Things to do in Newark and Sherwood for under £5
Newark and Sherwood has plenty to offer when for you’re on a budget. From engaging town trails to free entry to attractions, or walks set among the beautiful backdrop of nature, we’re here with our suggestions of ways to keep all the family entertained without breaking the bank.
Urban walks in Newark
Newark is home to so many captivating stories and curiosities – why not pick up a town trail and discover the locations that make up Newark’s unique history? These walks will guide you to iconic sights such as Newark Castle, or little-known delights including the ‘thinnest house’ and a tribute to every Newark in the world.
Encounter medieval history along the Civil War Trail, or take a peaceful riverside walk by the Trent where you can discover gardens, locks and sculptures. The Castle Grounds and Riverside Park are incredible picnic spots which you can enter without spending a penny!
Alternatively, go ‘off-piste’ and see sights from Newark’s otter statues to the hidden street art of Appleton Gate. You could also learn about Newark’s connection to the Polish airmen who fought in the Battle of Britain at the Polish Air Force Memorial.
A list of trails, including maps, can be found here, while a guide to the Polish Air Force Memorial and war graves can be found on the CWGC website
RSPB Sherwood Forest Visitor Centre
The home of Robin Hood, Sherwood Forest offers fun for all the family. Discover the Major Oak – iconic hideout of Robin and his merry men, then walk in their footsteps as they defied the Sherriff of Nottingham. Stay and see fantastic handmade goods at the Sherwood Forest Arts and Crafts Centre, or take a short walk down to the historic town of Edwinstowe. Here you can find the spot where legend has it Robin and Marion were married!
The car park charges £4 for the day, however the forest, visitor centre, and arts and crafts centre are all free.
Southwell Minster
Take a trip to Southwell Minster and discover the intricate carvings of the newly renovated Chapter House. See if you can spot the animals and mysterious green men hidden beneath the leaf shaped patterns on the walls. Opposite the Minister are the Palace gardens where you walk between immaculate flower beds and wonder at the ruins of the Archbishops Palace.
Entrance is free although donations are welcome.
Bilsthorpe Heritage Museum
Connect with Sherwood’s mining heritage and hear tales from ex-miners about their time operating one of the largest pitheads in Nottinghamshire. Items on display range from mighty mining machines, helmets and harnesses, and training gear for you to practise your own mining skills.
Entrance is free although donations are welcome, and a cup of tea is always on offer!
Street performers and markets
Even if you’re not seeking to buy anything, the markets in Newark and Southwell are well worth a visit! As well as displays of amazing local produce and crafts, nationally acclaimed street performers and local musicians can be found in Newark on Saturdays. For no cost at all you can come and be amazed by talented acts ranging from magicians to jugglers to singers!
Thoresby Park
Giant redwoods, riverside views and the brilliant deer park are just some of the reasons to try an adventure in the grounds of Thoresby. Follow the circular route or blaze your own trail, either way you’re sure to have an unforgettable day out! From March you can also receive free entry to a thrilling museum on the British cavalry, located at the Park’s courtyard.
Car Park charge: £1 for 1 hour, £3 for up to 15 hours.
Rufford Abbey Country Park
Another beautiful country park, the scenic surroundings of Rufford include an ancient abbey, a sculpture park, and spectacular lakes where you can let your imagination run wild. With a superb play area this trip should keep little ones entertained for hours. Don’t forget to meet the park’s famous waterfowl by the mill!
Car Park charge: £4 for the day.
Free Nature Walks
Newark and Sherwood is home to a variety of nature reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest which are free for visitors to explore.
Sherwood Heath, a remnant of the heathland of the ancient Sherwood Forest, is recognised by Green Flag for its excellent facilities and conservation projects. This stunning heathland is a special habitat for all varieties of flora and fauna, including stoat, insects, skylark and barn owls.
Sconce and Devon Park is the largest open space in Newark town. Alongside a local nature reserve this park is home to the Queen’s Sconce, an incredible earthwork fort still intact from the English Civil War, allowing you to delve into history while enjoying the fresh air. Other facilities include a children’s play area, fitness trail and a path network suitable for prams and pushchairs.
Newark and Sherwood is also full of examples of former industrial sites and railways which have been given new leases of life as wildlife havens, such as Besthorpe Nature Reserve, Vicar Water Country Park, Ollerton Pit Wood, and the Southwell Trail.
For a full list of parks, gardens and nature reserves go to https://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/parksandgardens/