We’re putting it out there that Nottinghamshire rivals any other English county in terms of natural beauty.
That may be a bit of a controversial statement - particularly for our neighbours in Derbyshire who have direct access to the Peak District - but we think it’s justified.
From the centuries-old oak trees found in Sherwood Forest to the luscious meadows located on the banks of the River Trent, Nottinghamshire is simply bursting at the seams with beauty spots.
It can be difficult to know where to start, particularly if you’re new to the area and are itching to get out there exploring.
Without meaning to get too deep about things, it’s important to start making the most of Nottinghamshire’s natural beauty while you still have the chance to.
Life has a funny way of throwing the odd curveball, so it’s vital that we all take advantage of these warm summer days by discovering the best of Nottinghamshire.
We’ve created something of a bucket list for both Nottinghamshire residents and visitors from afar, which includes 16 beauty spots that you need to visit at least once in your life.
Ranging from historic estates to country parks, the photos of all 16 spots can be found below:
1. Lovely Nottinghamshire
Here are 15 magnificent Nottinghamshire parks, estates and nature reserves to see | Getty Images Photo: Getty
2. Rufford Abbey
Rufford Abbey is a country estate two miles south of Ollerton. Originally a Cistercian abbey, it was converted to a country house in the 16th century after King Henry VIII's dissolution of the monasteries. Part of the house was demolished in the 20th century, but the remains, standing in 150 acres of park and woodland, are open to the public as Rufford Country Park. Part of the park is a local nature reserve. | Submitted Photo: Submitted
3. Clumber Park
Clumber Park was the seat of the Pelham-Clintons, Dukes of Newcastle, was purchased by the National Trust in 1946. It is listed Grade I on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens.The main house was demolished in 1938 after damage by several fires. The nearby Grade I listed chapel in Gothic Revival style and a four-acre walled kitchen garden still survive. | Submitted Photo: Submitted
4. Attenborough Nature Reserve
Attenborough Nature Reserve was established in 1966 and was opened by Sir David Attenborough. This much loved, nationally important site is best known for its birds with over 250 species recorded, but also provides a home for hundreds of species of plant and insects. It is cited as one of the best places in the UK to see kingfisher and is also home to rare wildlife including bitterns and otters. | Submitted Photo: Submitted