the Nottingham Astronomical Society will be supporting the Helios exhibition. Weather permitting, between 10am and 2pm, members of the society will be offering live views of the Sun through special solar telescopes situated outside the south door of the Minster. Visitors will have the opportunity to ask the astronomers questions about the sun so do come along!
The imagery for the artwork has been compiled using photographs of the Sun provided by Astrophotographer Dr Stuart Green (taken between May 2018 to June 2024) and NASA observations of the Sun, with guidance from solar scientist, Professor Lucie Green of University College London (UCL).
Booking online in advance is recommended but not essential, but during busy times those looking to pay on the door may have to wait and some sessions will inevitably sell out in advance.
For tickets, as well as information on other events built into the Helios programme, including a special opening night, Pilates sessions, an intriguing talk, kid’s activities and more, please visit www.southwellminster.org/helios
Holiday Home From Home
With over 50 years experience, Keys Holiday Cottages specializes in offering a selection of charming and wellequipped self-catering properties in and around the delightful coastal towns of Sheringham, Cromer and Mundesley.
Whether you're seeking a romantic escape for two, a family adventure, or a gathering with friends, Keys Holiday Cottages has over 90 holiday properties to choose from.
Booking a holiday property is straightforward and easy
either via our secure website www.keysholidaycottages. co.uk or by calling our office 01263 823010. As a local company, we have a deep understanding of the area and can provide valuable recommendations for exploring North Norfolk.
Whether you're a returning guest or new to the area, Keys Holiday Cottages provides a warm welcome and a comfortable base for your North Norfolk getaway.
Enjoy a Summer of Free Events
WITH AN EXCEPTIONAL LINE-UP OF FREE AND AFFORDABLE EVENTS RUNNING THROUGHOUT AUGUST AND INTO SEPTEMBER, ROYAL LEAMINGTON SPA IS THE PLACE TO BE THIS SUMMER.
The summer programme continues with Art in the Park on 1–2 August, transforming the beautiful Jephson and Mill Gardens into an openair gallery celebrating local and regional artists.
Sport takes centre stage when the prestigious Bowls England National Finals return to Victoria Park from 12–30 August, drawing competitors and spectators from across the country for nearly three weeks of world-class bowls.
Bring your buckets and spades and enjoy the pop-up beach at Summer Fest on the Parade on 9 August. Warwickshire Pride arrives on 22 August, bringing a colourful celebration of community, inclusivity and live entertainment to the town centre. The month closes with the ECO Festival on 30 August, showcasing sustainability, local green initiatives and family-friendly activities.
The summer season reaches its delicious finale with the return of the Leamington Food and Drink Festival on Saturday 12 and Sunday 13 September. Now in its 19th year, this free-to-attend event transforms the Pump Room Gardens into a vibrant celebration of food, drink and entertainment, attracting thousands of visitors from across the region and beyond.
Around 120 exhibitors will showcase everything from street food and artisan produce to local specialities, while the Live Cookery Theatre features demonstrations from leading local chefs. Young food lovers can get hands-on at the Kids Make and Bake Cookery School, delivered by award-winning cookery school Get Cooking, and live music from The Bandstand, sponsored by Thomas Flavell & Sons, provides entertainment throughout the weekend.
Alison Shaw, BID Leamington Project Manager, said: "This summer offers an incredible range of free events that showcase everything
Royal Leamington Spa has to offer. Whether you're passionate about art, sport, sustainability or community, there's something for you throughout August.
The Leamington Food and Drink Festival in September is the perfect way to round off the season, and we're looking forward to welcoming visitors to enjoy all that our town has to offer over the coming months."
FROM ARTS AND CULTURE TO SPORT, COMMUNITY CELEBRATIONS AND FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT, THERE'S SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE TO ENJOY IN ONE OF THE MIDLANDS' MOST VIBRANT TOWNS.
For more information about summer events in Royal Leamington Spa, visit www.royal-leamington-spa.co.uk/whats-on. For the Food and Drink Festival programme, visit www.leamingtonfoodfestival.co.uk
APEING AROUND AT WISTOW MAZE
In celebration of Sir David Attenborough’s 100th year, Leicestershire's famous Wistow Maze has been designed in the shape of a Gorilla.
The giant 8-acre maize maze has a fun Quiz Trail hidden amongst 3 miles of pathways, with highlevel bridges and towers giving stunning panoramic views.
Visitors have to find 12 quiz boards, featuring animals from his pioneering nature series, as well as interesting facts about this famous naturalist and broadcaster.
Visitors can also take part in a variety of mini mazes and games in the Activity Funyard, which includes a space-hopper track, hoopla, beanbag throwing and a football shooting game.
Across the road is the Wistow Rural Centre with its cafe, garden centre, art gallery, model village and numerous shops, making it a great day out for all ages.
