Clumber Park: A Complete Visitor's Guide to This National Trust Gem
Located just a few miles from Worksop town centre, Clumber Park is a magnificent National Trust property that offers 3,800 acres of parkland, woodland, and open heath. This former estate of the Duke of Newcastle is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Nottinghamshire and provides the perfect day out for families, nature lovers, and history enthusiasts alike.
About Clumber Park
Clumber Park was once part of Sherwood Forest and became a grand ducal estate in the 18th century. Although Clumber House itself was demolished in 1938, the park retains many fascinating features from its aristocratic past, including a beautiful serpentine lake, a Gothic Revival chapel, a Victorian walled kitchen garden, and an impressive double lime tree avenue stretching for over two miles.
The estate was acquired by the National Trust in 1946 and has been carefully managed as a public amenity ever since, balancing conservation with public access and recreation.
Getting to Clumber Park
By Car: Clumber Park is located off the A614 and A57, approximately 4.5 miles south-east of Worksop. The park is well signposted from major roads. Sat nav postcode: S80 3AZ.
By Bike: The park is accessible via the National Cycle Network Route 6, and many visitors enjoy cycling to Clumber Park along quiet country lanes from Worksop and surrounding areas.
By Bus: Limited bus services operate to the park, particularly on weekends during summer months. Check local bus timetables for current services.
Parking: Large car parks are available (National Trust members park for free; charges apply for non-members). Parking near the main facilities can become busy during peak times, but overflow parking is usually available.
Things to See and Do
The Lake
The magnificent serpentine lake is Clumber Park's centrepiece, stretching for 87 acres. Created in the 1770s, the lake is perfect for leisurely walks around its perimeter (approximately 4 miles). The lakeside provides excellent opportunities for wildlife watching, with ducks, geese, swans, and herons commonly seen.
Rowing boats are available to hire during the summer months, offering a unique perspective of the park from the water.
Walking Trails
Clumber Park offers numerous walking trails suitable for all abilities:
Lakeside Walk: An easy 4-mile circular route around the lake with level terrain, suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs.
Woodland Walks: Various trails through the park's extensive woodlands, ranging from short strolls to longer hikes.
The Lime Tree Avenue: Walk along this spectacular two-mile double avenue of lime trees, one of the longest in Europe.
Heath Walks: Explore the open heathland areas, home to specialist wildlife and beautiful views.
Well-marked trails and detailed maps available at the visitor centre ensure you won't get lost whilst exploring.
Cycling
Clumber Park is a cyclist's paradise with over 20 miles of dedicated cycle routes suitable for all ages and abilities. Routes vary from easy, flat trails perfect for families to more challenging woodland tracks.
Cycle hire is available near the main car park, offering a range of bikes including tandems, child seats, and tag-alongs. Helmets are provided with all bike hires.
The Chapel
The Gothic Revival chapel, built in 1886-89, is an architectural masterpiece and the most spectacular building in the park. Designed by G.F. Bodley, it features stunning stained glass windows, intricate stonework, and beautiful furnishings.
The chapel is open to visitors on selected days (check the National Trust website for current opening times). The building is still used for occasional services and concerts.
The Walled Kitchen Garden
This beautiful 4-acre Victorian walled kitchen garden has been lovingly restored and now produces fruit, vegetables, and flowers. Visitors can explore the glasshouses, browse the plant sales area, and learn about Victorian gardening techniques.
The kitchen garden café offers refreshments with views over the garden, and much of the produce grown is used in the park's cafés and restaurants.
Conservation Area
The conservation area showcases traditional woodland management techniques and provides information about the park's wildlife and ecology. It's an excellent educational resource, particularly for families with children interested in nature.
Play Areas
Two adventure playgrounds provide plenty of entertainment for children:
Main Play Area: Near the visitor centre with equipment for various age groups Hardwick Play Area: A natural play area in the woods with log climbing structures and a sand pit
Wildlife at Clumber Park
The diverse habitats at Clumber Park support a rich variety of wildlife:
Birds: Over 80 species recorded, including woodpeckers, nuthatches, jays, and various waterfowl on the lake
Mammals: Deer, foxes, badgers, and bats can be spotted, particularly during dawn and dusk
Insects: The heathland areas support rare insects including dragonflies and butterflies
Trees and Plants: Ancient oaks, sweet chestnuts, and a magnificent collection of rhododendrons and azaleas
Spring sees spectacular displays of bluebells and daffodils, whilst autumn brings stunning foliage colours.
