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.placeholder image
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.

15 magical places that prove Nottinghamshire is one of the UK's most beautiful counties

Emma Walker
By Emma Walker

Editor

Published 19th May 2025, 11:00 GMT

Explore the top 15 magical places in Nottinghamshire, from serene nature reserves to historical parks.

Nottinghamshire is packed with natural beauty and historic charm, and these top spots showcase the county at its finest. From peaceful wetlands to grand estates, there’s something for everyone.

Attenborough Nature Reserve is a birdwatcher’s dream — lakes, woodlands, and reedbeds alive with wildlife just minutes from the city. Colwick Country Park offers wide-open space for water sports, family walks, and lakeside picnics, making it a go-to escape from urban life.

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Further north, Clumber Park stands out with its sweeping grounds, vast lake, and miles of walking trails framed by towering lime trees. It’s a perfect spot to cycle, explore, or just breathe deep. Thoresby Hall brings elegance and history together, offering luxury within reach of Sherwood Forest, with spa days, woodland strolls, and old-world architecture.

Rufford Abbey combines the ruins of a medieval monastery with tranquil gardens and scenic walks, while Bestwood Country Park delivers forest paths and panoramic views, steeped in royal hunting heritage.

Whether you’re after history, wildlife, or just a beautiful walk, these destinations highlight the very best of Nottinghamshire — rich in scenery, full of character, and perfect for day trips or long weekends.

Vicar Water country park is just to the south of Clipstone village. It has been created on the site of a former colliery, transforming this former industrial site into a heathland, woodland and grassland, offering spectacular view and brilliant woodland walks.

13. Vicar Water County Park

Vicar Water country park is just to the south of Clipstone village. It has been created on the site of a former colliery, transforming this former industrial site into a heathland, woodland and grassland, offering spectacular view and brilliant woodland walks. Photo: National World

Pleasley Pit Country Park is a reclaimed colliery site and local nature reserve. It's a great place to see many different birds, wildflowers and insects.

14. Pleasley Pit Country Park

Pleasley Pit Country Park is a reclaimed colliery site and local nature reserve. It's a great place to see many different birds, wildflowers and insects. Photo: Steve Uttley

Bestwood Country Park was a hunting estate owned by the Crown from the medieval period until the 17th century, when King Charles II gave it to his mistress, Nell Gwyn, and their son. Now it remains a very popular place with locals looking to enjoy fresh air and great scenic views.

15. Bestwood Country Park

Bestwood Country Park was a hunting estate owned by the Crown from the medieval period until the 17th century, when King Charles II gave it to his mistress, Nell Gwyn, and their son. Now it remains a very popular place with locals looking to enjoy fresh air and great scenic views. Photo: National World

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Related topics:NottinghamshireClumber ParkAttenborough Nature ReserveWalksGardens
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