Sherwood Pines, Mansfield, Nottinghamshire
Sherwood Pines is the place to go when you’re rarin’ to get active outdoors! This is the biggest country park in the East Midlands with 3,300 acres to roam and so much glorious, glorious nature to fall in love with. Go and fill your lungs with wholesome fresh air, stride out into the forest on one of the walking trails or hire bikes and set off on wheels.
The walking trails range from 1 mile to 4.5 miles with the shortest being an easy access trail with an all-weather surface suitable for buggies and wheelchairs. It takes in some of the oldest trees in the forest, a Dragonfly Pond, picnic bench and play areas, so a good one for families with younger children who can look out for the Gruffalo sculptures. Pick up an activity pack and do the Superworm Trail where you can find out about the fascinating array of mini beasts that live in the forest. Longer walks will take you deep into pine and broadleaved woodlands and over wild heaths, an opportunity to find tranquility and mindful moments courtesy of Mother Nature.
There are cycling trails too, including the Maid Marion Family Route and the more challenging Outlaw Trail for those who have a bit more experience at off-roading. Have fun on the Skills Loop and the Advanced Dirt Jump – provided you’re dressed appropriately! If you’ve got your fitness gear you can have a blast on the running trails, or book up for one of the exciting activities on offer here – disc golf, orienteering, bushcraft, Go Ape and Go Segway.
Bring a picnic because there are plenty of places to sit and enjoy it, or head to the family run café that overlooks the grass arena and forest; just opposite there’s a takeaway point for food and drink if you don’t have time to stop. There’s a visitor centre on-site, loos, baby changing and charged carparks. The website mentions a charge of £50 for groups of 20+ - best to ring to check.
Open: Every day except Christmas Day. Summer 8.00am-10.00pm Winter 8.00am-5.00pm
T: 0300 067 4340 All information correct at the time of writing