Facilities
Food and Drink
Clumber Park Café: Located near the main car park, serving hot meals, sandwiches, cakes, and beverages
Kitchen Garden Café: Smaller café in the walled garden with views over the garden
Hardwick Café: Situated in the northern part of the park
Various picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, and many visitors bring their own refreshments to enjoy in the beautiful surroundings.
Shops
The visitor centre includes a National Trust shop selling gifts, books, local products, and outdoor equipment. The plant sales area in the walled kitchen garden offers a range of plants propagated on site.
Toilets and Baby Changing
Modern facilities including accessible toilets and baby changing are available near the main car park and at several other locations throughout the park.
Accessibility
Many of the paths, including the lakeside walk, are accessible for wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The National Trust provides a detailed accessibility guide on their website. Mobility scooters and manual wheelchairs are available to borrow (advance booking recommended).
Events and Activities
Throughout the year, Clumber Park hosts various events including:
- Guided walks and nature talks
- Family activities during school holidays
- Open-air theatre performances in summer
- Seasonal celebrations such as Easter egg hunts and Christmas events
- Conservation volunteering opportunities
Check the National Trust website for the current events calendar.
When to Visit
Clumber Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk, and each season offers something special:
Spring: Daffodils, bluebells, and fresh green foliage; baby animals and nesting birds Summer: Long days perfect for cycling and walking; rowing boats available; events and activities Autumn: Spectacular foliage colours; fungi foraging walks; less crowded than summer Winter: Crisp walks; beautiful frost-covered landscapes; winter wildlife spotting
The park can be busy during school holidays and sunny weekends, so consider visiting on weekday mornings for a more peaceful experience.
Tips for Your Visit
- Arrive Early: Car parks fill quickly on nice days, especially weekends and school holidays
- Wear Appropriate Footwear: Paths can be muddy, particularly after rain
- Bring Binoculars: Excellent for wildlife watching, especially around the lake
- Check the Weather: The park is largely exposed, so prepare for changeable conditions
- Allow Plenty of Time: With 3,800 acres to explore, you could easily spend a full day here
- Download Maps: The National Trust app includes detailed maps of the park
- Join the National Trust: If you plan to visit regularly, membership offers great value
Dog Walking
Clumber Park is extremely popular with dog walkers, and dogs are welcome throughout most of the park. Dogs must be kept on leads near livestock and around the play areas. Dog waste bins are provided, and responsible ownership is expected.
Nearby Attractions
Combine your visit to Clumber Park with other local attractions:
- Worksop town centre (4.5 miles)
- Sherwood Forest National Nature Reserve (6 miles)
- Rufford Abbey Country Park (8 miles)
- Hardwick Hall (10 miles)
- Welbeck Estate and The Harley Gallery (7 miles)
Admission and Opening Times
Opening Times: The park is open daily from dawn to dusk
Admission: Free for National Trust members; admission charges apply for non-members (check the National Trust website for current prices)
Parking Charges: Apply for non-members; free for National Trust members
Building Opening Times: The chapel, café, and facilities have specific opening hours that vary by season
Always check the National Trust website before your visit for the most up-to-date information on opening times, admission prices, and any temporary closures.
Contact Information
Address: Clumber Park, Worksop, Nottinghamshire, S80 3AZ
Telephone: 01909 544917
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/clumber-park
Conclusion
Clumber Park is a true gem in the heart of Nottinghamshire, offering something for everyone regardless of age or interests. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventure, historical interest, wildlife watching, or simply a peaceful walk in beautiful surroundings, Clumber Park delivers.
As one of the premier attractions near Worksop, the park provides an excellent reason to visit the area and can easily occupy a full day or even multiple visits. The National Trust's excellent stewardship ensures that this magnificent landscape will continue to be enjoyed by future generations.
Plan your visit to Clumber Park and discover why it's one of the most beloved outdoor spaces in the East Midlands.