Opens: Mon 20 July – Sun 6 Sept (daily), and the weekend 12/13 Sept, 10am – 6pm. Free
Parking. Admission charges: Child £8.95, Adult 10.95 Family Ticket (2+2) £37
FULL STEAM AHEAD
Join us on August Bank Holiday weekend for a fantastic celebration of heritage, country sports and family fun at the Belvoir Castle Steam and Country Show
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Castle, the event will showcase an impressive collection of steampowered machinery, vintage transport, and traditional fairground attractions. Browse magnificent steam engines, beautifully restored showman’s engines, fairground organs and an extensive display of commercials, classic cars, motorcycles, tractors, military vehicles and stationary engines that celebrate engineering and transport heritage at its best.
With such a historical venue, a Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypast seemed fitting and Outdoor Shows will be proud to host this commemoration to all who lost their lives serving in the RAF… a truly memorable occasion for everyone onsite.
Don’t miss the thrilling British Scurry and Trials Driving with their Arena Driving Challenge - an exciting carriage driving sport, displaying excellent horsemanship as carriage drivers navigate a challenging course against the clock in a fastpaced display of precision and speed.
Take a trip down memory lane with the Shire Horse Display; see these magnificent heavy horses demonstrating the bygone years of the brewer’s dray, agricultural turnouts and incredible decorated
harnesses. See falconry in flight with a diverse collection of birds of prey, join the unpredictable and extremely amusing world of ferret racing and test your skills at archery and axe throwing.
Adrenaline seekers will not want to miss the legendary Wall of Death, a breathtaking spectacle that has captivated audiences for generations as motorcycle riders perform gravity-defying stunts on vertical walls in this classic fairground attraction. Entertainment continues throughout the full three days of this event with live on-stage entertainment including vocalists, dancers and magic shows, vintage fairground rides and children’s inflatables.
Alongside the non-stop arena programme, the event also provides plenty of opportunities to relax and plan the rest of the day with the licensed bar, a wide range of catering units, trade stands and the craft and fine food marquee.
Whether you’re a steam enthusiast, a vehicle lover, a family looking for a great day out, or simply seeking traditional countryside entertainment, the Belvoir Castle Steam and Country Show offers something for everyone.
Entries are still open for commercial vehicles, cars and motorcycles. Please visit website for full event details including pre-booked camping and daily admission tickets at outdoorshows.co.uk
A Wild Summer Exploring The Nature On Your Doorstep
With long days and many creatures at their busiest, Summer is a great time to connect with nature. The variety of natural spectacles on offer means there really is no excuse not to make the most of summer wildlife with a visit to a Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust nature reserve.
Wildflower meadows at their peak and buzzing with beneficial insects from bees to colourful butterflies. Wetland habitats are great for spotting martins and swifts as they swoop to pluck insects from the air or snatch a drink from the water’s surface. Whilst the height of the nesting season is over, lakes and lagoons still offer opportunities to enjoy the sight of fluffy late season broods of ducklings and goslings. Woodlands provide a perfect shady retreat when the heat of high summer gets a little too much to bear.
Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust nature spots
Extended day light means longer to visit nature sites near and far, so why not check out some Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust reserves? With over 40
sites in our care, there is bound to be one on your doorstep.
In South Notts we have probably our best-known site, Attenborough Nature Reserve which was opened sixty years ago this year by none other than Sir David Attenborough when he was humble Mr Attenborough. In North Notts, we have our largest site, Idle Valley Nature Reserve near Retfordwhere the Trust has reintroduced beavers and created a stronghold for the threatened water vole. Both of these flagship sites have welcoming cafes with amazing views where you can catch up with loved ones- and shops where you can pick up a wildlife themed gift, stock up on wild bird food or check out our extensive range of wildlife watching ‘scopes and binoculars to help you make the most of your summer wildlife watching – so what are you waiting for?
reserves
Lorna
Luxury Lodge Holidays
There is no better place than the Derbyshire Peak District to enjoy a short break or a family holiday. The Peak District is ideally located in the Heart of England and is bursting with majestic landscapes, stunning views, stately homes and unique family attractions.
Award winning Darwin Forest is situated between Matlock and Bakewell and combines luxury self-catering lodges with fantastic onsite facilities.
Whether you want peace and tranquillity on a romantic break, action packed adventures or fantastic local attractions for entertaining friends and family, our lodges provide the perfect base from which to explore.
The park has previously been named Best in Britain by Hoseasons and won Gold in the Camping, Glamping and Holiday Park Category at the prestigious Visit England Awards for Excellence.
The luxury lodges at Darwin Forest are nestled within a 47 acre woodland paradise.
The parks 137 lodges are sympathetically interwoven into the forest, which enables you to get back to nature and enjoy the picturesque environment.
We have created a holiday park where children can explore, and young and old will feel carefree and relaxed.
