Ollerton: Nature, Sherwood Forest and Local History

Ollerton combines nature experiences, the history of the town and its role as a starting point for Sherwood Forest. Anyone looking for a holiday apartment in Ollerton can tailor their stay entirely to their own interests: with walks in Ollerton Pit Wood, which is located on the site of a former coal mine, along nature trails and forest paths, or with discoveries around the church and mill.

Nature among forests, water and ancient oaks

A prominent point of interest is Ollerton Pit Wood. The site is located on the grounds of a former coal mine and is accessible 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. There is a wild strawberry trail there; waterfowl also breed in Ollerton Pit Wood. For planning your day, this means that nature observation and a walk can be scheduled independently of fixed event times.

Ollerton is regarded as a starting point for Sherwood Forest. In the area surrounding the town, Sherwood Forest is the only National Nature Reserve in Nottinghamshire and includes more than 1,000 ancient oaks. In addition, RSPB Sherwood Forest covers more than 400 acres and is designated as a protected Site of Special Scientific Interest. Sherwood Pines complements this natural offering with walking and cycling paths, mountain-bike trails, Go Ape zip lines and a play area. RSPB Sherwood Forest also has miles of bridleways and walking trails.

Local history at the mill and church

The architectural history also makes Ollerton an interesting destination. Ollerton Watermill and Adjoining Mill House date from the mid and late 18th century and are listed as a Grade II listed building. Alongside the woodland landscapes, this places a tangible testament to the town's historical development at the centre of attention.

The history of Ollerton also includes St Giles. The church was the original parish church of the town. The present St Giles Church was built in a single phase around 1780 and replaced a medieval church at this site. The east window contains stained glass from 1873 by C G S Foljambe. Those interested in regional architecture and individual historical details will find a different focus here than among the paths and natural areas.

Walks, courses and active days

For a peaceful outing, visitors can walk between New Ollerton and Old Ollerton. Ollerton also has nature trails suitable for a leisurely walk. This allows you to vary the focus of your stay: one day can be devoted to the town route and nature trails, while another can centre on the forest, cycling or other activities. When looking for a holiday apartment, you can therefore make your preferred daily rhythm a selection criterion.

Merry Maid New Ollerton offers a creative addition. Courses in knitting, crochet, dressmaking, quilting, glass fusing and willow weaving are offered there for all levels. Such activities provide a deliberate contrast to a day in the forest and can play a distinct role when planning activities together.

Ollerton as a starting point for planning your trip

The Sherwood Arrow runs from Nottingham city centre via Ollerton to Worksop and Retford. There are also connections along the route to Rufford Abbey Country Park and Sherwood Forest. This route is a useful consideration if you are choosing your accommodation not only according to individual attractions, but also according to your desired excursion destinations.

Whether a nature trail, historic church, listed mill, craft course or cycling and walking trail: Ollerton offers various ways to structure your days differently. For further orientation around the area, you can also compare Clifton, South Clifton, Warsop, Colston Bassett, Sutton In Ashfield, Southwell, Cuckney and Whatton.

For the overarching travel overview: Nottinghamshire.