With temperatures still forecast to hit 20C in Nottinghamshire over the next week, it hasn’t really felt like autumn yet.
But some hallmarks of the new season are already here: crunchy leaves underfoot, huge spider webs in the mornings and streetlights coming on at 7pm.
Here in Nottinghamshire we’re lucky to have so many places that showcase the very best of autumn, from chocolate-box villages to delightful market towns.
Many such places can become crowded during the height of summer, which indicates just how attractive they are.
The crowds have now dissipated, making September the ideal month to plan a daytrip to one of our county’s charming market towns.
With independent shops, tasty restaurants and historic buildings, they’re all well worth a visit.
Here are 8 of the prettiest Nottinghamshire market towns that are much quieter to visit now that autumn has arrived:
5. Mansfield
Mansfield is Nottinghamshire’s largest market town, located right on the edge of the beautiful countryside, perfect for relaxing spring walks and easy access to woodland areas of Sherwood Forest. The town has rail links to Nottingham and Worksop. | Stephen McKay Photo: Stephen McKay
6. Southwell
The picturesque town of Southwell is often referred to as 'The jewel in Nottinghamshire's crown'. Named by The Telegraph as England's perfect market town. A high street teaming with a glut of great restaurants, fantastic local schools and some fab music festivals, right on your doorstep. Plus for office commuters and urban addicts, it’s only a short drive right to the centre of Nottingham. Photo: Nottingham World