There are several types of accommodation options to choose from which will keep the whole family happy. Most popular are our spa lodges that include a private hot tub on the veranda and really enable
you to appreciate the serenity of our forest setting. We also have a number of pet friendly lodges
At Darwin Forest we have created the perfect setting for you to relax, enjoy your holiday and leave the hustle and bustle of everyday life far behind.
Darwin Forest is the perfect destination to enjoy a family holiday. Our fantastic onsite facilities include Evolution Health & Fitness, which has a swimming pool, spa, gym and beauty rooms.
For the younger members of your family, Little Monkeys indoor play centre will provide hours of fun and entertainment. The Activity Den is perfect for older children with pool tables and a games room to keep them entertained. We also offer a range of fun activities onsite that are suitable
for children and adults. Let our qualified instructors train you in the art of archery or the skills of crossbow. The more adventurous could experience the thrills of bodyzorbing or seascooters! For all the family to enjoy, we have a tennis court, mini golf and an abundance of footpaths and cycling trails.
If you want to give yourself a break from cooking you can enjoy a coffee and light bite at the Explorers cafe or you can visit the Foresters bar and restaurant which has an extensive menu serving fresh, locally sourced produce.
Many families enjoy celebrating Christmas or New Year at the park, or gathering the family together for a birthday or anniversary. No matter what the time of year, we are confident your friends and family will have a fantastic break.
Blue Dolphin is a private non- letting park located on the edge of the popular coastal resort of Mablethorpe. Maintained to a high standard and perfect for a holiday home on the east coast. It boasts views out across open fields whilst still being only a few minutes from the town centre and the award-winning beach for which Mablethorpe is renowned.
To add to your peace of mind. Blue Dolphin is protected by cardoperated security barriers at the main entrance and CCTV.
Springfield Caravans is a family-owned company that has been established for more than thirty years.
With a huge range of caravans in stock and the ability to supply any new caravan you may desire you can be sure that we can help you find your dream holiday home.
ABI AMBLESIDE FOR SALE £23,995 SITED ON BLUE DOLPHIN CARAVAN PARK MABLETHORPE. FULLY KITTED KITCHEN WITH DISHWASHER & WASHING MACHINE
ATLAS MIRAGE FOR SALE £5,995 SITED ON PARKLANDS CARAVAN PARK INGOLDMELLS. TIDY STARTER CARAVAN WITH SPACIOUS DECKING
SEASONAL TOURING
PITCHES ON BLUE DOLPHIN
Blue Dolphin is protected by card-operated security barriers at the main entrance, CCTV, and a resident warden on-site.
✔ Our premier pitches are extra-large and surrounded by Laurel hedging for more privacy.
✔ Each one has its own electricity, fresh water & waste water connection/drain.
✔ Full shower and toilet facilities
✔ Mature person/couple only.
EXPLORE NEWARK AND SHERWOOD, AND DISCOVER WHAT’S ON
Newark and Sherwood is a district full of history, culture, and memorable experiences. From market towns to historic villages, every corner offers something unique. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there’s always something new to enjoy, and finding it has never been easier thanks to the relaunched What’s On Newark and Sherwood website.
NEWARK: A RIVERSIDE TOWN STEEPED IN HISTORY
With its riverside setting, Civil War heritage, and impressive castle ruins, Newark blends past and present. The National Civil War Centre brings history to life, while the town’s market square - one of the largest in England - is filled with stalls, cafés, and independent shops. A packed programme at the Palace Theatre and events at Newark Showground make Newark a vibrant centre for culture and entertainment year-round.
SOUTHWELL: A TOWN FULL OF CHARM
Often described as one of England’s
prettiest towns, Southwell is home to the magnificent Southwell Minster, celebrated for its Norman architecture and peaceful setting. Visitors can enjoy a day at Southwell Racecourse, explore the historic Workhouse and Infirmary, or attend one of the town’s popular food, literature, and music festivals. Boutique shops and welcoming tearooms add to Southwell’s appeal.
OLLERTON AND EDWINSTOWE: GATEWAY TO SHERWOOD FOREST
To the north of the district, Ollerton and Edwinstowe provide access to the legendary Sherwood Forest. Visitors can explore the Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre, discover the famous Major Oak, and enjoy the stories of Robin Hood. Nearby Rufford Abbey Country Park offers historic ruins, gardens, and family-friendly play areas.
WHAT’S ON IN NEWARK AND SHERWOOD
With so much happening across
the district, knowing where to start can be difficult. That’s where www. whatsonnewarkandsherwood.co.uk comes in.
This free-to-use platform brings together events and activities from across the district in one convenient place. From theatre shows and concerts to markets, village fetes, and seasonal festivals, the website makes it easy to discover what’s happening and plan your next day out. Users can search by location, date, or interest, while event organisers can upload listings free of charge, helping keep content fresh, relevant, and packed with choice.
YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE
Whether you’re uncovering Newark’s history, enjoying Southwell’s culture, or exploring Sherwood Forest, there’s always something happening in Newark and Sherwood.
