Discover Ollerton: Nature, History and Craftsmanship

Ollerton brings together nature, local history and specific leisure activities. Depending on the purpose of your trip, you can focus on nature experiences, architectural history or an activity of your own.

Nature trails and woodland around Ollerton

Ollerton Pit Wood is on the site of a former coal mine and is accessible around the clock, every day of the year. The Wild Strawberry Trail gives the woodland a specific connection to nature; waterbirds also breed there. Ollerton also has nature trails suitable for a leisurely walk. Visitors can walk between New Ollerton and Old Ollerton.

Ollerton is considered a starting point for Sherwood Forest. Sherwood Country Park is two miles from Ollerton. In the surrounding area, Sherwood Forest is the only National Nature Reserve in Nottinghamshire; it contains more than 1,000 ancient oaks. These details provide a guide for anyone wishing to include woodland landscapes and natural areas in their travel plans.

Near Ollerton, RSPB Sherwood Forest covers more than 400 acres and is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The area has miles of bridleways and walking trails to explore. Nearby, Sherwood Pines also offers walking and cycling trails, mountain bike routes, Go Ape zip lines and a play area. This means a range of activities are available, from peaceful walks and cycling trips to other leisure pursuits.

Church and mill history

St Giles was Ollerton’s original parish church. The present St Giles Church was built in a single phase around 1780, replacing a medieval church on the same site. The east window features stained glass by C. G. S. Foljambe dating from 1873. The church thus reflects different periods of local history: its medieval predecessor, the new building around 1780 and the later window design.

Another historic landmark is Ollerton Watermill and Adjoining Mill House. The complex dates from the mid to late 18th century and is listed as a Grade II building. Along with the church’s history, it adds Ollerton’s architectural history to its natural attractions.

Courses and activities

Merry Maid New Ollerton offers craft courses for all levels. These include knitting, crochet, sewing and quilting, as well as glass fusing and willow weaving. The range therefore extends from textile crafts to other craft techniques. If you would like to add a hands-on activity to your trip alongside walks or sightseeing, these courses offer another option.

Getting here and choosing where to stay

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. If you plan to use the bus service, check the timetable before travelling.

The nearby destinations mentioned add to what the town has to offer, while the routes between New Ollerton and Old Ollerton make it possible to take a walk within Ollerton itself. You can first decide which of these interests matter most for your stay, then compare the available hotel offers.

Discover more destinations: Clayworth, Eastwood, Huthwaite, Whatton, Ordsall, Blidworth, Beeston, Edwalton.

For the broader travel overview: Nottinghamshire.