It’s not very often we get heatwaves here in Nottinghamshire, so it’s fair to say that we need to make the most of them when they arrive.
If the forecasters are to be believed, this week will see the county experience its third heatwave of the summer, with highs of 31C predicted.
There are plenty of places to enjoy a sunny day in and around Nottinghamshire, from nature reserves to open-air swimming pools.
But let’s be honest, many of these well-known attractions become packed during times of nice weather, which inevitably impacts your experience.
For this reason it’s important to think outside the box and explore other places that not many other people know about.
Here are 17 quirky, cool and unusual places in Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands that you should consider visiting on a sunny day:
9. Remains of the old Trent Bridge - West Bridgford, Nottingham NG2 7QT
Dating back to the 14th century, the remains of the old Trent Bridge are truly fascinating. Most of the old bridge was demolished in the 19th century, but this small section remains. | Zoe Clarke Photo: Zoe Clarke
10. The Teversal Trails - Carnarvon St, Teversal, Sutton-in-Ashfield NG17 3HJ
The Teversal Trails, near Sutton-in-Ashfield, are former railway lines converted into footpaths. The trails are a great place to visit over the summer months, with several different routes to choose from. | Trevor Rickard Photo: Trevor Rickard
11. Felley Priory - Underwood, Nottingham NG16 5FJ
Built on the site of a 12th century monastery, Felley Priory is located just off the M1, near Kirby-in-Ashfield. The priory itself isn’t open to the public, but the main attraction very much is. To the rear of the impressive country house are 2.5 acres of lush gardens, described on the priory’s website as “one of Nottinghamshire’s best kept secrets”. | Trevor Rickard Photo: Trevor Rickard
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12. Markham Moor Scorer Building - Great N Rd, Markham Moor, Retford DN22 0QU
If you’ve ever driven on the A1 through Markham Moor, you might have noticed a building with a strange UFO-style roof on the southbound carriageway. The building in question is known as the Markham Moor Scorer Building - and the story behind it dates back to 1960. From 1960 to 1989, the unusual structure was a petrol station occupied by National Benzole. It's now a Starbucks. | Google Photo: Google