Discover the best things to do in Ravenshead, Nottinghamshire
Local attractions near the Hutt
Nestled on the outskirts of Nottingham, the village of Ravenshead makes a truly delightful base if you’re exploring this wonderful corner of the country. As well as ticking off some of the best things to do in Nottingham, you’ll also have miles of glorious countryside to enjoy, with quaint villages and heritage sites galore.
Indeed, no matter what kind of attraction piques your interest, you’re sure to find something suitable in this stunning region. But if you need some inspiration, make your way through our list of top things to do in Ravenshead and its surrounding area before joining us at the Hutt. We can’t wait to hear all about it.Newstead Abbey
A day trip to Newstead Abbey isn’t just one of the best things to do in Ravenshead. It should also be high up on any list of things to do in Nottinghamshire. The breathtaking building was transformed into a home during the Dissolution of the Monasteries in Henry VIII’s time, and was famously the ancestral home of poet and writer Lord Byron during the early 1800s.
Venture indoors and feast your eyes on Byron’s carefully preserved possessions, including his pistol and the handsome wooden desk where he sat and penned some of his most well-known works. Newstead Abbey’s glorious exteriors are also worth marvelling at, while the home’s grounds are ideal if you just fancy taking a stroll among the trees.
Why not end the day at the Hutt, which is only a mile away and the best pub near Newstead Abbey, if we do say so ourselves.
Southwell Workhouse
Delve back in time to the Georgian and Victorian eras at this fascinating heritage site. Southwell Workhouse and Infirmary dates back to 1824 and is one of the best-preserved former workhouses in the world.
The imposing brick building has been refurbished to look as it would have done over 150 years ago, with various bedrooms and a hospital ward. It’s an absolute must-see if you love getting lost in a Charles Dickens story or simply want to learn more about what British life was like in centuries gone by.
If you’d like the best insight into the building’s history, head to the museum at 11am to join a volunteer-led tour.
Sherwood Forest
If tales of heroic deeds are more your thing, a trip to Sherwood Forest should definitely be on the cards. This ancient woodland has long been linked to the legendary Robin Hood, and you’ll find numerous references to the much-loved outlaw in both the visitor’s centre and as you roam around the paths.
There are several different trails to choose from depending on whether you walk or cycle, your fitness levels, and how much time you have to spare. The Major Oak Trail is one of the most popular, a 1.5-mile route that takes you past Sherwood Forest’s most famous tree, the Major Oak.
And if all that exercise works up an appetite, the Hutt is highly regarded as one of the best places to eat near Sherwood Forest.
Hardwick Hall
Hop over the county border to nearby Derbyshire for a day out at this spectacular National Trust estate. Hardwick Hall is a sublime example of an Elizabethan mansion and was built by the Dukes of Devonshire – the same noble family responsible for Chatsworth House.
Wandering around Hardwick Hall’s corridors and chambers really is like travelling back to the 16th century. Each room has been beautifully decorated, with heritage tapestries, furnishings and paintings. You’ll also learn all about Bess of Hardwick, the remarkable woman who built the home and went on to become the Countess of Shrewsbury.
Experience it for yourself and you’ll see why it’s regarded as one of the best things to do in the Nottingham area.
Rufford Abbey
This English Heritage site is another former abbey-turned-country house, tucked away in the village of Ollerton, just 12 miles north of Ravenshead. Rufford Abbey is home to some of the UK’s best-preserved Cistercian abbey ruins, dating back to 1170.
Admire the exteriors of the ruin as you wander around the property’s sweeping grounds, imagining what life was like all those years ago. The abbey also lies within a larger country park that’s free to visit and a lovely spot for a weekend stroll. There are around 150 acres to explore, including patches of woodland, vast sweeping lawns, and a gift shop selling local goodies.
Add the various events throughout the year and the fact it's near to the Hutt, and you have one of the best things to do in Ravenshead and its surrounding area.