A Complete Guide to Visiting Worksop: Things to Do and See
Worksop is a charming market town in Nottinghamshire that offers visitors a delightful blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're planning a day trip or a longer stay, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your visit to this historic town.
Getting to Worksop
Worksop is conveniently located in North Nottinghamshire, making it easily accessible by various modes of transport:
By Car: Worksop is just off the A57 and A60, with easy access from the M1 motorway (Junction 30 or 31). The town is approximately 15 miles from Sheffield, 20 miles from Nottingham, and 35 miles from Lincoln.
By Train: Worksop Railway Station provides regular services to Sheffield, Nottingham, Lincoln, and other major cities in the region. The station is located in the town centre, making onward travel convenient.
By Bus: Regular bus services connect Worksop with surrounding towns and villages throughout Nottinghamshire and South Yorkshire.
Top Attractions in Worksop
Worksop Priory
The magnificent Worksop Priory, also known as the Priory Church of Our Lady and St Cuthbert, is undoubtedly the town's most iconic landmark. Founded in the 12th century, this stunning example of Norman architecture features beautiful Gothic arches, intricate stonework, and impressive stained glass windows.
The Priory is open to visitors throughout the week and offers a peaceful space for reflection. The building's rich history and architectural beauty make it a must-visit for anyone interested in medieval heritage.
Mr Straw's House
Managed by the National Trust, Mr Straw's House is a fascinating time capsule that offers a glimpse into early 20th-century life. This perfectly preserved Edwardian semi-detached house contains the original furniture, decorations, and possessions of the Straw family, who lived there from 1923 to 1990.
Visits to Mr Straw's House are by guided tour only, and booking in advance is essential. The house provides a unique and intimate look at domestic life in a bygone era.
Clumber Park
Just a short drive from Worksop town centre, Clumber Park is a National Trust property offering 3,800 acres of beautiful parkland, woodland, and a magnificent serpentine lake. This former estate of the Duke of Newcastle is perfect for walking, cycling, picnicking, and wildlife watching.
The park features several miles of walking trails, a Victorian walled kitchen garden, a Gothic Revival chapel, and a charming lakeside cafe. Clumber Park is particularly beautiful in autumn when the trees display spectacular colours.
The Dukeries
Worksop is known as the "Gateway to the Dukeries", an area historically notable for its concentration of ducal estates. Besides Clumber Park, visitors can explore the surrounding countryside and discover other historic estates, including:
- Welbeck Abbey - Home to the Harley Gallery and beautiful gardens
- Thoresby Hall - A stunning Victorian mansion now operating as a hotel
- Rufford Abbey - A country park with ruins of a 12th-century Cistercian abbey
Shopping in Worksop
Worksop offers excellent shopping facilities for a market town of its size:
Priory Shopping Centre: The town's main covered shopping centre features a variety of high-street retailers, independent shops, and eateries.
Bridge Place Shopping Centre: Another indoor shopping area with various stores and services.
Worksop Market: The traditional outdoor market operates several days a week, offering fresh produce, clothing, household goods, and more. The market has been a feature of Worksop life for centuries and continues to attract both locals and visitors.
Outdoor Activities
The area surrounding Worksop offers numerous opportunities for outdoor recreation:
Walking and Cycling
The Cuckoo Way, a 60-mile long-distance footpath, passes through Worksop and offers beautiful countryside walking. Numerous other trails and paths crisscross the area, including routes through the Sherwood Forest region.
Cycle routes are plentiful, with dedicated paths around Clumber Park and quiet country lanes perfect for road cycling.
Canal Walks
The Chesterfield Canal runs through Worksop, providing pleasant towpath walks. The canal, originally built in the 1770s, offers a peaceful setting for leisurely strolls and wildlife spotting.
Dining and Refreshments
Worksop boasts a good selection of restaurants, cafes, and pubs serving everything from traditional British cuisine to international fare. The town centre features several chain restaurants alongside independent eateries offering locally sourced produce.
For a traditional pub experience, several historic inns in and around Worksop serve real ales and hearty meals in characterful surroundings.
Accommodation
Visitors planning to stay in Worksop will find various accommodation options, including:
- Traditional bed and breakfast establishments
- Modern hotels
- Self-catering cottages in the surrounding countryside
- The luxurious Thoresby Hall Hotel for a special occasion
Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Worksop hosts various events and festivals, including seasonal markets, community celebrations, and cultural activities. The town's markets are particularly vibrant during the festive season.
Practical Information
Tourist Information: Whilst Worksop no longer has a dedicated tourist information centre, information about the town and surrounding area is available online and at various venues throughout the town.
Parking: Several car parks are located in the town centre, with both pay-and-display and free parking options available.
Accessibility: The town centre is generally accessible, with most major shops and facilities providing wheelchair access.
Nearby Attractions
Worksop's location makes it an ideal base for exploring the wider region:
- Sherwood Forest - Home of the legendary Robin Hood
- Sheffield - Vibrant city with excellent museums, shopping, and dining
- Nottingham - The county town with its famous castle and lace market
- Lincoln - Historic city with magnificent cathedral
- Peak District National Park - Stunning landscapes and outdoor activities
Best Time to Visit
Worksop can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers something different:
Spring: Beautiful blossoms in parks and gardens, mild weather for walking Summer: Longest days, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the Dukeries Autumn: Spectacular foliage in Clumber Park and surrounding woodlands Winter: Festive markets and cosy pub visits
Conclusion
Worksop is a delightful destination that rewards curious visitors with its rich history, beautiful surroundings, and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you're interested in historical architecture, outdoor activities, or simply experiencing authentic market town life, Worksop has something to offer.
Plan your visit today and discover why this historic Nottinghamshire town continues to charm visitors from near and far.