As Whitsun also coincides with the start of a school half-term week, you have every reason to get out and about. So we have drawn up a list of exciting ideas below for things to do and places to go in the Mansfield and Ashfield area, particularly with families in mind.
Many of you will be keen to fire up the barbecue to mark the first sign of summer. But before that, why not check out the annual maypole dancing day at Wellow, walk with dinosaurs at White Post Farm or enjoy a tour of Sherwood Forest?
There’s also the latest steam day at Papplewick Pumping Station, as well as fun in the sun at Rufford Abbey and Southwell Minster.
Mansfield’s Palace Theatre hosts a spring panto, starring big names such as Joanne Clifton, Kerry Katona and Dean Gaffney, while Mansfield Museum and the town’s parks host half-term events for youngsters.
Before you set off, please remember to check the individual website of your chosen destination for opening times and admission prices.
And if you would like an upcoming event to be featured here in future weeks, please email me at [email protected]
Have a great weekend!
9. Half-term Xplorer events for the kids
The picturesque Carrs in Warsop (pictured) is one of three parks or nature reserves in the Mansfield area that are staging special Xplorer events for children during the school half-term break. Xplorer is a family-friendly navigational trail that is educational and fun, involving a mix of physical activity and decision-making. You can take part at Yeoman Hill, Mansfield Woodhouse next Tuesday, Titchfield Park, Mansfield next Wednesday and The Carrs on Friday, June 2.(all 1.30 pm to 3.30 pm). Photo: Submitted
10. Big weekend for Razzamataz theatre school
It's a big weekend for the Mansfield-based Razzamataz theatre school, which stages its show, 'Get Ready', at Mansfield's Palace Theatre on Saturday and Sunday. Launched in 2011, the school has gone from strength to strength and now runs multiple classes at each age group. Razzamataz prides itself on its fun and friendly atmosphere, and this weekend's show is sure to showcase its rich talent among a range of styles -- from West End musical theatre to street dance and pop singing. Photo: Submitted
11. Antiques market is must-go-to event
The antiques and vintage market that is held three times a year at Southwell Racecourse in Rolleston has grown in recent years into a must-go-to event. The latest renewal takes place on Saturday and Sunday (10 am to 4 pm) when the indoor grandstand will be awash with items to suit every taste and budget. There's a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, with refreshments, such as snacks, coffee and ice cream, available too. Photo: Submitted
12. Free have-a-go Zumba sessions on Market Place
Mansfield Museum hosts a full week of kids' activities for half-term, including free, have-a-go outdoor Zumba sessions next Wednesday (10 am to 1 pm) on the town's Market Place. Have fun and travel around the world through movement and music, with rhythms such as bhangra from the Punjab, soca from the Caribbean, samba from Brazil, cumbia from Colombia and beats from different regions of Africa. Photo: Fiona Goodall/Getty Images